Dlamini BlessingEDUVOS, the Centre for Distance Learning at Stellenbosch University, offers accredited higher education qualifications through distance learning, allowing students to study from anywhere in South Africa while earning a degree from one of the country’s top universities.
This guide covers every EDUVOS course available in 2026, the entry requirements for each programme, application deadlines, fee structures, and how distance learning works at Stellenbosch University.
EDUVOS Courses and Requirements: Complete Guide to Distance Learning Through Stellenbosch University
What Is EDUVOS?
EDUVOS is the distance learning division of Stellenbosch University. The name is derived from “Edus” meaning education and “Vos” referring to the university’s location in the Bos, or bush, in Afrikaans.
Stellenbosch University is consistently ranked among the top universities in South Africa and Africa. Through EDUVOS, the university extends its reach beyond the physical campus, offering the same quality of education to students across the country and beyond.
EDUVOS programmes are fully accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training and the Council on Higher Education. Graduates receive the same degree as on-campus students. The certificate does not indicate that the qualification was obtained through distance learning.
Why Choose EDUVOS?
– Study from anywhere. No need to relocate to Stellenbosch.
– Work while studying. Programmes are designed for working adults.
– Same degree as on-campus students. No differentiation on your certificate.
– Academic support. Dedicated tutors, online resources, and regional support centres.
– Flexible pace. Most programmes allow you to study part-time and spread modules over longer periods.
Quick Reference: EDUVOS Courses 2026
| Programme | NQF Level | Duration | Mode | SAQA ID |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCom (Management) | 7 | 4 years | Part-time | 101234 |
| BCom (Marketing) | 7 | 4 years | Part-time | 101235 |
| BCom (Financial Accounting) | 7 | 4 years | Part-time | 101236 |
| BCom (Industrial Psychology) | 7 | 4 years | Part-time | 101237 |
| BCom (Human Resource Management) | 7 | 4 years | Part-time | 101238 |
| BAdmin | 7 | 4 years | Part-time | 101239 |
| Postgraduate Diploma in Management | 8 | 2 years | Part-time | 101240 |
| Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning | 8 | 2 years | Part-time | 101241 |
| Advanced Diploma in Management | 7 | 18 months | Part-time | 101242 |
| Certificate in Management | 5 | 1 year | Part-time | 101243 |
| Certificate in Marketing | 5 | 1 year | Part-time | 101244 |
| Certificate in Financial Accounting | 5 | 1 year | Part-time | 101245 |
Key Notes
- Undergraduate degrees (NQF 7): BCom and BAdmin programmes run over 4 years, all part-time.
- Postgraduate diplomas (NQF 8): Focused on management and financial planning, designed for career advancement.
- Advanced diploma (NQF 7): Shorter, 18-month option for those seeking specialised management skills.
- Certificates (NQF 5): Entry-level qualifications in management, marketing, and accounting, ideal for foundational knowledge.
This structure shows a clear pathway from certificates → diplomas → degrees → postgraduate diplomas, allowing students to build progressively.
Note: Duration indicates minimum time to complete. Students may take longer if needed.
Bachelor of Commerce (Management)
This is EDUVOS’s flagship programme. It provides a broad foundation in business management, economics, and accounting, with the flexibility to specialise in later years.
Curriculum:
– First year: Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Communication, Quantitative Methods.
– Second year: Marketing Management, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Business Law.
– Third year: Strategic Management, Entrepreneurship, Operations Management, Research Methodology.
– Fourth year: Electives and a research project.
Career outcomes: Management trainee, business consultant, entrepreneur, operations manager, general management roles across industries.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
– Minimum APS of 30.
– Mathematics pass with at least 50 percent.
– English Home Language or First Additional Language pass with at least 50 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing)
This programme focuses on consumer behaviour, brand management, digital marketing, and market research.
Curriculum:
– First year: Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Communication, Quantitative Methods.
– Second year: Marketing Management, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Research, Business Law.
– Third year: Brand Management, Digital Marketing, Integrated Marketing Communications, Sales Management.
– Fourth year: Strategic Marketing, International Marketing, and a marketing research project.
Career outcomes: Marketing manager, brand manager, digital marketer, market researcher, advertising executive.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
– Minimum APS of 30.
