Dlamini BlessingCape Peninsula University of Technology is one of South Africa’s most respected universities. Located in the beautiful Western Cape, with campuses in Cape Town, Bellville, and Wellington, CPUT offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It is a university of technology, meaning its programmes are designed to prepare students directly for the workplace.
CPUT has a strong reputation in fields like engineering, IT, business, health sciences, and education. It attracts students from across South Africa and beyond, all seeking a quality education in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
This guide covers everything you need to know about CPUT courses and requirements for 2026, including available programmes, entry requirements, application process, and important deadlines.
CPUT Courses and Requirements: Complete Guide
About CPUT
Cape Peninsula University of Technology was formed in 2005 through a merger of Cape Technikon and Peninsula Technikon. It is the largest university of technology in the Western Cape and one of the largest in South Africa.
CPUT is known for:
A focus on technology and vocational education.
Strong industry links and work-integrated learning.
High graduate employability.
Beautiful campuses in Cape Town, Bellville, and Wellington.
A diverse student body.
Accreditations and Registrations:
Registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training.
All programmes accredited by the Council on Higher Education.
Professional body accreditations for specific programmes (e.g., Engineering Council of South Africa, South African Nursing Council).
Quick Reference: Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Faculty Structure (2026)
| Faculty | Programme Areas |
|---|---|
| Applied Sciences | Biomedical Technology, Chemistry, Environmental Health, Food Technology |
| Business & Management Sciences | Accounting, Human Resources, Marketing, Tourism, Public Management |
| Education | Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, FET Teaching |
| Engineering & the Built Environment | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical Engineering, Architecture |
| Health & Wellness Sciences | Nursing, Emergency Medical Care, Dental Technology, Radiography |
| Informatics & Design | Information Technology, Graphic Design, Fashion, Film & Video |
| Military Science | Programmes tailored for defence force personnel |
Note: Programme availability may vary by campus and intake. Always confirm with CPUT for the latest offerings.
Faculty of Applied Sciences
The Faculty of Applied Sciences offers programmes in pure and applied sciences, with a strong focus on laboratory work and industry relevance.
National Diploma: Biomedical Technology
NQF Level: 6
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Medical laboratory scientist in hospitals and clinics.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree or diploma endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Physical Science: 50 percent.
Life Sciences: 50 percent.
Subject requirements are competitive.
Bachelor of Environmental Health
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Environmental health practitioner, inspector.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Physical Science or Life Sciences: 50 percent.
Other Applied Sciences Programmes:
Food Technology.
Analytical Chemistry.
Biotechnology.
Consumer Science.
Faculty of Business and Management Sciences
This is one of CPUT’s largest faculties, offering programmes across the full spectrum of business disciplines.
National Diploma: Financial Accounting
NQF Level: 6
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Accounting technician, bookkeeper, finance clerk.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with diploma endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Marketing manager, brand manager, market researcher.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 50 percent.
Other Business Programmes:
Human Resource Management.
Public Management.
Tourism Management.
Events Management.
Office Management and Technology.
Retail Business Management.
Faculty of Education
CPUT is a leading provider of teacher education in the Western Cape, offering programmes for all phases of schooling.
Bachelor of Education: Foundation Phase Teaching
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Teacher for Grades R to 3.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Pass in a second language.
Appropriate subject combinations for teaching.
Bachelor of Education: Intermediate Phase Teaching
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Teacher for Grades 4 to 6.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Pass in a second language.
Two recognised school subjects.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 1 year
Career Outcomes: Qualified teacher for graduates.
Entry Requirements:
Recognised bachelor’s degree with appropriate subjects.
English and other language requirements.
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
This faculty is one of CPUT’s flagship areas, producing engineers and built environment professionals for South Africa and beyond.
National Diploma: Civil Engineering
NQF Level: 6
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Civil engineering technician, site supervisor.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with diploma endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Physical Science: 50 percent.
