Universities and Online Degrees Guide

Nelson Mandela University

Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice

The Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice in Law and Legal Studies is offered by Nelson Mandela University.

Program Length: 1 YEAR.

The Criminal Justice qualification offers students the possibility of equipping themselves with the basic knowledge, skills, and tools that will enable them to perform their functions following the Criminal Procedure Act and other specific legislations enforced by officials in certain categories. The completion of this qualification does not guarantee access to the LLB, LLB (extended) or the BA (Law). Graduates can apply for these degrees, but their admission will be subjected to higher individuals. 

Admission Requirements 

• Students must meet minimum NSC statutory requirements for higher certificates. 
• Those applicants with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics require a minimum Applicant Score of 310 and those with NSC Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy or Technical Mathematics require a minimum of 325. 
• The student must achieve a rating of at least 50% for English Home or 55% for English First Additional Language. 
• This qualification should be earned by completing the modules prescribed by Senate. 
• One-week block lecture periods per year are compulsory and 100% attendance is required. 
• The student needs 120 credits to obtain the qualification. 

Career Opportunities 

The Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice teaches graduates to perform different tasks once they graduate: 

• generate and implement different law enforcement strategies by applying the key principles of law enforcement in a non-SAPS environment. 
• be part of the processes of criminal justice systems, applying the knowledge learned and conducting criminal investigations and presenting the evidence to court. 
• explain and interpret the basic principles of criminology in a law enforcement environment.
• adhere to professional conduct and organisational standards. 

Curriculum (full-time)

Compulsory modules:

Conduct of a Criminal Trial 

Introduction to Criminal Investigation 

Principles of Criminal Liability 

Introduction to Common Law and Statutory Crimes

Introduction to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights 

Introduction to Criminology

Law Enforcement by Peace Officers 

Pre-trial Procedures 

Taking of Statements and Report Writing 

Optional modules:

Enforcement of by-laws by Traffic Officers/Municipal Police/Peace Officers and Implementation of a Law Enforcement Strategy.

Enforcement of Marine and Coastal Legislation and Implementation of a Law Enforcement Strategy.