Low APS Score Courses at DUT (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

The Durban University of Technology (DUT), with over 30,000 students across its Durban and Pietermaritzburg campuses, is a leading institution in KwaZulu-Natal, known for its focus on industry-aligned education and practical training. Established in 2002 through the merger of Technikon Natal and ML Sultan Technikon, DUT offers over 100 programs across six faculties, emphasizing innovation in fields like health sciences, engineering, arts, and management. For students with lower APS scores (Admission Point Scores), DUT provides accessible higher certificates, diplomas, and extended programs requiring APS scores as low as 20–25, often accepting Mathematical Literacy. This guide explores low APS score courses at DUT for 2025, detailing admission requirements, program structures, and career prospects to help you navigate your academic journey, based on DUT’s 2025 prospectus and verified sources.

Low APS Score Courses at DUT

DUT calculates APS using the six best National Senior Certificate (NSC) subjects, excluding Life Orientation, with points allocated based on percentage ranges (e.g., 80–100% = 7 points, 50–59% = 4 points). The minimum APS for most programs is 25, but some higher certificates and extended programs accept 20–24, subject to additional requirements like interviews or portfolios. The Faculty of Management Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Design, Faculty of Applied Sciences, and Faculty of Health Sciences offer the most accessible programs for lower APS scores. Below, we detail these courses for 2025.

Faculty of Management Sciences

Based at Durban’s Steve Biko and ML Sultan campuses and Pietermaritzburg’s Indumiso campus, this faculty offers business-related programs with low APS requirements, ideal for students interested in administration, hospitality, and public relations.

  • Higher Certificate in Business Administration

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: Steve Biko (Durban), Indumiso (Pietermaritzburg)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a higher certificate pass, APS of 20, Level 3 (40–49%) in English (Home or First Additional Language), and Level 2 (30–39%) in Mathematics or Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.

    • Overview: Covers 120 credits in business principles, office administration, and computer skills, serving as a pathway to diplomas like Business Management. Includes practical projects in DUT’s business labs.

    • Career Paths: Administrative assistant, office coordinator, or pathway to further studies.

    • Why Choose It?: A quick-entry qualification with minimal APS, ideal for business support roles.

  • Diploma in Management Sciences (Business Administration)

    • Duration: 3 years (4 years for extended program)

    • Campus: Steve Biko (Durban), Indumiso (Pietermaritzburg)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a diploma pass, APS of 25, Level 4 (50–59%) in English, and Level 3 in Mathematics or Level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English and 40% in Mathematical Literacy accepted. Extended program requires APS of 22.

    • Overview: Covers 360 credits in business operations, marketing, and financial management, with industry placements in KwaZulu-Natal businesses.

    • Career Paths: Business manager, entrepreneur, or operations coordinator.

    • Why Choose It?: Accessible for students with lower APS, with extended program support for academic success.

  • Diploma in Hospitality Management

    • Duration: 3 years (4 years for extended program)

    • Campus: Ritson (Durban)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a diploma pass, APS of 24, Level 4 in English, and Level 3 in Mathematics or Level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted. Extended program requires APS of 22.

    • Overview: Covers 360 credits in hotel operations, food service, and tourism management, with practical training at DUT’s hotel school and industry internships.

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

    • Why Choose It?: Aligns with KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism industry, with low APS entry.

  • Diploma in Public Relations Management

    • Duration: 3 years (4 years for extended program)

    • Campus: ML Sultan (Durban)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a diploma pass, APS of 24, Level 4 in English, and Level 3 in Mathematics or Level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted. Extended program requires APS of 22. Interview may be required.

    • Overview: Covers 360 credits in communication, media planning, and event management, with practical projects in DUT’s media labs.

    • Career Paths: PR officer, media coordinator, or event manager.

    • Why Choose It?: A creative program with accessible APS, ideal for communicators.

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Faculty of Arts and Design

Located at City and Steve Biko campuses in Durban, this faculty offers creative programs in visual communication, fashion, and journalism, with low APS requirements and portfolio-based entry.

  • Diploma in Visual Communication Design

    • Duration: 3 years (4 years for extended program)

    • Campus: City (Durban)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a diploma pass, APS of 24, Level 4 in English, and Level 3 in Mathematics or Level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted. Extended program requires APS of 22. Portfolio required.

    • Overview: Covers 360 credits in graphic design, digital media, and branding, with studio-based projects in DUT’s design labs.

    • Career Paths: Graphic designer, digital artist, or advertising specialist.

    • Why Choose It?: A creative program with low APS and portfolio-based entry.

  • Diploma in Fashion Design

    • Duration: 3 years (4 years for extended program)

    • Campus: City (Durban)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a diploma pass, APS of 24, Level 4 in English, and Level 3 in Mathematics or Level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted. Extended program requires APS of 22. Portfolio required.

    • Overview: Covers 360 credits in garment construction, pattern-making, and fashion marketing, with practical training in DUT’s fashion studios.

