Top 7 Criminology Courses In South Africa

Posted on Author Khumalo Dakarai

In South Africa, criminology courses are offered at various academic levels and through different program types, such as diplomas, undergraduate degrees, and postgraduate degrees. Here, we will explore an overview of the types of programs, some institutions offering them, and general entry requirements.

Criminology Courses In South Africa

1. Diploma in Criminology

  • Institution: University of South Africa (UNISA)
    • Program: Diploma in Correctional and Rehabilitation Studies
    • Requirements:
      • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum achievement level of 4 in English.
      • Applicants must meet the specific points score (APS) required by UNISA.
  • Institution: Lyceum College
    • Program: Diploma in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification.
      • Relevant work experience might be considered for admission.

2. Undergraduate Degree in Criminology

  • Institution: University of Pretoria
    • Program: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • NSC with endorsement to study a degree.
      • Minimum APS score of around 28 (varies by year and competition).
      • English Home Language or First Additional Language with a minimum score of 5.
  • Institution: University of South Africa (UNISA)
    • Program: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • NSC or equivalent qualification with a minimum APS score.
      • Proficiency in English is essential.
  • Institution: University of KwaZulu-Natal
    • Program: Bachelor of Social Science (BSS) in Criminology and Forensic Studies
    • Requirements:
      • NSC with a bachelor’s pass.
      • Minimum APS of 30 or higher, depending on competition.
      • English Home Language or First Additional Language with a minimum of 5.

3. Postgraduate Diploma in Criminology

  • Institution: University of the Free State
    • Program: Postgraduate Diploma in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • A bachelor’s degree in criminology or a related field.
      • A minimum average of 60% in the final undergraduate year.
      • Some programs might require work experience in a related field.

4. Honours Degree in Criminology

  • Institution: University of Pretoria
    • Program: Bachelor of Arts Honours (BA Hons) in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • A relevant undergraduate degree in criminology or a related field.
      • A minimum average of 65% in the final year of undergraduate study.
  • Institution: University of South Africa (UNISA)
    • Program: Bachelor of Arts Honours in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • Bachelor’s degree in criminology or a related field.
      • Specific grade requirements in certain undergraduate courses.

5. Master’s Degree in Criminology

  • Institution: University of Cape Town
    • Program: Master of Arts in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • Honours degree in criminology or a related discipline.
      • A minimum of 70% average in the honours year.
      • Research proposal submission might be required.
  • Institution: University of the Western Cape
    • Program: Master of Social Science in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • Honours degree in criminology with a high academic standing.
      • Submission of a research proposal for the thesis component.

6. Doctoral Degree in Criminology

  • Institution: University of South Africa (UNISA)
    • Program: PhD in Criminology
    • Requirements:
      • Master’s degree in criminology or a closely related field.
      • Comprehensive research proposal.
      • Relevant work experience or previous research might be an advantage.
  • Institution: University of KwaZulu-Natal
    • Program: PhD in Criminology and Forensic Studies
    • Requirements:
      • Master’s degree in criminology.
      • Research proposal approval.
      • Previous publications or research experience can be advantageous.

7. Short Courses in Criminology

  • Institution: South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP)
    • Program: Short Course in Criminal Justice
    • Requirements:
      • Typically open to anyone with an interest in criminology or criminal justice.
      • Basic proficiency in English is often required.
  • Institution: UNISA (Short Learning Programmes)
    • Program: Short Course in Forensic Investigation
    • Requirements:
      • Open to working professionals in law enforcement, security, or related fields.
      • NSC or relevant work experience.

 

Requirements Of Criminology Courses In South Africa

In South Africa, criminology courses typically have the following requirements:

  1. Educational Background: For undergraduate programs, you generally need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent with a good academic record, particularly in subjects like English and social sciences. For postgraduate programs, a relevant undergraduate degree in criminology, sociology, psychology, or law is often required.
  2. Application Process: You need to submit an application form along with supporting documents such as your academic transcripts, identification documents, and proof of residence.
  3. Matriculation Certificate: For undergraduate programs, a matriculation certificate (or its equivalent) is essential.
  4. Language Proficiency: Since instruction is usually in English, proficiency in English is necessary. Some universities may require a specific level of English proficiency.
  5. Entrance Exams or Interviews: Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews as part of the selection process.
  6. Additional Qualifications: For postgraduate studies, you may need to provide a research proposal or relevant work experience, depending on the program.

Each university may have specific requirements, so it’s important to check the details for the particular institution you’re interested in.

 

Fees Of Criminology Courses In South Africa

 

The fees for criminology courses in South Africa can vary widely depending on the institution, level of study (undergraduate, honors, master’s, or PhD), and the specific program.

Here are some general estimates:

  1. Undergraduate Degrees (Bachelor’s in Criminology)
    • Public Universities: Tuition fees can range from approximately ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 60,000 per year.
    • Private Institutions: These might charge higher fees, typically ranging from ZAR 40,000 to ZAR 80,000 per year.
  2. Honors Degrees
    • The cost for an honors degree in criminology is generally lower than undergraduate tuition, ranging from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 50,000 per year.
  3. Master’s Degrees
    • Tuition fees for a Master’s in Criminology can range from ZAR 40,000 to ZAR 100,000 per year, depending on the institution and whether the program is coursework-based or research-based.
  4. Doctoral Degrees (PhD)
    • PhD fees in criminology can vary, with costs ranging from ZAR 20,000 to ZAR 70,000 per year.

Note: These are approximate costs, and fees can change. It’s also important to consider additional costs such as registration fees, textbooks, accommodation, and other living expenses.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s best to check the specific university’s website or contact their admissions office directly.

 

Career Opportunities Of Criminology Courses In South Africa