The Essentials
Type of Institution: University
Fees per Semester: US$400.00 to US$1 000.00
Address: Corner House, corner Leopard Takawira and Samora Machel Avenue, Harare, Zimbabwe
Phone Number: +263 242 793 002/7/8
Chancellor: E.D Mnangagwa
Vice Chancellor: Prof. A.C. Ncube
Number of students:20 000+
Website: https://zou.ac.zw/
Email: information@zou.ac.zw
Table Of Contents
- Overview
- Contact Details
- Address
- Location
- School Fees
- Courses & Programs
- Vacancies and Entry Requirements
- Logo
- Notable Alumni
- Pros and Cons
- Author’s Review
Overview
Introduction
Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) is Zimbabwe’s premier and largest open and distance learning (ODL) institution, dedicated to providing accessible, flexible, and quality higher education to diverse learners across the country and beyond.
History and Background
*Established in 1999 by an Act of Parliament, ZOU was created to provide higher education opportunities to those who are unable to attend conventional universities.
*It aims to enhance education access, especially for working adults, rural populations, and marginalized communities.
Location
ZOU’s main campus is located in Harare, with regional centers in all ten provinces of Zimbabwe, ensuring broad geographic reach.
Learning Mode
*As an ODL institution, ZOU employs a blended learning approach, combining printed materials, online resources, and face-to-face tutorials.
*Utilizes a robust e-learning platform to facilitate online lectures, discussions, and assessments.
Research and Innovation
*ZOU encourages research activities aimed at addressing national development challenges.
*Provides opportunities for staff and students to engage in research projects, conferences, and publications.
Student Support Services
*Offers comprehensive support services, including academic advising, counseling, library resources, and ICT support.
*Regional centers provide local support, facilitating access to resources and services.
Flexibility and Accessibility
*Designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals, parents, and those with other commitments.
*Allows learners to study at their own pace and from their own locations, making higher education more accessible.
Vision and Mission
*Vision: To be a world-class open and distance learning institution that leads in lifelong learning.
*Mission: To empower people through lifelong learning by providing accessible, quality education and fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
Notable Achievements
*Recognized for its role in expanding higher education access in Zimbabwe.
*Graduates from ZOU contribute significantly to various sectors, including education, business, and public service.
Zimbabwe Open University Contact Details
You can contact Zimabwe Open University (ZOU) via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: +263 242 793 002/7/8
Website: https://zou.ac.zw/
Email: information@zou.ac.zw
Zimbabwe Open University Address
Corner House, corner Leopard Takawira and Samora Machel Avenue, Harare, Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Open University Location
Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) main campus is located in Zimbabwe’s capital Harare in the CBD on Corner house and Leopard Takawira and Samora Machel Avenue.
Zimbabwe Open University Fees
Zimabwe Open University (ZOU) fees is currently standing at US$400.00 to US$1 000.00 per semester depending on the program you are studying and the level of degree you are studying. Please contact the institution or visit them to get the latest fees structure as it can change at any term or semester.
Zimbabwe Open University Courses & Programs
Here is a detailed list of the main courses and programs offered at ZOU. The institute constantly updates their courses and programs so always visit their site to keep up to date.
Faculty of Agriculture
Undergraduate Programs:
Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Management
Bachelor of Science Honours in Agricultural Management
Bachelor of Science Honours in Horticulture
Bachelor of Science Honours in Animal Science
Bachelor of Science Honours in Crop Science
Postgraduate Programs:
Master of Science in Agricultural Management
Master of Science in Animal Science
Master of Science in Crop Science
Faculty of Arts and Education
Undergraduate Programs:
Bachelor of Arts in English and Communication Studies
Bachelor of Arts Honours in English and Communication Studies
Bachelor of Arts Honours in History and Development Studies
Bachelor of Education in Educational Management
Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Development
Bachelor of Education in Primary Education
Postgraduate Programs:
Master of Arts in English and Communication Studies
Master of Education in Educational Management
Master of Education in Early Childhood Development
Master of Education in Educational Technology
Faculty of Commerce and Law
Undergraduate Programs:
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Finance
Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing Management
Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management
Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management
Bachelor of Commerce in Procurement and Supply Chain Management
Bachelor of Commerce in Risk Management and Insurance
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Postgraduate Programs:
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Commerce in Accounting
Master of Commerce in Business Management
Master of Commerce in Strategic Marketing
Faculty of Science and Technology
Undergraduate Programs:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Science
Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematics and Statistics
Postgraduate Programs:
Master of Science in Information Systems
Master of Science in Environmental Science
Faculty of Social Sciences
Undergraduate Programs:
Bachelor of Science Honours in Development Studies
Bachelor of Science Honours in Peace, Leadership, and Conflict Resolution
Bachelor of Science Honours in Psychology
Bachelor of Science Honours in Sociology
Bachelor of Science Honours in Social Work
Bachelor of Science Honours in Political Science and Public Administration
Postgraduate Programs:
Master of Science in Development Studies
Master of Science in Peace, Leadership, and Conflict Resolution
Master of Science in Sociology
Short Courses and Professional Programs
ZOU also offers various short courses and professional development programs designed to enhance skills and knowledge in specific areas.
