Can I Study Teaching With a Higher Certificate At Unisa?
The University of South Africa (Unisa) is a world leader in open distance learning (ODL).
The school offers a variety of qualifications, including those in education.
Many aspiring educators wonder if they can begin their teaching journey with a Higher Certificate at Unisa. This article will answer this question.
Can I Study Teaching With a Higher Certificate At Unisa?
Unisa offers a Higher Certificate in Education (HCE) with two streams: Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase (FIP) or Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (SPF).
These qualifications provide a starting point for individuals who may not meet the standard entry requirements for a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree.
You have to understand that a Higher Certificate is not a professional teaching qualification.
It equips you with foundational knowledge and skills in education but doesn’t grant you automatic entry into the teaching profession.
What teaching courses are available at Unisa?
Unisa offers a very wide range of teaching qualifications. They include:
- Higher Certificate in Education (HCE): This program serves as a foundation for further studies.
- Bachelor of Education (BEd): This degree program equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to become qualified teachers in various specializations, such as Foundation Phase teaching or Mathematics education.
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE): This postgraduate qualification allows qualified teachers to specialize in a specific teaching area.
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education: This advanced degree program caters to individuals seeking research careers in the field of education.
What level is Higher Certificate at Unisa?
The Higher Certificate in Education falls within the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) at Level 5.
This signifies that the program requires a basic level of competency and builds upon foundational knowledge.
It is considered a mid-level qualification, situated between a National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 and a Diploma (NQF Level 6).
What do you need for a teaching diploma at Unisa?
The specific admission requirements for a teaching diploma at Unisa vary depending on the chosen program.
However, some general requirements include:
- A valid matric certificate (National Senior Certificate – NSC) with a D pass or better in the language of teaching and learning.
- For some programs, a relevant bachelor’s degree might be required.
- Meeting the program-specific selection criteria, which may involve psychometric testing or an interview.
For detailed information on admission requirements for a specific teaching diploma program at Unisa, you will have to consult the university’s website or contact the relevant department directly.
What is the difference between a Higher Certificate diploma and a Bachelor pass?
The main difference between a Higher Certificate and a Bachelor’s degree lies in their depth and scope.
A Higher Certificate is a focused program designed to equip learners with practical skills and knowledge within a specific field.
It typically takes one to two years to complete.
On the other hand, a Bachelor’s degree is a more comprehensive and in-depth academic program.
It provides a broader theoretical foundation alongside practical skills development and usually takes three or four years to complete.
In terms of teaching qualifications, a Higher Certificate serves as a preparatory or foundation step, while a Bachelor’s degree (like the BEd) qualifies you for a full teaching license.