Are you preparing for your upcoming academic endeavor? The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) provides a variety of diploma programs that are intended to give you useful skills for both future education and the workforce. VUT offers alternatives worth considering for 2026, whether of your passion for engineering, business, IT, or artistic professions. The available diplomas and prerequisites are outlined in detail below.
Why Choose a Diploma at VUT?
Diploma courses at VUT are structured to build work-ready graduates with industry-relevant skills. Most programmes are three years full-time, focusing on hands-on learning, problem-solving, and real-world experience. VUT also supports applications from both South African and international students.
1. Faculty of Applied & Computer Sciences
These diplomas are ideal if you’re aiming for scientific and tech careers:
Diploma in Analytical Chemistry
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Duration: 3 years
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Minimum Requirements:
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NSC endorsement for Diploma
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English: Level 4
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Mathematics or Technical Mathematics: Level 4
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Physical Science: Level 4
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Other Subjects: Enough to total 21 APS (excluding LO)
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Diploma in Agricultural Management
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Minimum Requirements:
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English: Level 4
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Mathematics / Technical Mathematics: Level 3
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Agriculture/Life Science: Level 3
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Total: 21 APS (Maths) or 22 APS (Maths Literacy)
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Diploma in Biotechnology
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Minimum Requirements:
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English: Level 4
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Mathematics: Level 4
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Physical Science: Level 4
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Life Sciences: Level 4
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Total: 23 APS
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Diploma in Information Technology
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Compulsory Subjects:
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English: Level 4
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Mathematics / Technical Mathematics: Level 4 or Mathematical Literacy: Level 6
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Additional subjects
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Total: 26 APS (Maths) or 28 APS (Maths Lit)
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2. Accountancy & Business-Related Diplomas
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Diploma in Financial Information Systems
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Diploma in Cost & Management Accounting
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Diploma in Internal Auditing
Minimum APS Requirements:
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Must meet set APS scores (e.g., 20 – 22 or higher, depending on the specific diploma).
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Subjects include Accounting, English, Mathematics/Technical Mathematics, or Mathematical Literacy.
3. Human Resources & Management Programmes
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Diploma in Human Resources Management
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Diploma in Logistics & Supply Chain Management
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Diploma in Marketing, Retail Business & Sport Management
Typical entry demands:
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20 – 21 APS points
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English Level 4
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Mathematics/Technical Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, and other subjects
4. Creative & Service-Oriented Diplomas
VUT also offers qualifications in creative, tourism and hospitality sectors:
Art & Design
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Fashion, Graphic Design, Photography & Fine Art Diplomas
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Requirement: English Level 4 and a mixture of Mathematics/Maths Literacy — Total APS of 21 or 22.
Hospitality & Food Service
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Food Service Management
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English Level 4
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One subject related to hospitality or business Level 4
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Minimum APS of 20 or 21.
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Tourism & Public Relations
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Tourism Management, Ecotourism Management, Public Relations
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English plus Mathematics/Maths Literacy and tourism-related subjects.
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APS requirements typically around 20 – 21.
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5. Legal, Safety & Policing Diplomas
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Diploma in Labour Law
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Diploma in Legal Assistance
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Diploma in Safety Management
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Diploma in Policing
Some of these include additional selection requirements such as practical interviews or portfolios — and even special criteria for mature age applicants.
Tips for Prospective Students
➡Meet or exceed the minimum subject levels to improve your chances of acceptance.
➡ Ensure your APS score aligns with course requirements - this is key for selection.
➡ For creative diplomas, prepare strong portfolios or interview materials if required.
➡ International applicants must submit certified documents with your application.