UNISA Courses and Requirements (2025)

The University of South Africa (UNISA), the country’s largest open-distance learning institution, offers flexible, accessible education to over 400,000 students annually. Known for its diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs, UNISA enables learners to study at their own pace, making it ideal for working professionals and students balancing multiple responsibilities. For those planning to enroll in 2025, understanding the courses offered and their admission requirements is crucial for a smooth application process. This comprehensive guide details UNISA’s 2025 programs, entry criteria, and application steps, providing clear, practical information to help you achieve your academic goals.

UNISA Courses and Requirements

UNISA organizes its academic offerings across eight colleges: Accounting Sciences, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Economic and Management Sciences, Education, Human Sciences, Law, Science, Engineering and Technology, and Graduate Studies. Additionally, the Graduate School of Business Leadership offers specialized business programs. Qualifications range from Higher Certificates to Doctoral Degrees, delivered through open-distance e-learning. Admission is based on the National Senior Certificate (NSC), Admission Point Score (APS), and qualification-specific requirements. Below, we explore key courses and their entry criteria for 2025, ensuring accuracy based on official UNISA sources.

College of Accounting Sciences

This college prepares students for careers in accounting, auditing, and financial management, with programs aligned to professional bodies like SAICA.

Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences: Requires an NSC with Higher Certificate endorsement, APS of 15, and English Home Language (HL) or First Additional Language (FAL) level 3 (40–49%). A foundation for diploma and degree studies in accounting.
Diploma in Accounting Sciences: APS of 17, English HL/FAL level 4 (50–59%), and Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5 (60–69%). Prepares students for bookkeeping and financial roles.
Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Financial Accounting: APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Qualifies students for professional accounting exams like SAICA’s ITC.
Advanced Diploma in Taxation: Requires a relevant Diploma or Bachelor’s degree with a 60% average in final-year subjects.

College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

This college focuses on sustainable agriculture, environmental management, and food security.

Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare: APS of 15, English HL/FAL level 3. Supports careers in animal care and veterinary assistance.
Diploma in Agricultural Management: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5, and Life Sciences level 4 recommended. Covers farm management and agribusiness.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agricultural Science (Plant Science): APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences level 4. Focuses on crop production and soil science.
Bachelor of Consumer Science (Food and Nutrition): APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5, Life Sciences level 4.

College of Economic and Management Sciences

This college offers programs in business, economics, and public administration, catering to diverse career paths.

Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences: APS of 15, English HL/FAL level 3. A pathway to diploma and degree studies.
Diploma in Human Resource Management: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Prepares students for HR roles.
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Economics: APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Covers economic theory and policy analysis.
Bachelor of Public Administration: APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Trains students for public sector roles.

College of Education

UNISA’s Education programs train teachers for various school phases, addressing South Africa’s educator shortage.

Higher Certificate in Education: APS of 15, English HL/FAL level 4. A foundation for BEd degrees, ideal for students needing academic support.
Diploma in Grade R Teaching: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4, and an additional language at level 3. Prepares teachers for early childhood education.
Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching: APS of 23, English HL/FAL level 4, and an additional language at level 4. For grades R–3 teachers.
BEd in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching: APS of 23, English HL/FAL level 4, and subject-specific requirements (e.g., Mathematics level 4 for teaching mathematics). For grades 7–12.

College of Human Sciences

This college fosters critical thinking in arts, languages, and social sciences, ideal for cultural and community roles.

Higher Certificate in Archives and Records Management: APS of 15, English HL/FAL level 3. Prepares students for archival and administrative roles.
Diploma in Public Relations: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4. Covers media and corporate communication.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) General: APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4. Offers majors like Psychology, Sociology, or Communication Science.
Bachelor of Social Work: APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, and a selection process. Prepares students for social welfare careers.

College of Law

This college trains legal professionals, with programs recognized by the Legal Practice Council.

Higher Certificate in Law: APS of 15, English HL/FAL level 3. A stepping stone to diploma and degree studies in law.
Diploma in Law: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4. Covers foundational legal principles.
Bachelor of Laws (LLB): APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, and an additional language at level 4. Prepares students for legal practice or advocacy.
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology: APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4. Focuses on crime prevention and criminal justice.

College of Science, Engineering and Technology

This college offers programs accredited by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), focusing on innovation.

Higher Certificate in Physical Sciences: APS of 15, English HL/FAL level 3, Mathematics level 3, Physical Sciences level 3. A foundation for science and engineering studies.
Diploma in Information Technology: APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 3 or Mathematical Literacy level 5. Covers programming and IT support.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computing: APS of 21, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 4. Focuses on software development and data science.
Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) in Civil Engineering: APS of 24, English HL/FAL level 4, Mathematics level 5, Physical Sciences level 5.

College of Graduate Studies

This college oversees Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral Degrees across all disciplines.

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology: Requires a BA with a 60% average in Psychology modules.
Master’s in Business Administration (MBA): Requires a Bachelor’s degree, three years of managerial experience, and a 60% average in prior studies.
PhD in Environmental Science: Requires a Master’s degree and a strong research proposal.

Graduate School of Business Leadership

This school offers specialized business programs for leadership roles.

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration: Requires a Bachelor’s degree with a 60% average and two years of work experience.
Master of Business Leadership (MBL): Requires a Bachelor’s degree, five years of managerial experience, and a 60% average.

Short Learning Programmes

UNISA offers Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) for professional development, typically 6–12 months, requiring a minimum of Grade 10 or relevant work experience. Examples include:

Course in Project Management: Enhances skills in planning and execution.
Programme in Digital Marketing: Covers social media and SEO strategies.