Zimbabwe Open University Vacancies and Entry Requirements
Entry Requirements
Undergraduate Programs
General Requirements:
*At least five (5) O-Level passes including English Language.
*Specific programs may require Mathematics or Science subjects at O-Level.
*Two (2) A-Level passes or equivalent qualifications in relevant subjects.
Specific Program Requirements:
Faculty of Agriculture: A-Level passes in Agriculture, Biology, Chemistry, or related subjects.
Faculty of Arts and Education: A-Level passes in relevant arts or education subjects.
Faculty of Commerce and Law: A-Level passes in commercial subjects such as Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, or Mathematics.
Faculty of Science and Technology: A-Level passes in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or related science subjects.
Faculty of Social Sciences: A-Level passes in subjects like History, Sociology, Psychology, or related fields.
Postgraduate Programs
Master’s Programs
*A relevant Bachelor’s degree with at least a second class (lower division) or equivalent.
*Some programs may require relevant work experience or professional qualifications.
*Specific programs may have additional requirements, such as passing an entrance examination or interview.
PhD Programs
*A relevant Master’s degree from a recognized institution.
*A detailed research proposal aligned with the faculty’s research priorities.
*Prior research experience or publications in the relevant field may be advantageous.
Application Process
Online Application: Applications are typically submitted online through the ZOU admissions portal.
Applicants need to create an account, complete the application form, and upload necessary documents.
Required Documents: Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts.
Identification documents (e.g., national ID or passport).
Passport-sized photographs.
Proof of payment for the application fee.
Selection Process: Applications are reviewed based on academic qualifications and supporting documents.
Successful applicants receive admission letters outlining the next steps.
Important Dates
Application deadlines and academic calendar dates are usually published on the ZOU official website. Prospective students should check these dates to ensure timely submission of their applications.
Contact Information for Admissions
Email: admissions@zou.ac.zw
Phone: +263 242 793 002/7
Website: https://zou.ac.zw/
Zimbabwe Open University Logo
Below is the logo of Zimbabwe Open University with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
Zimbabwe Open University logo
Zimbabwe Open University Pros and Cons
Pros
Flexible Learning: Offers open and distance learning (ODL), allowing students to study at their own pace and from any location, making it ideal for working professionals and those with other commitments.
Wide Range of Programs: Provides a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, catering to different academic interests and career goals.
Accessibility: Regional centers in all ten provinces of Zimbabwe ensure that education is accessible to students nationwide, including those in rural and remote areas.
Affordable Tuition: Generally more affordable than traditional universities, making higher education accessible to a broader population.
Support Services: Comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, counseling, library resources, and ICT support, help students succeed in their studies.
Research Opportunities: Encourages research activities aimed at addressing national development challenges, providing opportunities for students to engage in significant research projects.
Experienced Faculty: Employs experienced faculty members who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the academic programs.
Lifelong Learning: Promotes lifelong learning, enabling individuals to continue their education and professional development at any stage of their lives.
Accreditation and Recognition: Accredited by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) and recognized for its role in expanding higher education access in Zimbabwe.
Cons
Limited Face-to-Face Interaction: The ODL mode of learning may lack the face-to-face interaction found in traditional universities, which can be a disadvantage for some students who benefit from in-person teaching and peer interactions.
Self-Discipline Required: Students need a high level of self-discipline and time management skills to succeed in an open and distance learning environment.
Resource Constraints: Like many institutions in developing countries, ZOU may face resource constraints affecting infrastructure, equipment, and facilities.
Technological Dependence: Requires reliable internet access and technological proficiency, which may be a barrier for some students, particularly in areas with limited connectivity.
Limited Extracurricular Activities: Fewer opportunities for extracurricular activities and campus life experiences compared to conventional universities.
Administrative Challenges: Potential administrative challenges and delays in communication or processing of academic and administrative requests.
Perceived Quality: There may be a perception that ODL qualifications are less rigorous or prestigious compared to traditional university degrees, despite ZOU’s accreditation and recognition.
Assessment and Feedback: Students may experience delays in receiving feedback on assessments and assignments due to the distance learning setup.
Author's Review
Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) plays a vital role in expanding access to higher education through its flexible and inclusive open and distance learning (ODL) model. Catering to a diverse student body, including working professionals, rural populations, and lifelong learners, ZOU offers a broad range of programs across multiple faculties.
The university’s commitment to affordability, accessibility, and quality education is evident in its comprehensive support services and experienced faculty. However, the ODL format requires significant self-discipline and technological access, which can pose challenges for some students.
Despite these hurdles, ZOU’s regional centers, research opportunities, and focus on lifelong learning position it as a key player in Zimbabwe’s educational landscape.
Overall, Zimbabwe Open University provides a valuable educational pathway for those seeking flexible learning solutions, making it an essential institution for advancing higher education and fostering personal and professional growth in Zimbabwe.
