Damelin, a prominent private higher education institution in South Africa, is celebrated for its flexible, industry-focused programs that empower students to excel in their careers. With multiple campuses across the country and robust online learning options, Damelin offers a diverse range of qualifications, including Higher Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees, and Short Learning Programmes. For students planning to enroll in 2025, understanding the courses offered and their admission requirements is crucial for a seamless application process. This comprehensive guide details Damelin’s 2025 programs, entry criteria, and application steps, providing clear, actionable insights to help you shape your academic and professional future.
DAMELIN Courses and Requirements
Damelin organizes its academic offerings across five faculties: Commerce, Education, Science and Technology, Creative Arts, and Management and Leadership. These programs, ranging from NQF Level 5 to 8, cater to diverse career paths, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Admission requirements are based on the National Senior Certificate (NSC), National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV), or equivalent, with specific Admission Point Score (APS) and subject prerequisites. Below, we explore the key courses and their entry requirements for 2025, drawing from official Damelin sources to ensure accuracy.
Faculty of Commerce
This faculty prepares students for thriving careers in business, finance, and marketing, with programs designed to meet industry demands.
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Diploma in Business Management: Requires an NSC with Diploma endorsement, APS of 24, English level 4 (50–59%), and Mathematics level 3 (40–49%) or Mathematical Literacy level 5 (60–69%). Focuses on business strategy and operations.
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Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Marketing and Business Management: NSC with Bachelor’s degree endorsement, APS of 28, English level 4, Mathematics level 4. Covers marketing strategies and corporate leadership.
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Higher Certificate in Accounting: APS of 20, English level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 4. Ideal for entry-level finance roles or as a pathway to degree studies.
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Diploma in Financial Management: APS of 24, English level 4, Mathematics level 4 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Emphasizes budgeting and financial analysis.
Faculty of Education
Damelin’s education programs train aspiring educators and administrators, focusing on practical teaching skills and educational leadership.
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Diploma in Grade R Teaching: NSC with Diploma endorsement, APS of 24, English level 4, and a second language at level 4. Prepares teachers for early childhood education.
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Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Development (ECD): APS of 20, English level 4. Suited for foundational roles in preschool settings.
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National Certificate N4–N6 Public Management: APS of 20, English level 3. Progression through N4, N5, and N6 levels prepares students for public sector administration.
Faculty of Science and Technology
This faculty equips students with skills for the tech-driven world, covering IT, programming, and technical support.
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Diploma in Information Technology: NSC with Diploma endorsement, APS of 24, English level 4, Mathematics level 4. Focuses on software development and IT infrastructure.
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Higher Certificate in Information Technology (Technical Support): APS of 20, English level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 4. Covers IT troubleshooting and support.
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Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Information Technology: NSC with Bachelor’s degree endorsement, APS of 28, English level 4, Mathematics level 5 (60–69%). Includes programming, cybersecurity, and database management.
Faculty of Creative Arts
Creative Arts programs foster innovation in media, design, and communication, appealing to students with artistic ambitions.
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Diploma in Graphic Design: APS of 24, English level 4, and a portfolio submission. Covers visual design and digital media.
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Higher Certificate in Photography: APS of 20, English level 4. Teaches photography techniques and editing skills.
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Diploma in Journalism: APS of 24, English level 4. Focuses on reporting, media ethics, and content creation.
Faculty of Management and Leadership
This faculty develops leadership and strategic skills for corporate and entrepreneurial roles.
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Diploma in Project Management: APS of 24, English level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Prepares students for project planning and execution.
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Higher Certificate in Office Administration: APS of 20, English level 4. Covers administrative skills and business communication.
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Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management: APS of 28, English level 4, Mathematics level 4. Emphasizes strategic leadership and entrepreneurship.
Short Learning Programmes (SLPs)
Damelin’s Short Learning Programmes offer flexible, skills-focused courses for professional development, often requiring no formal matric qualifications:
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Digital Marketing: Requires a matric certificate or equivalent with English level 4. Covers SEO, social media, and analytics.
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Business Management Strategy: Open to matriculants with English level 4. Focuses on strategic planning and decision-making.
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Career and Personal Development: Basic literacy skills required. Enhances workplace skills like time management and communication.
Matric and Amended Senior Certificate
Damelin offers programs to help students complete or upgrade their matric:
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National Senior Certificate (NSC): Requires a Grade 9 report indicating promotion to Grade 10 or a General Education and Training Certificate (GETC). A 3-year program covering Grades 10–12.
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Amended Senior Certificate: For adults over 21, requires completion of 6–7 subjects, including one Home Language at level 4. Ideal for those upgrading their matric for higher education.
General Admission Requirements
Damelin’s admission criteria vary by qualification level:
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Higher Certificate: NSC with Higher Certificate endorsement, APS of 20, English level 4, and Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 4.
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Diploma: NSC with Diploma endorsement, APS of 24, English level 4, and program-specific subject requirements (e.g., Mathematics level 4 for IT).
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Bachelor’s Degree: NSC with Bachelor’s degree endorsement, APS of 28, English level 4, and subject-specific requirements (e.g., Mathematics level 5 for BSc IT).
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Short Learning Programmes: Basic matric certificate or equivalent, with some requiring only literacy skills.
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Application Period: Applications for 2025 open January 2025, with a second intake in July 2025. Early applications are advised due to high demand.
Admission Point Score (APS) Breakdown
The APS is calculated using the six best NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation. Here’s the conversion:
NSC Level |
Percentage |
APS Points |
---|---|---|
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 (50%, level 4), and four other subjects at level 4 scores: 5 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 25 APS points.
Alternative Admission Pathways
Damelin offers flexible entry options for non-traditional applicants:
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National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4: Accepted for Higher Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees if equivalent to NSC endorsements.
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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Applicants with relevant work experience can apply for RPL assessment to gain entry.
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Mature Age Exemption: For applicants over 23 with a matric certificate and professional experience.
Application Process for 2025
Applying to Damelin is straightforward and flexible:
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Online Application: Submit via the Damelin website or Damelin Online platform starting January 2025.
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Required Documents: Certified copies of ID, NSC or equivalent results, and proof of application fee payment.
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Application Fee: Approximately R300 for South African applicants, R500 for international students.
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Selection Process: Some programs, like Graphic Design, require portfolio submissions or interviews.
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Track Application: Monitor your status through the Damelin online portal.
International Students
International applicants must meet additional requirements:
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SAQA Evaluation: Non-South African qualifications must be evaluated 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
Damelin supports students through various funding options:
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Damelin Bursaries: Merit-based awards for high-achieving students.
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Student Loans: Partnerships with banks for affordable repayment plans.
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External Scholarships: Available through private and government programs.
Apply for funding early to align with admission deadlines.
Why Choose Damelin?
Damelin stands out for its:
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Flexible Study Options: Offers full-time, part-time, online, and blended learning across multiple campuses.
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Industry-Relevant Programs: Courses are designed with employer input to ensure job readiness.
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Accessibility: Over 20 campuses and online platforms cater to diverse student needs.
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Accreditation: Registered as a Higher Education Institution, offering qualifications from NQF Levels 5–8.
Campus Life and Orientation
Damelin’s campuses, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, provide vibrant student experiences. The 2025 orientation program, held in February and July, introduces students to academic resources and campus life. Students can engage in:
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Clubs and Societies: Academic, cultural, and professional groups.
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Career Services: Workshops and job placement support.
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Flexible Learning: Online and blended options for busy schedules.
Summary Table: Key DAMELIN Courses and Requirements (2025)
Faculty |
Course |
APS |
Key Requirements |
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Commerce |
Diploma in Business Management |
24 |
English level 4, Maths level 3 or Maths Lit 5 |
Commerce |
Higher Certificate in Accounting |
20 |
English level 4, Maths level 3 or Maths Lit 4 |
Education |
Diploma in Grade R Teaching |
24 |
English level 4, second language level 4 |
Science and Technology |
Diploma in Information Technology |
24 |
English level 4, Maths level 4 |
Creative Arts |
Diploma in Graphic Design |
24 |
English level 4, portfolio submission |
Management and Leadership |
Higher Certificate in Office Administration |
20 |
English level 4 |
FAQ: Common Questions About DAMELIN Courses and Requirements
What is the minimum APS for Damelin in 2025?
The minimum APS is 20 for Higher Certificates, 24 for Diplomas, and 28 for Bachelor’s degrees. Specific programs may require additional subjects, such as Mathematics level 5 for IT degrees.
Can I study at Damelin without a matric?
Yes, Short Learning Programmes like Digital Marketing require only basic literacy skills or a matric certificate. The Amended Senior Certificate program is also available for adults over 21 to complete their matric.
When do applications open for Damelin 2025?
Applications open in January 2025, with a second intake in July 2025. Early application is recommended due to high demand across Damelin’s 20+ campuses.
Conclusion
Damelin offers a diverse array of programs for 2025, from Higher Certificates to Degrees and Short Learning Programmes, catering to various career aspirations. By meeting the APS and subject requirements, you can pursue qualifications in commerce, education, IT, creative arts, or leadership. Start your application early, gather necessary documents, and explore funding options to secure your place. With its flexible study modes, industry-aligned curricula, and extensive support, Damelin is an excellent choice for shaping your future.