Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), one of South Africa’s largest residential universities, is renowned for its career-focused education and cutting-edge facilities across nine campuses. Offering over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across seven faculties, TUT prepares students for industries like engineering, arts, and business. For those planning to apply for the 2025 academic year, understanding the courses offered and their admission requirements is vital for a successful application. This detailed guide explores TUT’s 2025 programs, entry criteria, and application process, providing clear, practical information to help you navigate your academic journey with confidence.
TUT Courses and Requirements
TUT organizes its academic offerings across seven faculties: Arts and Design, Economics and Finance, Engineering and the Built Environment, Humanities, Information and Communication Technology, Management Sciences, and Science. Programs range from Higher Certificates to Doctoral Degrees, delivered through contact and online learning. Admission is based on the National Senior Certificate (NSC), Admission Point Score (APS), and program-specific requirements, with evaluations conducted prior to admission. Below, we outline key courses and their entry criteria for 2025, ensuring accuracy based on official TUT sources.
Faculty of Arts and Design
This faculty nurtures creativity, offering programs in visual arts, performing arts, and design.
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Higher Certificate in Music: Requires an NSC with Higher Certificate endorsement, APS of 18, English Home Language (HL) or First Additional Language (FAL) level 4 (50–59%), and a music audition. Prepares students for music-related careers.
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Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance): APS of 20, English HL/FAL level 4, and a dance audition. Focuses on choreography and performance.
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Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Visual Communication: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4, and a portfolio submission. Covers graphic design and multimedia.
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Advanced Diploma in Fine and Applied Arts: Requires a relevant Diploma or Bachelor’s degree with a 60% average in final-year subjects.
Faculty of Economics and Finance
This faculty equips students for financial and economic roles, with programs accredited by bodies like SAICA.
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Higher Certificate in Accounting: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 (40–49%) or Mathematical Literacy level 5 (60–69%). A foundation for accounting studies.
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Diploma in Financial Management: APS of 22, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Prepares students for financial planning roles.
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Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Qualifies students for professional accounting exams.
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Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning: Requires a relevant Diploma or degree with a 60% average.
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Accredited by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), this faculty offers programs in engineering and construction.
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Diploma in Building: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4, Physical Sciences level 4. Covers construction management.
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Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) in Civil Engineering: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 5, Physical Sciences level 5. Focuses on infrastructure design.
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BEngTech in Electrical Engineering: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 5, Physical Sciences level 5. Prepares students for power systems roles.
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Advanced Diploma in Industrial Design: Requires a National Diploma in Three-Dimensional Design or equivalent with a 60% average.
Faculty of Humanities
This faculty fosters skills in education, communication, and social sciences, addressing societal needs.
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Higher Certificate in Public Administration: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4. A pathway to diploma and degree studies.
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Diploma in Public Affairs: APS of 20, English HL/FAL level 4, and an additional language at level 3. Prepares students for government roles.
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Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching: APS of 25, English HL/FAL level 4, and subject-specific requirements (e.g., Mathematics level 4 for teaching mathematics). For grades 7–12 teachers.
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Advanced Diploma in Language Practice: Requires a relevant Diploma or degree with a 60% average.
Faculty of Information and Communication Technology
This faculty drives innovation in IT and computing, with programs supporting careers in software development and AI.
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Higher Certificate in Informatics: APS of 20, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. A foundation for IT studies.
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Diploma in Computer Science: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Covers programming and data analysis.
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Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology (BICT): APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 5. Prepares students for roles like software engineer or web developer.
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Advanced Diploma in Computer Science: Available at eMalahleni and Polokwane campuses, requiring a relevant Diploma or degree with a 60% average.
Faculty of Management Sciences
This faculty prepares students for leadership in business, hospitality, and public management.
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Higher Certificate in Contact Centre Management: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4. Ideal for customer service roles.
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Diploma in Administrative Information Management: APS of 20, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Focuses on office administration.
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Bachelor of Management Sciences in Business Administration: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Emphasizes strategic management.
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Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management: Requires a relevant Diploma or degree with a 60% average.
Faculty of Science
This faculty offers programs in health, environmental, and applied sciences, addressing global challenges.
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Diploma in Analytical Chemistry: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4, Physical Sciences level 4. Prepares students for laboratory roles.
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Bachelor of Health Science (BHSci) in Clinical Technology: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 5, Life Sciences level 5. Trains students for medical diagnostics.
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Bachelor of Environmental Management: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4, Life Sciences or Physical Sciences level 4. Focuses on sustainability.
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Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology: Requires a relevant Diploma or degree with a 60% average.
General Admission Requirements
TUT’s admission criteria align with national legislation, ensuring academic readiness:
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Higher Certificate: NSC with Higher Certificate endorsement, APS of 18–20, English HL/FAL level 3–4.
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Diploma: NSC with Diploma endorsement, APS of 20–24, English HL/FAL level 4, and program-specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics level 4 for engineering).
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Bachelor’s Degree: NSC with Bachelor’s degree endorsement, APS of 25–28, English HL/FAL level 4, and program-specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics level 5 for BEngTech).
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Application Period: Opens March 1, 2024, closes September 30, 2024, for most programs; late applications for select courses (e.g., Advanced Diploma in Computer Science) open January 2025.
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Prior Evaluation: All applicants undergo evaluation to confirm eligibility.
Admission Point Score (APS) Explained
The APS is calculated using the six best NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation:
NSC Level |
Percentage |
APS Points |
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7 | 80–100% | 7 |
6 | 70–79% | 6 |
5 | 60–69% | 5 |
4 | 50–59% | 4 |
3 | 40–49% | 3 |
2 | 30–39% | 2 |
1 | 0–29% | 1 |
For example, a student with English (60%, level 5), Mathematics (70%, level 6), and four other subjects at level 4 (50–59%) scores: 5 + 6 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 27 APS points. TUT requires four designated 20-credit NSC subjects at specified levels for admission.