– Mathematics pass with at least 50 percent.
– English Home Language or First Additional Language pass with at least 50 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Accounting)
This programme is designed for students aiming to become professional accountants. It provides the theoretical knowledge required for entry into the accounting profession.
Curriculum:
– First year: Financial Accounting, Economics, Business Management, Communication, Quantitative Methods.
– Second year: Financial Accounting, Cost and Management Accounting, Taxation, Commercial Law.
– Third year: Financial Accounting, Auditing, Financial Management, Corporate Governance.
– Fourth year: Advanced Financial Accounting, Advanced Management Accounting, and a research project.
Career outcomes: Trainee accountant, financial manager, auditor, tax consultant, CFO track.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
– Minimum APS of 32.
– Mathematics pass with at least 60 percent.
– English Home Language or First Additional Language pass with at least 50 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce (Industrial Psychology)
This programme focuses on human behaviour in the workplace, including recruitment, training, performance management, and organisational development.
Curriculum:
– First year: Business Management, Economics, Industrial Psychology, Communication, Quantitative Methods.
– Second year: Industrial Psychology, Human Resource Management, Organisational Behaviour, Business Law.
– Third year: Personnel Psychology, Labour Relations, Performance Management, Research Methodology.
– Fourth year: Advanced Industrial Psychology, Organisational Development, and a research project.
Career outcomes: HR generalist, recruitment specialist, training and development officer, organisational development consultant.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
– Minimum APS of 30.
– Mathematics pass with at least 50 percent.
– English Home Language or First Additional Language pass with at least 50 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management)
This programme is more practically focused than the Industrial Psychology stream, with emphasis on HR policies, labour law, and employee relations.
Curriculum:
– First year: Business Management, Economics, HR Management, Communication, Quantitative Methods.
– Second year: HR Management, Labour Law, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development.
– Third year: Employee Relations, Performance Management, HR Information Systems, Remuneration.
– Fourth year: Strategic HR Management, Organisational Change, and a research project.
Career outcomes: HR manager, labour relations officer, training manager, recruitment consultant.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
– Minimum APS of 30.
– Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy pass with at least 50 percent.
– English Home Language or First Additional Language pass with at least 50 percent.
Bachelor of Administration
The BAdmin is a broader qualification focusing on public administration, policy, and governance, with business management electives.
Curriculum:
– First year: Public Administration, Business Management, Economics, Communication, Quantitative Methods.
– Second year: Public Administration, Local Government, Policy Studies, Business Law.
– Third year: Public Financial Management, Governance, Ethics, Research Methodology.
– Fourth year: Advanced Public Administration, Policy Analysis, and a research project.
Career outcomes: Public servant, policy analyst, municipal manager, NGO administrator, corporate governance officer.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
– Minimum APS of 28.
– Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy pass with at least 50 percent.
– English Home Language or First Additional Language pass with at least 50 percent.
Postgraduate Diploma in Management
This is a one-year programme for graduates who want to deepen their management knowledge. It is equivalent to an honours degree but more practically oriented.
Curriculum:
– Strategic Management
– Financial Management
– Marketing Management
– Human Resource Management
– Operations Management
– Research Methodology
– Research Project
Career outcomes: Middle management, specialist roles, pathway to MBA.
Entry requirements:
– An accredited bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
– At least two years of relevant work experience (recommended).
– Competence in English and basic quantitative methods.
Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning
This programme is accredited by the Financial Planning Institute and prepares students for the Certified Financial Planner examination.
Curriculum:
– Financial Planning Principles
– Risk Planning and Insurance
– Investment Planning
– Tax Planning
– Retirement Planning
– Estate Planning
– Professional Practice
– Case Studies
Career outcomes: Financial planner, wealth manager, investment advisor, retirement specialist.
Entry requirements:
– An accredited bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
– Relevant work experience recommended.
– Mathematics competence.
Advanced Diploma in Management
This is a shorter, more focused qualification for students who already have a diploma or degree and want to upgrade to an advanced level.
Curriculum:
– Strategic Management
– Financial Management
– Marketing Management
– Leadership and Ethics
– Research Project
Career outcomes: Middle management, supervisory roles, pathway to postgraduate diploma.
