UMP Courses That Don’t Require Maths (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP), established in 2014, is South Africa’s youngest public university, located in Mbombela and Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga. With a growing student body of over 8,000, UMP is committed to addressing regional and national challenges through quality education across three faculties: Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Education, and Economics, Development and Business Sciences. For students who find Mathematics daunting or prefer fields that don’t require it, UMP offers undergraduate programs in humanities, education, law, and management that either accept Mathematical Literacy or have no math requirement. This guide explores UMP’s 2025 undergraduate courses that don’t require Mathematics, providing detailed admission requirements, program overviews, and career prospects to help you choose a path that sparks your passion.

UMP Courses That Don’t Require Maths

UMP’s three faculties offer a range of undergraduate qualifications, including degrees, diplomas, and higher certificates. The Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences and Faculty of Education provide the most options for students avoiding Mathematics, with programs accepting Mathematical Literacy or requiring only basic numeracy skills assessed via the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs). Below, we detail these courses, based on UMP’s 2025 prospectus and official sources.

Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences

This faculty equips students with skills in economics, development, and business, offering programs that focus on social and economic issues, many of which accept Mathematical Literacy or have no math requirement.

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Mbombela

    • Admission Requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) with an Admission Point Score (APS) of 30, Level 4 (50–59%) in English (Home or First Additional Language), and no Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirement. NBTs in Academic Literacy (AL) and Quantitative Literacy (QL) required.

    • Overview: Offers majors in Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology, or Indigenous Knowledge Systems. Students take 360 credits, blending theoretical and practical modules, with a focus on African contexts.

    • Career Paths: Community developer, policy analyst, or cultural researcher.

    • Why Choose It?: A flexible humanities degree for students interested in social dynamics, free of math demands.

  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

    • Duration: 4 years

    • Campus: Mbombela

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 32, Level 4 in English, and no Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirement. NBTs in AL and QL required.

    • Overview: Covers constitutional law, criminal law, and legal practice across 480 credits. Includes practical training through moot courts and community legal services.

    • Career Paths: Lawyer, legal advisor, or magistrate.

    • Why Choose It?: A prestigious program for analytical students, bypassing math prerequisites.

  • Bachelor of Development Studies

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Mbombela

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 30, Level 4 in English, and Level 2 (30–39%) in Mathematics or Level 3 (40–49%) in Mathematical Literacy. NBTs in AL and QL required.

    • Overview: Focuses on poverty, inequality, and sustainable development, with 360 credits covering policy analysis, rural development, and community engagement.

    • Career Paths: Development practitioner, policy analyst, or NGO coordinator.

    • Why Choose It?: Addresses pressing social issues, accepting low-level Mathematical Literacy.

  • Bachelor of Commerce in Development Economics

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Mbombela

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 30, Level 4 in English, and Level 2 in Mathematics or Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy. NBTs in AL and QL required.

    • Overview: Combines economics with development studies, covering 360 credits in economic policy, trade, and community development. Emphasizes practical projects.

    • Career Paths: Economist, development consultant, or business analyst.

    • Why Choose It?: A commerce degree with minimal math requirements, ideal for economic development enthusiasts.

  • Diploma in Hospitality Management

    • Duration: 3 years

    • Campus: Mbombela

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 24, Level 4 in English, and Level 2 in Mathematics or Level 4 (50–59%) in Mathematical Literacy. National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Level 4 with Level 4 in English and Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy also accepted.

    • Overview: Covers 360 credits in hospitality operations, event management, and customer service, with practical training in UMP’s training facilities.

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

    • Why Choose It?: A hands-on program accepting Mathematical Literacy, perfect for hospitality careers.

  • Higher Certificate in Event Management

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Campus: Mbombela

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 19, Level 4 in English, and Level 2 in Mathematics or Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy. NCV Level 4 with Level 4 in English also accepted.

    • Overview: A 120-credit program covering event planning, logistics, and marketing, serving as a pathway to diplomas or degrees.

    • Career Paths: Event coordinator, marketing assistant, or hospitality staff.

    • Why Choose It?: An accessible entry into event management, with minimal math requirements.

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Faculty of Education

The Faculty of Education prepares teachers for South Africa’s classrooms, with programs that allow specialization in non-mathematical subjects, accepting Mathematical Literacy.

  • Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching

    • Duration: 4 years

    • Campus: Siyabuswa

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 26, Level 4 in English, Level 4 in an African language (e.g., isiNdebele, Sepedi), and Level 2 in Mathematics or Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy. NBTs in AL and QL required.

    • Overview: Prepares teachers for grades R–3, covering 480 credits in early literacy, life skills, and multilingual education. Includes school-based teaching practice.

