Dlamini BlessingFor many South African students, the absence of Pure Mathematics in their matric subjects can feel like a barrier to university education. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Gqeberha offers a wide range of programmes that accept Mathematical Literacy, making higher education accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds.
NMU Courses That Don’t Require Maths
Courses That Accept Mathematical Literacy
The following courses at Nelson Mandela University accept students with Mathematical Literacy. Many also have Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP) that offer additional academic support for students who need more time to complete their studies.
Faculty of Humanities
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts degree is one of the most flexible options for students without Pure Mathematics. This programme offers majors in languages, history, geography, sociology, psychology, and other humanities disciplines.
Mathematics Requirement: An applicant with NSC Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy requires a minimum Applicant Score of 365. The NSC achievement rating must be at least 40% for Mathematics or 70% for Mathematical Literacy.
Additional Requirements: NSC achievement rating of at least 60% in any one Home or First Additional Language.
APS Requirement: AS of 365 with Maths Literacy
Faculty of Education
Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R to 3)
This four-year degree trains students to teach at the early primary school level, focusing on foundational literacy, numeracy, and life skills.
Mathematics Requirement: An applicant with NSC Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy requires a minimum Applicant Score of 365. NSC achievement rating of at least 45% for Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, OR 60% for Mathematical Literacy.
Additional Requirements: English (Home Language or First Additional Language) AND Afrikaans or isiXhosa (Home Language or First Additional Language).
APS Requirement: AS of 365 with Maths Literacy
Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grades 4 to 6)
This programme prepares teachers for the intermediate primary school phase.
Mathematics Requirement: An applicant with NSC Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy requires a minimum Applicant Score of 385. NSC achievement rating of at least 45% for Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, OR 60% for Mathematical Literacy.
Additional Requirements: English (Home Language or First Additional Language) AND Afrikaans or isiXhosa (Home Language or First Additional Language).
APS Requirement: AS of 385 with Maths Literacy
Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching – Humanities Stream
For students who want to teach at high school level in subjects like Languages, History, and Geography, this stream accepts Mathematical Literacy.
Mathematics Requirement: Students in the Humanities stream are not required to have Pure Mathematics. However, students choosing Mathematics as a teaching subject would need Pure Mathematics.
Additional Requirements: English (Home Language or First Additional Language) AND Afrikaans or isiXhosa (Home Language or First Additional Language).
Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching – Commerce Stream
Students in the Commerce stream who wish to specialise in Mathematical Literacy (as a teaching subject) can do so, but specialising in Mathematics requires Pure Mathematics. The stream includes Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Mathematics, and Mathematical Literacy as FET specialisations.
Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences
The Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences offers several diploma programmes that are practical and career-focused, with Mathematical Literacy accepted for admission.
Diploma in Accountancy
This diploma is a more accessible alternative to the BCom in Accounting, which requires Pure Mathematics. It prepares students for careers as accounting technicians or bookkeepers.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted. Check prospectus for specific level requirements.
Diploma in Economics (including Extended Curriculum)
This programme covers economic theory, policy analysis, and quantitative methods at an accessible level.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted for the diploma and extended curriculum versions.
Diploma in Human Resource Management (including Extended Curriculum)
Focusing on personnel management, recruitment, training coordination, and employee relations, this programme does not require advanced mathematics.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted.
Diploma in Inventory and Stores Management
This programme covers stock control, warehousing, and supply chain coordination.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted.
Diploma in Logistics (including Extended Curriculum)
Supply chain and logistics management is a growing field. This programme accepts Mathematical Literacy.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted.
Diploma in Management (including Extended Curriculum)
This programme covers general management principles, leadership, and organisational behaviour.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted.
Diploma in Marketing (including Extended Curriculum)
Marketing focuses on consumer behaviour, branding, and communication strategies. This programme accepts Mathematical Literacy.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted.
Diploma in Tourism Management (including Extended Curriculum)
South Africa’s tourism industry offers many opportunities. This diploma covers travel operations, hospitality management, and destination marketing.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted.
Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology
While most engineering programmes require Pure Mathematics, NMU offers several diploma programmes in this faculty that are more accessible.
Diploma in Operations Management
This programme focuses on improving organisational efficiency, workflow design, and project management. It is less mathematically intensive than traditional engineering programmes.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted. Check prospectus for specific requirements.
Diploma in Architectural Technology
This programme covers architectural design, building technology, and construction methods.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted. Check prospectus for specific requirements.
Diploma in Interior Design
Students learn to design functional and aesthetic interior spaces. Creativity and visual skills are prioritised over mathematics.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted.
Diploma in Building
This programme focuses on construction management, building methods, and site supervision.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted.
Diploma in Information Technology: Software Development
This IT diploma focuses on computer programming, software development, and practical coding skills.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted at a higher level. Check prospectus for specific requirements.
