Dlamini BlessingFor many South African students, the absence of Pure Mathematics in their matric subjects can feel like a barrier to university education. The good news is that numerous universities across the country offer programmes that accept Mathematical Literacy, and in some cases, have no specific mathematics requirement at all.
This guide covers courses at various South African universities that do not require Pure Mathematics, organised by field of study and institution.
University Courses That Don’t Require Maths in South Africa
Fields of Study That Generally Do Not Require Pure Mathematics
The following fields of study are generally accessible to students without Pure Mathematics:
Humanities and Social Sciences
Degrees in sociology, psychology, journalism, political science, history, geography, and development studies typically do not require advanced mathematics. Universities such as the University of Johannesburg, University of the Western Cape, and University of Zululand offer these programmes .
Law
The LLB degree focuses on legal principles, reasoning, and case studies rather than numerical analysis. Institutions like the University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, and Stellenbosch University provide strong law programmes that accept students without Pure Mathematics .
Creative and Performing Arts
Courses in fine arts, drama, film studies, music, and fashion design emphasise artistic expression and portfolios rather than mathematics. The University of Cape Town and Durban University of Technology offer these programmes .
Education (Certain Streams)
Teaching qualifications in Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, and certain Senior Phase specialisations (Languages, Humanities) generally accept Mathematical Literacy. However, teaching Mathematics as a subject requires Pure Mathematics .
Health and Social Care
Programmes such as nursing, social work, and occupational therapy may accept Mathematical Literacy, though specific requirements vary by institution. The University of KwaZulu-Natal and the University of Limpopo offer these degrees .
Business and Management (Limited Maths)
Human resource management, public relations, marketing, and retail management focus on strategy and communication rather than advanced calculations. The University of South Africa (UNISA) and North-West University provide these courses .
University of Zululand (UNIZULU) Courses Without Maths
The University of Zululand offers a wide range of programmes that do not require Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy across its faculties .
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (Kwa-Dlangezwa Campus)
Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Planning and Development
Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Communication
Bachelor of Arts in Correctional Studies
Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Sociology
Bachelor of Arts (Anthropology and History)
Bachelor of Arts (Geography and History)
Bachelor of Arts (Geography and Tourism)
Bachelor of Arts (History and IsiZulu)
Bachelor of Arts (Linguistics and English)
Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy and Psychology)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Bachelor of Arts in Drama, Theatre and Performance
Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies
Bachelor of Arts in Information Science
Bachelor of Library and Information Science
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (Richards Bay Campus)
Diploma in Media Studies
Diploma in Public Relations Management
Bachelor of Tourism: Tourism Studies
Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering (Kwa-Dlangezwa Campus)
Bachelor of Consumer Science: Extension and Rural Development
Bachelor of Nursing Science
Bachelor of Consumer Science: Hospitality and Tourism
Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering (Richards Bay Campus)
Diploma in Sport and Exercise Technology
Diploma in Hospitality Management
Faculty of Education (Kwa-Dlangezwa Campus)
Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching: Languages and Humanities
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Courses Without Maths
TUT offers numerous diploma and certificate programmes that do not require Pure Mathematics. Many of these are creative and practical courses that focus on portfolios and talent rather than mathematics .
