Dlamini BlessingFor many South African students, the absence of Pure Mathematics in their matric subjects can feel like a barrier to university education. The University of Mpumalanga (UMP), established in 2014 and located in Mbombela and Siyabuswa, offers numerous programmes across multiple faculties that do not require Mathematics for admission, making higher education accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds.
As a public university operating under South Africa’s higher education system, UMP has grown steadily and now offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across different faculties. The university is known for its modern learning environment, growing research capacity, strong focus on community development, and affordable public university structure.
UMP Courses That Don’t Require Maths
Courses That Do Not Require Mathematics at UMP
The following courses at the University of Mpumalanga are open to students who do not have Pure Mathematics. Many of these programmes accept Mathematical Literacy or have no mathematics requirement at all.
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
This faculty focuses on social development, human behaviour, and communication studies. Programmes are suitable for students interested in public service, NGOs, media, and research careers.
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts degree is one of the most flexible options for students without Pure Mathematics. This programme offers majors in Sociology, Development Studies, Communication, and other humanities disciplines.
Mathematics Requirement: None (Mathematical Literacy may be accepted)
APS Requirement: 26+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: Public service, NGOs, media, research, corporate communication, development agencies
Bachelor of Development Studies
This programme focuses on understanding poverty, inequality, and social change. Students learn about development theories, policy analysis, and community empowerment.
Mathematics Requirement: None
APS Requirement: 26+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: NGOs, government departments, international development organisations, policy analysis
Faculty of Education
The Faculty of Education, located primarily at the Siyabuswa Campus, trains future teachers for primary and secondary schools. These programmes focus on teaching methodology, child development, and subject-specific knowledge rather than advanced mathematics.
Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R-3)
This four-year degree trains students to teach at the early primary school level, focusing on foundational literacy, numeracy, and life skills.
Mathematics Requirement: None (Mathematical Literacy may be accepted; teaching focus is not mathematics-intensive)
APS Requirement: 26+ (typical)
Duration: 4 years
Career Opportunities: Primary school teacher (Grades R-3), early childhood development specialist, curriculum advisor
Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grades 4-6)
This programme prepares teachers for the intermediate primary school phase.
Mathematics Requirement: None (Mathematical Literacy may be accepted)
APS Requirement: 26+ (typical)
Duration: 4 years
Career Opportunities: Primary school teacher (Grades 4-6), subject specialist, educational coordinator
Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences
This faculty prepares students for careers in business, finance, and economics. While some programmes in this faculty may require Mathematics, there are accessible options for students without Pure Mathematics.
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
The BCom degree offers specialisations in areas such as Supply Chain Management and Business Administration. Note that certain streams like Accounting or Economics may have mathematics requirements.
Mathematics Requirement: May vary by specialisation; some streams accept Mathematical Literacy
APS Requirement: 28+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: Banking, corporate sector, entrepreneurship, supply chain management, business administration
Important Note: For BCom programmes, some specialisations may require Pure Mathematics or a higher level of Mathematical Literacy. Always check the specific requirements for your chosen specialisation.
Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences
This faculty focuses on science-based and environmental programmes. While some programmes in this faculty require Life Sciences or Physical Sciences, there are options that do not require Pure Mathematics.
Diploma in Nature Conservation
This programme focuses on environmental conservation, biodiversity management, and wildlife protection. It is suitable for students interested in conservation careers without heavy mathematics requirements.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences, Geography
APS Requirement: 26+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: Conservation officer, park ranger, environmental consultant, biodiversity specialist
Diploma in Agriculture in Plant Production
This programme focuses on crop production, agricultural management, and plant science.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted
Recommended Subjects: Agriculture, Life Sciences
APS Requirement: 26+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: Farm manager, agricultural extension officer, crop production specialist
Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management
This degree prepares students for careers in agricultural advisory services and rural development.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted
Recommended Subjects: Agriculture, Life Sciences
APS Requirement: 28+ (typical)
Duration: 3-4 years
Career Opportunities: Agricultural extension officer, rural development manager, agricultural advisor
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture
This degree focuses on scientific principles in agriculture.
Mathematics Requirement: May require Mathematics at a higher level; check specific requirements
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences
APS Requirement: 28-30+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: Agricultural research, agribusiness management, production management
Faculty of Management and Business (Hospitality and ICT)
Diploma in Hospitality Management
This programme covers hotel operations, food and beverage management, and guest services.
Mathematics Requirement: None (Mathematical Literacy accepted)
APS Requirement: 24+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: Hotel management, restaurant management, event coordination, tourism operations
Diploma in ICT (Information and Communication Technology)
This diploma focuses on computer programming, software development, and practical IT skills.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted (check specific specialisation)
APS Requirement: 26+ (typical)
Duration: 3 years
Career Opportunities: IT support specialist, software developer, network administrator, database administrator
Higher Certificate and Diploma Pathways
For students who may not meet the direct requirements for degree programmes, UMP offers diploma programmes that are more accessible.
Diploma Programmes without strict Maths requirements include:
Diploma in Hospitality Management
Diploma in ICT
Diploma in Nature Conservation
Diploma in Agriculture in Plant Production
These programmes typically have lower APS requirements than degree programmes and focus on practical, career-oriented training.
