The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a variety of courses, including short courses, certificates, diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Some of these courses are designed to be completed in one year, while others may have longer durations.
Here are some examples of UNISA courses that could be completed in one year:
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE): This program, for those who already have a bachelor’s degree, is typically designed to be completed in one year.
- Honours Degrees: Some honours degrees may have a duration of one academic year.
- Short Courses and Certificates: UNISA offers various short courses and certificate programs that may have shorter durations, often designed to provide specific skills or knowledge.
It’s important to note that the specific duration of a course can vary based on factors such as the level of study, the number of modules or credits required, and the specific requirements of the program.
To find information about one-year courses at UNISA, you can visit the official UNISA website or contact the university directly. The website typically provides detailed information about the duration, structure, and requirements of each program offered by the university.
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Short learning programmes
Short learning programmes (SLPs) are an important part of what the College of Economic and
Management Sciences offers. SLPs are not formal qualifications such as diplomas and degrees,
but are designed to meet specific learning needs in the workplace. Sometimes employees need
to complete shorter learning programmes to fill an immediate gap or to update their knowledge.
The College offers a wide range of programmes to meet these needs.
Our SLPs include courses and programmes in the subject fields of Financial and Risk Management; Business Management; Entrepreneurship; Marketing Management; Human Resources Management; Operations, Quality and Safety Management; Supply Chain Management; Retail Management; Industrial and Organisational Psychology; Public Administration and Management; and Logistics and Transport.
These SLPs allow employees or prospective employees an opportunity to upskill themselves with programmes that will only take them between three and twelve months to complete.
While our Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) fall outside the formal structured undergraduate and postgraduate programmes of Unisa, our SLPs are quality assured and presented in
accordance with the CHE’s guidelines as published in “A Good Practice Guide for the Quality
Management of Short Courses”. In addition, the learning material is regularly compared and
benchmarked against similar local and international programmes to ensure the programmes
stay relevant. Consulting with industry leaders and government officials on a regular basis also
ensures the SLP offerings are in line with the needs of industry and commerce.
GENERAL INFORMATION ON SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMMES
Duration of SLPs and difficulty
CEMS offers a wide variety of courses and programmes to suit your personal circumstances.
Short courses and courses usually span from three to six months, with one to three modules.
Programmes and advanced programmes usually span one year, consisting from four to eight
modules. Some of the offerings are on an introductory level, others on an intermediate level and
others advanced. The name of the offering usually gives an indication of the level of the offering
and thus the level of the assessment.
Admission requirements
Even though they are not formal qualifications, you require a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification for enrolment in most of our SLPs. If you do not possess such qualifications,
you will only be considered for admission on the basis of alternative admission criteria such as
relevant work experience supported by a detailed CV and references, and or by other recognised
prior learning (including non-formal). For the advanced programmes additional admission requirements is needed. It is stipulated at the different programmes in this brochure.
Registration periods
Most of the offerings consist of semester modules. For these offerings (courses, programmes
and advanced programme) registration takes place twice a year December/January and May/
June/July. A limited number of the programmes have year modules and registration takes place
once a year in January/February/March.
Registration method
You can register online through the website https://www.unisa.ac.za/slp or you can request an
application form and e-mail you hard copy and required documents to cbmregistrations@unisa.
ac.za. A copy of your identity document, matric certificate degree/diploma must be attached to
you application. After application you will receive a student number and then you can make payment in whatever manner you wish to. (Banking details will be provided by cbmfinance@unisa.
ac.za). You will only be finally registered once evidence of your payment has been received.
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.