Criminology requirements depend on the university, because there is no single national entry rule. At Unisa the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology (98681) asks for a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with degree endorsement, at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning, and an APS of 20. At the University of the Free State (UFS) you need a minimum admission point of 30 and level 4 (50-59%) in English or Afrikaans.
Criminology is the academic study of crime, its causes and responses to it. It is not a policing qualification and it does not by itself qualify you as a forensic investigator.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- Unisa BA in Criminology (98681): NSC with degree endorsement, at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning, APS 20.
- UFS Criminology: NSC with appropriate subject combinations, a minimum admission point (AP) of 30, and level 4 (50-59%) in English or Afrikaans.
- APS and AP scales differ between universities, so the figures cannot be compared directly.
For other universities, check the criminology or BA entry page of the institution you want to study at.
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Unisa accepts an NSC with degree endorsement and at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning. It also considers applicants with a diploma or higher certificate, and applicants through recognition of prior learning (RPL): you must be 23 or older, have Grade 12 and have five years of relevant experience. Confirm the details on the Unisa application page.
UFS asks for an NSC with appropriate subject combinations and level 4 (50-59%) in English or Afrikaans. Its subject combinations are set out in the UFS Criminology FAQs.
Criminology is offered as a major in a bachelor’s degree. The Unisa qualification is a BA at NQF level 7 with 360 credits and a maximum completion time of 8 years.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Unisa lists an APS of 20 for the BA in Criminology and only a language requirement (50% in the language of teaching and learning). UFS refers to appropriate subject combinations and an admission point of 30. Neither page names a compulsory matric subject beyond the language, so ask the university about Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy if you are unsure how your subjects are treated.
Because the discipline is reading and writing intensive, a solid language result matters. Postgraduate study (honours and master’s) is where the field specialises, and it is the route for research and academic careers.
Documents and Application Requirements
Applications are made to the university directly, and each university sets its own document list and closing dates. Unisa publishes its process on its apply for admission page. Have your identity document and your NSC or latest results ready, and a SAQA evaluation if you hold a foreign qualification, then confirm the exact list with the university.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Meeting the minimum APS or AP is what the university tests for; confirm the figures for your intake year, since they can change between years.
Be clear about the destination before enrolling. A criminology degree does not replace the entry process of the police, corrections or an investigating agency. Ask those services about their own recruitment requirements, and consider which second major to combine criminology with.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to study criminology in South Africa?
They vary by university. Unisa asks for an NSC with degree endorsement, 50% in the language of teaching and learning and an APS of 20 for its BA in Criminology. UFS asks for an admission point of 30 and level 4 in English or Afrikaans.
What is the bachelor’s in criminology?
It is an undergraduate degree in which criminology is the main subject. At Unisa it is the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, qualification code 98681, at NQF level 7 with 360 credits.
Does a criminology degree make me a police officer?
No. The degree is academic. Ask the service you want to join about its own recruitment requirements.
Can I become a forensic investigator with criminology?
Not directly. Criminology is a study of crime, not a forensic qualification, so confirm the requirements with the agency or employer you are aiming for.
What should I combine criminology with?
Choose a second major that fits your career goal, and ask your university which combinations it allows at registration.
Confirm the exact APS, subject levels and closing dates with your university for your intake year, since they differ between institutions and change between years. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.