University of Fort Hare Courses and Requirements (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

The University of Fort Hare (UFH), a historic institution in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, is celebrated for its commitment to academic excellence and social transformation. With campuses in Alice and East London, UFH offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across six faculties, catering to students eager to make an impact in fields like law, health sciences, and agriculture. For those planning to apply for the 2025 academic year, understanding the courses offered and their admission requirements is crucial for a successful application. This comprehensive guide details UFH’s 2025 programs, entry criteria, and application process, providing clear, actionable information to help you embark on your academic journey with confidence.

University of Fort Hare Courses and Requirements

UFH organizes its academic offerings across six faculties: Education, Health Sciences, Law, Management and Commerce, Science and Agriculture, and Social Sciences and Humanities. Each faculty provides qualifications from Certificates to Doctoral Degrees, designed to address regional and global challenges. Admission is based on the National Senior Certificate (NSC), Admission Point Score (APS), and subject-specific requirements, with a minimum APS of 28 for most degree programs. Below, we explore the key courses and their entry criteria for 2025, drawing from official UFH sources to ensure accuracy.

Faculty of Education

This faculty trains educators to shape South Africa’s future, offering programs for various school phases.

  • Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching: Requires an NSC with Bachelor’s degree endorsement, APS of 28, English Home Language (HL) or First Additional Language (FAL) level 4 (50–59%), and an additional language at level 4. Prepares teachers for grades R–3.

  • BEd in Intermediate Phase Teaching: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 (40–49%) or Mathematical Literacy level 5 (60–69%). Covers grades 4–6.

  • BEd in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, and subject-specific requirements (e.g., Life Sciences level 4 for biology teaching). For grades 7–12.

  • Advanced Certificate in Education: APS of 24, requires a relevant teaching qualification. Enhances skills for practicing educators.

Faculty of Health Sciences

UFH’s Health Sciences programs prepare students for critical roles in healthcare, emphasizing community health.

  • Bachelor of Nursing Science: APS of 30, English HL/FAL level 4, Life Sciences level 4, Mathematics level 4 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Includes a selection process and prepares students for registered nursing roles.

  • Bachelor of Health in Human Movement Science: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Life Sciences level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Focuses on sports science and rehabilitation.

  • Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Therapy: APS of 30, English HL/FAL level 4, Life Sciences level 4, Mathematics level 4. Requires a selection interview.

Faculty of Law

The Faculty of Law is respected for producing skilled legal professionals, with programs offered at the East London campus.

  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (4-year): APS of 34, English HL/FAL level 5 (60–69%), and an additional language at level 4. Ideal for aspiring lawyers and advocates.

  • Bachelor of Commerce in Law: APS of 30, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Combines legal and business studies, serving as a pathway to the two-year LLB.

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Human Rights: Requires a relevant Bachelor’s degree with a 60% average. Focuses on human rights law and advocacy.

See also  UCT Courses and Requirements (2025)

Faculty of Management and Commerce

This faculty equips students for careers in business, accounting, and public administration.

  • Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting: APS of 30, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Prepares students for financial management and auditing roles.

  • BCom in Information Systems: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Offered at the East London campus, focusing on IT and business integration.

  • BCom General (Economics Stream): APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Available at Alice and East London campuses, emphasizing economic analysis.

  • Diploma in Local Government Management: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Prepares students for municipal roles.

Faculty of Science and Agriculture

This faculty drives innovation in agriculture, biology, and environmental sciences, addressing food security and sustainability.

  • Bachelor of Science (BSc): APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4, and Physical Sciences or Life Sciences level 4. Offers majors like Botany, Chemistry, or Zoology.

  • Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Economics: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4, and Life Sciences or Agricultural Sciences level 4. Focuses on agribusiness and rural development.

  • Diploma in Pest Management: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3, Life Sciences level 4. Prepares students for pest control and crop protection.

  • Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Extension: Requires a relevant Diploma with a 60% average. Enhances skills for agricultural advisory roles.

Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities

This faculty fosters critical thinking in anthropology, sociology, and communication, ideal for social impact careers.

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA): APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, and an additional language at level 4. Offers majors like Anthropology, History, or Political Science.

  • Bachelor of Social Science in Communication: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 5. Covers media, journalism, and corporate communication.

  • Bachelor of Social Work: APS of 28, English HL/FAL level 4, and a selection process. Prepares students for community and social welfare roles.

  • Diploma in Library and Information Science: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4. Trains students for library management and information services.

General Admission Requirements

UFH’s admission criteria ensure students are prepared for rigorous academic programs:

  • National Senior Certificate (NSC): Must have a Bachelor’s degree endorsement for degrees, Diploma endorsement for diplomas.

  • Minimum APS: 24 for Diplomas, 28–34 for Bachelor’s degrees, depending on the program.

  • English Requirement: English HL or FAL at level 4 minimum for most programs, with Law requiring level 5.

  • Mathematics: Required for numerate programs (e.g., BCom, BSc), typically at level 4. Mathematical Literacy is accepted for select programs (e.g., BEd, Nursing).

  • Application Period: Opens April 1, 2024, closes September 30, 2025, for most programs; August 31, 2025, for international students.

