The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of Africa’s leading institutions, offering various undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to cater to diverse academic and professional interests. Known for its flexible open distance learning (ODL) approach, UNISA provides students globally with access to higher education. Here’s an overview of its courses, admission requirements, and associated fees.
Courses Available
UNISA’s offerings span various fields of study through its colleges, each focusing on specific disciplines. These include:
- College of Accounting Sciences: Qualifications in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting.
- College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences: Programs in environmental management, agricultural science, and consumer science.
- College of Economic and Management Sciences: Courses in business management, marketing, economics, public administration, and human resource management.
- College of Education: Options for primary and secondary education specializations, curriculum studies, and educational leadership.
- College of Human Sciences: Programs in languages, social work, psychology, and communication science.
- College of Law: Courses in legal studies, criminal justice, and law.
- College of Science, Engineering, and Technology: Programs in information technology, computer science, and engineering disciplines.
- Graduate School of Business Leadership (GSBL): Business and leadership development through MBAs and short learning programs.
How to Apply for the Courses
Applying to UNISA involves a clear step-by-step process:
- Online Application: Applications are submitted online via the UNISA application portal during designated application windows.
- Selection of Qualification: Applicants choose qualifications and review their eligibility using UNISA’s admission tool.
- Document Submission: Required documents include certified copies of:
- Identity document or passport
- Academic transcripts or certificates
- Proof of payment for the application fee.
- Tracking Application: Once submitted, applicants can monitor the status of their applications online.
General Admission Requirements
To ensure quality and access, UNISA sets specific admission criteria for its qualifications:
Undergraduate Degrees
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of teaching and learning.
- Meeting the specific points score (APS) for the chosen qualification.
Postgraduate Degrees
- A recognized undergraduate qualification in the relevant field.
- Submission of academic transcripts for consideration.
Short Learning Programmes
- Requirements vary depending on the program.
Prospective students should consult UNISA’s online admission guidelines to ensure they meet all requirements.
Specific Programme Requirements
Each program has its unique requirements. For instance:
- Law Qualifications: Require prior legal studies for advanced degrees.
- Science and Technology: May necessitate strong foundational knowledge in mathematics or physical sciences.
- Education: Typically involves a teaching qualification for postgraduate degrees.
To view detailed prerequisites for each course, visit the respective college’s page on the UNISA website.
Course Fees
UNISA’s affordability is one of its standout features. While fees vary depending on the qualification and modules selected, undergraduate modules range between R2,000 and R6,000 per module.
- Undergraduate Programmes: Typically involve a minimum of 4 to 12 modules per year, making overall annual costs approximately R10,000 to R30,000.
- Postgraduate Programmes: Fees are higher, depending on the level and specialization of study.
Tuition Fees
- Payment Options: UNISA allows full or partial payment of fees before registration. Payment plans are available for some students.
- Financial Aid: Eligible students can apply for bursaries or loans, such as NSFAS funding.
- International Students: Additional levies may apply to students residing outside South Africa.
Detailed fee structures are updated annually and can be found on the UNISA tuition fees page.
UNISA’s commitment to quality and accessibility has positioned it as a top choice for students worldwide. By combining flexible learning modes, diverse academic offerings, and affordable tuition, UNISA empowers learners to achieve their educational and professional goals.
For a detailed list of qualifications and short learning programs, visit UNISA’s official site.