Courses and Requirements at TUT
Diploma in Fine and Applied Arts
APS Requirement: 17
English Level: 3 (40-49%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Professional artist, curator, teacher, sculptor, painter, photographer, cartoonist
Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture
APS Requirement: 17
English Level: 3 (40-49%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Manufacturing jeweller, jewellery designer, CAD designer, artist jeweller
Higher Certificate in Music
APS Requirement: 18
English Level: 3 (40-49%)
Duration: 1 year
Possible Careers: Performer, composer, music teacher, sound designer, session musician
Diploma in Fashion Design and Technology
APS Requirement: 20
English Level: 3 (40-49%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Fashion designer, pattern maker, costume designer, buyer, illustrator
Diploma in Legal Support
APS Requirement: 20
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Other Language: Level 3 (40-49%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Legal secretary, paralegal in law firms, paralegal at Legal Aid Board
Diploma in Law
APS Requirement: 20
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Costs consultant, paralegal in law firms, paralegal at Justice Centres
Diploma in Language Practice
APS Requirement: 20
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Other Language: Level 4 (50-59%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Translator, editor, language adviser, writer, interpreter
Diploma in Performing Arts
APS Requirement: 20
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Actor, dancer, choreographer, theatre maker, media performer
Diploma in Commercial Photography
APS Requirement: 22
English Level: 3 (40-49%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Photographer (portraiture, advertising, fashion, editorial, industrial)
Diploma in Journalism
APS Requirement: 22
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Journalist in print media, broadcasting, industrial and online journalism
Diploma in Interior Design
APS Requirement: 22
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Interior designer, furniture designer, display designer, model builder
Diploma in Motion Picture Production
APS Requirement: 22
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Film producer, scriptwriter, director, editor, production manager
Diploma in Integrated Communication Design
APS Requirement: 24
English Level: 4 (50-59%)
Duration: 3 years
Possible Careers: Graphic designer, creative director, games designer, interface designer
University of the Western Cape (UWC) Programmes
The University of the Western Cape offers education programmes that focus on Mathematical Literacy as a teaching subject. For example, the BEd in Mathematics (SP) and Mathematical Literacy (FET) and Natural Sciences (SP) programme is designed for students who want to teach Mathematical Literacy at school level .
Unisa Programmes
The University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching with a subject combination of Mathematical Literacy and Economics .
Admission Requirements for this programme:
APS: 23
National Senior Certificate with degree endorsement
At least 50% in the language of teaching and learning
Mathematics requirement: Applicants should check specific requirements as this programme is designed for teaching Mathematical Literacy
University of Cape Town (UCT) Law Programme
The University of Cape Town offers a four-year undergraduate LLB programme for matriculants who meet the entrance requirements .
The LLB degree focuses on legal principles and reasoning rather than numerical analysis. Courses include Administrative Law, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Law of Contract, Law of Delict, and Law of Property .
University of the Free State (UFS) Programmes
The University of the Free State offers several programmes that accept Mathematical Literacy, including:
Higher Certificate in Humanities (various streams) – APS 18, no maths required
Bachelor of Arts – APS 30, Mathematical Literacy accepted
Bachelor of Social Work – Mathematical Literacy accepted
LLB – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Bachelor of Education (Foundation and Intermediate Phase) – Mathematical Literacy accepted
BCom and BAdmin Extended Curriculum Programmes – Mathematical Literacy accepted with APS 20-25
University of Fort Hare (UFH) Programmes
The University of Fort Hare offers numerous programmes that accept Mathematical Literacy:
Bachelor of Arts – APS 25, Mathematical Literacy accepted
Bachelor of Social Work – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Bachelor of Fine Arts – No maths required, APS 25
LLB – Mathematical Literacy Level 4 OR Mathematics Level 3, APS 30
LLB Extended – Mathematical Literacy Level 3 OR Mathematics Level 2, APS 27
BEd Foundation Phase – Mathematical Literacy Level 4 OR Mathematics Level 3, APS 25
Higher Certificate programmes – Minimal maths requirements
University of Venda (UNIVEN) Programmes
The University of Venda offers programmes that accept Mathematical Literacy:
Bachelor of Arts – Mathematical Literacy accepted, minimum 26 APS
Bachelor of Social Work – Mathematical Literacy accepted
BEd Foundation Phase – Mathematical Literacy accepted
LLB – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Human Resource Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Marketing – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Hospitality Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Tourism Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Programmes
VUT offers diploma programmes that accept Mathematical Literacy:
Diploma in Information Technology – Mathematics Level 4 OR Mathematical Literacy Level 6
Diploma in Agricultural Management – Mathematics Level 3 OR Mathematical Literacy Level 4
Diploma in Policing – Mathematics Level 3 OR Mathematical Literacy Level 4
Diploma in Human Resources Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Marketing – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Retail Business Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Fashion – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Tourism Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Programmes
CPUT offers higher certificates and diplomas with accessible requirements:
Higher Certificate in Real Estate – APS 18+
Higher Certificate in Construction – APS 20+
Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting – APS 22+
Diploma in Agriculture – APS 24+
Diploma in Journalism – APS 24+
Diploma in Hospitality and Catering – APS 24+
Diploma in Entrepreneurship – APS 26 (mainstream) / 22 (extended)
Diploma in Sport and Leisure Management – APS 25 (Maths) / 27 (Maths Lit)
Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase – APS 28+
Nelson Mandela University (NMU) Programmes
NMU offers programmes that accept Mathematical Literacy with specific APS requirements:
Bachelor of Arts – Maths Lit Level 70%, AS 365
BEd Foundation Phase – Maths Lit Level 60%, AS 365
BEd Intermediate Phase – Maths Lit Level 60%, AS 385
Diploma in Accountancy – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Human Resource Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Logistics – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Marketing – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Diploma in Tourism Management – Mathematical Literacy accepted
Alternative Pathways for Students Without Pure Mathematics
If you do not meet the requirements for your chosen degree programme, consider these alternative pathways:
Higher Certificates
Higher certificates are one-year programmes that serve as excellent entry points for students who may not meet degree or diploma requirements. They have lower APS requirements (typically 18-24) and can lead to further study .