    • Career Paths: Foundation phase teacher, early childhood educator, or curriculum developer.

    • Why Choose It?: A rewarding career focusing on African languages, accepting Mathematical Literacy.

  • Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (Social Sciences and Languages)

    • Duration: 4 years

    • Campus: Siyabuswa

    • Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 26, Level 4 in English, Level 4 in another language, and Level 2 in Mathematics or Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy. NBTs in AL and QL required.

    • Overview: Trains teachers for grades 7–12 in subjects like History, Geography, English, or African languages, with 480 credits including practical teaching experience.

    • Career Paths: High school teacher, education consultant, or curriculum specialist.

    • Why Choose It?: Specializes in humanities-based teaching, with minimal math requirements.

Summary Table: UMP Courses Without Maths (2025)

Program

Faculty

Duration

Campus

Key Admission Requirements

Career Prospects

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Economics, Development and Business Sciences

3 years

Mbombela

APS 30, Level 4 English, no math required, NBTs

Policy analyst, cultural researcher

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Economics, Development and Business Sciences

4 years

Mbombela

APS 32, Level 4 English, no math required, NBTs

Lawyer, legal advisor

Bachelor of Development Studies

Economics, Development and Business Sciences

3 years

Mbombela

APS 30, Level 4 English, Level 2 Math or Level 3 Math Literacy, NBTs

Development practitioner, NGO coordinator

Bachelor of Commerce in Development Economics

Economics, Development and Business Sciences

3 years

Mbombela

APS 30, Level 4 English, Level 2 Math or Level 3 Math Literacy, NBTs

Economist, business analyst

Diploma in Hospitality Management

Economics, Development and Business Sciences

3 years

Mbombela

APS 24, Level 4 English, Level 2 Math or Level 4 Math Literacy

Hotel manager, event planner

Higher Certificate in Event Management

Economics, Development and Business Sciences

1 year

Mbombela

APS 19, Level 4 English, Level 2 Math or Level 3 Math Literacy

Event coordinator, marketing assistant

BEd Foundation Phase Teaching

Education

4 years

Siyabuswa

APS 26, Level 4 English, Level 4 African language, Level 2 Math or Level 3 Math Literacy, NBTs

Foundation phase teacher

BEd Senior Phase and FET (Social Sciences and Languages)

Education

4 years

Siyabuswa

APS 26, Level 4 English, Level 4 another language, Level 2 Math or Level 3 Math Literacy, NBTs

High school teacher, curriculum specialist
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Why Choose Math-Free Courses at UMP?

Enrolling in UMP programs that don’t require Mathematics offers several advantages:

  • Inclusivity: Accepting Mathematical Literacy or no math requirement broadens access for students with strengths in communication, creativity, or social sciences.

  • Regional Relevance: Programs like Development Studies and Foundation Phase Teaching address Mpumalanga’s needs, such as rural development and multilingual education.

  • Practical Focus: UMP emphasizes hands-on learning through teaching practice, legal clinics, and hospitality training, ensuring graduates are workplace-ready.

  • Growing Reputation: As a new university, UMP’s modern facilities and African-focused curriculum attract students seeking innovative education.

How to Apply to UMP for 2025

UMP’s application process is fully online, with a non-refundable fee of R150 for South African citizens (R750 for international applicants). Applications for 2025 are open until November 30, 2024, with late applications considered until February 28, 2025, subject to availability. For 2026, applications open April 1, 2025. Follow these steps for 2026:

  1. Check Requirements: Review APS, subject, and NBT requirements in the UMP 2025 prospectus at www.ump.ac.za.

  2. Apply Online: Visit www.ump.ac.za, click “Apply,” and complete the form with two program choices. Upload certified copies of your ID, NSC or Grade 11 results, and NBT results.

  3. Write NBTs: Register for Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy tests by October 2025 via www.nbt.ac.za, required for most programs.

  4. Pay Application Fee: Pay R150 via bank transfer to UMP, Standard Bank, Account Number 333270347, using your ID as the reference.

  5. Track Application: Check your status at www.ump.ac.za after four weeks. Outcomes are emailed by December 2025 for non-Grade 12 applicants or January 2026 for Grade 12 applicants.

  6. Accept Offer and Register: Accept offers within 10 days and register by January 31, 2026, paying a R4,525 deposit (deducted from tuition).

Note: Programs like LLB and BEd are competitive, with monthly selections prioritizing applicants exceeding minimum requirements. Contact UMP’s Call Centre at +27 (0)13 002 0001 or [email protected] for assistance.

