DUT Courses That Don’t Require Maths (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a leading institution known for its practical, industry-aligned programs. For students who didn’t take Mathematics in high school or prefer to avoid math-heavy courses, DUT offers a variety of programs that accept Mathematical Literacy or have no math requirement. These courses span creative arts, education, business, and more, opening doors to exciting careers without the need for advanced math skills. This guide explores DUT’s 2025 programs that don’t require Mathematics, detailing admission requirements, course structures, and career prospects to help you choose the right path.

DUT Courses That Don’t Require Maths

DUT, with its seven campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, serves over 30,000 students and is renowned for its focus on innovation and employability. Many of its programs in the Faculties of Arts and Design, Management Sciences, and Health Sciences welcome students with Mathematical Literacy or minimal math requirements. Below, we dive into these courses, organized by faculty, to provide a clear picture of your options.

Faculty of Arts and Design

The Faculty of Arts and Design at DUT is a hub for creativity, offering programs that prioritize artistic and communication skills over numerical expertise. These courses are ideal for students passionate about visual arts, media, or performance.

  • Diploma in Drama and Production Studies

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Steve Biko Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) with 25 Admission Point Score (APS) points, including 4 (50%) in English (Home or First Additional Language) and 3 (40%) in Mathematical Literacy or 2 (30%) in Mathematics.

    • Overview: This program covers acting, directing, and theatre production. Students engage in practical projects, including stage performances and scriptwriting.

    • Career Paths: Actor, theatre director, production manager, or drama educator.

    • Why Choose It?: Perfect for those who thrive in creative, expressive environments and want to avoid math-intensive studies.

  • Diploma in Fashion and Textiles

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Steve Biko Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 25 APS points, including 4 in English and 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics, plus a portfolio submission.

    • Overview: Focuses on fashion design, pattern-making, and textile production. Students create collections showcased at DUT events.

    • Career Paths: Fashion designer, textile artist, or retail merchandiser.

    • Why Choose It?: A hands-on program for those with a flair for style, requiring creativity rather than math skills.

  • Diploma in Fine Art and Jewellery Design

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: City Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 25 APS points, including 4 in English, 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics, and a portfolio.

    • Overview: Covers painting, sculpture, and jewellery crafting. Students develop artistic skills through studio work and exhibitions.

    • Career Paths: Fine artist, jewellery designer, or gallery curator.

    • Why Choose It?: Ideal for visual artists who want to express creativity without mathematical barriers.

  • Diploma in Journalism

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Steve Biko Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 25 APS points, including 4 in English and 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics.

    • Overview: Trains students in news writing, digital media, and investigative reporting. Includes practical experience in DUT’s media lab.

    • Career Paths: Journalist, media producer, or content strategist.

    • Why Choose It?: Suits those with strong writing and storytelling skills, with no need for advanced math.

  • Higher Certificate in Visual Communication

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: Steve Biko Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 20 APS points, including 3 in English and 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics.

    • Overview: Introduces graphic design, photography, and digital media basics. Serves as a stepping stone to diplomas in design.

    • Career Paths: Junior graphic designer, media assistant, or freelance creative.

    • Why Choose It?: A short, accessible entry into the creative industry for those avoiding math.

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Faculty of Management Sciences

The Faculty of Management Sciences offers programs in business, hospitality, and public administration, focusing on communication and organizational skills. Many accept Mathematical Literacy, making them accessible to a wide range of students.

  • Diploma in Public Relations and Communication Management

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: ML Sultan Campus, Durban; Riverside Campus, Pietermaritzburg

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 25 APS points, including 4 in English and 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics.

    • Overview: Covers media relations, event planning, and corporate communication. Students gain experience through internships.

    • Career Paths: PR specialist, communication officer, or event coordinator.

    • Why Choose It?: A dynamic program for those who excel in people-oriented roles, with minimal math requirements.

  • Diploma in Hospitality Management

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: ML Sultan Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 25 APS points, including 4 in English and 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics.

    • Overview: Teaches hotel operations, food and beverage management, and tourism. Includes practical training in DUT’s hotel school.

