CPUT Courses That Don’t Require Maths (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in Cape Town, South Africa, is a hub for practical, career-oriented education. For students who didn’t excel in Mathematics or chose Mathematical Literacy in high school, CPUT offers a variety of programs that don’t require pure Mathematics. These courses span creative arts, education, business, and more, providing accessible pathways to rewarding careers. This guide explores CPUT’s 2025 programs that don’t demand advanced math skills, detailing admission requirements, course structures, and job prospects to help you make an informed choice.

CPUT Courses That Don’t Require Maths

CPUT, the largest university in the Western Cape, is known for its six faculties offering over 80 programs. Many of these accept Mathematical Literacy or have no math requirement, making them ideal for students who shine in communication, creativity, or people-oriented fields. Below, we break down these courses by faculty, highlighting their key features and career outcomes.

Faculty of Education

CPUT’s Faculty of Education focuses on training teachers for various school phases, emphasizing language and subject specialization over mathematical prowess. These programs are perfect for those passionate about shaping young minds.

  • Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching

    • Duration: 4 years

    • Campus: Mowbray, Wellington

    • Admission Requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) with 50% in English (Home or First Additional Language), 50% in Mathematical Literacy (or 40% in Mathematics), and an Admission Point Score (APS) of 30 with Mathematical Literacy or 29 with Mathematics.

    • Overview: Prepares students to teach grades R–3, focusing on literacy, life skills, and early numeracy. The curriculum includes teaching practice in schools.

    • Career Paths: Foundation phase teacher, education consultant, or curriculum developer.

    • Why Choose It?: This program suits those who love working with young children and want a stable career in education without heavy math demands.

  • Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching

    • Duration: 4 years

    • Campus: Mowbray, Wellington

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 50% in English, 50% in Mathematical Literacy (or 40% in Mathematics), and an APS of 30 with Mathematical Literacy or 29 with Mathematics.

    • Overview: Trains teachers for grades 4–6, covering subjects like languages, social sciences, and life skills. Practical teaching experience is a core component.

    • Career Paths: Intermediate phase teacher, school administrator, or education policy analyst.

    • Why Choose It?: Offers flexibility to teach multiple subjects, with a focus on nurturing young learners’ holistic development.

  • Higher Certificate in Education (Grade R Teaching)

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: Mowbray

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 40% in English and 40% in Mathematical Literacy (or 30% in Mathematics), plus an APS of 26.

    • Overview: Prepares students to teach pre-school learners in Grade R, emphasizing play-based learning and early childhood development.

    • Career Paths: Grade R teacher, early childhood educator, or preschool coordinator.

    • Why Choose It?: A short, accessible program for those eager to start working with young children quickly.

Faculty of Informatics and Design

This faculty is a haven for creative students, offering programs in design and communication that prioritize artistic and strategic skills over numbers.

  • Diploma in Visual Communication Design

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Bellville

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 50% in English, 50% in Mathematical Literacy (or 40% in Mathematics), an APS of 28, and a portfolio submission.

    • Overview: Covers graphic design, branding, and digital media. Students learn industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite.

    • Career Paths: Graphic designer, brand strategist, or digital content creator.

    • Why Choose It?: Ideal for visually creative individuals who want to work in advertising or media without math-intensive coursework.

  • Diploma in Fashion Design

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Bellville

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 50% in English, 50% in Mathematical Literacy (or 40% in Mathematics), an APS of 28, and a portfolio submission.

    • Overview: Teaches pattern-making, garment construction, and fashion illustration. Students showcase their work in annual fashion shows.

    • Career Paths: Fashion designer, stylist, or textile designer.

    • Why Choose It?: Perfect for those with a flair for style and creativity, with no need for advanced math skills.

  • Diploma in Film and Video Technology

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Bellville

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 50% in English, 50% in Mathematical Literacy (or 40% in Mathematics), and an APS of 28.

    • Overview: Focuses on filmmaking, editing, and production. Students gain hands-on experience with cameras and editing software.

    • Career Paths: Film director, video editor, or production assistant.

    • Why Choose It?: A dynamic program for storytelling enthusiasts who want to work in the film industry.

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Faculty of Business and Management Sciences

CPUT’s business programs emphasize practical skills in management, marketing, and communication, often accepting Mathematical Literacy for entry.

  • Diploma in Public Relations and Communication

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Bellville, District Six

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 50% in English, 50% in Mathematical Literacy (or 40% in Mathematics), and an APS of 30.

    • Overview: Covers media relations, event planning, and strategic communication. Students complete internships to build industry connections.

    • Career Paths: PR specialist, media coordinator, or corporate communicator.

    • Why Choose It?: Suits those with strong communication skills who want to work in dynamic, people-focused roles.

  • Diploma in Tourism Management

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: District Six

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 50% in English, 50% in Mathematical Literacy (or 40% in Mathematics), and an APS of 30.

    • Overview: Teaches tourism marketing, event management, and sustainable tourism practices. Includes practical training in the industry.

    • Career Paths: Tourism officer, travel consultant, or event planner.

    • Why Choose It?: A vibrant field with global opportunities, perfect for those who love travel and hospitality.

  • Higher Certificate in Business Administration

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: District Six

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 40% in English, 40% in Mathematical Literacy (or 30% in Mathematics), and an APS of 26.

    • Overview: Introduces business fundamentals like management, marketing, and customer service. Serves as a stepping stone to diplomas or degrees.

    • Career Paths: Administrative assistant, office manager, or entrepreneur.

    • Why Choose It?: A quick entry into the business world, ideal for those seeking practical skills without math.

