Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs)
Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs) are designed to equip students who do not meet the strict minimum requirements of a standard degree or diploma with the necessary competencies to be successful in their studies. Academic support and skills development are integrated seamlessly with regular academic work.
How the Application Process Works
You cannot apply directly for an ECP. You must apply for the standard undergraduate programme. If you meet the minimum criteria but need additional academic foundation, the University may channel you into the ECP stream for that specific qualification. The ECP extends the standard duration of the qualification by one year (e.g., a 3-year Diploma becomes a 4-year ECP).
The key role of extended provision is to support educationally disadvantaged students who are underprepared despite meeting minimum admission criteria, enabling them to successfully complete their studies.
Important ECP Regulations
Because the ECP is subject to specific funding from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), strict academic rules apply:
No Stream Switching
A student enrolled in the ECP may not change to the regular programme, even after successfully completing the first year. You must complete the ECP in full.
First-Year Progression
You must pass all instructional offerings of the first year to continue. Failing core foundation modules (like Mathematics, Physics, or Programming Principles) will result in the termination of your studies.
Intake & Repeats
There is only one intake per year (January). You are not allowed to repeat the first year or part of the first year of the ECP.
For full curriculum structures, module codes, and detailed regulations, please refer to the CUT Student Calendar.
Available ECP Programmes
Below is the list of qualifications that offer an Extended Curriculum stream. Click on a programme to view the standard admission requirements and apply.
Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT
- • Diploma in Computer Networking (ECP)
- • Diploma in Information Technology (ECP)
- • Bachelor of Construction in Construction Management (ECP)
- • Bachelor of Construction in Quantity Surveying (ECP)
Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences
- • Diploma in Somatology (ECP)
- • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Clinical Technology (ECP)
- • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science (ECP)
- • Bachelor of Radiography in Diagnostics (ECP)
- • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health (ECP)
Faculty of Humanities
Faculty of Management Sciences
Compulsory Academic Support Modules
To ensure success, CUT has introduced compulsory fundamental modules to improve the entry-level proficiency of all first-year students. These are integrated into the ECP framework.
Academic Literacy (ALP)
All first-year students write the Academic Language Proficiency (ALP) test. Students who require additional support in academic English will be required to complete the Academic Literacy and Communication Studies module (LCS5011 & LCS5012). This credit-bearing module equips you with the reading and writing demands of university education.
Personal Information Management
PIM 5011 & PIM 5012 is an Information Literacy subject offered by Library and Information Services (LIS). It is compulsory for all First-Time-Entering students. Note: No student will be allowed to graduate without successfully completing Personal Information Management.
Need More Information?
If you have questions about your eligibility for the ECP or the application process, please reach out to the relevant faculty or academic department.