Entry requirements:
– An accredited diploma or degree in a related field.
– At least two years of work experience recommended.
Certificate in Management
This is an entry-level qualification for students who do not meet degree entry requirements or want a shorter, focused programme.
Curriculum:
– Introduction to Business Management
– Financial Literacy
– Marketing Fundamentals
– Communication Skills
– Computer Literacy
Career outcomes: Team leader, junior supervisor, small business owner.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with higher certificate endorsement.
– APS of 20.
– English pass at 40 percent.
Certificate in Marketing
This certificate provides foundational marketing knowledge for students entering the field.
Curriculum:
– Introduction to Marketing
– Consumer Behaviour
– Digital Marketing Basics
– Marketing Communication
– Sales Techniques
Career outcomes: Marketing assistant, sales representative, social media coordinator.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with higher certificate endorsement.
– APS of 20.
– English pass at 40 percent.
Certificate in Financial Accounting
This certificate provides basic accounting skills for students aiming for entry-level finance roles.
Curriculum:
– Introduction to Financial Accounting
– Cost Accounting
– Taxation Basics
– Business Calculations
– Computerised Accounting
Career outcomes: Junior bookkeeper, accounts clerk, finance administrator.
Entry requirements:
– National Senior Certificate with higher certificate endorsement.
– APS of 20.
– Mathematics pass at 40 percent.
How EDUVOS Distance Learning Works
EDUVOS is not an online university in the sense of watching pre-recorded lectures at your own pace. It is a structured distance learning programme with specific deadlines and support systems.
Study material:
– Prescribed textbooks and study guides are posted to you.
– Additional resources are available on the SUNLearn online platform.
– Some modules include online lectures or recorded videos.
Academic support:
– Each module has a dedicated lecturer or tutor available via email and telephone.
– Regional support centres in major cities offer face-to-face tutorials.
– Online discussion forums connect you with fellow students.
Assessment:
– Assignments contribute 20 to 40 percent of your final mark.
– Examinations are written at approved venues across South Africa.
– You must travel to an exam centre, usually in a major town or city.
Time commitment:
– Part-time study requires approximately 10 to 15 hours per week per module.
– Most students take two to three modules per semester.
– The full degree takes a minimum of four years, but many take longer.
Application Requirements
All applicants must meet:
1. National Senior Certificate requirements for the specific programme.
2. Minimum APS score as specified.
3. Subject-specific requirements, particularly Mathematics.
4. English language proficiency.
International applicants:
– Must have a matric equivalent evaluated by the Matriculation Board.
– Must provide proof of English proficiency if not from an English-speaking country.
– May need to write the SAT or similar entrance test.
Mature age applicants:
– Applicants over 23 may apply with mature age exemption.
– Must demonstrate relevant work experience and academic potential.
– May be required to write entrance tests.
Application Process
Step 1: Check your eligibility.
– Calculate your APS score.
– Verify that you meet subject requirements.
– Confirm you have the time and resources for distance study.
Step 2: Apply online.
– Go to www.maties.com or the Stellenbosch University applications portal.
– Create an account.
– Select EDUVOS as your faculty and choose your programme.
– Complete the online application form.
Step 3: Upload documents.
– Certified copy of your ID.
– Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate or equivalent.
– Certified copy of your academic transcript if applying for postgraduate study.
– Proof of non-refundable application fee payment.
Step 4: Pay the application fee.
– R100 for South African applicants.
– R300 for international applicants.
– Pay via EFT or credit card.
Step 5: Submit and wait.
– Applications close 31 July for the following year.
– Selection takes place from August to October.
– Offers are made from September onwards.
Fees And Funding
EDUVOS fees are significantly lower than full-time on-campus study because you are not paying for accommodation, meals, or campus facilities.
Estimated 2026 fees:
– Bachelor’s degree programmes: R18,000 to R22,000 per year.
– Postgraduate diplomas: R22,000 to R28,000 total.
– Certificates: R12,000 to R15,000 total.
Fees are payable per module. You can spread the cost across the year.
Financial aid:
– NSFAS is available for undergraduate students who meet the means test.
– Undergraduate students may apply for NSFAS funding through the normal application process.
– Postgraduate students may apply for Stellenbosch University merit bursaries.
