Many students in South Africa worry that not having Mathematics will limit their career choices. The good news is — it doesn’t have to. There are plenty of courses you can study without Maths, across both universities and TVET colleges. Whether your interests lie in art, media, business, education, law, or social sciences, there are programs that focus more on creativity, communication, and practical skills than on numbers.
In this guide, we’ll explore courses that don’t require Maths in South Africa, explain what you can study with subjects like Mathematical Literacy or without any maths at all, and list some of the best options in different fields. You’ll also learn about entry requirements, potential career paths, and how to choose the right course for your future goals.
Courses That Don’t Require Maths in South Africa
Courses that don’t require Maths are programs where numerical or analytical skills are not central to the learning outcomes. These courses focus more on language, theory, creativity, social understanding, or hands-on practical work.
In South Africa, both universities and TVET colleges offer several options for students who didn’t take pure Mathematics in high school. Some even accept Mathematical Literacy, while others may only require strong English or Life Orientation scores.
These non-Maths courses are ideal for students who:
- Enjoy working with people, communication, or creativity.
- Have strengths in writing, design, or problem-solving without formulas.
- Prefer theoretical or artistic studies over calculations.
Popular Fields With No Maths Requirement
Here are some of the top academic and vocational fields in South Africa where you can study without needing Mathematics.
1. Arts and Humanities
These programs focus on language, culture, communication, and critical thinking — no equations involved.
Examples of courses:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English, History, or Sociology
- BA in Media and Communication Studies
- BA in Political Science
- BA in Languages or Linguistics
- BA in Journalism or Public Relations
Possible careers:
Writer, journalist, editor, content creator, communications officer, or social researcher.
2. Education and Teaching
Teaching is one of the most respected professions in South Africa and offers multiple specialisations. You can become a teacher even without Maths — especially if you focus on foundation or language teaching.
Courses include:
- Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase
- BEd in Intermediate Phase
- BEd in Senior and FET Phase (Language or Life Orientation focus)
Career paths:
Primary school teacher, language teacher, education consultant, or learning facilitator.
3. Law and Legal Studies
You don’t need Maths to study law. The focus here is on reasoning, argumentation, and critical thinking.
Courses include:
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Diploma in Paralegal Studies
- Higher Certificate in Legal Studies
Career opportunities:
Lawyer, legal advisor, compliance officer, paralegal, or policy analyst.
4. Social Sciences and Psychology
Social sciences explore how people think, behave, and interact. These fields rely on observation and analysis rather than numbers.
Courses include:
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Bachelor of Psychology
- BA in Sociology or Anthropology
- BA in Criminology
Career options:
Social worker, counsellor, psychologist (with further study), or community development officer.
5. Media, Film, and Journalism
If you’re creative and love storytelling, these are excellent choices that don’t rely on Maths.
Courses include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television
- Diploma in Journalism or Media Production
- Certificate in Photography or Graphic Design
- Diploma in Public Relations
Career paths:
Journalist, filmmaker, radio producer, photographer, or digital content strategist.
6. Business and Management (Selected Streams)
Not all business-related programs require Mathematics. Some focus more on communication, entrepreneurship, and management.
Courses include:
- Diploma in Business Administration (no Maths, only Maths Literacy accepted)
- Higher Certificate in Office Management
- Certificate in Entrepreneurship
- Diploma in Human Resource Management
Possible careers:
HR officer, entrepreneur, administrator, or small business manager.
7. Creative Arts and Design
Creativity doesn’t need numbers — just passion and skill. These programs are ideal for visually talented individuals.
Courses include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts
- Diploma in Graphic Design
- Diploma in Fashion Design
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Certificate in Visual Arts
Career options:
Graphic designer, fashion stylist, illustrator, art teacher, or interior decorator.
8. Public Administration and Political Studies
If you’re interested in governance or public service, these fields require analytical thinking and communication, not Maths.
Courses include:
- Diploma in Public Administration
- BA in Political Science
- Certificate in Public Management
Career paths:
Public administrator, municipal officer, government policy advisor, or NGO project manager.
9. Hospitality and Tourism
The tourism and hospitality industry in South Africa is huge. These programs focus on service, culture, and customer management.
Courses include:
- Diploma in Tourism Management
- Certificate in Hospitality and Catering
- Diploma in Travel and Tourism
Career opportunities:
Tour guide, travel consultant, hotel manager, or event planner.
10. Performing Arts
These are expressive, talent-driven programs — perfect for those passionate about performance.
Courses include:
- Diploma in Drama and Theatre Arts
- Bachelor of Arts in Music or Dance
- Certificate in Acting or Performance
Career paths:
Actor, musician, choreographer, theatre producer, or director.
Can You Study at University Without Maths?
Yes. Many South African universities allow students to apply for courses using Mathematical Literacy or without Maths at all, depending on the faculty.
Here’s how it usually works:
- Humanities and Arts faculties typically don’t require Maths.
- Education and Law faculties may accept Maths Literacy.
- Science, Engineering, and Commerce faculties almost always require Maths.
When applying, always check the minimum APS (Admission Point Score). Most non-Maths programs need an APS between 22 and 28, depending on the institution.
What Are The Requirements For Courses Without Maths?
While each university and college has its own admission rules, these are general requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification.
- Minimum APS score (usually 22–28).
- Strong marks in English and sometimes Life Orientation.
- Portfolio or audition (for arts and design programs).
TVET Colleges may also accept students with lower APS scores, focusing more on practical ability than academic results.
People Also Ask
What Courses Can I Study With Maths Literacy in South Africa?
You can study Education, Law, Public Relations, Tourism, HR Management, and Social Work. These courses accept Maths Literacy because they don’t involve heavy calculations or statistics.
What Is The Best Course Without Maths?
It depends on your interests. For creative people, Graphic Design or Media Studies work well. For those who enjoy helping others, Social Work or Teaching are great options. For strong communicators, Law or Journalism are ideal.
Can I Get A Good Job Without Maths?
Absolutely. Many careers — such as teaching, law, HR, design, and media — depend on soft skills, communication, and creativity rather than Maths. Success comes from passion, consistency, and professional growth.
Which Colleges Offer Courses Without Maths?
Almost all South African TVET colleges and private institutions offer options without Maths, including:
- Public TVET Colleges
- Rosebank College
- Boston City Campus
- Damelin
- Varsity College
- College of Cape Town
(These examples are provided for context only, not as links.)
Can I Study Business Without Maths?
Yes — certain business courses accept Maths Literacy or focus more on communication and management. Examples include Office Administration, Human Resource Management, and Entrepreneurship.
How to Choose the Right Non-Maths Course
Picking the right course is about knowing your strengths, goals, and interests. Here are some tips:
- Identify what you enjoy doing most.
Are you creative, analytical, or people-oriented? - Check your subject strengths.
Good English, Communication, or Arts results can guide your decision. - Look at career demand.
Research which jobs are growing in South Africa. - Visit open days or contact admissions.
Ask whether your subjects qualify you for the course. - Plan your career path.
Think long-term — where do you see yourself in 5–10 years?
Final Thoughts
Not having Mathematics doesn’t mean your career options are limited. South Africa offers a wide range of courses that don’t require Maths, across public universities, private colleges, and TVET institutions.
From teaching and law to design, media, and tourism — you can build a meaningful, successful career based on your strengths and interests. The key is to choose a course that aligns with your talents and future goals, not your fears about numbers.