What Requirements and Subjects are Needed to Study Environmental Sciences in South African Universities?

On this page, we explore what Grade 10 High School subjects marks/ results are needed or required to study Environmental Sciences (Environmental Scientist) in South African Universities and Colleges? We also look at what APS Score is required for Environmental Sciences Degree and Diploma courses. You should know that every learning institution, internationally or locally, will have its own set of requirements for Environmental Sciences studies.

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List of Grade 10 subjects required to study Environmental Sciences courses

Well, let us explore what Grade 10 subjects are required in order to study Environmental Sciences in South African Universities and Colleges. The subject that you choose in grade 10 may directly determine what study options you will have at tertiary institutions. Therefore, when choosing your subject combination in grade 10, you should already have an idea in terms of what you intend to study after matric.

This is a Sciences field of study, therefore there are specific High School subjects that are required to study in this field. You also need to meet the minimum APS score in the University you are going to study at. The following subjects are needed and essential for the curriculum:

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  • Geography,
  • Agriculture,
  • Biology or Life Sciences,
  • Economics,
  • Mathematics, or Mathematical Literacy,
  • English Home Language, or English First or Second Additional Language.
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Minimum requirements for Environmental Sciences studies relating to Higher Certificate, Diploma and Bachelor Studies?

  • Higher Certificate. The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution as certified by Umalusi, the Quality Assurance Council. Institutional and programme needs may require additional combinations or recognised NSC subjects and levels of achievement.
  • Diploma. The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution as certified by Umalusi, the Quality Assurance Council, coupled with an achievement rating of 3 (Moderate Achievement, 40% – 49%) or better in four (4) recognised 20-credit subjects. Institution and programme needs may require additional combinations of recognised NSC subjects and levels of achievement.
  • Bachelor’s Degree The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution as certified by Umalusi, the Quality Assurance Council, coupled with an achievement rating of 4 (Adequate Achievement, 50% – 59%) or better in four (4) recognised 20-credit subjects. Institution and programme needs may require additional combinations of recognised NSC subjects and levels of achievement.

What Environmental Sciences Career is all about

Careers with an environmental science degree include environmental scientist and specialist, environmental engineer, and environmental lawyer. Students often choose a specialization within environmental science, such as atmospheric science or ecology, which helps determine their career path.

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Watch: Top 8 Highest Paying Jobs in Environmental Science // Environmental Science Careers and Salaries

Top 8 Highest Paying Jobs in Environmental Science // Environmental Science Careers and Salaries

What is the APS Score marks/ results for Environmental Sciences

In order for you to get accepted at a University in South Africa, or (Colleges that use APS scores) for a qualification in Environmental Sciences, you should possess a National Senior Certificate (Grade 12) with an APS score of between 30 -35. APS score is determined by the Grade 12 marks or results. It is also good to know that Universities and Colleges may use your Grade 11 marks if you applied before your matric results came out.

The minimum requirements for a candidate to obtain a Grade 12 National Senior Certificate?

The minimum requirements are:

  • Achieve 40% in three subjects, one of which is an official language at Home Language level and 30% in three subjects.
  • Provide full evidence in the SBA component in the subjects offered
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Prospectus for all Universities in South Africa with APS Scores Tables

Below you will find 2023 universities prospectus for courses from all South African Universities. The prospectus includes relevant APS score and calculations for each universities:

Correct Subject Choice is Important

When it comes to subject choices, every learner should ensure that their subject choice (from Grade 10 already) will lead them in pursuing the careers they want.

The subject choice at the end of Grade 9, or Grade 10 according to The Department of Education, could determine the field of study learners can follow once they complete school. In other words, if learners do not select the correct combination of subjects, they could find themselves unable to enter into certain higher or further education programmes. So when making this important subject choice, learners should consider their options for when they complete school and select accordingly.

How much does it cost to study Environmental Sciences?

Although every learning institution will have its own fees structure and costing, studying Environmental Sciences courses can range from R15 000 to R60 000 per annum. It is always advisable for learners to contact the institution they want to learn at in order to confirm the study fees amounts for the year.

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