Universities and Online Degrees Guide

Nelson Mandela University

Diploma in Law Enforcement

The Diploma in Law Enforcement in Law and Legal Studies is offered by Nelson Mandela University.

Program Length: 3 YEARS.

This qualification has been approved in terms of the new Higher Education Qualification Sub-Framework (HEQSF).

This programme focuses on law enforcement in the marine and coastal environment as every coastal municipality has a governing function in this field. Those studying for this qualification must be trained to enforce marine and coastal legislation as well as by-laws. These by-laws and marine and coastal regulations act together with other law enforcement agencies such as SAPS and SARS. 

Admission Requirements

In order to get a Diploma in Law Enforcement, it is necessary to meet a series of requirements that might vary depending on the type of certificate to be earned. Candidates are selected based on achieving the minimum requirements, academic performance, experience in the field, and the motivation for admission provided by the applicant. Those candidates with the highest marks will be first considered.

If a candidate meets all the requirements but is not given a place in the selection process will be placed on a waiting list that will accept them only after the cancellation of other applicants. 

• Minimum NSC statutory requirements for diploma entry must be met.
• Those applicants with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics need a minimum Applicant Score of 330. Those with NSC Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy or Technical Mathematics require 345. 
•  NSC achievement rating of at least 55% for English Home or 60% for English First Additional Language.
• An average mark of at least 60% for the Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice.
• The student’s admissions are subject to a selection following criteria approved by the Faculty Management Committee.

Career Opportunities 

In this programme, students will have to understand the general principles of criminal law, focusing on relevant legislation and the different phases of law enforcement. They will also have to grasp various practical aspects of law enforcement. 

Candidates will increase their levels through several practice activities in particular modules, including the application of their knowledge related to crime scene management in a simulated crime scene, or writing statements taken from witnesses or victims of a crime.

Diploma in Law Enforcement Curriculum

FIRST YEAR 

Digital Literacy

Enforcement of Marine and Coastal Legislation

English Studies for Criminal Justice A

English Studies for Criminal Justice B

Introduction to South African Law

General Principles of Law Enforcement

Enforcement of By-laws Relating to the Sea and the Coast

Pre-trial Procedures

Taking of Statements

SECOND YEAR 

Compulsory modules: 

Conduct of a Criminal Trial

Criminal Investigation I 

Constitutional Law

Introduction to Common Law and Statutory Crimes

Law for Fisheries Control Officials, Inspectors and other Enforcement Officials

Implementation of a Law Enforcement Strategy

Criminal Law I

Optional modules: 

Advanced Enforcement of Marine and Coastal Law

Advanced Enforcement of By-laws Relating to the Sea and Coast

THIRD YEAR 

Criminal Investigation II

Criminal Procedure

Proactive Management of Law Enforcement (Major)

Law of Evidence

Enforcement of Environmental Law

Identification of Marine Species and Vessels and Gear used in Illegal Fishing

Crime Scene Protection and Management

Supervising Law Enforcement Personnel (Major)