University Information

About the University of Cape Coast

Established in 1962, the University of Cape Coast is a leading public research university committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service to Ghana and the world.

Motto Veritas Nobis Lumen — Truth, Our Guide

History

The University of Cape Coast was established in October, 1962 as a University College and placed in a special relationship with the University of Ghana, Legon. On October 1, 1971, the College attained the status of a full and independent University, with the authority to confer its own degrees, diplomas and certificates by an Act of Parliament — The University of Cape Coast Act, 1971 [Act 390] and subsequently the University of Cape Coast Law, 1992 [PNDC Law 278].

Original Mandate

The University was established to train graduate professional teachers for Ghana's second cycle institutions and the Ministry of Education. Today, with expanded Faculties and diversified programmes, the University meets the manpower needs of other ministries and industries in the country, besides that of the Ministry of Education.

Student Population

From an initial enrolment of 155 students in 1963, UCC now has a total student population of 74,720.

18,949

Regular Undergraduate

1,445

Sandwich Undergraduate

1,014

Regular Postgraduate

2,773

Sandwich Postgraduate

48,989

Distance Undergraduate

1,540

Postgraduate Distance

Pioneering Departments

The University started with two departments, Arts and Science, which developed into Faculties in 1963. In 1964 two more Faculties were created: Education and Economics & Social Studies [now Faculty of Social Sciences].

The fifth faculty [School of Agriculture] was established in 1975. The Faculty of Science was split into the Schools of Physical and Biological Sciences during the 2002/2003 academic year, while the Department of Business Studies was elevated to the School of Business from 2003/2004.

Coat of Arms

The Coat of Arms consists of a shield emblazoned in Red with an Adinkra symbol signifying God's omnipotence, superimposed in the lower half on a background of Wavy Blue and White Lines signifying the Sea, and in the upper half, a Golden Eagle with outstretched Wings signifying Strength, Determination and Excellence.

"Veritas Nobis Lumen"

Truth, Our Guide

Vision, Mission & Core Values

Vision

To be a University with worldwide acclaim that is strongly positioned for innovative teaching, research, outreach and professional development.

Mission

The University of Cape Coast is an equal opportunity University uniquely placed to provide quality education through comprehensive, liberal and professional programmes that challenge learners to be creative, innovative and responsible citizens.

Core Values

Excellence

UCC seeks to pursue excellence through the creation of standards in teaching, intellectual inquiry, engagement and professional practice.

Empowerment

UCC offers opportunities to its employees and graduates in a manner that empowers them to be agents of change.

Equal Opportunities

UCC strives to provide equal opportunity and access to quality education and services to all persons regardless of colour, creed, ethnicity, gender, social status or physical ability.

Ethical Behaviour

UCC upholds acts of honesty and responsible behaviour and holds its members accountable for their actions in a way that promotes integrity of the person and the image of the University.

Cape Coast, a Historic City

Cape Coast was founded by the people of Oguaa and controlled by various colonial administrations from the 16th Century — Swedish, Portuguese, Danish, Dutch and British. It was the seat of the British colonial government in the Gold Coast until 1877. Today the city is a cultural treasure, known for its coastal beauty, historical sites, and vibrant traditions.

Sites & Attractions

Cape Coast Castle

A UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the ocean, originally built by the Dutch in 1637 and expanded by the British who used it as their colonial seat for nearly 200 years. Within its white walls are the haunting dungeons where enslaved people were held before the middle passage.

Kakum National Park

A rainforest reserve about an hour from Cape Coast. The 350 km² park is home to around 40 species of mammals, 400 species of butterflies and 200 species of birds. Its famous 40 m canopy walkway stretches over 330 metres above the forest floor.

Beaches and Resorts

Beautiful palm-fringed beaches and resorts surround Cape Coast. Brenu Beach is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. White Sands Beach Resort, Anomabo Beach Resort, and Coconut Beach Resort are popular coastal destinations.

Oguaa Fetu Afahye

A colourful festival celebrated every September by the Oguaa people to mark a bumper harvest and thank the 77 gods of the Oguaa Traditional Area. Activities include a procession of chiefs, grand durbar, traditional drumming, dancing, and musket-firing by warrior groups.

Kotokoraba Market

The main trading post of the Central Region, rebuilt into a modern facility predating Ghana's independence. Its name literally means "crab village," honouring the early settlers who profited from the abundance of crabs in the area.

Panafest

Cape Coast hosts the Pan African Historical Theatre Festival every two years, bringing together Africans from the continent and the diaspora to confront the legacy of the slave trade and celebrate African heritage, solidarity, and development.