Higher Certificate In Education at Unisa
Unisa offers the Higher Certificate in Education (HCE) as an accessible entry point for aspiring educators.
This one-year program equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success in the classroom, while also preparing you for further studies in education.
What are the admission requirements for the HCE program at Unisa?
To be eligible for the HCE program at Unisa, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
- Matriculation Certificate: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum achievement level (DHET requirements apply).
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrated competency in the language of teaching and learning (usually Afrikaans or English). This can be through achieving a minimum mark in the NSC language subjects or completing a recognized language proficiency test.
- Prior Learning: While not mandatory, relevant work or volunteer experience in an educational environment can be advantageous.
Is the HCE program at Unisa a teaching qualification?
The HCE program itself is not a recognized teaching qualification.
However, successful completion allows graduates to progress into specific BEd programs at Unisa, leading to a recognized teaching qualification.
How do I apply for the HCE program at Unisa?
The application process for the HCE program is conducted online through the Unisa website.
Prospective students are encouraged to consult the latest admission deadlines and application procedures on the Unisa website.
Who is the HCE program for?
The HCE program caters to individuals who possess a National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 qualification and have a strong desire to pursue a teaching career.
It is also for students who may not meet the standard entry requirements for Bachelor of Education (BEd) degrees.
The program acts as a means that provides learners with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a teaching environment, especially within the Open Distance Learning (ODL) context offered by Unisa.
What are the different streams of the Higher Certificate in Education at Unisa?
The Higher Certificate in Education comes in two streams:
- Higher Certificate in Education Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase (FIP): This stream prepares you for teaching learners in Grades R to Grade 7. It’s the only HCE program that articulates into Unisa’s Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase qualifications.
- There is no separate Higher Certificate in Education for Senior Phase or Further Education and Training (FET). However, graduates can pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) specializing in FET at Unisa after completing the HCE and a qualifying Bachelor’s degree.
How long does it take to complete the Higher Certificate in Education at Unisa?
The Higher Certificate in Education is a one-year program, consisting of 120 credits.
Unisa operates on a semester system, so you can complete the program in two semesters if you study full-time.
Part-time study options are also available, allowing you to adjust the program’s duration to fit your schedule.
How much does the Higher Certificate in Education at Unisa cost?
The tuition fees for the Higher Certificate in Education vary depending on your study mode (full-time or part-time) and citizenship status (South African or international).
It is recommended that you visit the Unisa website’s fee structure section for the latest cost information.
Unisa also offers financial aid options such as bursaries and loans to assist eligible students.