Can I Study Teaching With 17 Aps?
If you’re a South African student aspiring to become an educator, you might be wondering if your 17 Aps qualifies you for a teaching degree at Unisa (University of South Africa).
This article provides a clear explanation of the requirements and alternative options for pursuing your teaching goals.
What is an APS Score?
The Admission Point Score (APS) is a ranking system used by South African universities to assess applicants’ academic performance during their senior high school years.
While a minimum APS score is often a requirement for specific programs, it’s important to remember that universities have individual selection criteria.
Can I Study Teaching With 17 Aps?
With an APS score of 17, qualifying for a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree, the standard teaching qualification in South Africa, might be challenging.
Most universities require an APS score in the range of 21-23 for entry into their BEd programs.
What Options Are Available with a 17 APS?
With a 17 APS, you won’t be able to directly enroll in a Bachelor of Education (BEd) program at Unisa or other universities.
However, there are still other options available to pursue your teaching dreams:
- Consider Alternative Qualifications: Unisa offers various Higher Certificate (HC) programs in Education, such as the HC in Education: Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase. These one-year qualifications equip you with foundational teaching skills and knowledge but don’t qualify you as a fully-fledged teacher.
- Improve Your APS Score: If you’re highly motivated to become a teacher, consider re-writing your matric exams through a recognized National Senior Certificate (NSC) institution. This allows you to potentially improve your APS and meet the minimum requirement for a BEd program.
- Other Educational Paths: While teaching might be your ultimate goal, there are other educational fields with a lower APS requirement. Unisa offers a variety of diploma and certificate programs that could interest you and provide valuable skills for future efforts.
Can I become a teacher with a diploma?
While a diploma in education won’t qualify you as a fully-fledged teacher on its own, it can provide valuable foundational knowledge and skills.
You might consider combining a diploma with further studies like a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) to become a qualified teacher.
What are some alternative careers in education?
If your APS score isn’t suitable for teaching qualifications right now, there are still ways to be involved in education.
Educational psychologists, curriculum developers, or instructional designers all play important roles in the learning process.
How can I improve my APS score?
Several institutions offer NSC rewrite programs that allow you to improve your matric marks and consequently, your APS score.
You can check out these options at registered NSC providers or adult education centers.