See also  University of Mpumalanga Courses and Requirements (2025)

Admission Point Score (APS) Breakdown

The APS is calculated using the six best NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation:

NSC Level

Percentage

APS Points
7 80–100% 7
6 70–79% 6
5 60–69% 5
4 50–59% 4
3 40–49% 3
2 30–39% 2
1 0–29% 1

For example, a student with English HL (60%, level 5), Mathematics (50%, level 4), and four other subjects at level 4 scores: 5 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 25 APS points. UFH requires four designated 20-credit NSC subjects at level 4 for degree admission.

Social Transformation Course

All first-year students must register for the Social Transformation (STF) course, a value-added program that fosters critical thinking and community engagement. This non-credit course supports students’ transition to university life.

Alternative Admission Pathways

UFH offers flexible entry options for non-standard applicants:

  • National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4: Accepted if equivalent to NSC endorsements, with program-specific subject requirements.

  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Applicants with relevant work experience can apply for RPL assessment, subject to faculty approval.

  • Senior Certificate (Pre-2008): Accepted with specific subject passes (e.g., English HG 40%).

  • Access Programmes: Available for students with APS below 28, extending degree programs by one year to build foundational skills.

Postgraduate Programs

UFH offers Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral Degrees across all faculties:

  • Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sociology: Requires a BA with a 65% average in final-year subjects.

  • Master’s in Public Health: Requires a relevant Honours or four-year Bachelor’s degree with a 65% average and a research proposal.

  • PhD in Agriculture: Requires a Master’s degree and a strong research background.

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy: Requires a BCom with a 60% average, preparing students for professional accounting exams.

Application Process for 2025

Applying to UFH is straightforward but requires careful preparation:

  1. Online Application: Submit via the UFH website or Central Applications Office (CAO) from April 1, 2024.

  2. Required Documents: Certified copies of ID, NSC or equivalent results, and proof of application fee payment.

  3. Application Fee: Approximately R120 for South African applicants, R250 for international students.

  4. Selection Process: Competitive programs like Nursing and LLB require interviews or additional assessments.

  5. Track Application: Monitor your status through the UFH or CAO portal.

International Students

International applicants must meet additional criteria:

  • SAQA Evaluation: Non-South African qualifications require verification by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

  • English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-English-speaking applicants.

  • Study Permit: Required before registration.

Financial Aid and Funding

UFH supports students through various funding options:

  • NSFAS: For South African students with a household income below R350,000 per year.

  • UFH Bursaries: Merit-based awards for top performers.

  • External Scholarships: Available through private organizations and government programs.

  • Postgraduate Funding: Research grants for Master’s and PhD students.

See also  UNISA Courses and Requirements (2025)

Apply for funding early to align with admission deadlines.

Why Choose UFH?

UFH stands out for its:

  • Historic Legacy: Founded in 1916, UFH has produced leaders like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.

  • Community Focus: Programs address Eastern Cape’s developmental needs, fostering social impact.

  • Research Excellence: Research centers in agriculture and health sciences drive innovation.

  • Vibrant Campuses: Alice and East London offer rich cultural and academic experiences.

Campus Life and Orientation

UFH’s campuses in Alice and East London provide dynamic student experiences. The 2025 orientation program, held in January, introduces first-years to academic resources, the Social Transformation course, and campus facilities. Students can engage in:

  • Sports Facilities: Soccer, rugby, and athletics programs.

  • Cultural Events: Music festivals, poetry readings, and art exhibitions.

  • Student Societies: Over 50 clubs for academic, social, and professional development.

Summary Table: Key UFH Courses and Requirements (2025)

Faculty

Course

APS

Key Requirements

Education

BEd Foundation Phase Teaching

 28

English HL/FAL level 4, additional language level 4

Health Sciences

Bachelor of Nursing Science

 30

English HL/FAL level 4, Life Sciences level 4, Maths level 4

Law

LLB (4-year)

 34

English HL/FAL level 5, additional language level 4

Management and Commerce

BCom in Accounting

 30

English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 4

Science and Agriculture

BSc

 28

English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 4, Physical/Life Sciences level 4

Social Sciences and Humanities

BA

 28

English HL/FAL level 4, additional language level 4

FAQ: Common Questions About UFH Courses and Requirements

What is the minimum APS for UFH in 2025?
The minimum APS is 24 for Diplomas and 28–34 for Bachelor’s degrees, depending on the program. Competitive courses like LLB require an APS of 34, while Nursing needs 30.

Can I apply to UFH with an NCV Level 4?
Yes, an NCV Level 4 with the appropriate endorsement is accepted for Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees, provided it meets the program’s APS and subject requirements.

When do UFH applications close for 2025?
Applications close on September 30, 2025, for South African students and August 31, 2025, for international students. Late applications may be considered for select programs.

Conclusion

The University of Fort Hare offers a diverse range of programs for 2025, from Certificates to Postgraduate Degrees, designed to empower students for impactful careers in education, health, law, commerce, science, and humanities. By meeting the APS and subject requirements, you can secure a spot in one of UFH’s transformative qualifications. Start your application early, prepare your documents, and explore funding options to ensure a smooth process. With its historic legacy, community focus, and vibrant campuses, UFH is an excellent choice for your higher education journey.