Which Study Is Best For Teaching
The University of South Africa, popularly known as Unisa, offers a wide variety of teaching qualifications, catering to various educational aspirations.
Choosing the most suitable study path can be difficult, especially for aspiring teachers in South Africa.
What Teaching Qualifications are Offered by Unisa?
Unisa offers a lot of teaching qualifications. They are categorized based on your educational background and desired teaching level:
- Bachelor of Education (BEd): This four-year undergraduate degree prepares you for teaching in primary or secondary schools. You can choose to specialize in a specific subject area like Mathematics, English, or Science.
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE): This one-year postgraduate qualification is designed for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field who wish to pursue a teaching career.
- Bachelor of Education Honours (BEd Hons): This one-year postgraduate qualification builds upon your existing BEd degree, allowing you to specialize further in a particular subject or educational domain like Educational Leadership or Curriculum Development.
- Diploma in Education: Unisa offers various diplomas in education, catering to specific teaching needs, such as Early Childhood Development or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
What are the Admission Requirements for Unisa’s Teaching Qualifications?
Admission requirements vary depending on the chosen program. Generally, you’ll need a matric certificate with exemption from Afrikaans.
Specific programs might require a relevant bachelor’s degree or successful completion of Unisa’s bridging courses.
Always refer to the official Unisa website for detailed admission requirements for each program.
Can I Teach with a Bachelor of Education (BEd) Degree?
Yes, a Bachelor of Education degree qualifies you to pursue a teaching career in South Africa.
However, upon graduation, you’ll need to register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) to obtain your official teaching qualification.
Registration normally involves completing a practical teaching component.
What is the Difference Between the PGCE and the BEd?
The primary difference lies in the entry requirement.
A BEd is an undergraduate degree requiring a matric certificate, while a PGCE is a postgraduate qualification requiring a completed bachelor’s degree in a non-education field.
The BEd offers a broader foundation in teaching principles, while the PGCE provides faster entry into the teaching profession for those with existing qualifications.
How Long Does it Take to Complete a Teaching Qualification at Unisa?
The duration varies depending on the program. A BEd takes four years to complete full-time, while a PGCE can be completed in one year.
Part-time options are available for most programs, adjusting the completion timeframe accordingly.
How Much Does it Cost to Study Teaching at Unisa?
Tuition fees vary depending on the program and year of study. Unisa publishes its fee structure annually on its website.
Consider additional costs like textbooks and learning materials.
Unisa offers financial aid options, so explore their bursary and scholarship opportunities.
Is Unisa a Good University for Teaching Degrees?
Unisa is a recognized leader in South African distance learning, offering flexible and accessible education.
Their teaching qualifications are well-regarded, and many South African educators have successfully launched their careers through Unisa programs.