Bachelor of Engineering Technology: Mechanical Engineering
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Mechanical engineering technologist.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Physical Science: 60 percent.
Other Engineering Programmes:
Electrical Engineering.
Chemical Engineering.
Industrial Engineering.
Construction Management.
Architecture.
Geomatics.
Quantity Surveying.
Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences
This faculty trains healthcare professionals for the South African health system.
National Diploma: Nursing
NQF Level: 6
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Staff nurse (enrolled nurse).
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with diploma endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Life Sciences: 50 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 40 percent.
Bachelor of Nursing
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Professional nurse and midwife.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 60 percent.
Life Sciences: 60 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Selection based on academic merit and interview.
Other Health Sciences Programmes:
Emergency Medical Care.
Radiography (Diagnostic and Therapeutic).
Dental Technology.
Biomedical Technology.
Environmental Health.
Sport Management.
Faculty of Informatics and Design
This faculty combines information technology with creative disciplines.
National Diploma: Information Technology
NQF Level: 6
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: IT technician, programmer, network administrator.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with diploma endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Bachelor of Information Technology
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Software developer, systems analyst, IT manager.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Other Informatics and Design Programmes:
Graphic Design.
Fashion Design.
Film and Video Production.
Multimedia.
Jewellery Design and Manufacture.
Interior Design.
Faculty of Military Science
This faculty is based at the South African Military Academy in Saldanha and offers programmes for defence force personnel.
Programmes:
Bachelor of Military Science with various majors.
Admission is restricted to South African National Defence Force members.
CPUT Admission Requirements Summary
General:
National Senior Certificate with appropriate endorsement for the chosen programme:
Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor’s endorsement.
Diploma: Diploma endorsement.
Higher Certificate: Higher Certificate endorsement.
Minimum subject requirements vary by programme.
Competitive Programmes:
Some programmes have limited spaces and select the best-qualified applicants. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Examples of competitive programmes:
Nursing.
Emergency Medical Care.
Engineering.
Architecture.
Graphic Design.
Alternative Qualifications:
National Certificate (Vocational) may be considered for some programmes.
Mature age candidates may apply for admission through the Recognition of Prior Learning process.
International Students:
South African Qualifications Authority evaluation of foreign qualifications.
Valid study visa.
Proof of English proficiency.
CPUT Fees 2026
Tuition fees vary by faculty and programme. The following are estimates for 2026:
Humanities and Business Programmes:
R25,000 to R35,000 per year.
Science and Engineering Programmes:
R30,000 to R45,000 per year.
Health Sciences Programmes:
R30,000 to R40,000 per year.
Additional Costs:
Application fee: R100 to R200.
Registration fee: Varies by programme.
Textbooks and materials: R3,000 to R8,000 per year.
Accommodation: On-campus residences or private accommodation.
Meals and living expenses.
NSFAS Funding:
NSFAS is available for eligible students in approved programmes.
Apply online at www.nsfas.org.za.
Bursaries:
Various government and private bursaries available.
Check with your faculty and the financial aid office.
Application Process
Step 1: Choose your programme.
Browse the CPUT website or prospectus.
Check the specific entry requirements.
Ensure you meet the subject and level requirements.
Step 2: Apply online.
Applications are done through the Central Applications Office or directly on the CPUT website.
Go to www.cput.ac.za and click on “Apply”.
Create an account.
Step 3: Complete the application.
Fill in all required fields.
Choose up to three programme choices in order of preference.
Step 4: Upload documents.
Certified copy of your ID.
Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate or latest results.
Academic transcripts if applicable.
Proof of residence.
Other documents as specified.
Step 5: Pay the application fee.
R100 for South African applicants.
R200 for international applicants.
Pay via EFT or credit card.
Keep proof of payment.
Step 6: Submit your application.
Review all information.
Submit before the closing date.
Print or save your confirmation page.
Step 7: Monitor your application status.
Log in to the application portal to track progress.
Check for any messages or requests for additional information.
