How do you qualify for honours programs at Unisa?

The University of South Africa offers a wide range of honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas, allowing you to further specialize in your chosen field.

However, securing admission to these honours programs requires meeting specific criteria.

What is the difference between Honours and a Postgraduate Diploma at Unisa?

Both Honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas are postgraduate qualifications offered by Unisa.

However, they serve slightly different purposes:

1. Honours degrees: These qualifications go deeper into your undergraduate major, providing specialized knowledge and research skills. They consist of coursework and a research dissertation. Earning an Honours degree is often a prerequisite for Master’s degree programs.
2. Postgraduate diplomas: These qualifications focus on acquiring specific skills or knowledge in a particular field. They are generally shorter in duration than Honours degrees and primarily involve coursework, with less emphasis on research.

When choosing between an Honours degree and a postgraduate diploma, consider your career goals.

If you aim for a research-oriented career or plan to pursue a Master’s degree, an Honours degree might be a better fit.

If you seek to gain specialized skills for immediate career advancement, a postgraduate diploma might be the more suitable option.

What are the minimum admission requirements for Honours degrees at Unisa?

To qualify for Honours degrees at Unisa, you must generally meet the following criteria:

1. Hold a Bachelor’s degree: You must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution, preferably in a field related to the Honours program you wish to pursue.
2. Minimum percentage in your major: Each Honours program has a minimum percentage requirement in the major subject(s) of your undergraduate degree. This requirement typically falls within the range of 60% to 70%, but it can vary depending on the specific program. You can find the exact percentage requirement for your chosen program on the Unisa website.
3. Satisfactory academic performance: Your overall academic record in your undergraduate degree will also be considered.

Can I apply for Honours with outstanding modules from my undergraduate degree?

Unisa generally allows applications for Honours degrees even if you have outstanding modules from your undergraduate degree.

However, there are some limitations:

1. The number of outstanding modules: The maximum number of outstanding modules you can have while applying for Honours is two.
2. Nature of the outstanding modules: Importantly, these outstanding modules cannot be in your major subjects.

If you have outstanding modules in your major subjects, you will need to complete them before being admitted to the Honours program.

What if my undergraduate qualification is from outside South Africa?

Foreign qualifications require evaluation by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

You’ll need to upload a valid SAQA certificate of evaluation during your honours application process.

How do I apply for honours programs at Unisa?

Unisa operates a fully online application system.

Visit the Unisa application website during the designated application period and follow the four-step online application process.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

1. Go to the Unisa website dedicated to Honours and postgraduate diploma applications.
2. Browse the available Honours programs and select the one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
3. Carefully review the specific admission requirements for your chosen program, including the minimum percentage requirement.
4. Gather the necessary documents, including certified copies of your academic transcripts, and a curriculum vitae.
5. Submit your documents and click on “Apply.”

What documents do I need to submit with my honours application?

The required documents typically include certified copies of your academic transcripts, your degree certificate, and a curriculum vitae (CV).

For applications based on RPL, additional documentation related to your work experience may be necessary.

Consult the specific program requirements on the Unisa website for detailed information.

When are the application deadlines for honours programs at Unisa?

Application deadlines for honours programs vary depending on the program you choose.

It’s essential to check the specific program information on the Unisa website well in advance of the application period.

What are the fees associated with honours programs at Unisa?

The fees for honours programs at Unisa can vary depending on the program chosen and your enrolment status (e.g. South African citizen, international student).

You can find the latest fee structure on the Unisa website student fees section.

If you’re a first-time applicant to Unisa, you’ll need to complete the free online Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) offered by Unisa before accessing your offer for honours studies.

Also keep in mind that meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee acceptance because honours programs at Unisa often have limited spaces.

A strong academic record and a compelling application can increase your chances of admission.