Alternative Admission Pathways
TUT offers flexible entry options for non-standard applicants:
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National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4: Accepted for programs like Diploma in Building, requiring 50% in English, Mathematics, and relevant vocational subjects (e.g., Civil Technology).
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Senior Certificate (Pre-2008): Accepted with specific subject passes (e.g., English HG 40%, Mathematics HG 40% for engineering).
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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Applicants with relevant work experience can apply for RPL assessment, subject to faculty approval.
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Access Programmes: Extended programs for students with APS slightly below requirements, adding one year to build foundational skills.
Online Learning Programs
TUT offers select online programs, ideal for flexible learning:
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Higher Certificate in Contact Centre Management: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4, 2 years (120 credits).
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Higher Certificate in Administrative Information Management: APS of 20, English HL/FAL level 4, 2 years (120 credits).
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Advanced Diploma in Computer Science: APS not specified, requires a relevant Diploma, offered online at eMalahleni and Polokwane campuses.
Postgraduate Programs
TUT offers Advanced Diplomas, Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral Degrees:
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Advanced Diploma in Public Management: Requires a relevant Diploma or degree with a 60% average.
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Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Educational Management: Requires a BEd or equivalent with a 60% average.
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Master’s in Mechanical Engineering: Requires a BEng or equivalent with a 65% average and a research proposal.
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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biotechnology: Requires a Master’s degree and a strong research background.
Application Process for 2025
Applying to TUT is streamlined via an online portal:
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Choose Programs: Select up to two programs via the TUT website.
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Online Application: Submit from March 1, 2024, at www.tut.ac.za.
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Required Documents: Certified copies of ID, NSC or equivalent results, SAQA evaluation (if applicable), and proof of application fee payment.
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Application Fee: Approximately R240 for South African applicants, R500 for international students.
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Track Application: Monitor status through the TUT portal; outcomes are released within 4–6 weeks post-deadline.
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Late Applications: Open January 2025 for select programs with available spaces (e.g., Advanced Diploma in Computer Science).
International Students
International applicants must meet additional criteria:
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SAQA Evaluation: Non-South African qualifications require verification by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
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English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-English-speaking applicants.
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Study Permit: Required before registration.
Financial Aid and Funding
TUT supports students through various funding options:
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NSFAS: For South African students with a household income below R350,000 per year. Applications open August 2024 via the NSFAS portal.
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TUT Bursaries: Merit-based awards for top performers.
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External Scholarships: Available through private and government programs.
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Postgraduate Funding: Research grants for Master’s and PhD students.
Apply for funding early to align with registration deadlines (January 31, 2025, for semester 1).
Why Choose TUT?
TUT stands out for its:
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Industry Alignment: Programs are accredited by bodies like ECSA and SAICA, ensuring job readiness.
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Multiple Campuses: Nine campuses, including Pretoria West and eMalahleni, offer diverse learning environments.
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Innovation Hub: Research centers in AI, renewable energy, and health sciences drive innovation.
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Student Support: Career counseling, academic advising, and wellness programs enhance success.
Campus Life and Orientation
TUT’s campuses, from Pretoria West to Polokwane, offer vibrant student experiences. The 2025 orientation program, held in January, introduces first-years to academic resources, student societies, and facilities like engineering labs and art studios. Students can engage in:
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Sports Facilities: Soccer, rugby, and athletics programs.
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Cultural Events: Music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater productions.
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Student Societies: Over 100 clubs for academic and social interests.
Summary Table: Key TUT Courses and Requirements (2025)
Faculty |
Course |
APS |
Key Requirements |
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Arts and Design |
Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance) |
20 |
English HL/FAL level 4, dance audition |
Economics and Finance |
BCom in Accounting |
28 |
English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 4 |
Engineering and Built Environment |
BEngTech in Civil Engineering |
28 |
English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 5, Physical Sciences level 5 |
Humanities |
BEd Senior Phase and FET Teaching |
25 |
English HL/FAL level 4, subject-specific requirements |
Information and Communication Technology |
BICT |
28 |
English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 5 |
Management Sciences |
Higher Certificate in Contact Centre Management |
18 |
English HL/FAL level 4 |
Science |
BHSci in Clinical Technology |
28 |
English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 5, Life Sciences level 5 |
FAQ: Common Questions About TUT Courses and Requirements
What is the minimum APS for TUT in 2025?
The minimum APS is 18 for Higher Certificates, 20–24 for Diplomas, and 25–28 for Bachelor’s degrees, depending on the program. For example, BEngTech requires an APS of 28 with Mathematics level 5.
Can I apply to TUT without Mathematics?
Yes, some programs like Higher Certificate in Contact Centre Management and Diploma in Public Affairs accept Mathematical Literacy (level 5) or don’t require Mathematics. Check specific course requirements on TUT’s website.
When do TUT applications close for 2025?
Applications close on September 30, 2024, for most programs. Late applications for select courses open in January 2025, subject to available spaces.
Conclusion
Tshwane University of Technology offers a diverse range of over 400 programs for 2025, from Higher Certificates to Doctoral Degrees, designed to prepare students for thriving careers in arts, engineering, IT, and more. By meeting the APS and subject requirements, you can secure a spot at one of TUT’s nine campuses. Start your application early, gather required documents, and explore funding options like NSFAS to ensure a smooth process. With its industry-aligned programs, innovative research, and vibrant campus life, TUT is an excellent choice for your higher education journey.