Step 8: Respond to offers.
If you receive an offer, you must accept or decline by the deadline.
Pay the required acceptance deposit to secure your place.
Application Deadlines
Applications for 2026 typically open in March or April 2025 and close around September or October 2025.
Specific deadlines vary by programme. Competitive programmes close earlier.
Check the CPUT website for exact dates:
www.cput.ac.za/how-to-apply
Apply early. Many programmes fill up well before the closing date.
Campus Locations
CPUT has multiple campuses:
Cape Town Campus: City centre, near the V&A Waterfront.
Bellville Campus: Northern suburbs.
Wellington Campus: Education and some other programmes.
Mowbray Campus: Health and Wellness Sciences.
Granger Bay Campus: Hotel School and Tourism.
Military Academy: Saldanha (for defence force students).
Accommodation
CPUT offers on-campus residence accommodation, but spaces are limited. Apply early.
Private accommodation is available near all campuses. The university’s housing office can assist with finding accredited private housing.
Why Choose CPUT?
University of Technology Focus: Practical, career-oriented education.
Location: Study in beautiful Cape Town.
Industry Links: Strong connections with employers.
Work-Integrated Learning: Many programmes include workplace experience.
High Employability: Graduates are sought after by employers.
Diverse Community: Students from all backgrounds.
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
What courses are offered at CPUT?
CPUT offers programmes in Applied Sciences, Business, Education, Engineering, Health Sciences, Informatics and Design, and Military Science.
What are the entry requirements for CPUT?
A National Senior Certificate with appropriate endorsement for the programme. Specific subject requirements vary.
How do I apply to CPUT?
Apply online through the CPUT website during the application window.
When do applications open for 2026?
Applications typically open in March to April 2025 and close in September to October 2025.
What is the application fee for CPUT?
R100 for South African applicants, R200 for international applicants.
Does CPUT offer NSFAS?
Yes. NSFAS funding is available for eligible students in approved programmes.
What is the difference between a diploma and a degree at CPUT?
Diplomas are NQF Level 6, more vocationally focused. Degrees are NQF Level 7, with more theoretical depth. Both lead to employment.
Is CPUT a good university?
Yes. CPUT is a respected university of technology with strong industry links and high graduate employability.
Does CPUT have accommodation?
Yes, on-campus residences are available, but spaces are limited. Private accommodation is also available.
Can international students apply to CPUT?
Yes. International students must have their qualifications evaluated by SAQA and obtain a study visa.
Summary: Which Faculty Is Right For You?
Choose Applied Sciences if:
You enjoy science and laboratory work.
You want a career in biomedical, environmental, or food science.
You have strong results in Mathematics and Physical Science.
Choose Business and Management Sciences if:
You want a career in business, accounting, marketing, or tourism.
You enjoy working with people and numbers.
You have good communication skills.
Choose Education if:
You are passionate about teaching and working with children.
You have patience and good communication skills.
You want to make a difference in young lives.
Choose Engineering and the Built Environment if:
You enjoy mathematics and physical science.
You want to design, build, or create.
You are good at problem-solving.
Choose Health and Wellness Sciences if:
You want to work in healthcare.
You are compassionate and detail-oriented.
You have strong results in Life Sciences.
Choose Informatics and Design if:
You enjoy technology or creative work.
You want a career in IT, design, or media.
You are innovative and creative.
Choose Military Science if:
You are a member of the South African National Defence Force.
You want to pursue a degree while serving.
Final Warning: Apply Early and Check Requirements
CPUT is a competitive university. Popular programmes fill up quickly. Do not wait until the closing date to apply. Submit your application as early as possible.
Carefully check the specific subject requirements for your chosen programme. Meeting the minimum APS score is not enough if you lack required subjects.
Official Contact:
CPUT Website: www.cput.ac.za
Admissions: [email protected]
Central Applications Office: www.cao.ac.za
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Courses, fees, and entry requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information directly with CPUT before applying.