Teaching Courses At Unisa

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The University of South Africa (Unisa) is Africa’s premier open distance learning institution, serving over 400,000 students worldwide. Its commitment to flexible, high‑quality education makes it an ideal choice for those who wish to pursue a teaching career while balancing other commitments. This article provides a comprehensive overview of teaching programmes at Unisa: the role and responsibilities of academic staff, entry requirements, application process, programme structure, costs, and career prospects.

1. Why Choose Teaching at Unisa?

  • Impact on Society
    Teaching is a profession through which you can shape the next generation and drive positive change. Unisa’s distance‑learning model extends educational opportunities to diverse and often underserved communities, allowing you to make a real difference.

  • Flexibility
    Unisa’s online and blended offerings enable you to study at your own pace, fitting coursework around work, family, or other obligations.

  • Comprehensive Curriculum
    The Bachelor of Education (BEd) and related teaching qualifications at Unisa cover educational psychology, curriculum design, classroom management, and both formative and summative assessment—ensuring you graduate ready for the modern classroom.

  • Institutional Reputation
    As Africa’s largest university by enrolment, Unisa is recognised for its academic rigour and its commitment to widening access. A Unisa teaching qualification carries weight both locally and internationally.

2. Programme Offerings

Unisa offers several teacher‑education pathways:

  • Bachelor of Education (BEd)
    A four‑year degree preparing students for primary and secondary teaching.

  • Higher Certificate in Education
    A one‑year foundational programme for those seeking entry‑level teaching roles or wishing to top up to a degree later.

  • Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas in Education
    For practising teachers who wish to specialise or upgrade their qualifications in areas such as curriculum studies, education leadership, or special needs education.

3. Requirements to Study Teaching at Unisa

Qualification Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree (BEd) • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with degree endorsement;
• ≥50% in home language; ≥40% in Mathematics, or ≥50% in Mathematical Literacy.
Senior Certificate (pre‑2008 SC) • Matriculation exemption by Umalusi; Grade D (HG) or C (SG) in language of instruction; Grade F (HG) or E (SG) in Mathematics.
NCV Level 4 • ≥60% in three core subjects (including language of teaching and learning);
• ≥70% in four vocational subjects.
Higher Certificate in Education • APS of at least 15;
• NSC with degree or diploma endorsement, or equivalent.
Postgraduate Programmes • A relevant Bachelor’s degree;
• For some specialisations, a minimum of one year of teaching experience may be required.

Unisa recognises a broad array of prior learning and may consider mature‑age applicants on a case‑by‑case basis.

4. How to Apply

  1. Online Registration

    • Visit Unisa’s “Apply” webpage and create a myUnisa account (if new).

  2. Select Your Programme

    • Choose the appropriate teaching qualification (e.g., BEd, Higher Certificate).

  3. Complete the Application Form

    • Fill in personal details, academic history, and module selections.

  4. Upload Supporting Documents

    • Certified copies of your ID, NSC/SC certificate, diplomas, and any other required credentials.

  5. Pay the Application Fee

    • Submit the non‑refundable fee to finalise your application.

  6. Submit & Track

    • Once submitted, monitor your application status via myUnisa and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

5. Duration and Structure of Teaching Programmes

  • Bachelor of Education (BEd)

    • Duration: 4 years full‑time (part‑time options available)

    • Structure: Core educational theory; methodology modules in two teaching specialisations; practical teaching block; research project.

  • Higher Certificate in Education

    • Duration: 1 year

    • Structure: Foundational education theory; introduction to classroom practice; academic literacy.

  • Postgraduate Certificates / Diplomas

    • Duration: 1–2 years depending on part‑time or full‑time enrolment

    • Structure: Advanced coursework in specialised areas; mini‑research assignments for some diplomas.

6. Point‑Score (APS) Requirements

Admissions use the Admission Point Score (APS) system, which allocates points to senior‑certificate subjects:

  • Higher Certificate in Education: Minimum APS of 15.

  • Bachelor of Education: APS requirement typically ranges from 20 to 24, depending on competition and available space.

  • Postgraduate Programmes: Generally require an APS calculated from your Bachelor’s results; specific departmental cut‑offs apply.

7. Cost of Studying Teaching at Unisa

Approximate annual tuition and fees (2025 rates):

Student Type Undergraduate Programmes Postgraduate Programmes
South African Citizens ~R36,000 per year R20,000 – R45,000 per year
SADC Nationals ~R64,000 per year R30,000 – R60,000 per year
Other International Students ~R68,000 per year R35,000 – R70,000 per year

These figures exclude textbook, examination venue, and technology fees. Always verify current fees on the Unisa website or with the Admissions Office.

8. Career Prospects and Progression

Graduates of Unisa’s teaching programmes are qualified to teach in public and private schools across South Africa and beyond. Career pathways include:

  • Classroom Teacher (Foundation, Intermediate, Senior, or Further Education & Training phases)

  • Subject Adviser or Curriculum Specialist in district offices

  • Education Policy Analyst or Programme Coordinator for NGOs and government departments

  • Further Studies: Postgraduate diplomas, honours, master’s, and doctoral degrees, leading to roles in educational research or higher‑education lecturing at institutions like Unisa itself.

9. Conclusion

Pursuing a teaching qualification at Unisa offers flexibility, comprehensive curriculum design, and the opportunity to influence learners across the continent. With clear entry requirements, a straightforward application process, and competitive fees, Unisa stands out as a leading choice for aspiring educators. By meeting the stipulated academic criteria and actively engaging with online learning resources, you can embark on a fulfilling teaching career that shapes minds and transforms communities.

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