Diploma in Nature Conservation (Extended Curriculum Programme) at Cape Peninsula University of Technology

Programme overview

The aim of this course is to provide students with the skills to succeed in a rapidly-changing nature conservation environment where innovation is key. Graduates are equipped with a comprehensive range of technical, managerial, research, communication and life skills for employment in the field of nature conservation. The Diploma Nature Conservation lays the foundation for further study towards the B Tech Nature Conservation and ultimately the Masters of Conservation Science. Offering type listed: FULLTIME - DISTRICT 6 CAMPUS.

Faculty: Faculty of Applied Sciences | Department: Conservation and Marine Sciences | Study mode: full-time | Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

What you will study

Subjects listed on the programme page include Computer Applications (extended); Conservation Communication (extended); Animal Studies 1A (extended); Animal Studies 1B (extended); Biodiversity Management 1B (extended); Conservation Ecology 1A (extended).

Career pathways

Graduates can pursue careers in the areas of management of natural resources/ protected areas, alien species control, environmental policy compliance, environmental education, research, field guiding, and Ecotourism.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A diploma pass with English level 4 (≥ 50%); Mathematics level 3 (≥ 40%) OR Technical Mathematics level 4 (≥ 50 %) OR Mathematical Literacy level 5 (≥ 60%); Life Sciences level 4 (≥ 50%); APS score of 28 with Mathematics, 29 with Technical Mathematics or 30 with Mathematical literacy.

Tuition is charged per module, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Applications for the 2027 intake open on Monday, 11 May 2026. Diploma applications close on 30 September 2026 for South African citizens and 31 August 2026 for non-South African citizens (31 July 2026 for Emergency Medical Care and Somatology; 31 August 2026 for Grade R and Early Childhood Care and Education).

The application fee is R110 (non-refundable); the late application fee is R160. A deposit of R1,750 is payable on acceptance and a registration fee of R785 applies.

Apply through the official page: https://www.cput.ac.za/study-at-cput/undergraduate/apply

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