UNIZULU Courses and Entry Requirements 2026 – Complete Guide

Overview of the University of Zululand

The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) is a comprehensive public university with campuses in KwaDlangezwa and Richards Bay in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Established in 1960, UNIZULU has a long tradition of providing quality higher education and currently serves approximately 18,000 students. As a CAO member institution, UNIZULU accepts applications through the centralised system alongside UKZN, DUT, and MUT.

UNIZULU distinguishes itself as a comprehensive university, meaning it offers both traditional academic degrees and career-focused diploma programmes. This combination gives students flexibility in choosing between theoretical and practical pathways. The university's location in an emerging economic zone, particularly the Richards Bay campus near South Africa's largest port, creates unique opportunities for graduates in maritime, industrial, and environmental fields.

UNIZULU Faculties and Programmes

Faculty of Arts

The Faculty of Arts offers programmes in Communication Science, Psychology, Social Work, History, Political Science, Sociology, Languages (English, isiZulu, Afrikaans), and Philosophy. The Bachelor of Arts degree typically requires a minimum APS of 28 with English at Level 4. Specialised programmes like the Bachelor of Social Work require an APS of 30+ due to professional registration requirements. The faculty emphasises critical thinking, research skills, and community engagement.

Faculty of Commerce, Administration and Law

This faculty houses some of UNIZULU's most popular programmes including Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Accounting, Bachelor of Administration, and LLB (Law). The BCom requires a minimum APS of 28 with Maths at Level 4. The LLB degree is highly competitive, requiring an APS of 32+ with English at Level 5. For students interested in business careers, compare these with other business programmes in KZN.

Faculty of Education

Education is one of UNIZULU's strongest faculties, offering the Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, and FET Phase teaching. Entry typically requires an APS of 28+ with relevant teaching subjects at Level 4. The BEd programme is four years and includes extensive teaching practice at schools in the region. Given South Africa's ongoing need for qualified teachers, education graduates from UNIZULU enjoy strong employment prospects.

Faculty of Science and Agriculture

This faculty offers Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Zoology, Botany, Geography, and Hydrology. A BSc typically requires an APS of 28+ with Maths at Level 4 and Physical Science at Level 4. The Agriculture programmes cover animal production, crop science, and agricultural economics, requiring Life Sciences at Level 4. UNIZULU's location near diverse ecosystems makes it ideal for environmental and biological sciences research.

UNIZULU APS Requirements Summary

Use our APS Calculator to check if you meet these requirements.

UNIZULU Campuses

UNIZULU's main campus at KwaDlangezwa is a traditional university campus set in a lush, rural environment about 150km north of Durban. The Richards Bay campus is a newer, modern facility strategically located near the Port of Richards Bay and the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone. The Richards Bay campus focuses on programmes aligned with the region's economic activities including maritime studies, engineering technology, and environmental sciences. Both campuses offer student residences – see our accommodation guide for more information.

Financial Aid and Fees

UNIZULU is accredited for NSFAS funding, providing full bursaries to qualifying students. The university also administers various internal and external bursaries. Tuition fees at UNIZULU are generally competitive compared to UKZN, making it an accessible option for students from all financial backgrounds. Check our alternative bursaries guide and use the CAO fees calculator to plan your application budget.

How to Apply

Apply through CAO with all necessary documents. The on-time deadline is 31 October 2025. After applying, track your application status online.

Why Choose UNIZULU?

UNIZULU offers: a comprehensive range of degrees from arts to science; a strategic location in a growing economic region; strong education and law faculties; affordable tuition with NSFAS support; and a close-knit campus community. For students who want a traditional university experience with the flexibility to study either academic or career-focused programmes, UNIZULU is well worth considering. Compare all your options with our university comparison tool.