List of UMP Courses and Requirementsa – A Detailed Guide

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) is a dynamic higher education institution located in the heart of South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province. Established with a focus on providing accessible, quality education, UMP aims to prepare students for meaningful careers and contribute to the development of the region and the broader country. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs that cater to various fields, including agriculture, business, education, and social sciences.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the courses offered at UMP, the admission requirements for each program, and how you can apply to study at this prestigious university.

1. About the University of Mpumalanga (UMP)

The University of Mpumalanga was officially established in 2014 with a vision to provide a new and vibrant learning experience. UMP focuses on offering innovative education programs that address local and national needs. The university plays a critical role in empowering communities, driving economic growth, and producing graduates with practical skills and expertise in various fields.

UMP offers a variety of programs through its faculties:

• Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
• Faculty of Business and Economics

These faculties offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their respective fields.

2. List of UMP Courses

The University of Mpumalanga offers a wide array of courses across multiple disciplines. Below is a breakdown of some of the key programs offered at UMP:

a. Undergraduate Programs

1. Bachelor of Agricultural Management The Bachelor of Agricultural Management is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to manage agricultural businesses effectively. The program focuses on developing an understanding of the agricultural value chain, agricultural economics, and farm management.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Agricultural Economics, Farm Management, Agricultural Policy, Soil Science, Crop and Livestock Production
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English, 50% in Mathematics, and 50% in Physical Science or Life Sciences.
     • Meeting additional program-specific criteria may be necessary.
2. Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences This program is aimed at students interested in pursuing a career in agriculture, focusing on the biological, environmental, and technological aspects of farming. Graduates are equipped to contribute to the agricultural industry, research, and development.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Soil Science, Agricultural Microbiology, Plant Pathology, Agronomy, Animal Science
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English, 50% in Mathematics, and 50% in Life Sciences or Physical Science.
     • Additional entry requirements may apply depending on the specialization.
3. Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching The BEd Foundation Phase Teaching program prepares students to become qualified educators capable of teaching in the early grades of school. This program focuses on pedagogy, early childhood development, and teaching practices.
   • Duration: 4 years
   • Key Modules: Teaching Methodology, Child Development, Educational Psychology, Language and Literacy Education, Mathematics Education
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and other relevant subjects, including Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
     • A passion for teaching and working with young children is essential.
4. Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Sciences The BA in Social Sciences at UMP provides students with an understanding of human behavior, society, and the complexities of social systems. Students can specialize in fields such as sociology, psychology, and public administration.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Sociology, Social Psychology, Political Science, Human Rights, Social Development
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and other relevant subjects, such as History or Life Sciences.
     • The program may require additional selection criteria based on interest and aptitude in social sciences.
5. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) The BBA program provides a broad-based education in business and management. It equips students with essential business knowledge and leadership skills necessary for a successful career in the corporate world.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Marketing, Organizational Behavior
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and 50% in Mathematics.
     • Additional program-specific requirements may include subjects like Accounting, Economics, or Business Studies.
6. Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences This program focuses on the study of the environment and how to manage its resources sustainably. Students will gain a deep understanding of environmental issues, policies, and conservation strategies.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Environmental Management, Ecology, Climate Change, Biodiversity Conservation, Environmental Policy
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and 50% in Life Sciences or Physical Science.
     • A keen interest in environmental conservation and sustainability is essential.
7. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSc IT) The BSc in Information Technology program provides students with a strong foundation in the field of IT. This program covers essential topics such as programming, networking, database management, and cybersecurity.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Programming, Database Management, Networking, Information Systems, Cybersecurity
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and 50% in Mathematics.
     • A strong aptitude for IT and problem-solving is recommended.

b. Postgraduate Programs

1. Master of Agriculture (MSc Agriculture) The MSc in Agriculture program at UMP is designed for those who wish to further their studies and specialize in specific agricultural fields such as agronomy, horticulture, or agricultural economics.
   • Duration: 2 years
   • Key Modules: Advanced Agricultural Research, Agricultural Development, Sustainable Farming Practices
   • Admission Requirements:
     • A relevant undergraduate degree in Agriculture with a minimum of 60% in the final year.
     • A research proposal and possible interview.
2. Master of Business Administration (MBA) The MBA program is aimed at professionals who wish to develop their leadership and strategic management skills. It focuses on advanced business practices, entrepreneurship, and managing complex business environments.
   • Duration: 1-2 years
   • Key Modules: Strategic Management, Leadership, Organizational Behavior, Financial Management
   • Admission Requirements:
     • A relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., BCom or BBA) with a minimum of 60%.
     • At least 3 years of professional work experience in a managerial or leadership role.
3. Master of Education (MEd) This program offers advanced studies in education for those wishing to specialize in educational leadership, curriculum development, or teaching methodology.
   • Duration: 1-2 years
   • Key Modules: Educational Leadership, Research Methodology, Curriculum Theory, Education Policy
   • Admission Requirements:
     • A relevant Bachelor’s degree in Education (BEd) with a minimum of 60% in the final year.
     • Work experience in the education sector may be required.

3. Admission Requirements for UMP Courses

The general admission requirements for undergraduate programs at UMP include:

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification with at least 50% in English.
• Minimum marks in subjects like Mathematics and Life Sciences (depending on the program).
• For specific programs like Business Administration or Environmental Sciences, higher marks in relevant subjects such as Economics, Accounting, or Physical Science may be required.

For postgraduate programs, applicants typically need:

• A relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum average of 60%.
• Additional requirements may include research proposals or professional work experience, particularly for programs like the MBA.

4. How to Apply for UMP Courses

To apply for a course at UMP, follow these steps:

1. Visit the UMP Official Website: Browse the available programs and check the specific entry requirements for each course.
2. Create an Account: Register on the UMP online application portal to begin your application.
3. Fill in the Application Form: Provide your personal details, academic history, and course choice.
4. Upload Documents: Upload your NSC results, ID, and any other required documents.
5. Pay the Application Fee: Use the available payment methods to pay the application fee.
6. Submit the Application: Once all information is complete, submit your application for review.
7. Await Admission Outcome: After processing, you will be notified about your application status.

For more information or to apply online, visit the official UMP website: www.ump.ac.za.