University Degrees and Careers You Can Pursue with Mathematical Literacy in South Africa

One of the biggest myths about Mathematical Literacy is that it closes every door to a good career. That’s not true — but it does close some specific ones. The key is knowing which doors stay open so you can make an informed choice and plan accordingly.

Here’s an honest, comprehensive guide.

What MathLit Does and Doesn’t Allow

First, the honest truth: Mathematical Literacy does not meet the minimum requirements for most science, engineering, medicine or quantitative finance programmes at South African universities.

However, it fully qualifies you for a wide range of degree, diploma and certificate programmes — many of which lead to excellent, fulfilling careers.

Teaching (Education)

One of the most common and impactful careers for MathLit students.

• BEd Foundation Phase (Grades R–3) — MathLit is accepted at most universities
• BEd Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6) — MathLit accepted
• PGCE (Post-Graduate Certificate in Education) — accepted after any relevant degree

Note: If you want to teach Mathematics (not MathLit) at high school level, you will need Pure Maths.

Law

Law programmes do not require Pure Maths. You can study:

• LLB (Bachelor of Laws) — 4 years
• BA Law or BCom Law — 4 years (combined degree)

Law is a highly respected profession in SA. Strong reading, writing and reasoning skills matter far more than maths ability in this field.

Social Work & Community Development

• BSocSci Social Work — MathLit accepted at most SA universities
• BCom Development Studies — MathLit accepted
• Social workers are in critical shortage in SA — this field offers meaningful, stable employment

Nursing & Healthcare (Selected Programmes)

• R425 Diploma in Nursing — MathLit accepted at many colleges
• BCur (Bachelor of Nursing) — varies by university; some accept MathLit, others require Pure Maths
• Occupational Health Nursing, Community Health — MathLit generally accepted

Always check the specific admission requirements — some nursing programmes now require Pure Maths.

Business, Management & Commerce

MathLit opens many business-related programmes:

• BCom General / Business Management — MathLit accepted at many institutions
• Diploma in Business Administration — MathLit accepted
• Higher Certificate in Business — MathLit accepted
• BCom Marketing — MathLit accepted at some universities
• BCom Human Resource Management — MathLit accepted

Note: BCom Accounting and BCom Finance at most universities require Pure Maths.

Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences

• BA (Bachelor of Arts) — any stream: Psychology, Sociology, History, Languages, Philosophy
• BA Communication / Journalism — MathLit accepted
• BA Drama / Fine Arts / Music — MathLit accepted
• BSocSci (various social science streams) — MathLit accepted

Psychology

Undergraduate psychology (BA or BSocSci Psychology) typically accepts MathLit. However:

• To become a registered psychologist, you’ll need Honours + Master’s + internship
• Some universities require Pure Maths for clinical or research-focused psychology pathways

Hospitality, Tourism & Events Management

A growing sector in SA:

• BCom Tourism Management — MathLit accepted
• National Diploma in Hospitality Management — MathLit accepted
• Diploma in Events Management — MathLit accepted

Media, Film & Communication

• BA Journalism / Media Studies — MathLit accepted
• Diploma in Film & Television — MathLit accepted
• Diploma in Public Relations — MathLit accepted

Health Sciences (Selected Programmes)

• Dental Assisting — MathLit accepted
• Emergency Medical Care — MathLit accepted at many institutions
• Radiography / Diagnostic Imaging — varies; check per institution
• Dietetics — requires Pure Maths at most universities

What About TVET Colleges?

TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) colleges offer National Certificates (Vocational) and National N Diplomas in a wide range of trades and technical fields. MathLit is accepted for most programmes, and many TVET graduates earn excellent salaries in the trades.

Can MathLit Students Study at University?

Yes — absolutely. MathLit meets the minimum university entrance requirement set by the DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training). You will qualify for university admission as long as you meet the APS requirements for your chosen programme.

The APS requirements for MathLit-accessible programmes are typically 20–28, which is achievable for most students who work consistently.

The Bottom Line

If you’re in Grade 9 or 10 and genuinely uncertain, speak to a career guidance counsellor — knowing your interests and strengths is more important than the subject choice alone.

Need help with your Grade 12 MathLit content? Browse Grade 12 MathLit resources →