After completing a Higher Certificate, you may be able to apply for a Diploma or Degree, depending on your results .
Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP)
Many universities offer Extended Curriculum Programmes that add an extra foundation year to help students build academic skills. These programmes have lower entry requirements and provide additional academic support .
ECP students who perform well often transition into the mainstream programme in later years .
TVET Colleges
If you do not meet university entry requirements, TVET colleges offer NATED (N4-N6) and NC(V) courses in fields such as Financial Management, Business Studies, Hospitality, and Tourism. These programmes accept Mathematical Literacy and can lead to National Diplomas .
Private Colleges
Private institutions such as Boston City Campus, Damelin, and IIE Varsity College often have more flexible entry requirements and may offer courses for students with Mathematical Literacy .
General Application Tips
1. Verify Your Specific Requirements: Always check the official university prospectus for your specific programme, as requirements can change annually .
2. Calculate Your APS Correctly: Each university has its own APS calculation method. Use the official conversion table for your chosen institution .
3. English is Mandatory: Most programmes require English at Level 4 (50-59%) for degree studies .
4. Meeting Minimums Does Not Guarantee Admission: University admission is competitive. Try to exceed the minimum requirements wherever possible .
5. Apply Early: Applications typically open in April and close in September for the following academic year .
6. Prepare a Portfolio for Creative Courses: For design, art, and performing arts programmes, a strong portfolio or audition is often required .
Quick Reference Table by University
| University | Accessible Courses | Typical Maths Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| UNIZULU | BA programmes, Social Work, Nursing, Hospitality | No maths or Maths Lit accepted |
| TUT | Fine Arts, Fashion, Photography, Law, Journalism | Maths Lit accepted (APS 17–24) |
| UFS | Higher Certificates, BA, Social Work, LLB, BEd | Maths Lit accepted (APS 18–30) |
| UFH | BA, Social Work, LLB, BEd, Fine Arts | Maths Lit accepted (APS 25–30) |
| UNIVEN | BA, Social Work, LLB, BEd, Diplomas | Maths Lit accepted (APS 26+) |
| VUT | IT, Agriculture, Policing, HR, Marketing, Fashion | Maths Lit accepted |
| CPUT | Higher Certificates, Diplomas, BEd Foundation | Maths Lit accepted (APS 18–30) |
| NMU | BA, BEd, Diplomas in Business and IT | Maths Lit accepted (AS 365–385) |
Conclusion
Not having Pure Mathematics does not lock you out of university education in South Africa. From the humanities and law to creative arts, education, and select business programmes, there are numerous accredited pathways to meaningful careers across multiple universities.
The key is to identify which programme aligns with your interests and strengths, then ensure you meet the specific Mathematical Literacy and English requirements for that course. If you do not meet degree requirements directly, consider starting with a Higher Certificate or Extended Curriculum Programme as a stepping stone.
Your matric results do not define your future. With careful research, early application, and realistic goal-setting, you can build a successful university career without Pure Mathematics. The door to higher education remains wide open.