    • Career Paths: Hotel manager, event planner, or tourism consultant.

    • Why Choose It?: Perfect for those passionate about hospitality and travel, with a focus on practical skills.

  • Diploma in Tourism Management

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: ML Sultan Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 25 APS points, including 4 in English, 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics, and 3 in Tourism or Geography (recommended).

    • Overview: Focuses on tourism marketing, destination management, and sustainable travel. Includes industry placements.

    • Career Paths: Travel consultant, tour operator, or tourism marketer.

    • Why Choose It?: Aligns with South Africa’s booming tourism industry, requiring no advanced math.

  • Higher Certificate in Operations Management

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: ML Sultan Campus, Durban; Riverside Campus, Pietermaritzburg

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 20 APS points, including 3 in English and 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics.

    • Overview: Covers business operations, project management, and logistics basics. A gateway to further business studies.

    • Career Paths: Operations assistant, project coordinator, or supply chain administrator.

    • Why Choose It?: A quick, practical entry into business management without math demands.

Faculty of Health Sciences

Some Health Sciences programs at DUT have flexible entry requirements, accepting Mathematical Literacy when paired with strong Life Sciences marks.

  • Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: Steve Biko Campus, Durban

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with 20 APS points, including 3 in English, 3 in Life Sciences, and 3 in Mathematical Literacy or 2 in Mathematics.

    • Overview: Trains students to assist dentists with clinical and administrative tasks. Includes practical training in dental clinics.

    • Career Paths: Dental assistant, clinic administrator, or dental sales representative.

    • Why Choose It?: A short program offering quick entry into the healthcare sector without math prerequisites.

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Summary Table: DUT Courses Without Maths (2025)

Program

Faculty

Duration

Campus

Key Admission Requirements

Career Prospects

Diploma in Drama and Production Studies

Arts and Design

3 years

Steve Biko, Durban

25 APS, 4 English, 3 Math Literacy

Actor, theatre director, production manager

Diploma in Fashion and Textiles

Arts and Design

3 years

Steve Biko, Durban

25 APS, 4 English, 3 Math Literacy, portfolio

Fashion designer, textile artist

Diploma in Fine Art and Jewellery Design

Arts and Design

3 years

City Campus, Durban

25 APS, 4 English, 3 Math Literacy, portfolio

Fine artist, jewellery designer

Diploma in Journalism

Arts and Design

3 years

Steve Biko, Durban

25 APS, 4 English, 3 Math Literacy

Journalist, media producer

Higher Certificate in Visual Communication

Arts and Design

1 year

Steve Biko, Durban

20 APS, 3 English, 3 Math Literacy

Junior graphic designer, media assistant

Diploma in Public Relations

Management Sciences

3 years

ML Sultan, Riverside

25 APS, 4 English, 3 Math Literacy

PR specialist, event coordinator

Diploma in Hospitality Management

Management Sciences

3 years

ML Sultan, Durban

25 APS, 4 English, 3 Math Literacy

Hotel manager, tourism consultant

Diploma in Tourism Management

Management Sciences

3 years

ML Sultan, Durban

25 APS, 4 English, 3 Math Literacy, Tourism/Geog

Travel consultant, tour operator

Higher Certificate in Operations Management

Management Sciences

1 year

ML Sultan, Riverside

20 APS, 3 English, 3 Math Literacy

Operations assistant, project coordinator

Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting

Health Sciences

1 year

Steve Biko, Durban

20 APS, 3 English, 3 Life Sciences, 3 Math Literacy

Dental assistant, clinic administrator

Why Choose Math-Free Courses at DUT?

Enrolling in DUT programs that don’t require Mathematics offers several benefits, especially for students who excel in creative or interpersonal skills:

  • Accessible Entry: Accepting Mathematical Literacy makes these programs inclusive for students who didn’t pursue pure Mathematics in high school.

  • Career Versatility: Graduates enter diverse fields like media, tourism, hospitality, and healthcare, which are in high demand in South Africa.

  • Practical Training: DUT’s focus on hands-on learning, through internships and projects, ensures job-ready skills.