Diploma in Information Technology: Communication Networks
This programme covers network infrastructure, systems administration, and IT support.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted.
Diploma in Information Technology: Support Services
Focused on IT helpdesk, user support, and systems maintenance, this programme is practical and career-oriented.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted.
Faculty of Science
Diploma in Agricultural Management (also offered at George Campus)
This diploma focuses on equipping students with modern agricultural and agribusiness management skills, crucial for South Africa’s food security and farming innovation.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted. Check prospectus for specific requirements.
Higher Certificates
Higher certificates are one-year programmes that serve as excellent entry points for students who may not meet degree or diploma requirements. They can also serve as pathways to further study.
Higher Certificate in Heritage Studies
This programme is designed for students interested in heritage, museums, archives, and cultural preservation work.
Mathematics Requirement: Minimum NSC statutory requirements for Higher Certificate entry (30% in English). Specific maths requirements are minimal.
Higher Certificate in Court Interpreting
This unique programme prepares students for careers in legal interpreting and court services.
Mathematics Requirement: Minimum NSC statutory requirements for Higher Certificate entry.
Important Note on Courses That Do Require Pure Mathematics
For clarity, it is equally important to know which NMU courses will not accept Mathematical Literacy. Students without Pure Mathematics cannot apply for the following programmes:
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting Science (with Computer Science and Information Systems): Requires Pure Mathematics Level 4 (50-59%) or higher. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted as a substitute.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) programmes: Most B.Sc. programmes require Pure Mathematics. Mathematical Literacy is generally not accepted.
Engineering degree programmes (B.Eng.): Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Industrial Engineering all require Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm.): Requires Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Bachelor of Radiography: Requires Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Quick Reference Table by Qualification
| Qualification | Mathematics Requirement | AS Required |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | Maths Lit Level 70% | AS 365 with Maths Lit |
| B.Ed. Foundation Phase | Maths Lit Level 60% | AS 365 with Maths Lit |
| B.Ed. Intermediate Phase | Maths Lit Level 60% | AS 385 with Maths Lit |
| Diploma in Accountancy | Maths Lit accepted | Check prospectus |
| Diploma in Human Resource Management | Maths Lit accepted | Check prospectus |
| Diploma in Logistics | Maths Lit accepted | Check prospectus |
| Diploma in Marketing | Maths Lit accepted | Check prospectus |
| Diploma in Tourism Management | Maths Lit accepted | Check prospectus |
| Diploma in IT (various) | Maths Lit may be accepted | Check prospectus |
| Diploma in Agricultural Management | Maths Lit may be accepted | Check prospectus |
| Higher Certificates (various) | Minimal maths requirements | NSC pass with 30% English |
Application Tips for Students Without Pure Mathematics
1. Verify Your Specific Requirements: While this guide provides general requirements, always check the official NMU prospectus for your specific programme, as requirements can change annually.
2. Calculate Your AS Correctly: NMU uses a score out of 600. Add the percentages for your six best 20-credit subjects (excluding Life Orientation). For students from quintile 1-3 schools with LO above 50%, add 7 points.
3. Consider Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP): Many diplomas offer ECP versions that provide additional academic support and may have lower entry requirements. These are excellent options for students who need more time to adjust to university study.
4. English is Mandatory: All programmes require English Home Language at Level 4 or English First Additional Language at Level 5, or at least 30% for Higher Certificate entry.
5. Meeting Minimums Does Not Guarantee Admission: NMU is a competitive university with limited spaces. Selection is based on academic merit, and students who exceed the minimum requirements have a better chance of admission.
6. Apply Early: Applications for the following academic year typically open on 1 April and close on 30 September for most programmes. Health Sciences programmes have earlier deadlines (30 June).
7. No Application Fee for SA Citizens: South African citizens generally do not pay an application fee. International students may be required to pay a fee.
How to Apply
Applications to Nelson Mandela University are submitted online through the official NMU website at www.mandela.ac.za. You will need:
Your South African ID number or passport
Your Grade 11 final results or Grade 12 examination number
A unique email address and cell phone number
Certified copies of your ID and latest academic results
For any queries, you can contact the admissions office at [email protected] or call 041 504 1111.
Conclusion
Nelson Mandela University offers genuine opportunities for students who did not take Pure Mathematics in high school. From the humanities and education to business diplomas, IT programmes, and agricultural management, there are multiple accredited pathways to meaningful careers.
The key is to identify which programme aligns with your interests and strengths, then ensure you meet the specific Mathematical Literacy and English requirements for that course. With no application fee for South African citizens and a commitment to accessible education through Extended Curriculum Programmes, NMU is an excellent choice for students who want to succeed without Pure Mathematics. Your matric results do not define your future, and at Nelson Mandela University, the door to higher education remains wide open.