Career Prospects and Industry Demand

UMP’s math-free programs align with South Africa’s economic and social needs, offering strong employability:

  • Education: With a teacher shortage projected at 400,000 by 2030, BEd graduates earn R150,000–R300,000 annually in schools or educational NGOs, with demand for multilingual teachers in Mpumalanga.

  • Law: LLB graduates earn R300,000–R600,000 as lawyers or advisors, with opportunities in legal firms, government, and community services.

  • Development and Economics: Development Studies and Commerce graduates earn R120,000–R250,000 in NGOs, government, or consultancies, addressing rural development needs.

  • Hospitality and Events: Diploma and certificate graduates earn R80,000–R200,000 in hotels, tourism, or event planning, with Mpumalanga’s tourism sector driving demand.

UMP’s partnerships with schools, municipalities, and industries, plus career fairs, ensure over 80% of graduates find employment within a year, per university reports.

Tips for Success in UMP’s Math-Free Courses

To thrive at UMP, consider these practical strategies:

  • Engage in Practical Training: Fully participate in teaching practice for BEd or legal clinics for LLB to build professional confidence.

  • Develop Communication Skills: Programs like BA and Development Studies rely on strong verbal and written abilities. Join UMP’s debate or cultural societies.

  • Use Campus Resources: Access libraries, career services, and online platforms like the UMP Student Portal for academic support.

  • Network Actively: Attend open days (e.g., April 2025) or alumni events to connect with professionals in your field.

  • Stay Organized: Use planners to manage assignments and practical components, especially in four-year programs like LLB.

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UMP’s Unique Learning Environment

UMP’s African-focused curriculum emphasizes multilingualism and local challenges, as seen in programs like Foundation Phase Teaching, which prioritizes African languages. The Mbombela campus, hosting most math-free programs, features modern lecture halls, libraries, and student housing for 40% of students. The Siyabuswa campus, dedicated to Education, offers teaching labs and community engagement opportunities.

UMP’s state-of-the-art facilities, including hospitality training kitchens and computer labs, support practical learning. With 10% international students, UMP fosters a diverse community, enriched by cultural events like the Annual Cultural Day. The university’s research focus, particularly in agriculture and development, enhances teaching quality, despite its young age.

Financial Aid and Support at UMP

UMP offers funding options to make education accessible:

  • 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.

  • UMP Bursaries: Merit- and need-based funding is available. Check www.ump.ac.za for 2025 deadlines.

  • Private Loans: Providers like Fundi offer loans. Contact UMP’s Financial Aid Office at +27 (0)13 002 0001.

Apply for funding early, as spaces are limited. UMP provides counseling, career advising, and academic support through the Student Support Services and online platforms.

FAQ: Common Questions About UMP Courses Without Maths

1. Can I study at UMP without Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy?
Yes, programs like BA and LLB don’t require Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, needing only an NSC with the specified APS, English proficiency, and NBTs. Others, like BEd and Hospitality Management, accept Mathematical Literacy. Check www.ump.ac.za for details.

2. What are the job prospects for UMP’s math-free courses?
Graduates enter fields like teaching (R150,000–R300,000), law (R300,000–R600,000), development (R120,000–R250,000), and hospitality (R80,000–R200,000). Over 80% of UMP graduates find employment within a year, supported by practical training and regional demand.

3. Are there short courses at UMP that don’t require Maths?
UMP offers Short Learning Programmes in areas like community development and business management, typically requiring only a Grade 12 certificate. Contact [email protected] for 2025 offerings.

Conclusion

The University of Mpumalanga offers a diverse selection of undergraduate courses for 2025 that don’t require Mathematics, catering to students with talents in humanities, law, education, and hospitality. From advocating in courtrooms to teaching young learners or driving development, UMP’s programs provide practical, career-focused training rooted in African excellence. With accessible applications, robust financial aid, and modern campuses, UMP is an inspiring choice for your future. Visit www.ump.ac.za, prepare for the 2026 application cycle opening April 1, 2025, and take the first step toward a rewarding career at this dynamic institution.

References:

  • University of Mpumalanga: www.ump.ac.za

  • UMP 2025 Prospectus: www.ump.ac.za/prospective-students

  • Varsity Wise: www.varsitywise.com

  • South Africa Portal: southafricaportal.com

  • Explore the Best of South Africa: www.eafinder.com

  • School Hive: schoolhive.co.za

  • Mabumbe: mabumbe.com

  • FundiConnect: fundiconnect.co.za

  • Applyscholars: applyscholars.com

  • Student Room: studentroom.co.za

  • Study Choices: studychoices.org.za

  • World Scholarship Forum: worldscholarshipforum.com

  • NSFAS: www.nsfas.org.za