UNISA Courses List 2026

Overview of UNISA Qualifications

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the largest open distance learning universities in the world, offering over 350 accredited qualifications. Whether you are a matric leaver exploring your options, a working professional looking to upskill, or someone pursuing an academic career, UNISA has a programme for you.

UNISA's qualifications range from entry-level Higher Certificates (which do not require matric) all the way through to doctoral degrees. The university is organised into eight colleges, each housing multiple departments and schools that offer specialised programmes. All qualifications are accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Understanding the different qualification types is important before you apply, as each has different admission requirements, duration, credit loads, and career outcomes. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what UNISA offers and helps you navigate toward the right programme for your goals.

UNISA's Eight Colleges

UNISA's academic programmes are organised across eight colleges:

1. College of Accounting Sciences (CAS)

Offers qualifications in accounting, auditing, taxation, financial management, and management accounting. Popular programmes include the BCom in Accounting Sciences and the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Accounting Sciences. This college prepares students for professional designations such as CA(SA), ACMA, and CIMA.

2. College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES)

Covers agriculture, life sciences, geography, and environmental sciences. Offers BSc and BTech programmes in areas such as agriculture management, environmental management, life sciences, and geography.

3. College of Economic and Management Sciences (CEMS)

One of UNISA's largest colleges, offering programmes in economics, business management, public administration, industrial psychology, marketing, human resource management, and logistics. The BCom and BA degrees from CEMS are among UNISA's most popular qualifications.

4. College of Education (CEDU)

Offers the Bachelor of Education (BEd) for aspiring teachers, the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for career changers entering teaching, and advanced diplomas and master's programmes in education. CEDU is the largest teacher education provider in South Africa.

5. College of Human Sciences (CHS)

Encompasses communication science, information science, languages, psychology, social work, theology, philosophy, history, sociology, and political science. Offers BA degrees and specialised diplomas across the humanities and social sciences.

6. College of Law (CLAW)

Offers the renowned Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme, as well as Higher Certificates in Paralegal Studies, diplomas in law, and postgraduate law degrees (LLM, LLD). UNISA's LLB is one of the most enrolled law programmes in South Africa.

7. College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET)

Covers computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, engineering, and construction management. Offers BSc, BEng, and BTech qualifications, as well as specialised IT certificates and diplomas.

8. Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL)

UNISA's business school offers the MBA, MBL, and executive development programmes. The SBL is separately accredited and is one of the oldest business schools in Africa.

Types of Qualifications at UNISA

Higher Certificates (1 year, 120 credits)

Higher Certificates are entry-level qualifications that do not require matric. You must be at least 20 years old to apply. They are ideal for adult learners who want to enter higher education without a matric certificate. Popular options include the Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences, Higher Certificate in Arts, and Higher Certificate in Theological Studies. A Higher Certificate can serve as a pathway to a diploma or degree at UNISA.

Diplomas (3 years, 360 credits)

Diplomas are vocational qualifications that prepare you for a specific career field. They require a National Senior Certificate (matric) or equivalent. Popular diplomas include the Diploma in Policing, Diploma in Law, and Diploma in Public Administration.

Bachelor's Degrees (3-4 years, 360-480 credits)

Bachelor's degrees are the most common undergraduate qualification type. They require a National Senior Certificate with bachelor's degree admission (minimum APS score varies by programme). Use our APS Calculator to check if you meet the requirements. Popular bachelor's degrees include:

• BCom (3 years) — Accounting, Economics, Business Management, Marketing, HR Management, Supply Chain
• BA (3 years) — Communication, Psychology, Languages, Political Science, Sociology, History
• BSc (3 years) — Computing, Mathematics, Statistics, Life Sciences, Environmental Sciences
• LLB (4 years) — Law
• BEd (4 years) — Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior/FET Phase teaching

Honours Degrees (1-2 years, 120 credits)

Honours degrees are postgraduate qualifications requiring a completed bachelor's degree as a prerequisite. They involve advanced study in a specialised area and often include a research component. UNISA offers honours degrees across most disciplines.

Master's Degrees (1-3 years)

Master's degrees are available by coursework, dissertation, or a combination. Entry requirements include a completed honours degree or equivalent postgraduate diploma. UNISA offers MA, MSc, MCom, MEd, LLM, and other master's qualifications.

Doctoral Degrees (2-5 years)

Doctoral degrees (PhD, DLitt, DCom, DEd, LLD) are research-only qualifications. They require a completed master's degree and involve producing an original thesis under the supervision of a senior academic. UNISA has a strong doctoral programme with hundreds of graduates each year.

Short Learning Programmes (SLPs)

SLPs are non-degree programmes designed for continuing professional development. They typically run for 3-6 months and cover specific skills or knowledge areas. SLPs do not always require formal admission — entry requirements vary by programme. They are ideal for working professionals who want targeted skills development without committing to a full degree.

How to Choose the Right UNISA Qualification

Choosing the right qualification is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Here are key factors to consider:

• Career goals: What career do you want? Research the qualifications required for your target career. Some professions (law, teaching, accounting) require specific degrees.
• Admission requirements: Check if your matric results meet the minimum APS and subject requirements. Use our APS Calculator to verify.
• Duration and study load: How long can you commit to studying? A 3-year degree takes 3 years minimum (often longer part-time). Use our Study Load Calculator to plan.
• Cost: Tuition fees vary significantly by qualification and module. Use our Fees Calculator to estimate costs. Also consider whether you qualify for NSFAS funding.
• Professional accreditation: If you want a professional designation (CA, attorney, teacher, etc.), ensure your chosen qualification is recognised by the relevant professional body.
• Pathway planning: Some qualifications build on each other. A Higher Certificate can lead to a diploma, which can lead to a degree. Plan your pathway from the start.

Most Popular UNISA Qualifications in 2026

Based on enrolment data, these are consistently the most popular UNISA qualifications:

1. BCom (various specialisations) — Accounting, Economics, Business Management, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Supply Chain Management
2. BA (various specialisations) — Communication Science, Psychology, Sociology, Languages, Political Science
3. LLB (Bachelor of Laws) — One of the most popular law degrees in South Africa
4. BEd (Bachelor of Education) — Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, FET Phase
5. Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences — Popular entry-level qualification for those without matric or with lower matric marks
6. Diploma in Policing — Popular among SAPS members seeking formal qualifications
7. BSc in Computing — Growing demand for IT professionals
8. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) — For graduates wanting to become teachers
9. BCom Honours in Accounting — Pathway to CA(SA) designation
10. MBA/MBL — Through the Graduate School of Business Leadership

Frequently Asked Questions – UNISA Courses

Related UNISA Guides

• How to Apply to UNISA — complete application guide
• APS Calculator — check admission requirements
• UNISA Fees Calculator — estimate tuition costs
• Study Load Calculator — plan your module workload
• NSFAS Application Guide — funding your studies