Requirements to Study Nursing at UNIZULU as Compared to Other Universities

To meet the requirements to study nursing at UNIZULU (University of Zululand), applicants need a minimum APS of 30. The compulsory subjects for the Bachelor of Nursing Science programme are English at Level 4 (50–59%) and Life Sciences at Level 4 (50–59%). A major advantage of this institution is its flexibility regarding mathematics: UNIZULU accepts Mathematical Literacy at Level 4 (50–59%) or Core Mathematics at Level 3 (40–49%). Unlike many other universities, Physical Sciences is not listed as a compulsory requirement.

Detailed Comparison of Requirements to Study Nursing at UNIZULU and Other Institutions

While the nursing requirement standard is generally competitive across South Africa, UNIZULU offers a pathway that is more accessible academically, particularly concerning science prerequisites.

Below is a breakdown to help you determine what subjects are needed to study nursing at UNIZULU versus other major universities.

Comparison of Admission Criteria

Requirements to Study Nursing at UNIZULU as Compared to Other Universities (2) — Requirements to Study Nursing at UNIZULU as Compared to Other Universities Table

Note: UNIZULU requires an NSC Degree endorsement.

Key Differences in University Requirements

When analysing the requirements to study nursing at UNIZULU, the institution stands out as one of the most accommodating regarding subject choices, specifically when compared to research-intensive universities like UJ or UNIVEN.

1. Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy Acceptance

UNIZULU is one of the most accommodating universities listed for students with Mathematical Literacy.

UNIZULU: Requires only Level 4 (50–59%) in Mathematical Literacy. This is significantly more lenient than other institutions.
The Contrast: Compare this to UWC (requires 70% in Maths Lit), NMU (requires 65%), and CPUT (requires 60%).
Strict Universities: Institutions like UJ, SMU, and UNIVEN do not accept Mathematical Literacy at all, strictly requiring Core Mathematics.

2. The Physical Sciences Requirement

This is a critical factor for students who may have struggled with Physics or Chemistry.

UNIZULU, UKZN, and UP: These universities do not list Physical Sciences as a mandatory subject. They focus primarily on Life Sciences.
UJ, CPUT, and UNIVEN: These institutions are stricter, requiring Physical Sciences (often at Level 4 or higher) alongside Life Sciences.

3. Academic Point Score (APS) and Selectivity

UNIZULU: The minimum APS of 30 is standard. It is identical to UJ, UKZN, and UWC.
Comparison: It is slightly higher than UP (28) and NWU (25), but significantly more accessible than UNIVEN (which requires 36) or NMU (which requires high individual subject marks).

4. Grade 10 Subjects Requirements for Nursing

If you are currently in Grade 9 and aiming for UNIZULU, your subject choices are less restrictive than for other universities.

Based on the requirements to study nursing at UNIZULU, the recommended grade 10 subjects requirements for nursing are:

English (Home Language or FAL – Aim for Level 4).
Life Sciences (This is non-negotiable; you must take this subject).
Mathematical Literacy OR Mathematics:
- If you choose Maths Lit, aim for Level 4 (50%) or higher.
- If you choose Core Maths, you only need Level 3 (40%).
Note on Physical Sciences: While UNIZULU does not require Physical Sciences, taking it is advisable if you want to apply to other universities like UJ or CPUT as a backup.

Summary

UNIZULU provides a less academically demanding route to a Bachelor of Nursing degree compared to many other universities. By setting lower passing grades for Mathematical Literacy (Level 4) and omitting the requirement for Physical Sciences, it opens doors for students who excel in Life Sciences but may not be as strong in the physical or mathematical sciences. However, you must still meet the standard APS of 30.