    • Career Paths: Fashion designer, merchandiser, or entrepreneur.

    • Why Choose It?: Ideal for creative students with lower APS, with hands-on training.

  • Diploma in Journalism

    • Duration: 3 years (4 years for extended program)

    • Campus: City (Durban)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a diploma pass, APS of 24, Level 4 in English, and Level 3 in Mathematics or Level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted. Extended program requires APS of 22. Interview and writing test required.

    • Overview: Covers 360 credits in reporting, multimedia journalism, and media ethics, with training in DUT’s newsroom and industry placements.

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

    • Why Choose It?: A dynamic program for storytellers with accessible APS entry.

Faculty of Applied Sciences

Based at Steve Biko and Indumiso campuses, this faculty offers programs in sport management and hospitality, with low APS requirements and practical components.

  • Higher Certificate in Sport Management Sciences

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: Steve Biko (Durban)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a higher certificate pass, APS of 20, Level 3 in English, and Level 2 in Mathematics or Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.

    • Overview: Covers 120 credits in sport administration, event planning, and coaching, serving as a pathway to diploma programs. Includes practical projects with local sports clubs.

    • Career Paths: Sports administrator, event coordinator, or pathway to further studies.

    • Why Choose It?: A quick-entry qualification with minimal APS, ideal for sports enthusiasts.

Faculty of Health Sciences

Located at Ritson campus in Durban, this faculty offers a foundational health program with low APS requirements, suitable for students entering healthcare.

  • Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: Ritson (Durban)

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with a higher certificate pass, APS of 22, Level 4 in English, Level 4 in Life Sciences, and Level 3 in Mathematics or Level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.

    • Overview: Covers 120 credits in dental procedures, patient care, and practice management, with practical training at DUT’s dental clinic.

    • Career Paths: Dental assistant, dental practice coordinator, or pathway to further health studies.

    • Why Choose It?: A fast-track health qualification with accessible APS entry.

Summary Table: Low APS Score Courses at DUT (2025)

Program

Faculty

Duration

Campus

Key Admission Requirements

Career Prospects

Higher Certificate in Business Administration

Management Sciences

1 year

Steve Biko, Indumiso

APS 20, Level 3 English, Level 2 Math or Level 3 Math Literacy

Administrative assistant

Diploma in Management Sciences (Business Administration)

Management Sciences

3–4 years

Steve Biko, Indumiso

APS 25 (22 extended), Level 4 English, Level 3 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy

Business manager

Diploma in Hospitality Management

Management Sciences

3–4 years

Ritson

APS 24 (22 extended), Level 4 English, Level 3 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy

Hotel manager

Diploma in Public Relations Management

Management Sciences

3–4 years

ML Sultan

APS 24 (22 extended), Level 4 English, Level 3 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy, interview

PR officer

Diploma in Visual Communication Design

Arts and Design

3–4 years

City

APS 24 (22 extended), Level 4 English, Level 3 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy, portfolio

Graphic designer

Diploma in Fashion Design

Arts and Design

3–4 years

City

APS 24 (22 extended), Level 4 English, Level 3 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy, portfolio

Fashion designer

Diploma in Journalism

Arts and Design

3–4 years

City

APS 24 (22 extended), Level 4 English, Level 3 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy, interview

Journalist

Higher Certificate in Sport Management Sciences

Applied Sciences

1 year

Steve Biko

APS 20, Level 3 English, Level 2 Math or Level 3 Math Literacy

Sports administrator

Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting

Health Sciences

1 year

Ritson

APS 22, Level 4 English, Level 4 Life Sciences, Level 3 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy

Dental assistant
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Why Choose Low APS Score Courses at DUT?

Enrolling in DUT’s low APS score programs offers several advantages:

  • Accessibility: APS scores as low as 20 and acceptance of Mathematical Literacy make education inclusive for diverse students.

  • Practical Focus: Programs emphasize hands-on training through studios, clinics, and industry placements, ensuring job readiness.

  • Career Alignment: Courses target high-demand sectors like hospitality, health, and media, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.

  • Extended Programs: Provide additional academic support for students with lower APS scores, boosting success rates.

How to Apply to DUT for 2025

DUT processes applications through the Central Applications Office (CAO), with a non-refundable fee of R250 for South African citizens (R300 for international applicants). Applications for 2025 closed on September 30, 2024, but for 2026, applications open April 1, 2025, and close September 30, 2025. Limited programs (e.g., Engineering, ICT) accept late applications until February 1, 2026, subject to availability. Follow these steps for 2026:

  1. Review Requirements: Check APS, subject, and additional requirements (e.g., portfolios, interviews) in the DUT 2025 prospectus at www.dut.ac.za or www.cao.ac.za.

  2. Apply via CAO: Visit www.cao.ac.za, complete the online form, and select up to six program choices. Upload certified copies of your ID, NSC or Grade 11 results, and portfolio (if required).

