An APS of 21 is often considered low for university entry, but at the University of Johannesburg, it still opens real opportunities. The 21 APS score courses at UJ include diplomas and extended diplomas that focus on practical skills in jewellery design, people management, small business management, and management services. These qualifications are career-focused, preparing learners with both technical knowledge and workplace readiness.
For more pathways at different APS levels, you can explore the UJ courses with lower APS score complete list.
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Why 21 APS Score Courses at UJ Still Matter
Having 21 APS does not mean your study dreams are out of reach. Instead, it means your options will be in vocational and extended diploma studies, where you receive extra academic support while working toward qualifications that align with industry needs. The 21 APS score courses at UJ are structured to help learners strengthen their academic foundation while gaining the skills required for fields such as design, small business, and management.
Full List of 21 APS Score Courses at UJ
Jewellery Design and Manufacture
UJ offers one of the few diploma programmes in South Africa focused on jewellery design and production. This qualification is available at APS 21, with different subject requirements depending on whether you apply with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
- Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture (with Mathematics)
- APS: 20 with Mathematics
- Requirements: English Level 5 (60%+), Mathematics Level 3 (40%), Maths Literacy Level 4 (50%), Technical Maths Level 5 (60%)
- Campus: Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB)
- Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture (with Mathematical Literacy)
- APS: 21 with Mathematical Literacy
- Requirements: English Level 5 (60%+), Maths Literacy Level 4 (50%), Mathematics Level 3 (40%)
- Campus: APB
Extended Business and Management Diplomas
UJ provides extended diploma options for learners with APS 21, designed to give extra support in business and management-related studies. These qualifications prepare students to take up roles in business administration, human resources, or entrepreneurship.
- Extended Diploma in People Management
- APS: 21 with Mathematical Literacy
- Requirements: English Level 4 (50%+), Maths Literacy Level 4 (50%), Technical Maths Level 3 (40%)
- Campus: Soweto (SWC)
- Extended Diploma in Small Business Management
- APS: 21 with Mathematical Literacy
- Requirements: English Level 4 (50%+), Maths Literacy Level 4 (50%), Technical Maths Level 3 (40%)
- Campus: SWC
Management Services
For learners interested in workplace productivity and organisational development, UJ offers diploma and extended diploma pathways in management services. These qualifications provide strong grounding in planning, analysis, and operational efficiency.
- Diploma in Management Services
- APS: 21 with Mathematical Literacy
- Requirements: English Level 4 (50%+), Maths Literacy Level 5 (60%), Mathematics Level 3 (40%)
- Campus: Doornfontein (DFC)
- Extended Diploma in Management Services
- APS: 21 with Mathematical Literacy
- Requirements: English Level 4 (50%+), Maths Literacy Level 5 (60%), Mathematics Level 3 (40%)
- Campus: DFC
FAQs on 21 APS Score Courses at UJ
Can I study at UJ with 21 APS?
Yes. The 21 APS score courses at UJ include diplomas and extended diplomas in jewellery design, management services, small business management, and people management.
Which creative courses are available with 21 APS?
UJ offers the Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture.
- With APS 20 if you have Mathematics.
- With APS 21 if you have Mathematical Literacy.
It requires English Level 5 (60%) and is offered at the Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB) Campus.
What management diplomas can I study at APS 21?
You can apply for the Diploma in Management Services, which requires APS 21 with Mathematical Literacy (English Level 4 and Maths Lit Level 5). This course is offered at the Doornfontein Campus (DFC).
Are there extended programmes for 21 APS?
Yes. UJ provides:
- Extended Diploma in People Management (APS 21 with Mathematical Literacy, SWC Campus)
- Extended Diploma in Small Business Management (APS 21 with Mathematical Literacy, SWC Campus)
- Extended Diploma in Management Services (APS 21 with Mathematical Literacy, DFC Campus)
These extended programmes are designed to provide additional academic support.
Which campuses offer 21 APS score courses at UJ?
- APB (Auckland Park Bunting Road) – Jewellery Design and Manufacture
- Doornfontein Campus (DFC) – Diploma in Management Services, Extended Management Services
- Soweto Campus (SWC) – Extended Small Business Management, Extended People Management
Can I use Mathematical Literacy for 21 APS courses?
Yes. Most of the 21 APS courses accept Mathematical Literacy, especially management-related diplomas. For Jewellery Design and Manufacture, both Mathematical Literacy and Mathematics are accepted, but the APS differs depending on which subject you have.
What careers can I pursue with 21 APS courses at UJ?
- Jewellery Design and Manufacture graduates can work as jewellery designers, gem specialists, or entrepreneurs in the jewellery industry.
- Management Services prepares students for administrative, supervisory, and efficiency-focused roles.
- People and Small Business Management graduates can move into HR roles, entrepreneurship, and leadership in small enterprises.
Is 21 APS enough for competitive courses at UJ?
It is enough for entry into specific diplomas and extended diplomas, but spaces are limited. Competitive creative courses like Jewellery Design often require a strong portfolio in addition to meeting APS requirements.
Are 21 APS courses more supportive in structure?
Yes. Many of the options available at APS 21 are extended diplomas, which provide more time and academic support to help learners succeed.
Where can I see the full APS course breakdown at UJ?
You can view all APS categories from 28 down to 19 here: UJ courses with lower APS score complete list.
Final Thoughts on 21 APS Score Courses at UJ
The 21 APS score courses at UJ show that learners with lower APS results can still find strong, industry-relevant qualifications. From creative fields like jewellery design to practical business courses in small business, people management, and management services, these diplomas provide a clear way forward. With dedication, learners at APS 21 can graduate with skills that employers actively seek.
If you want to see more options across different APS levels, visit the UJ courses with lower APS score complete list.