Programmes That May Require Mathematics
For clarity, it is equally important to know which UMP courses may require Mathematics. Students without Pure Mathematics should be aware that the following programmes typically have mathematics requirements:
BSc programmes (general) – May require Pure Mathematics
BCom in Accounting – Likely requires Mathematics
BCom in Economics – May require Mathematics
Programmes requiring Physical Sciences – Often require Mathematics as a co-requisite
However, many of the university’s most popular programmes in Humanities, Education, Development Studies, Hospitality, and Nature Conservation have flexible mathematics requirements or accept Mathematical Literacy.
General Admission Requirements for Students Without Pure Mathematics
Before applying, you must meet UMP’s minimum statutory requirements for your chosen qualification level:
For Higher Certificate/Diploma Programmes:
Pass the NSC with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching (English)
40-49% or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects
For Bachelor’s Degree Programmes:
Pass the NSC with a minimum of 30% in English
50-59% or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects
Degree endorsement (Bachelor’s pass)
APS Calculation at UMP
Your Admission Point Score (APS) is calculated based on your NSC results. UMP may count your best seven subjects, including Life Orientation, to calculate your APS.
Typical APS requirements at UMP:
Diploma programmes: 24-26 points
Bachelor’s degree programmes: 26-30+ points
Education programmes: 26+ points
Agriculture and Natural Sciences: 26-30+ points
Compulsory Subjects:
English Home Language or English First Additional Language (Level 4 or higher typically required)
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (depending on the course)
Relevant subjects such as Life Sciences, Geography, or Agriculture may be required for specific programmes
Application Tips for Students Without Pure Mathematics
1. Verify Your Specific Requirements: While this guide provides general requirements, always check the official UMP prospectus for your specific programme, as requirements can change annually.
2. Calculate Your APS Correctly: UMP may count your best seven subjects, including Life Orientation. Use the official conversion table in the prospectus to calculate your APS accurately.
3. English is Mandatory: All programmes require English at a minimum level, typically Level 4 (50-59%) for degree programmes.
4. Meeting Minimums Does Not Guarantee Admission: UMP is a growing university that received over 124,000 applications for the 2026 academic year and filled only 3,969 first-year spaces. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Apply early.
5. Apply Early: Applications are usually open on 1 June.
6. Application Fee: The application fee is R200 for South African applicants.
7. Prepare Your Documents: You will need certified copies of your South African ID, your latest Grade 11 or Grade 12 results, and proof of payment of the application fee.
8. Consider Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP): If you narrowly miss the requirements for a mainstream programme, ECP options may be available with lower entry requirements and additional academic support.
How to Apply
Applications to the University of Mpumalanga are submitted online through the official UMP website at www.ump.ac.za/apply.
Application Steps:
1. Click “Apply” on the UMP website
2. Capture your biographical information
3. Create your 5-digit PIN
4. Note down your student number
5. Complete the online application form
6. Upload all required supporting documents (certified copies of ID, results)
7. Pay the non-refundable application fee (R200 for South Africans)
8. Choose up to two programmes you wish to apply for
9. Submit your application
Contact Information:
Switchboard: +27 13 002 0001
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Important Warning: UMP urges prospective students not to pay any person or entity money to obtain admission, as the university has a zero-tolerance policy for such actions. Unethical conduct can be reported to [email protected].
Quick Reference Table
| Qualification | Faculty | Duration | Mathematics Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | Humanities and Social Sciences | 3 years | None |
| Bachelor of Development Studies | Humanities and Social Sciences | 3 years | None |
| B.Ed. Foundation Phase | Education | 4 years | None |
| B.Ed. Intermediate Phase | Education | 4 years | None |
| Bachelor of Commerce (select streams) | Economics, Development and Business Sciences | 3 years | Maths Lit accepted |
| Diploma in Hospitality Management | Management | 3 years | None |
| Diploma in ICT | Management | 3 years | Maths Lit accepted |
| Diploma in Nature Conservation | Agriculture and Natural Sciences | 3 years | Maths Lit accepted |
| Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Production) | Agriculture and Natural Sciences | 3 years | Maths Lit accepted |
| Bachelor of Agriculture (Agricultural Extension) | Agriculture and Natural Sciences | 3–4 years | Maths Lit accepted |
Key insights:
- Humanities and Education programmes are accessible without maths requirements.
- Commerce and Management diplomas generally accept Maths Literacy, making them more flexible entry points.
Conclusion
The University of Mpumalanga offers genuine opportunities for students who did not take Pure Mathematics in high school. From the Humanities and Social Sciences programmes to Education, Development Studies, Hospitality, Nature Conservation, and select Agriculture and Commerce programmes, there are multiple accredited pathways to meaningful careers.
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences provides excellent options including the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Development Studies. The Faculty of Education offers teaching qualifications across Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase. The Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences offers Nature Conservation and Agriculture diplomas that accept Mathematical Literacy. And the Faculty of Management offers Hospitality Management and ICT diplomas with flexible mathematics requirements.
However, it is crucial to note that some BSc programmes and certain BCom specialisations at UMP may require Pure Mathematics. Students interested in these fields should either upgrade their Mathematics qualification or consider alternative programmes like diplomas or Extended Curriculum Programmes as entry points.
The key is to identify which programme aligns with your interests and strengths, then ensure you meet the specific English and APS requirements for that course. With a commitment to accessible education and growing enrolment capacity, UMP is an excellent choice for students who want to succeed without Pure Mathematics. Your matric results do not define your future, and at the University of Mpumalanga, the door to higher education remains wide open.