UNISA Courses And Requirements (2025)

The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a wide range of courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and short learning levels across several colleges. Here is an overview of their programs:

Full list of UNISA Courses

Colleges at UNISA:

College of Accounting Sciences
- Offers qualifications in financial accounting, management accounting, and taxation.
College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
- Includes courses in agriculture, environmental science, and food security.
College of Economic and Management Sciences
- Programs in business management, human resource management, and public administration.
College of Education
- Includes bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and advanced certificates in education.
College of Human Sciences
- Offers programs in arts, languages, psychology, and social sciences.
College of Law
- Includes LLB, paralegal studies, and criminal justice.
College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
- Covers IT, engineering, mathematics, and environmental sciences.
Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL)
- Focused on MBA and other executive business programs.
Short Learning Programmes (SLPs)
- Specialized training in specific skill areas, offered for personal and professional development

Requirements of UNISA Courses In South Africa

The requirements for courses at the University of South Africa (UNISA) depend on the type of program you are interested in pursuing, such as undergraduate certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate qualifications, or short learning programs. Below are general guidelines for each:

1. Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma

Minimum Requirements:
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30-40% in the language of teaching and learning.
- Some programs may have specific subject requirements or minimum grade requirements.

2. Bachelor’s Degrees

Minimum Requirements:
- An NSC with a bachelor’s degree pass.
- Minimum achievement levels for required subjects, depending on the program.
- A Senior Certificate (SC) with matriculation exemption.
Alternative Pathways:
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for applicants who do not meet the formal academic requirements but have work experience or informal learning.

3. Postgraduate Diplomas and Honours Degrees

Minimum Requirements:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- Specific qualifications or work experience may be required for certain postgraduate diplomas.

4. Master’s Degrees

Minimum Requirements:
- A relevant honours degree or a postgraduate diploma.
- Evidence of prior academic work or research experience.

5. Doctoral Degrees

Minimum Requirements:
- A relevant master’s degree.
- Proof of research ability, usually demonstrated through a master’s dissertation or equivalent.

6. Short Learning Programs

Minimum Requirements:
- Open to individuals with work experience or other qualifications.
- Specific entry requirements depend on the program.

Additional Notes:

UNISA operates primarily as a distance-learning institution. Students must ensure they meet the technical requirements (e.g., internet access and a computer) to participate in online learning.
Certain programs may require specific documents such as portfolios for arts-related courses or experience for professional certifications.

Application Requirements:

Certified copies of academic qualifications.
Certified ID/passport copy.
Proof of payment for the application fee.
Any additional documents specified by the chosen course

Admission Process To Study UNISA Courses In South Africa

The admission process to study courses at the University of South Africa (UNISA) typically follows these steps:

1. Choose a Qualification

Review the qualifications available on the UNISA website.
Ensure that the qualification aligns with your career goals and that you meet the minimum admission requirements for the course.

2. Check Admission Requirements

Verify the specific entry requirements for your selected qualification. These include:
- Undergraduate Programs: National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent.
- Postgraduate Programs: Relevant prior qualifications (e.g., a degree or diploma in a related field).
UNISA may also consider Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if applicable.

3. Apply for Admission

UNISA has specific application periods (usually open twice a year for semester 1 and semester 2).
Submit your application online through the UNISA website.
Ensure all required documents are uploaded:
- Certified copies of ID/passport.
- Certified copies of academic records and certificates.
- Proof of payment of the non-refundable application fee.

4. Await Feedback

UNISA will evaluate your application based on their admission criteria.
You will be notified via email or SMS about the outcome of your application.

5. Register for Courses

If admitted, complete your registration for the courses within the registration period.
Pay the necessary tuition fees to finalize your registration.

6. Prepare for Studies

Access your study materials through the myUnisa portal.
Attend online classes or access resources as per the study plan.

Conclusion

Admission is not guaranteed even if you meet the requirements due to space constraints. On application fees, non-refundable and varies depending on your residency status. UNISA offers support for online applications, including tutorials for navigating the system.