Unisa Higher Certificate Courses And Requirements
The University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a range of higher certificate courses that provide focused qualifications in various fields.
These qualifications can equip you with valuable skills and knowledge to enhance your career prospects or serve as a starting point towards further studies.
What is a Higher Certificate?
A Higher Certificate is a tertiary qualification that is to be completed in one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study.
It falls between a National Certificate (Vocational) and a Diploma on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Earning a Higher Certificate allows you to gain valuable industry-specific skills.
It also allows you to advance your career prospects in your chosen field and prepare you for entry into a relevant degree program at Unisa or another university.
Unisa Higher Certificate Courses
Unisa offers Higher Certificates in a wide range of disciplines, catering to various academic interests and career goals.
These are some of the available Unisa Higher Certificate courses:
- Education: The Higher Certificate in Education (HCE) equips individuals with the foundational knowledge and skills for teaching in the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, or Further Education and Training (FET) sectors.
- Business and Management: Higher Certificates in Accounting Sciences, Banking, Economic and Management Sciences, and Human Resource Management provide a strong base for careers in finance, accounting, and business administration.
- Law: The Higher Certificate in Law introduces students to the South African legal system and prepares them for further studies in law.
- Animal Welfare: This specialized program caters to those passionate about animal care and management.
- Other Fields: Unisa also offers Higher Certificates in fields like Archives and Records Management, Criminal Justice, and Nature Conservation.
Unisa Higher Certificate Courses Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for Unisa Higher Certificate programs vary depending on the specific course.
However, some general requirements apply to most programs:
- Matriculation Certificate: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum pass rate (usually 40%) is typically required.
- Equivalent Qualification: Applicants with qualifications deemed equivalent to the NSC may also be considered.
- Subject-Specific Requirements: Some programs may have specific subject requirements for admission (e.g., Mathematics for teaching qualifications).
You may consult the specific program information on the Unisa website for detailed admission requirements.
How much does Unisa Higher Certificate Courses cost?
Tuition fees for Unisa Higher Certificate programs vary depending on the specific course and your study mode (full-time or part-time).
You can find the exact fee structure for each program on the Unisa website.
Can I study Unisa Higher Certificate Courses online?
Yes, most Unisa Higher Certificate courses are offered through distance learning,\.
This allows you to study online at your own pace.
What is the difference between a Higher Certificate and a Diploma?
A Diploma is a more advanced qualification than a Higher Certificate mostly because it requires an additional year of study.
Diplomas offer a better understanding of the chosen field compared to Higher Certificates.
Is a Higher Certificate enough to get a job?
A Higher Certificate can equip you with the necessary skills to enter certain professions, particularly in technical or vocational fields.
However, some employers may require a Diploma or a degree for specific positions.
Can I use a Higher Certificate to get into a Unisa degree program?
Yes, a Higher Certificate can serve as a path to a relevant degree program at Unisa.
However, admission requirements for degree programs may vary, so it’s advisable to check the specific program you’re interested in.
How do I apply for Unisa Higher Certificate Courses?
Applications for Unisa programs are typically submitted online through the Unisa website.
The application process involves creating an account, selecting your program, submitting required documents, and paying the application fee.