SACAP (South African College of Applied Psychology) is a private higher education institution in South Africa that offers a range of degrees and diplomas in applied psychology, counselling, coaching, and social work.
In terms of international recognition, it may depend on the specific degree program and the country in which you intend to use the qualification. SACAP is registered with the South African Department of Higher Education and Training, and its programs are accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) in South Africa.
The CHE is responsible for quality assurance in higher education in South Africa and is a full member of the European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ENQA), which is a network of quality assurance agencies in Europe.
However, it’s important to note that international recognition is not an automatic guarantee for any degree program. It ultimately depends on the specific country or institution where the degree is being evaluated or used.
If you’re considering using a SACAP degree in a country outside of South Africa, it’s recommended to research the specific recognition and accreditation requirements for your intended field and location, and to verify the recognition status of the degree with the relevant accrediting bodies.
The online courses are fully accredited and internationally recognised, helping to pave the way for a career in the mental health field, while developing invaluable skills that can be applied in a wide variety of career paths.
Here are some of the accredited course you can study online at SACAP:
Table of Contents
1. Higher Certificate in Counselling and Communication Skills
What is it? This short course is designed to equip you with introductory knowledge and basic counselling and communication skills and also provides an excellent introduction into higher education. As a vocational course, this certificate focuses on building skills and will be useful to anyone who works with people on a day to day basis. Completion of the course also opens further study pathways, such as making you eligible for the Advanced Certificate in Counselling and Communication Skills or into a degree programme.
Duration 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time
Admission requirements
- A National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 45% in English, OR
- A Senior Certificate with higher and/ or standard grade subjects with a minimum of 45% in English, or equivalent qualification, OR
- Mature students 24 years of age and older who do not meet the above requirements should provide a portfolio of evidence to support admission on the basis of SACAP’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
2. Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Majoring in counselling and psychology)
What is it? A comprehensive undergraduate qualification that develops critical thinking skills and builds a depth of understanding of psychology, mental health and people in a social context, with a focus on the counselling relationship. Completion of the degree makes you eligible for entry into honours and postgraduate studies that pave the way for a career in mental health.
Duration 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time
Admission requirements
- A National Senior Certificate (Bachelors Pass) with a minimum of 45% in English, or equivalent qualification, OR
- A Senior Certificate (with Endorsement) with a minimum of a Standard Grade pass in English, or equivalent qualification, OR
- An NQF Level 5 Certificate, or equivalent qualification, OR
- Mature students 24 years of age and older who do not meet the above requirements should provide a portfolio of evidence equivalent to NQF Level 5 training in an appropriate field of study to support admission on the basis of SACAP’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
3. Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Majoring in human resource management and psychology)
What is it? An online course aimed at those interested in psychology as applied in a business context. Human resource management (more typically known as human capital or simply HR) is a highly sought after profession, with the field of talent acquisition and recruitment exploding at the seams with activity and opportunity, especially for psychology graduates. Completion of this course positions you for entry into an honours or postgraduate degree in psychology, as well as providing a solid foundation for pursuing employment in human resource management.
Duration 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time
Admission requirements
- A National Senior Certificate (Bachelors Pass) with a minimum of 45% in English, or equivalent qualification, OR
- A Senior Certificate (with Endorsement) with a minimum of a Standard Grade pass in English, or equivalent qualification, OR
- An NQF Level 5 Certificate, or equivalent qualification, OR
- Mature students 24 years of age and older who do not meet the above requirements should provide a portfolio of evidence equivalent to NQF Level 5 training in an appropriate field of study to support admission on the basis of SACAP’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
4. Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Majoring in business management and psychology)
What is it? A degree focusing on the practical application of psychology principles in a business landscape. Since business success is dependent on how people operate within the business, the insight into human behaviour that psychology provides can grant a significant edge. Business management modules such as economics, accounting, business finance and business law are incorporated into the degree, along with traditional psychology modules. The degree provides a solid foundation for pursuing a career as a business manager or entrepreneur.
Duration 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time
Admission requirements
- A National Senior Certificate (Bachelors Pass) with a minimum of 45% in English, or equivalent qualification, OR
- A Senior Certificate (with Endorsement) with a minimum of a Standard Grade pass in English, or equivalent qualification, OR
- An NQF Level 5 Certificate, or equivalent qualification, OR
- Mature students 24 years of age and older who do not meet the above requirements should provide a portfolio of evidence equivalent to NQF Level 5 training in an appropriate field of study to support admission on the basis of SACAP’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
- Highly recommended: Numerical competency and data handling
Find out more about the Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Majoring in Psychology and Business Management).
5. Bachelor of Social Science Honours
What is it? This specially designed online degree builds on the skills acquired during undergraduate psychology studies, while providing deeper insight into psychological methods of assessment, diagnosis, interpretation and intervention. It also covers the areas of psychological ethics; and diversity, acceptance and inclusion. Completion of this online degree qualifies you for employment in a wide range of public and private sector enterprises, including community mental health, applied psychology, human resources, education and research. It also makes you eligible for a Masters in Psychology.
Duration 1 year full-time; 18 months part-time
Admission requirements Applicants are required to hold a minimum of an undergraduate degree with a psychology major (or cognate discipline) with a better than average pass (GPA of 65% and above).
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.