General Admission Requirements

UNISA’s admission criteria vary by qualification level:

Higher Certificate: NSC with Higher Certificate endorsement, APS of 15, English HL/FAL level 3.
Diploma: NSC with Diploma endorsement, APS of 18, English HL/FAL level 4, and program-specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics level 3).
Bachelor’s Degree: NSC with Bachelor’s degree endorsement, APS of 21–24, English HL/FAL level 4, and program-specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics level 5 for engineering).
Application Period: Opens August 11, 2024, closes October 10, 2024, for undergraduate programs; April 14, 2025, to May 9, 2025, for limited honours and postgraduate diplomas.
First-Year Experience MOOC: Mandatory for first-time applicants, introducing online learning skills.

Admission Point Score (APS) Explained

The APS is calculated using the six best NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation:

NSC Level	Percentage	APS Points
7	80–100%	7
6	70–79%	6
5	60–69%	5
4	50–59%	4
3	40–49%	3
2	30–39%	2
1	0–29%	1

For example, a student with English (60%, level 5), Mathematics (50%, level 4), and four other subjects at level 4 scores: 5 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 25 APS points. Applicants can apply for two qualifications, ranked in order of preference.

Alternative Admission Pathways

UNISA offers flexible entry options:

National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4: Accepted if equivalent to NSC endorsements, with program-specific subject requirements.
Senior Certificate (Pre-2008): Accepted with specific subject passes (e.g., English HG 40%).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Applicants with relevant work experience can apply for RPL assessment, potentially granting access to certificates or diplomas.
Foreign Qualifications: Must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Application Process for 2025

Applying to UNISA is fully online and requires careful preparation:

Choose Qualifications: Select up to two programs via the UNISA website.
Online Application: Submit from August 11, 2024, via the UNISA portal.
Required Documents: Certified copies of ID, NSC or equivalent results, SAQA evaluation (if applicable), and proof of application fee payment.
Application Fee: Approximately R135 for online applications.
Track Application: Monitor status through the UNISA portal; outcomes are released within six weeks post-deadline.
Registration: Successful applicants must complete the First-Year Experience MOOC and register by March 31, 2025, for semester 1.

International Students

International applicants must meet additional criteria:

SAQA Evaluation: Non-South African qualifications require SAQA verification.
English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-English-speaking applicants.
Study Permit: Required before registration.

Financial Aid and Funding

UNISA supports students through various funding options:

NSFAS: For South African students with a household income below R350,000 per year. Covers tuition, books, and living allowances.
UNISA Bursaries: Merit-based awards for high achievers or students in specific fields.
External Scholarships: Available through private and government programs.
Student Loans: Offered by banks like Standard Bank and Eduloan.

Apply for funding early, as NSFAS deadlines typically align with application periods.

Why Choose UNISA?

UNISA stands out for its:

Flexibility: Open-distance learning allows students to study anywhere, anytime.
Accessibility: Affordable fees and multiple entry pathways cater to diverse learners.
Global Reach: Over 400,000 students from 130+ countries, supported by online resources.
Industry Alignment: Programs are accredited by professional bodies like SAICA and ECSA.

Studying Through Open-Distance Learning

UNISA’s e-learning model requires self-discipline and access to:

myUnisa Portal: For assignments, exams, and course materials.
Digital Devices: A laptop or smartphone with reliable internet is essential.
Study Support: Online tutorials, discussion forums, and regional learning centers in cities like Pretoria and Cape Town.

Orientation and Support

UNISA’s First-Year Experience MOOC introduces first-time students to online learning, covering time management and digital tools. Additional support includes:

Academic Advising: Via myUnisa or regional centers.
Library Access: Digital resources and physical libraries at select campuses.
Career Services: Online workshops for CV writing and job applications.

Summary Table: Key UNISA Courses and Requirements (2025)

College	Course	APS	Key Requirements
Accounting Sciences	Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences	15	English HL/FAL level 3
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences	Diploma in Agricultural Management	18	English HL/FAL level 4, Life Sciences level 4 recommended
Economic and Management Sciences	BCom in Economics	21	English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 4
Education	BEd Foundation Phase Teaching	23	English HL/FAL level 4, additional language level 4
Human Sciences	BA General	21	English HL/FAL level 4
Law	LLB	21	English HL/FAL level 4, additional language level 4
Science, Engineering and Technology	BSc in Computing	21	English HL/FAL level 4, Maths level 4

FAQ: Common Questions About UNISA Courses and Requirements

What is the minimum APS for UNISA in 2025?
The minimum APS is 15 for Higher Certificates, 18 for Diplomas, and 21–24 for Bachelor’s degrees, depending on the program. For example, BEngTech requires an APS of 24 with Mathematics level 5.

Can I apply to UNISA with an NCV Level 4?
Yes, an NCV Level 4 with the appropriate endorsement is accepted for Higher Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees, provided it meets the program’s APS and subject requirements.

When do UNISA applications close for 2025?
Applications close on October 10, 2024, for undergraduate programs and May 9, 2025, for limited honours and postgraduate diplomas. Late applications may be considered for select Short Learning Programmes.

Conclusion

The University of South Africa offers a vast array of programs for 2025, from Higher Certificates to Doctoral Degrees, designed to empower students through flexible, open-distance learning. By meeting the APS and subject requirements, you can pursue qualifications in accounting, education, law, sciences, and more. Start your application early, complete the First-Year Experience MOOC, and explore funding options to ensure a seamless process. With its accessibility, global reach, and industry-aligned programs, UNISA is an outstanding choice for your higher education journey.