UNISA Higher Certificate in Education (90093 – SPF) Qualification

UNISA Higher Certificate in Education (90093 – SPF) Qualification. Are you passionate about teaching and looking for a way to enter the education sector in South Africa? The UNISA Higher Certificate in Education provides an excellent opportunity for students who do not meet the minimum entry requirements for a degree but still wish to pursue a career in teaching.

This qualification is designed to equip students with foundational skills, making it easier for them to transition into a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET) Teaching.

• Qualification Stream: Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching
• Qualification Code: 90093 – SPF
• NQF Level: 5
• Total Credits: 120
• SAQA ID: 101813
• APS/AS: 18

This Higher Certificate in Education is the only certificate that directly articulates into the UNISA Bachelor of Education Senior Phase and FET qualification. It provides students with essential skills to thrive in an Open Distance Learning (ODeL) environment and prepares them for undergraduate degree or diploma studies.

The main objective of this qualification is to offer students an alternative pathway into higher education by providing them with essential academic, language, and teaching skills. This is particularly beneficial for students who did not initially qualify for a Bachelor of Education due to entry requirements. By enrolling in this programme, students will gain:

• Basic language and learning skills
• Information management skills
• Teaching methodologies
• Subject-specific knowledge in selected fields

This qualification is delivered through both online learning and distance education, allowing students flexibility in managing their studies alongside personal and professional commitments.

• New Applicants: Students who have received and accepted an offer from UNISA can register for this programme.
• Re-registering Students: Existing students can register for the 2025 academic year once the registration period opens.
• If you wish to start a new qualification, you must apply for an alternative qualification within the prescribed application period.

Each UNISA qualification is structured in a way that requires students to complete a certain number of NQF level credits within a specific period. This ensures timely graduation and progression to higher qualifications.

• Co-requisite: If Module A is a co-requisite for Module B, both must be registered for at the same time.
• Pre-requisite: If Module A is a pre-requisite for Module B, you must pass Module A before enrolling in Module B.

• 60 credits per semester
• 120 credits per academic year

(Supplementary or aegrotat examinations from a previous semester do not count towards the maximum credits.)

Time Commitment

• Semester Modules: 6-8 hours per week
• Year Modules: 4-6 hours per week

When selecting modules, ensure you note down their names and codes for easy reference during registration.

These foundational modules must be completed by all students:

1. AFL1501 – Language Through an African Lens
2. BPT1501 – Being a Professional Teacher
3. CAD1501 – Child and Adolescent Development
4. DPP1501 – Diversity, Pedagogy and Practice
5. EST1501 – Academic Proficiency in English for Student Teachers
6. EUP1501 – Ethical Information and Communication Technologies for Development Solutions
7. INS1502 – Developing Information Skills for Lifelong Learning
8. PSC1501 – Practical Science for the Classroom

Students must choose two modules from one subject field for specialization:

1. Guidance and Life Skills Field:
   • GCS1501 – Guidance, Counselling and Life Skills Development
   • IED1501 – Introduction to Environmental Education
2. Science Education Field:
   • SCC1501 – Science for the Classroom 1
   • SCC1502 – Science for the Classroom 2
3. Technology Education Field:
   • TEC1501 – Technology 1 for the Classroom
   • TEC1502 – Technology 2 for the Classroom

Graduates of the Higher Certificate in Education can pursue further studies in Bachelor of Education programmes or seek employment in roles such as:

• Teaching assistants
• Tutor roles in private institutions
• Community education facilitators
• Training and developmenbt facilitators

The UNISA Higher Certificate in Education is a stepping stone for aspiring educators who wish to advance in the field of teaching. Whether you aim to pursue a BEd degree or enhance your teaching skills, this qualification equips you with the knowledge and competencies needed to succeed in the education sector.