Courses That Require 20 Points at the University of Johannesburg (UJ)

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) stands as one of South Africa’s premier institutions, offering a diverse range of programs that cater to students with varying academic profiles. For students with an Admission Point Score (APS) of 20, UJ provides accessible pathways to higher education through carefully designed diploma and extended degree programs. This article explores the courses available at UJ for students with an APS of 20 or slightly higher, depending on subject requirements, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your options. With a focus on accessibility and practical career preparation, UJ’s offerings in this APS range empower students to pursue their academic and professional dreams.

Courses That Require 20 Points at UJ

The University of Johannesburg is committed to inclusive education, offering programs that accommodate students with lower APS scores, particularly in the 18–25 range. An APS of 20 aligns with several diploma programs and extended degrees, primarily in the faculties of Arts, Design and Architecture, Business and Economics, and Humanities. These courses are tailored to provide foundational skills, practical training, and pathways to rewarding careers, even for students who may not have excelled in their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams. Below, we detail the specific courses available, their APS requirements, and additional admission criteria.

Diploma Programs Requiring 20 APS or Less

UJ offers several diploma programs that require an APS of 20 or slightly higher, depending on whether students have taken Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. These programs are designed to be accessible, focusing on practical and industry-relevant skills. Here’s a breakdown of key diploma courses:

• Diploma in Fashion Production
  • APS Requirement: 20 with Mathematics or 21 with Mathematical Literacy
  • Faculty: Arts, Design and Architecture
  • Overview: This program equips students with technical and creative skills for the fashion industry, covering design, production, and manufacturing processes. Students learn pattern-making, garment construction, and industry-standard production techniques.
  • Additional Requirements: Minimum English score of 5 (60%) on the NSC. A portfolio submission may be required to demonstrate creative aptitude.
  • Career Prospects: Graduates can pursue roles such as fashion production assistants, pattern makers, or garment technologists.
• Diploma in Operations Management
  • APS Requirement: 20 with Mathematics or 22 with Mathematical Literacy
  • Faculty: College of Business and Economics
  • Overview: Focused on the operational side of business, this diploma prepares students for roles in logistics, supply chain management, and production oversight. The curriculum emphasizes process optimization and management principles.
  • Additional Requirements: Minimum English score of 4 (50%). Applicants may need to meet specific subject combination criteria.
  • Career Prospects: Opportunities include operations coordinator, supply chain analyst, or production supervisor.
• Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture
  • APS Requirement: 18 with Mathematics or 19 with Mathematical Literacy
  • Faculty: Arts, Design and Architecture
  • Overview: This program trains students in the art and craft of jewellery design, combining creative design with technical manufacturing skills. It’s ideal for those passionate about precision and creativity.
  • Additional Requirements: Minimum English score of 5 (60%). A portfolio or practical assessment may be required.
  • Career Prospects: Graduates can work as jewellery designers, manufacturers, or entrepreneurs in the jewellery industry.
• Sport Management Diploma
  • APS Requirement: 18 with Mathematics or 19 with Mathematical Literacy
  • Faculty: Health Sciences
  • Overview: This diploma prepares students for careers in sports administration, event management, and facility operations. It blends business principles with sport-specific knowledge.
  • Additional Requirements: Minimum English score of 5 (60%). Relevant experience in the sport industry may be considered under UJ’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
  • Career Prospects: Roles include sports event coordinator, facility manager, or team administrator.

Extended Degree Programs for Accessibility

For students who meet the minimum APS but need additional academic support, UJ offers extended degree programs. These programs provide extra foundational coursework to ease the transition to tertiary education, particularly for those with APS scores in the 20–25 range. Examples include:

• Extended Diploma in Public Relations and Communication
  • APS Requirement: 21
  • Faculty: Humanities
  • Overview: This extended program provides a comprehensive introduction to public relations, media, and communication strategies, with additional support to build academic skills.
  • Additional Requirements: Minimum English score of 4 (50%). A selection test or interview may be required.
  • Career Prospects: Graduates can pursue roles in public relations, corporate communication, or media coordination.
• Extended Degree in Development Studies and Linguistics
  • APS Requirement: 24–26 (depending on the specific program)
  • Faculty: Humanities
  • Overview: These programs focus on social development, community engagement, and language studies, offering a slower-paced curriculum to support student success.
  • Additional Requirements: Minimum English score of 4 (50%) or 5 (60%), depending on the stream.
  • Career Prospects: Opportunities include community development officer, NGO coordinator, or language consultant.

Summary Table of Courses Requiring 20 APS or Slightly Higher

Why Choose UJ for Low APS Programs?

UJ’s commitment to accessible education makes it a top choice for students with an APS of 20. The university’s programs are designed to:

• Bridge Academic Gaps: Extended programs offer additional support to help students succeed.
• Align with Industry Needs: Diplomas focus on practical skills, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
• Foster Inclusivity: UJ accommodates diverse academic backgrounds, providing opportunities for students who may not meet higher APS thresholds.
• Offer Career Pathways: Programs in fashion, operations, and sports management lead to viable careers in competitive industries.

However, meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission. Space availability, subject combinations, and additional requirements like portfolios or interviews play a critical role. Students are encouraged to apply early and review the UJ prospectus for detailed admission criteria.

Understanding the APS System at UJ

The Admission Point Score (APS) is a numerical system used by South African universities to evaluate Grade 12 results for admission. At UJ, the APS is calculated by converting the percentages of your top six NSC subjects (excluding Life Orientation) into points, based on the following scale:

• 80–100%: 7 points
• 70–79%: 6 points
• 60–69%: 5 points
• 50–59%: 4 points
• 40–49%: 3 points
• 30–39%: 2 points
• 0–29%: 1 point

For an APS of 20, a student might achieve, for example, four subjects at 50–59% (4 points each) and two at 30–39% (2 points each). UJ’s lower APS programs often prioritize English proficiency and may allow Mathematical Literacy in place of Mathematics, making them more accessible.

Additional Admission Considerations

Beyond APS, UJ evaluates:

• Subject Requirements: Specific subjects, such as English or Mathematics, must meet minimum performance levels.
• Portfolios or Tests: Creative programs like Fashion Production or Jewellery Design may require portfolios or practical assessments.
• Space Availability: Popular programs fill up quickly, so early application is critical.
• RPL Policy: For students with relevant experience, UJ’s Recognition of Prior Learning policy may waive certain academic requirements.

For international students, additional requirements include proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS score of 6 or UJ’s English Language Programme Test) and compliance with South Africa’s Immigration Act.

Strategies to Improve Your Chances of Admission

If your APS is close to 20, consider these steps to strengthen your application:

• Apply Early: Applications for 2026 open on April 1, 2025, and close on October 31, 2025. Early applications increase your chances, as spaces are limited.
• Explore Bridging Programs: UJ offers bridging courses to improve qualifications, potentially boosting your APS or subject performance.
• Prepare Supporting Documents: Ensure you have certified copies of your NSC results, ID, and any required portfolios or recommendation letters.
• Check Specific Requirements: Review the UJ prospectus for subject-specific criteria, such as minimum English or Mathematics scores.
• Consider Alternative Campuses: UJ has four campuses (Auckland Park Kingsway, Auckland Park Bunting Road, Doornfontein, and Soweto), and program availability may vary by campus.

Faculty Highlights for Low APS Programs

UJ’s faculties offering courses in the 20 APS range are known for their practical and innovative approaches:

• Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture: Renowned for fostering creativity, this faculty offers programs like Fashion Production and Jewellery Design, blending artistic expression with technical skills.
• College of Business and Economics: With a focus on real-world applications, this faculty prepares students for operational and managerial roles in business.
• Faculty of Humanities: Extended programs in this faculty emphasize critical thinking and social impact, ideal for students interested in communication and development.
• Faculty of Health Sciences: The Sport Management Diploma combines business acumen with sports industry expertise, appealing to students passionate about athletics.

Career Opportunities and Long-Term Benefits

Enrolling in a low APS program at UJ opens doors to rewarding careers. Graduates of diploma programs often enter industries with high demand for skilled professionals, such as fashion, logistics, and sports management. Extended degrees provide a foundation for further studies, allowing students to progress to bachelor’s degrees or postgraduate qualifications. UJ’s 92.6% graduate employment rate within 12 months of completing a degree underscores the university’s focus on career readiness.

FAQ Section

What is the lowest APS score accepted at UJ?

The lowest APS score accepted at UJ is 18, applicable to programs like the Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture or Sport Management Diploma. However, specific subject requirements, such as English proficiency, must also be met.

Can I study at UJ with 20 APS points?

Yes, UJ offers several programs for students with an APS of 20, including the Diploma in Fashion Production (20 with Maths or 21 with Maths Lit) and Diploma in Operations Management (20 with Maths or 22 with Maths Lit). Check the UJ prospectus for detailed requirements.

What happens if I don’t meet the APS for my preferred course?

If you don’t meet the APS for your preferred course, consider applying for a program with a lower APS requirement or a bridging course to improve your qualifications. UJ’s extended programs are also designed to support students with lower APS scores.

Conclusion

The University of Johannesburg offers a wealth of opportunities for students with an APS of 20, particularly through its diploma and extended degree programs. By focusing on practical skills and career-oriented training, UJ ensures that students with moderate academic scores can still access quality higher education. Whether you’re drawn to the creative fields of fashion and jewellery design, the operational side of business, or the dynamic world of sports management, UJ’s accessible programs provide a solid foundation for success. To maximize your chances, apply early, review the 2025 UJ prospectus, and ensure you meet all subject-specific requirements. With dedication and the right program, UJ can be your gateway to a fulfilling academic and professional journey.

References

• University of Johannesburg. (2025). Undergraduate Prospectus. Retrieved from www.uj.ac.za
• Varsitywise. (2023). UJ Courses That Require 20 APS or Less. Retrieved from www.vars