The latest edition of the QS World University Rankings by Subject has been published, ranking South African universities with courses that are among the best in the world.

The QS ranking identifies which subjects universities are particularly strong at in relation to international competitors, looking specifically at academic reputation and research output.

Research citations, along with the results of major global surveys of employers and academics are also used to rank the universities.

Looking specifically at the fields of accounting, finance, business, and law, five South African universities stand out for having some of the best courses in the world for these subjects.

The University of Cape Town carries the distinction of being the highest-ranked in all but one of the subject fields, with the University of Pretoria trumping UCT as having the best course in accounting and finance.

South African universities have the strongest showing in the field of developmental studies in the QS rankings, with the University of Cape Town having the ninth-best course globally.

Wits University is also distinct in this field, ranking 22nd overall, with both Stellenbosch University and the University of KwaZulu Natal ranking within the top 100.

UCT has the further distinction of being the only South African university to be ranked among the best in the world for its courses on politics and social policy and administration.