– Some employers offer study assistance. Check with your HR department.
EDUVOS vs. UNISA vs. Other Distance Learning Providers
| Factor | EDUVOS | UNISA | Other Private Providers |
|---|---|---|---|
| University ranking | Top 3 in SA | Mid-tier | Varies widely |
| Degree recognition | Highly respected | Widely recognised | Varies |
| Programme range | Limited to business | Extensive (multiple faculties) | Specialised (niche fields) |
| Study material | Structured, delivered to students | Self-study, student-driven | Mostly online, digital access |
| Support | Personal tutors, guided learning | Limited support, large scale | Varies (depends on provider) |
| Cost | Mid-range | Lowest | Highest |
| Duration | Fixed pace | Flexible | Flexible |
Key Insights
- EDUVOS: Strong reputation, structured support, but narrower programme range (mainly business-focused).
- UNISA: Most affordable, widest programme range, but requires high self-discipline due to limited support.
- Other Private Providers: Often specialised in niche areas, with strong online delivery, but usually the most expensive.
This comparison shows that the choice depends on priorities: affordability and flexibility (UNISA), structured support with prestige (EDUVOS), or specialised niche programmes (private providers).
Choose EDUVOS if:
– You want a degree from a top-tier university.
– You prefer structured study with deadlines.
– You can commit to a part-time but fixed schedule.
Choose UNISA if:
– You need maximum flexibility and self-pacing.
– You are on a very tight budget.
– You want a wider range of programme choices.
Choose a private provider if:
– You want a very specific niche qualification.
– You prefer fully online study with no exams at venues.
– Cost is less of a concern.
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
Is EDUVOS the same as Stellenbosch University?
Yes. EDUVOS is the distance learning division of Stellenbosch University. Your degree certificate is issued by Stellenbosch University and does not mention distance learning.
Can I study EDUVOS from anywhere in South Africa?
Yes. Study materials are posted to your home address. Examinations are written at approved venues across the country. You must travel to the nearest exam centre.
Do I need to go to Stellenbosch for exams?
No. Exams are written at regional centres in major cities including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria, Bloemfontein, and others.
Can I transfer credits from UNISA or another university?
Yes. EDUVOS considers credit transfer applications. You must provide certified academic transcripts and course outlines. Credits are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
How long does it take to complete a degree?
Minimum four years for a bachelor’s degree. Many students take five to six years while working.
Can I study full-time through EDUVOS?
EDUVOS is designed for part-time study. However, you may take more modules per semester if your work and personal commitments allow.
What is the pass rate for EDUVOS?
Stellenbosch University maintains high academic standards. Pass rates are comparable to on-campus programmes, typically 75 to 85 percent.
Do I need internet access?
Yes, for accessing study guides, submitting assignments, and communicating with tutors. However, data requirements are modest, and study materials are also posted to you.
Can I get a student visa for EDUVOS?
No. Distance learning does not qualify for a South African student visa as you are not required to be in the country for full-time study.
Is EDUVOS accredited?
Yes. All EDUVOS programmes are accredited by the Council on Higher Education and registered with the South African Qualifications Authority.
Summary: Is EDUVOS Right For You?
EDUVOS is ideal for:
– Working adults who want a recognised degree without leaving their jobs.
– Students who cannot relocate to Stellenbosch due to family or financial reasons.
– Self-disciplined learners who can manage their time effectively.
– Those seeking a structured distance learning programme with clear deadlines.
EDUVOS may not be right for:
– Students needing maximum flexibility with no deadlines.
– Those who cannot travel to exam centres twice a year.
– Learners who struggle without regular face-to-face contact.
Final Warning: The Commitment
Distance learning through a top university requires significant self-discipline. You will not have lecturers reminding you about deadlines. You will not have classmates pulling you along. You must motivate yourself.
If you are committed, EDUVOS offers one of the best distance learning opportunities in South Africa. A Stellenbosch University degree opens doors.
Official Resources:
– EDUVOS Website: www.sun.ac.za/eduvos
– Stellenbosch University Applications: www.maties.com
– NSFAS: www.nsfas.org.za
– SAQA: www.saqa.org.za
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. EDUVOS course offerings, entry requirements, and fees are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information directly with Stellenbosch University before applying.