To study architecture in South Africa, students must meet specific high school subject requirements depending on the institution they choose. Most universities offer a structured pathway starting with undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) or Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc Arch), followed by postgraduate qualifications for professional registration. This guide outlines the high school subjects and entry requirements for architecture programmes at seven major South African institutions, helping prospective students plan their academic path effectively.
Contents
- Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at Nelson Mandela University
- Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of the Witwatersrand
- Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of Johannesburg
- Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of Pretoria
- Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at Durban University of Technology
Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at Nelson Mandela University
Nelson Mandela University offers the Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS), a three-year undergraduate programme that provides a comprehensive foundation in architectural design, theory, and technology. Graduates can progress to the Bachelor of Architectural Studies with Honours (BAS Hons) and subsequently the Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch Prof), leading to professional registration.
Required Subjects:
- Mathematics: Minimum achievement rating of 55%.
- English: Minimum achievement of 50%.
- Applicant Score (AS): Minimum of 370.
- Additional Requirements: Submission of a creative portfolio and participation in an interview.
Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of the Witwatersrand
The University of the Witwatersrand offers a structured pathway in architecture, starting with the Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS), followed by the Bachelor of Architectural Studies with Honours (BAS Hons), and culminating in the Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch Prof). This progression equips students with the necessary skills for professional practice.
Required Subjects:
- English: Minimum of 5 (60–69%) in Home Language or First Additional Language.
- Mathematics: Minimum of 5 (60–69%).
- Physical Science: Recommended but not compulsory.
- Additional Requirements: An Admission Point Score (APS) of 34 or higher is typically required.
Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of Johannesburg
The University of Johannesburg offers the Bachelor of Architecture (BArch), a three-year undergraduate programme that provides a solid foundation in architectural principles. Graduates can advance to the Bachelor of Architecture Honours (BArch Hons) and the Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch Prof), preparing them for professional registration.
Required Subjects:
- English: Minimum of 5 (60%).
- Mathematics: Minimum of 5 (60%).
- Additional Requirements: APS of 30 or higher, and submission of a portfolio.
Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria offers a comprehensive architecture programme beginning with the Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc Arch), followed by the Bachelor of Architecture Honours (BArch Hons), and the Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch Prof). This sequence prepares students for professional practice and registration.
Required Subjects:
- English: Minimum of 5 (60%).
- Mathematics: Minimum of 4 (50%).
- Physical Science: Minimum of 4 (50%).
- Additional Requirements: An APS of 27 or higher.
Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at University of KwaZulu-Natal
The University of KwaZulu-Natal offers the Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS), a three-year programme that lays the groundwork in architectural design and theory. Graduates may proceed to the Bachelor of Architectural Studies Honours (BAS Hons) and the Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch Prof) for advanced studies and professional qualification.
Required Subjects:
- Mathematics: Level 5 (60–69%).
- English: Minimum of 4 (50–59%).
- Total Points: Minimum of 30 points (excluding Life Orientation).
- Additional Requirements: Submission of a creative portfolio and a written component.
Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Cape Peninsula University of Technology offers the National Diploma in Architectural Technology, a three-year programme focusing on the technical aspects of architecture. Graduates can further their studies with the Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Architectural Technology, enhancing their professional competencies.
Required Subjects:
- Mathematics: Minimum of 4 (50–59%).
- Physical Sciences: Minimum of 4 (50–59%).
- English: Minimum of 4 (50–59%).
- Additional Requirements: Submission of a portfolio and participation in an interview.
Subjects Requirements to Study Architecture at Durban University of Technology
Durban University of Technology offers the Bachelor of the Built Environment in Architecture, a three-year programme that integrates design and technical skills. Graduates can pursue the Bachelor of the Built Environment Honours in Architecture for advanced knowledge and professional readiness.
Required Subjects:
- Mathematics: Minimum of 4 (50–59%).
- Physical Sciences: Minimum of 4 (50–59%).
- English: Minimum of 4 (50–59%).
- Additional Requirements: Submission of a portfolio and participation in an interview.
Check: List of places to study Architecture Courses in SA
These programmes are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in architecture, adhering to the standards set by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP).
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