Higher Certificate Courses At UNISA 2026-2027

Higher Certificate Courses At UNISA 2026-2027

Step Into Higher Education: UNISA’s 2026-2027 Higher Certificate Programmes:

The Higher Certificate courses are academic programmes given by educational institutions such as UNISA to equip students with fundamental information and abilities in a particular field of study. When compared to undergraduate degree programs, these courses generally last six months to a year of full-time study. Higher certificate courses are designed to satisfy the needs of students who want to gain practical skills and knowledge in a certain profession or business. They are frequently seen as entry-level qualifications that can lead to higher study or a road to work. Higher certificate courses are part of the University of South Africa’s (UNISA) mission to offer students accessible and flexible education alternatives. Because UNISA is a distance learning institution, students can study remotely and at their own speed.

Higher Certificate courses at UNISA for 2026-2027 offer an accessible entry point into higher education for students who may not meet direct admission requirements for diploma or degree programs. These qualifications are typically one-year, 120-credit programs designed to build foundational knowledge and skills in various fields, enabling students to progress to higher qualifications such as diplomas or bachelor’s degrees. UNISA provides Higher Certificates in diverse areas, including Accounting Sciences, Animal Welfare, Archives and Records, and Education streams like Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching. The Higher Certificate in Education, for example, serves as an alternative entry route for prospective teachers and articulates into Bachelor of Education qualifications.

These courses are structured to support students in an open distance learning environment, focusing on essential competencies such as language, learning skills, and subject knowledge. Admission to Higher Certificate programs can also facilitate entry into related diploma or degree programs, although completion does not guarantee admission due to space limitations. Applicants can apply online during the prescribed application periods and may register for up to 120 credits per academic year. The programs are designed to provide a reasonable chance of success for candidates who otherwise might not meet minimum entry requirements, thus broadening access to higher education at UNISA.

READ: UNISA Applications Admission 2026-2027

Higher Certificate Courses At UNISA Application Date 2026-2027

Below are the dates to apply for degree courses at Unisa:

Applications for admission to undergraduate qualifications for the 2025 academic year are to be open from 2 September 2025 to 18 November 2025
Applications for admission to honors degrees and postgraduate diplomas for the 2025 academic year are to be open from 2 September 2025 to 18 November 2025
Applications for admission to master’s and doctoral degrees for the 2025 academic year are to be open from 16 September 2025 to 11 November 2025 (some exceptions apply).
Application and registration for Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes are open from 8 January to 15 February 2025 for 1st semester modules and from 8 January to 15 March 2025 for 2nd semester and year modules.

Higher Certificate Courses at UNISA 2026-2027

Below is a list of Higher Certificate Courses offered at UNISA in the 2026-2027 academic year

Higher Certificates:

Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences (98201)
Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare (90098)
Higher Certificate in Archives and Records Management (98577)
Higher Certificate in Banking (98225)
Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice (90006)
Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences (98237)
Higher Certificate in Education (90093)
Higher Certificate in Education Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase (90093 – FIP)
Higher Certificate in Education Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching (90093 – SPF)
Higher Certificate in Law (98751)
Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences (98366)
Higher Certificate in Marketing (98229)
Higher Certificate in Mathematics and Statistics (90129)
Higher Certificate in Physical Sciences (90101)
Higher Certificate in Retailing (90014)
Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work Not Applicable (90011)
Higher Certificate in Supervisory Management (90015)
Higher Certificate in Tourism Management (98226)

How To Apply For Higher Certificate Courses At UNISA For 2026-2027

To apply for Higher Certificate courses at UNISA, follow these steps:

Check Admission Requirements

Ensure you meet the specific admission requirements for the Higher Certificate course you want to apply for.
You can find these details on UNISA’s official website or in their prospectus.

Choose a Qualification:

Visit the UNISA website and review the list of Higher Certificate courses.
Select the course that aligns with your career goals and interests.

Apply Online:

Application Period: Pay attention to the application deadlines, usually set for a specific period each academic year.
Create a MyUNISA Account: If you are a first-time applicant, create a MyUNISA account.
Returning students can log in with their existing credentials.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form. Be prepared to provide personal information, academic history, and other relevant details.

Submit Supporting Documents:

Ensure you have the necessary documents ready for submission. This includes:

A certified copy of your ID or passport.
Certified copies of your academic transcripts or certificates.
Proof of payment of the application fee (if required).
Upload these documents during the application process.

Pay the Application Fee:

Pay the non-refundable application fee as specified on the UNISA website.
Keep a copy of the proof of payment, as you may need to upload this during your application.

Track Your Application:

Once you have submitted your application, you can track its status online via the MyUNISA portal.
Keep an eye on communication from UNISA regarding the outcome of your application.

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from UNISA.
Follow the instructions provided to complete your registration and pay the necessary fees to secure your place.

Prepare for Your Studies

After registration, start preparing for your studies by familiarising yourself with UNISA’s study materials, course schedules, and any additional requirements.

READ: UNISA Education Courses 2026

Contact UNISA

If you want any additional information, please contact Unisa at the following address:

Address:

Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria
Sunnyside campus (applications, registrations & learning centre):
Cnr Justice Mahomed & Steve Biko Streets, Sunnyside, Pretoria
Tel: 0800 005 311
Email: unisa@whistleblowing.co.za

UNISA’s higher certificate courses offer a fantastic chance for learners to broaden their knowledge, gain new skills, and advance their careers. UNISA enables students to pursue their educational goals at their own pace by providing flexible study options, various specialisations, and a friendly learning environment. Visit Unisa’s Official Website.

RELATED LINKS: