UNISA Higher Certificate in Education (90093 – FIP) Qualification

UNISA Higher Certificate in Education (90093 – FIP) Qualification. The UNISA Higher Certificate in Education is an excellent opportunity for aspiring educators who wish to enter the teaching profession but do not yet meet the minimum requirements for a Bachelor of Education (BEd). This qualification provides students with essential foundational skills in teaching, learning, and information management, making it an ideal pathway to further studies.
The Higher Certificate in Education (Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase) (90093 – FIP) is an NQF Level 5 qualification, carrying 120 total credits. With a SAQA ID of 101813, this programme ensures that students develop fundamental competencies necessary for success in the Open Distance Learning (ODeL) environment and beyond.
Purpose of the UNISA Higher Certificate in Education
The primary goal of this qualification is to offer a bridging opportunity for individuals who have the potential to excel in education but do not yet meet university entry requirements. Through this programme, students develop the following skills:
- Basic language and learning skills to navigate academic content effectively.
- Teaching skills essential for handling Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase learners.
- Information management skills to support research and study in education.
- Generic competencies necessary for success in an ODeL environment.
This qualification also provides a direct articulation pathway into UNISA’s Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase programs.
Registration Process
Who Can Register?
Applicants must have received an official placement offer from UNISA and accepted it online. If students were incorrectly admitted, UNISA reserves the right to cancel their registration. Re-registering students may register for the 2025 academic year once the registration period is open.
How to Apply for a New Qualification
If you wish to pursue a different qualification, you must submit a new application during the prescribed application period via the UNISA online application portal.
Choosing Your Modules
Each UNISA qualification has a structured credit system where students must pass a specific number of NQF level credits within a set timeframe. The Higher Certificate in Education requires careful module selection based on prerequisites and co-requisites.
Understanding Module Requirements
- Co-requisite: If Module A is a co-requisite for Module B, both must be registered simultaneously.
- Pre-requisite: If Module A is a pre-requisite for Module B, students must pass Module A first.
- Maximum Credits per Semester: Students may register for 60 credits per semester or 120 credits per academic year.
- Time Commitment:
- 6 to 8 hours per week for semester modules
- 4 to 6 hours per week for year modules
Curriculum Breakdown
When selecting modules, students must choose compulsory modules from Group A and one elective module from Group B.
Group A: Compulsory Modules
Module Code | Module Name |
---|---|
AFL1501 | Language Through an African Lens |
BPT1501 | Being a Professional Teacher |
CAD1501 | Child and Adolescent Development |
DPP1501 | Diversity, Pedagogy and Practice |
EST1501 | Academic Proficiency in English for Student Teachers |
EUP1501 | Ethical Information and Communication Technologies for Development Solutions |
INS1502 | Developing Information Skills for Lifelong Learning |
MTE1501 | Mathematics 1 for Teachers |
PSC1501 | Practical Science for the Classroom |
Group B: Elective Modules (Choose One)
Module Code | Module Name |
ATH1501 | Art and Handwork |
GCS1501 | Guidance, Counselling and Life Skills Development |
GRT1501 | Introduction to Grade R Teaching |
IED1501 | Introduction to Environmental Education |
MTE1502 | Mathematics 2 for Teachers |
Why Choose UNISA’s Higher Certificate in Education?
1. Pathway to a Bachelor’s Degree
This qualification serves as a stepping stone to a full BEd degree, equipping students with essential academic and teaching skills.
2. Flexible Study Mode
UNISA offers both online and distance learning options, making it ideal for working professionals and students who require flexible study schedules.
3. Comprehensive Curriculum
The well-structured curriculum ensures students gain knowledge in teaching methodologies, subject knowledge, and professional development.
4. Affordability and Accessibility
UNISA is known for providing quality education at an affordable cost, making higher education accessible to a broader audience.
Conclusion
The UNISA Higher Certificate in Education (Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase) (90093 – FIP) is an excellent option for individuals who aspire to enter the teaching profession but need additional academic preparation. By enrolling in this programme, students gain essential skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for further studies or future careers in education.