If you’re considering Nelson Mandela University (NMU) for your 2026 studies, you’re looking at a dynamic institution known for its strong industry connections, beautiful campuses, and focus on innovation.
List of courses offered at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and the general Entry Requirements for the upcoming academic year.
List of courses offered at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Nelson Mandela University offers a wide array of undergraduate qualifications across its faculties, with campuses in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), George, and Addo. Note that some programmes are specific to certain campuses.
Faculty of Arts
- Applied Language Studies
- Development Studies
- Language & Literature
- Media and Communication
- Music
- Political and Conflict Studies
- Psychology
- Sociology and Anthropology
- Visual Arts (including specialisations in Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture)
Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences
- Business Management
- Economics
- Human Resources Management
- Industrial and Organisational Psychology
- Logistics Management
- Management and Entrepreneurship
- Marketing Management
- Public Management and Leadership
- Tourism Management
Faculty of Education
- Various Bachelor of Education (BEd) degrees in Foundation, Intermediate, Senior, and Further Education & Training Phases.
Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology
- Architectural Technology & Interior Design
- Architecture
- Building and Human Settlement Development
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Information Technology
- Marine Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Quantity Surveying
- Wood Technology (George campus)
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Biomedical Sciences (Biochemistry, Microbiology)
- Dietetics
- Emergency Medical Care
- Environmental Health
- Human Movement Science
- Medical Laboratory Sciences
- Nursing Science
- Pharmacy
- Radiography
Faculty of Law
- Criminal and Procedural Law
- Mercantile Law
- Private Law
- Public Law
Faculty of Science
- Agriculture and Game Management (Port Elizabeth, Addo)
- Agricultural Management (George campus)
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Computing Sciences
- Forestry (George campus)
- Game Ranch Management (George campus)
- Geosciences
- Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
- Nature Conservation (George campus)
- Ocean Sciences
- Physics
- Statistics
- Textile Science
- Zoology
Faculty of Humanities (Social Sciences)
- Social Development Professions
- (Note: Many Humanities and Social Science programmes are also listed under the Faculty of Arts)
Entry Requirements
Gaining admission to NMU depends on meeting both the university’s general criteria and the specific requirements of your chosen programme.
1. General Admission Requirements:
- You must be in possession of a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent school-leaving qualification.
- You must meet the minimum statutory requirements for higher certificate, diploma, or degree study, which typically means an achievement rating of at least 3 (40-49%) in four recognised 20-credit subjects from the designated list.
2. The Admission Point Score (APS) System:
NMU uses an APS to assess applicants. Your APS is calculated using your final Grade 11 or final NSC results. You add the points for each of your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation) according to the percentage achieved:
| Percentage | 0-29% | 30-39% | 40-49% | 50-59% | 60-69% | 70-79% | 80-89% | 90-100% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| APS Points | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
Every programme at NMU has a minimum APS requirement. For example, a general BA might require an APS of 24, while a BEng in Mechanical Engineering might require an APS of 34 or higher.
3. Programme-Specific Subject & Level Requirements:
This is critical. Meeting the minimum APS is not enough. You must also pass specific NSC subjects at a required minimum performance level. Common examples include:
- Engineering, Science & Health Sciences: Require Mathematics and Physical Science, often at a minimum of 60-70% (APS 4-5).
- Commerce & Business Degrees: Usually require Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (check carefully, as BCom often requires core Mathematics).
- Law, Arts & Design: May have specific requirements for English Home Language or First Additional Language, and some require a portfolio (for Design) or additional selection tests.
4. Language Proficiency Requirement:
All applicants must have a minimum level of proficiency in English. This is typically demonstrated by a pass in English Home Language or First Additional Language at NSC level. International applicants may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
5. Additional Selection Procedures:
Many NMU programmes have limited spaces and use competitive selection. This means even if you meet the minimum requirements, you are not guaranteed a place. Selection may be based on:
- Academic performance ranking (higher marks improve chances).
- Faculty-specific selection tests (e.g., for Health Sciences, Engineering, Architecture).
- Portfolio submissions (for Art, Design, and Music programmes).
- Interviews.
6. Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs):
NMU offers ECPs (Foundation Programmes) in certain fields. These are typically 4-year degrees that start with a foundational first year, designed for students who show potential but don’t meet the direct entry requirements for the standard 3-year degree. They have lower APS and subject requirements.
By understanding the courses offered and rigorously checking the entry requirements, you can submit a strong, informed application. Best of luck as you prepare to take this exciting step with Nelson Mandela University
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