University of KwaZulu-Natal Courses Offered and Entry Requirements are among the most searched details by students planning to apply for the 2026 academic year. The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a leading public university in South Africa, offering a wide selection of accredited undergraduate programmes across science, health, humanities, law, and business disciplines.
Established through the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville, UKZN has developed into a research-focused institution with a strong commitment to academic excellence, transformation, and social development. The university operates several campuses across KwaZulu-Natal, including Durban and Pietermaritzburg, and attracts students from across the country and internationally.
Choosing the right university requires a clear understanding of available courses, admission requirements, and academic pathways. This guide provides a detailed overview of UKZN programmes and entry criteria to help prospective students make informed decisions.
Why to Study at University Of The Free State
Although the heading refers to another institution, the following reasons strongly reflect why many students choose the University of KwaZulu-Natal as their preferred institution.
Strong Academic Reputation
UKZN is consistently ranked among the top universities in South Africa and Africa. Its qualifications are internationally recognised, and many programmes are accredited by professional councils and industry bodies.
Broad Range of Programmes
The university offers diverse academic programmes that cater to students interested in engineering, health sciences, law, commerce, agriculture, and the humanities.
Research and Innovation Focus
UKZN is known for its research output and postgraduate training. Students benefit from access to modern laboratories, research centres, and partnerships with local and international institutions.
Student Support and Development
The university provides academic development support, extended curriculum programmes, libraries, health services, and student housing to promote student success.
Cultural Diversity and Location
Located in KwaZulu-Natal, UKZN offers students a culturally rich environment with access to coastal cities, rural communities, and growing economic hubs.
Courses Offered by University of KwaZulu-Natal
UKZN offers undergraduate programmes through four major colleges. Below is a structured overview of the courses available for the 2026 academic year.
College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science
This college focuses on innovation, sustainability, and scientific advancement, preparing graduates for technical and research-driven careers.
Engineering Programmes
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BSc Eng: Agricultural
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BSc Eng: Chemical
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BSc Eng: Civil
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BSc Eng: Computer
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BSc Eng: Electrical
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BSc Eng: Electronic
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BSc Eng: Mechanical
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BSc Eng: Extended Programme
These programmes equip students with analytical, design, and problem-solving skills required for professional engineering practice.
Agriculture and Resource Management
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B Agric (Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management)
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B Agricultural Management
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BSc Agric
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BSc Agric: Agribusiness
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BSc Agric: Agricultural Economics
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BSc Agric: Agricultural Plant Sciences
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BSc Agric: Animal and Poultry Science
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BSc Agric: Plant Pathology
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BSc Agric: Soil Science
These degrees focus on sustainable agriculture, food systems, agribusiness, and rural development.
Science and Environmental Programmes
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BSc: Land Surveying
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BSc: Property Development
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BSc Stream LES (Life and Earth Sciences)
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BSc Stream M (Mathematics)
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BSc Applied Chemistry
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BSc Biological Science
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BSc Chemistry and Chemical Technology
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BSc Computer Science and Information Technology
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BSc Crop and Horticultural Science
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BSc Dietetics
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BSc Environmental Science
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BSc Environmental Earth Science
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BSc Geological Science
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BSc Industrial and Applied Biotechnology
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BSc Marine Biology
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BSc 4 Augmented Programme
Graduates are prepared for careers in research, environmental management, technology, and industry.
College of Health Sciences
The College of Health Sciences offers professional training in healthcare and medical fields and is one of the most competitive colleges at UKZN.
Health and Medical Programmes
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Bachelor of Audiology
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Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology
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B Dental Therapy
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B Medical Science: Anatomy
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B Medical Science: Physiology
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B Occupational Therapy
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B Optometry
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B Pharmacy
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B Physiotherapy
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B Sport Science
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B Nursing
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Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)
These programmes combine academic learning with clinical training in hospitals and health facilities.
College of Humanities
The College of Humanities focuses on social sciences, creative arts, architecture, theology, and community development.
Humanities and Social Sciences
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BA (General Studies)
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BA Cultural and Heritage Tourism
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BA Philosophy, Politics and Law
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BA International Studies
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BSocSc (General Studies)
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BSocSc Geography and Environmental Management
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BSocSc Government, Business and Ethics
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BSocSc Housing
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BSocSc Extended Curriculum Programme
Creative Arts and Architecture
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BA Music
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BA Music and Drama Performance
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BA Visual Art
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Bachelor of Architectural Studies
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Diploma in Jazz and Popular Music
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Diploma in Music Performance (Classical, African Music and Dance, Opera, or Choral Studies)
Social and Faith-Based Studies
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Bachelor of Social Work
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Bachelor of Theology
These programmes support careers in education, tourism, creative industries, NGOs, and public service.
College of Law and Management Studies
This college prepares students for leadership roles in legal, commercial, and public sectors.
Law Programmes
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Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
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Bachelor of Laws (Part-Time)
Commerce and Management Programmes
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Bachelor of Administration
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Bachelor of Business Administration
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Bachelor of Business Science
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Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
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BCom Accounting
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BCom Extended Curriculum (General)
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BCom Extended Curriculum (Accounting)
Graduates often pursue careers in law, finance, accounting, management, entrepreneurship, and government.
University of KwaZulu-Natal Entry Requirements
Admission to UKZN is based on academic performance and programme-specific criteria. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission due to limited spaces.
General Admission Requirements
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National Senior Certificate (NSC) with degree endorsement
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Minimum Admission Point Score (APS)
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English Home Language or First Additional Language at the required level
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Required subjects for the chosen programme
Faculty-Specific Requirements
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Engineering and Science: Mathematics and Physical Sciences are compulsory
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Health Sciences: High APS with Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences
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Law: Strong language performance is required
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Commerce: Mathematics is mandatory for most programmes
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Humanities: Subject requirements vary depending on the programme
Extended and Augmented Programmes
UKZN offers extended curriculum options for students who meet minimum criteria but require additional academic support during their studies.
Selection Criteria
Some programmes may require:
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Interviews or selection tests
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Medical or health screenings
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Portfolio submissions for creative disciplines
The University of KwaZulu-Natal Courses Offered and Entry Requirements provide prospective students with a clear pathway to one of South Africa’s most respected universities. With a wide range of accredited programmes across multiple disciplines, UKZN continues to play a vital role in higher education, research, and skills development.
Students planning to apply for the 2026 academic year should carefully review programme options, ensure they meet entry requirements, and submit applications early. With proper preparation, UKZN offers a solid foundation for academic achievement and long-term career success.
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