UMP Requirements

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) offers a variety of programs, each with its own set of specific requirements for admission. Whether you’re aspiring to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or environmental science, or looking to enroll in a diploma in nature conservation, understanding the UMP requirements is key to securing your place at this prestigious institution. Here’s a detailed guide on the minimum admission requirements for various programs at UMP.

General Admission Requirements for UMP

For most undergraduate programs at the University of Mpumalanga, applicants must meet specific requirements, including the National Senior Certificate (NSC) pass and a certain Admission Point Score (APS). The APS is calculated based on the performance in subjects taken in the NSC.

How to Calculate Your APS

The APS is based on your NSC results. You get a specific score for each subject as follows:

  • Level 7 (80% and above): 7 points
  • Level 6 (70%–79%): 6 points
  • Level 5 (60%–69%): 5 points
  • Level 4 (50%–59%): 4 points
  • Level 3 (40%–49%): 3 points
  • Level 2 (30%–39%): 2 points
  • Level 1 (0%–29%): 1 point

The total score across all subjects will help determine your eligibility for various programs. Now, let’s break down the requirements for some popular courses at UMP.

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSc Agriculture)

This program is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in the agricultural sector. The requirements include:

  • NSC Bachelor’s Degree Pass.
  • Minimum APS of 30.
  • Subject requirements:
    • English: Level 4 (50-59%).
    • Mathematics: Level 4 (50-59%).
    • Two of Physical Science, Life Science, Agricultural Science, or Geography: Level 4.

Students who meet these requirements are well on their way to making a difference in the agricultural landscape of South Africa and beyond.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSc Environmental Science)

For those passionate about protecting the environment, the BSc in Environmental Science is an excellent choice. The admission criteria are:

  • Minimum APS of 30.
  • Subject requirements:
    • English: Level 4 (50-59%).
    • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: Level 4 or Level 6, respectively.
    • Two of Life Science, Physical Science, or Geography: Level 4.

This program equips students with the necessary knowledge to address environmental issues facing the world today.

Diploma in Nature Conservation

This diploma offers students the chance to explore the field of conservation and natural resource management. The admission requirements include:

  • Minimum APS of 28.
  • Subject requirements:
    • English: Level 4 (50%).
    • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: Level 2 (30%) or Level 4 (50%).
    • Life Sciences: Level 4 (50%).

This program prepares students for careers in conservation, environmental protection, and wildlife management.

Bachelor of Administration (BAdmin)

The Bachelor of Administration program is designed for those seeking careers in public management, business administration, or related fields. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum APS of 32.
  • Subject requirements:
    • Mathematics: Level 2 (30–39%) or Level 4 (50–59%) if taking Economics as an elective.
    • Mathematical Literacy: Level 3 (40–49%).
    • English: Level 4 (50–59%).
    • Second Language: Level 4 (50–59%).

This program provides a solid foundation for students who wish to pursue careers in administration, public service, or the private sector.

Bachelor of Development Studies (BDevStud)

The BDevStud program is perfect for those interested in community development, urban planning, or social work. Admission requirements include:

  • Minimum APS of 32.
  • Subject requirements:
    • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: Level 2 or 3, respectively.
    • English: Level 4 (50–59%).
    • Geography or History and One Other Social/Commercial Sciences Subject: Level 4.

This degree empowers students to tackle the social, economic, and political issues faced by communities in South Africa and beyond.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.