Summary Table: CPUT Courses Without Maths (2025)

Program

Faculty

Duration

Campus

Key Admission Requirements

Career Prospects

BEd Foundation Phase Teaching

Education

4 years

Mowbray, Wellington

50% English, 50% Math Literacy, APS 30

Foundation phase teacher, education consultant

BEd Intermediate Phase Teaching

Education

4 years

Mowbray, Wellington

50% English, 50% Math Literacy, APS 30

Intermediate phase teacher, policy analyst

Higher Certificate in Education (Grade R)

Education

1 year

Mowbray

40% English, 40% Math Literacy, APS 26

Grade R teacher, preschool coordinator

Diploma in Visual Communication Design

Informatics and Design

3 years

Bellville

50% English, 50% Math Literacy, APS 28, portfolio

Graphic designer, brand strategist

Diploma in Fashion Design

Informatics and Design

3 years

Bellville

50% English, 50% Math Literacy, APS 28, portfolio

Fashion designer, stylist

Diploma in Film and Video Technology

Informatics and Design

3 years

Bellville

50% English, 50% Math Literacy, APS 28

Film director, video editor

Diploma in Public Relations

Business and Management

3 years

Bellville, District Six

50% English, 50% Math Literacy, APS 30

PR specialist, media coordinator

Diploma in Tourism Management

Business and Management

3 years

District Six

50% English, 50% Math Literacy, APS 30

Tourism officer, travel consultant

Higher Certificate in Business Admin

Business and Management

1 year

District Six

40% English, 40% Math Literacy, APS 26

Administrative assistant, entrepreneur
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Benefits of Choosing Math-Free Courses at CPUT

Pursuing a program at CPUT that doesn’t require Mathematics offers several advantages, especially for students who thrive in non-numerical fields:

  • Inclusivity: Accepting Mathematical Literacy lowers barriers, allowing more students to access higher education.

  • Diverse Career Paths: Graduates enter fields like education, design, tourism, and public relations, which are in demand in South Africa and globally.

  • Hands-On Learning: CPUT’s focus on practical training, such as internships and portfolios, ensures job-ready skills.

  • Flexible Entry Points: Higher certificates provide a one-year option for quick workforce entry or further studies.

How to Apply to CPUT for 2025

CPUT’s application process is streamlined but competitive, especially for high-demand programs. Follow these steps to apply:

  1. Verify Eligibility: Check program-specific requirements, including APS, English, and Mathematical Literacy marks, on CPUT’s website.

  2. Apply Online: Submit your application via CPUT’s online portal, open from May 13 to September 30, 2024, for 2025 entry. Upload your NSC results, ID, and any additional documents (e.g., portfolios for design programs).

  3. Pay the Application Fee: Late applications incur a R150 fee; regular applications are free.

  4. Track Your Status: Monitor your application on the CPUT portal. Successful applicants receive offers by late 2024.

  5. Register Early: Accepted students register in January 2025. Pay the registration fee to secure your spot.

Note: Some programs require additional assessments, like portfolio reviews for design courses. Apply early to avoid missing deadlines, as spaces fill quickly.

Career Opportunities and Industry Relevance

CPUT’s math-free programs align with South Africa’s growing industries, ensuring strong job prospects for graduates:

  • Education: South Africa needs over 400,000 teachers by 2030, especially in foundation and intermediate phases. CPUT’s BEd programs meet this demand with practical training.

  • Creative Industries: Cape Town’s status as a design hub boosts demand for graphic and fashion designers. Visual Communication Design graduates earn R180,000–R300,000 annually at entry level.

  • Tourism: As a global tourism hotspot, Cape Town offers abundant roles in tourism management, with starting salaries around R150,000–R250,000.

  • Public Relations: PR specialists are sought after in corporate and media sectors, with entry-level roles paying R200,000 annually.

  • Business Administration: Higher certificate graduates fill administrative roles across industries, with opportunities to advance through further studies.

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These fields offer stability and growth, supported by CPUT’s industry partnerships and internship programs.

Tips for Excelling in CPUT’s Math-Free Programs

To make the most of your studies, consider these strategies:

  • Hone Communication Skills: Programs like Public Relations and Education rely on clear verbal and written communication. Practice through group projects or workshops.

  • Build a Portfolio: For design and film programs, maintain a strong portfolio showcasing your best work. Use CPUT’s resources, like software labs, to refine your skills.

  • Seek Internships: Gain real-world experience through CPUT’s industry connections, especially in tourism and PR.

  • Network Actively: Attend CPUT career fairs or guest lectures to connect with professionals in your field.

  • Stay Organized: Meet assignment deadlines and balance practical and theoretical coursework to maintain good grades.

FAQ: Common Questions About CPUT Courses Without Maths

1. Can I study at CPUT without pure Mathematics?
Yes, many CPUT programs, like the Diploma in Tourism Management or Bachelor of Education, accept Mathematical Literacy with a minimum of 50% or have low Mathematics requirements (40%). Always check specific program details on CPUT’s website.

2. What are the job prospects for CPUT’s math-free courses?
Graduates enter high-demand fields like teaching, graphic design, tourism, and public relations. For example, foundation phase teachers are needed nationwide, and Cape Town’s tourism industry offers robust opportunities for tourism management graduates.

3. Is it hard to get into CPUT programs without Maths?
Admission is competitive, especially for popular courses like Visual Communication Design. Meeting the minimum APS (e.g., 30 for most diplomas) and submitting required documents, like portfolios, boosts your chances. Apply early to secure a spot.

Conclusion

CPUT’s courses that don’t require Mathematics open doors for students who excel in creative, communicative, or educational fields. Whether you dream of teaching young learners, designing stunning visuals, or managing tourism ventures in Cape Town, CPUT offers practical, accessible programs to get you there. With clear admission pathways and strong industry ties, these courses prepare you for fulfilling careers in 2025 and beyond. Visit CPUT’s website to start your application and take the first step toward your future.