  • Short Pathways: Higher certificates, like Visual Communication or Dental Assisting, take just one year, allowing quick entry into the workforce or further studies.

Applying to DUT for 2025

DUT’s application process is managed through the Central Applications Office (CAO), making it streamlined but competitive. Here’s how to apply:

  1. Check Program Requirements: Review the APS, English, and Mathematical Literacy requirements for your chosen course in DUT’s 2025 prospectus.

  2. Apply via CAO: Submit your application online at www.cao.ac.za between April 1 and September 30, 2024. Upload certified copies of your NSC results, ID, and proof of payment for the R250 application fee (R470 for late applications).

  3. Submit Additional Materials: For programs like Fashion and Textiles or Fine Art, include a portfolio as specified.

  4. Take Entrance Tests: Some programs require interviews or the National Benchmark Test (NBT). Check specific course requirements.

  5. Track Your Application: Use the CAO portal to monitor your status. Offers are typically sent by late 2024.

  6. Register Early: Accepted students register in January 2025, paying a deposit to secure their spot.

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Tip: Apply early to improve your chances, as popular programs fill quickly. Late applications (until February 1, 2025) are accepted for some courses but are subject to availability.

Career Prospects and Industry Demand

DUT’s math-free programs align with South Africa’s growing industries, offering strong job prospects:

  • Creative Arts: Durban’s vibrant arts scene supports careers in journalism, fashion, and fine art. Graphic designers and journalists earn R150,000–R250,000 annually at entry level.

  • Hospitality and Tourism: KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism industry, driven by its beaches and cultural heritage, demands skilled professionals. Hospitality and tourism graduates earn R120,000–R200,000 starting salaries.

  • Public Relations: PR specialists are sought after in corporate, government, and media sectors, with entry-level salaries around R180,000 annually.

  • Health Services: Dental assistants are in demand in private practices and clinics, with starting salaries of R100,000–R150,000.

  • Education and Training: While not listed above, DUT’s Bachelor of Education programs (e.g., Languages or Natural Sciences) also accept Mathematical Literacy for non-math specializations, addressing South Africa’s teacher shortage.

These fields offer stability and growth, supported by DUT’s industry partnerships and practical training focus.

Tips for Success in DUT’s Math-Free Programs

To excel in these programs, consider these strategies:

  • Build Communication Skills: Programs like Journalism and Public Relations rely on strong verbal and written skills. Join DUT’s media or debate clubs to practice.

  • Create a Strong Portfolio: For arts and design courses, maintain a professional portfolio showcasing your best work. Use DUT’s studios and software resources.

  • Seek Internships: Gain real-world experience through DUT’s industry placements, especially in hospitality and tourism.

  • Network Actively: Attend DUT career fairs, guest lectures, or alumni events to connect with professionals.

  • Stay Organized: Balance practical and theoretical coursework to maintain good grades and meet deadlines.

FAQ: Common Questions About DUT Courses Without Maths

1. Can I study at DUT with Mathematical Literacy instead of Mathematics?
Yes, many DUT programs, such as the Diploma in Journalism or Hospitality Management, accept Mathematical Literacy with a minimum of 3 (40%) or higher. Check the 2025 prospectus for specific requirements.

2. What are the job prospects for DUT’s math-free courses?
Graduates enter high-demand fields like journalism, fashion design, tourism, and public relations. For example, tourism management graduates benefit from KwaZulu-Natal’s thriving tourism sector, while PR specialists find roles in media and corporate settings.

3. Are there short courses at DUT that don’t require Maths?
Yes, DUT offers short courses like Good Microbiological Laboratory Practice, which don’t require Mathematics. These are designed for industry professionals and focus on practical skills.

Conclusion

DUT’s courses that don’t require Mathematics provide accessible, practical pathways to rewarding careers in creative arts, hospitality, public relations, and health services. With a focus on hands-on training and industry relevance, these programs cater to students who excel in communication, creativity, or people-oriented skills. By applying through the CAO and meeting the straightforward admission requirements, you can start your journey at DUT in 2025. Explore the prospectus, choose a program that matches your passion, and take the first step toward a bright future.