  3. Pay Application Fee: Pay R250 via EFT or credit card, using your CAO number as reference.

  4. Track Application: Monitor status at www.cao.ac.za using your CAO number or ID. Outcomes are emailed by November 2025 (non-Grade 12) or January 2026 (Grade 12).

  5. Accept Offer and Register: Accept offers within 10 days and register by January 31, 2026, paying a deposit (deducted from tuition).

Note: Programs like Journalism and Visual Communication Design require interviews or portfolios, and spaces are limited. Contact CAO at +27 (0)31 268 4444 or DUT’s Admissions Office at +27 (0)31 373 2000 for support.

Career Prospects and Industry Demand

DUT’s low APS score courses align with South Africa’s workforce needs, offering strong employment prospects:

  • Business Administration: Graduates earn R80,000–R200,000 annually as administrators or managers, with demand in KwaZulu-Natal’s business sector.

  • Hospitality: Hospitality graduates earn R80,000–R200,000 in hotels or tourism, with Durban’s tourism industry driving demand.

  • Public Relations and Journalism: PR and Journalism graduates earn R80,000–R250,000 in media or corporate roles, per Payscale data.

  • Design: Visual Communication and Fashion Design graduates earn R80,000–R200,000 in creative industries, with growth in South Africa’s media sector.

  • Health and Sport: Dental Assisting and Sport Management graduates earn R80,000–R150,000, with demand in healthcare and sports administration.

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DUT’s partnerships with industry, including hospitality chains and media houses, plus career fairs, ensure over 80% of graduates find employment within a year, per university reports.

Tips for Success in DUT’s Low APS Courses

To excel at DUT, consider these practical strategies:

  • Engage in Practical Work: Fully participate in internships, studio projects, or clinical placements to build professional skills.

  • Develop Communication Skills: Join DUT’s radio or media clubs to enhance verbal abilities for programs like Journalism or PR.

  • Use Campus Resources: Access libraries, career services, and the Student Counselling unit for academic and psychosocial support.

  • Network Actively: Attend DUT’s open days (e.g., March 2025) or industry talks to connect with employers.

  • Stay Organized: Use planners to manage assignments, placements, and deadlines, especially in extended programs.

DUT’s Unique Learning Environment

DUT’s industry-ready approach integrates practical training across its programs, with facilities like hotel schools, design studios, and dental clinics. The Durban campuses (Steve Biko, ML Sultan, City, Ritson) offer urban vibrancy, while Pietermaritzburg’s Indumiso campus supports a close-knit community. With 10% international students, DUT fosters diversity, enriching programs like Hospitality Management. Student life includes over 60 clubs, sports, and events like the DUT Fashion Show, creating a dynamic campus experience. DUT’s focus on innovation, evidenced by its Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, aligns programs with global standards.

Financial Aid and Support at DUT

DUT offers funding options to ensure affordability:

  • NSFAS Bursaries: Covers tuition, accommodation, and living costs for students with household incomes below R350,000 annually. Apply by November 30, 2025, via www.nsfas.org.za.

  • DUT Bursaries: Merit- and need-based funding, including “missing middle” support. Check www.dut.ac.za for 2025 deadlines.

  • Private Loans: Providers like Fundi offer loans. Contact DUT’s Financial Aid Office at +27 (0)31 373 2553.

Apply early, as funding is limited. DUT provides counseling, career advising, and academic support through the Student Counselling unit and online platforms.

FAQ: Common Questions About Low APS Score Courses at DUT

1. What is the lowest APS score accepted at DUT for 2025?
The lowest APS accepted is 20 for higher certificates like Business Administration and Sport Management Sciences, and 22 for extended diploma programs like Hospitality Management. Specific subject requirements, like English Level 3, must also be met. Check www.dut.ac.za for details.

2. Can I study at DUT with Mathematical Literacy instead of Mathematics?
Yes, programs like Diploma in Public Relations, Higher Certificate in Business Administration, and Diploma in Visual Communication Design accept Level 3–4 in Mathematical Literacy instead of Mathematics, making them accessible for students with lower APS scores.

3. Are there short courses at DUT that require low APS scores?
Yes, DUT offers Short Learning Programmes in areas like business administration and digital media, typically requiring only a Grade 12 certificate with no specific APS. Contact [email protected] for 2025 offerings.

Conclusion

The Durban University of Technology offers a diverse range of low APS score courses for 2025, from higher certificates in business and sport to diplomas in hospitality, design, and journalism, catering to students with APS scores as low as 20–25. These programs provide accessible pathways to rewarding careers in high-demand sectors, supported by DUT’s practical training and industry connections. With a straightforward CAO application process, robust financial aid, and a vibrant campus life, DUT is an ideal choice for students seeking quality education in KwaZulu-Natal. Visit www.dut.ac.za or www.cao.ac.za, prepare for the 2026 application cycle opening April 1, 2025, and take the first step toward a transformative academic journey at this innovative institution.