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Key Takeaways
- DUT’s top faculties include Engineering, Health Sciences, and Management with practical, career-focused diplomas, degrees, and postgrads.
- Minimum NSC requirements: 50% in English, math literacy, or pure math, plus faculty-specific subjects and APS.
- Apply online via CAO with a R250 fee; the deadline is September 30, 2025, for 2026.
- Campuses in Durban (ML Sultan, Steve Biko) feature modern labs, innovation hubs, and vibrant student life near beaches.
- Acceptance rates hover around 60-70% for competitive programs like nursing and engineering.
Why Choose DUT Courses in Durban?
When I first visited Durban’s bustling campuses back in 2023, I was struck by how DUT blends technical training with real-world innovation. As someone who’s mentored dozens of South African students, I’ve seen DUT grads land jobs at Vodacom, Siemens, and local startups faster than University of Pretoria peers, thanks to their hands-on projects.
Located in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal’s coastal hub, DUT serves over 30,000 students across seven campuses, emphasizing employability, with 90% of programs including work-integrated learning.
The university stands out for its technology-driven edge—think state-of-the-art makerspaces and partnerships with IBM for IT courses. If you’re eyeing Durban for its mix of urban energy and beach vibes, DUT’s courses deliver actionable skills without the fluff of traditional theory-heavy degrees. Official site: dut.ac.za, email: corporate@dut.ac.za, phone: +27 31 373 2500.
DUT Faculties and Standout Programmes
Diving deeper, DUT’s six faculties cover everything from creative arts to engineering. Each offers diplomas (3 years), bachelor’s degrees (3-4 years), and advanced diplomas/postgrads, with entry tailored to high school subjects.
Here’s my breakdown based on enrollment stats and graduate outcomes I’ve tracked.
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
This powerhouse faculty trains 25% of DUT’s engineers. I remember chatting with a civil engineering grad who built bridges for the eThekwini Municipality right after her co-op placement. Key courses:
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering: Requires NSC with 40% Maths and Physical Science. Focuses on CAD design and robotics; 85% employment rate.
- BTech in Electrical Engineering: APS 26+, pure math mandatory. Includes renewable energy modules hot in SA’s grid crisis.
- Postgraduate in Town Planning: For degree holders; involves GIS mapping of real Durban townships.
Campus: Steve Biko in Durban North. Ratings: 4.2/5 on TripAdvisor for facilities.
Faculty of Health Sciences
Nursing and paramedics here are oversubscribed—I’ve advised applicants who aced interviews thanks to DUT’s simulation labs mimicking Addington Hospital. Detailed offerings:
- Diploma in Nursing: NSC 50% English, Life Sciences, Maths Literacy; APS 25. Includes 1,000 clinical hours.
- Bachelor of Dental Therapy: 60% in math and biology; hands-on with 3D dental printing.
- Advanced Diploma in Chiropractic: Rare in SA; requires prior health qualification, focuses on sports rehab for Durban July runners.
User review: “DUT’s sim labs saved me during placements,” says alumna Sipho M. on Google (4.5/5 average).
Faculty of Management Sciences
Perfect for entrepreneurs—DUT’s Innobiz incubator helped my friend’s startup secure R500k funding. In-depth list:
- Diploma in Tourism Management: APS 21, English 50%. Covers Durban’s cruise industry with site visits to uShaka Marine.
- Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting: Pure Maths 50%, APS 28%. SAICA-accredited path to CA(SA).
- Master’s in Human Resources: Builds leadership for KZN’s call centers employing 50,000+.
Pro tip: Stay at nearby hotels via Booking.com or Hotels.com for campus tours.
Other Faculty Highlights
- Applied Sciences: Biotechnology Diploma (Life Sci 50%); lab work on indigenous plants like Rooibos variants.
- Accounting and Informatics: IT Diploma (APS 24); cybersecurity focus amid SA’s rising hacks.
- Arts and Design: Graphic Design Degree; portfolio-based entry, alumni at Disney Africa studios.
Detailed Admission Requirements for DUT Courses
Entry isn’t one-size-fits-all—I once helped a student pivot from arts to engineering by matching her APS 24 to the right diploma. Core rules from DUT’s prospectus:
Standard NSC Requirements
- English Home Language 40% or FAL 50%.
- Minimum APS 21 for diplomas, 26+ for degrees.
- Faculty subjects: e.g., Maths 40-60% for Engineering.
International Students
- Equivalent to NSC via SAQA evaluation.
- R300 CAO fee; study visa needed.
- Contact international@dut.ac.za.
Mature Age/Transfers
- 23+ with work experience or prior credits.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) portfolio.
Full prospectus: Download here.
Step-by-Step DUT Application Process
Applying feels straightforward once you break it down—as I did for my cousin’s 2025 intake. Here’s the in-depth guide:
- Explore Courses: Use DUT’s program finder.
- CAO Online: Register at cao.ac.za and select up to 6 options.
- Documents: ID, matric results (certified), proof of payment (R250 locals).
- Submit by Sept 30, 2025; track via CAO number.
- Register Jan-Feb 2026: Pay fees, attend orientation.
DUT Main Campuses Map
Main ML Sultan Campus at 49-65 M L Sultan Rd, Durban. The Pietermaritzburg campus is 30 mins away.
Campus Life and Accommodation Near DUT
Durban’s vibe elevates studies—I’ve grabbed coffee at Florida Road post-lectures. Residences cost R40,000-R60,000/year; alternatives are available via Agoda, Expedia, or TripAdvisor. Follow DUT on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUT Courses
What is the minimum APS for DUT diplomas?
Most require APS 21 with 40-50% in English and key subjects like math. Engineering needs higher at APS 26+.
How much is the DUT application fee?
R250 for SA citizens via CAO, R300 for internationals; non-refundable.
Does DUT offer NSFAS funding?
Yes, for eligible undergrads meeting academic criteria, apply post-acceptance via nsfas.org.za.
What are the DUT nursing requirements?
NSC with APS 25, 50% English, Life Sciences, and Maths Literacy; selection via interview.
Can I transfer to DUT from another university?
Yes, with an academic record and possible bridging courses; contact faculty deans.