Business law is studied either as modules within a commerce degree, giving business students legal literacy, or as a specialisation within an LLB for students intending to practise. The entry requirement depends on which route you take.
The distinction matters because the two routes lead to different places. Business law modules within a BCom do not qualify you to practise law; they qualify you to understand the legal dimension of commercial decisions.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Entry depends on the route.
- For commerce routes: a bachelor pass with Mathematics, since commerce degrees require it
- For the LLB route: a bachelor pass with the subject requirements the law faculty sets
- English at a high level across both routes
- The institution APS for the relevant faculty
- For postgraduate specialisation: an appropriate prior degree
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Within a BCom, business law modules cover contract, company, labour and consumer law as they apply to commercial decisions. This is the route for accountants, managers and entrepreneurs rather than for practitioners.
Within an LLB, commercial and company law modules build towards commercial practice, and admission as a legal practitioner follows the standard route through the Legal Practice Council.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Commerce routes generally require Mathematics. Law routes vary, with some faculties accepting Mathematical Literacy at a higher APS.
English at a high level matters across both, since the subject rests on interpreting and drafting precise language.
Documents and Application Requirements
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your National Senior Certificate or latest statement of results
- Proof of the application fee, where one is charged
- Your final matric results, used to confirm any conditional offer
- Academic transcripts, if you are applying with prior tertiary study
- A SAQA evaluation certificate, if you hold a foreign qualification
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Decide which outcome you want before choosing the route. Legal literacy for a commercial career and qualification to practise are genuinely different destinations with different entry requirements.
Practising as an attorney or advocate requires steps beyond the degree, including practical vocational training and admission by the court. Those requirements are set by the Legal Practice Council rather than by the university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practise law with business law modules in a BCom?
No. Those modules give commercial legal literacy. Practising requires an LLB and the Legal Practice Council requirements.
Do I need Mathematics?
For commerce routes generally yes. Law faculty routes vary, and some accept Mathematical Literacy at a higher APS.
What does business law cover?
Contract, company, labour and consumer law as they apply to commercial decisions and transactions.
Which route should I choose?
It depends on whether you want legal literacy for a commercial career or qualification to practise, which are different destinations.
Confirm entry requirements for the specific faculty and route with each institution. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.