UNISA Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences (98366) Qualification

UNISA Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences (98366) Qualification. The UNISA Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences is a stepping stone for students who wish to pursue higher education in life sciences, environmental studies, and related fields.

Offered by the University of South Africa (UNISA), this qualification equips learners with fundamental scientific knowledge and skills to prepare them for diploma and degree programs.

With a focus on scientific principles, concepts, and theories, this certificate helps students develop critical thinking and practical skills essential for higher education and the workplace. If you do not meet the entry requirements for diploma programs, this qualification provides the opportunity to bridge the gap and gain eligibility for further studies.

• Qualification Code: 98366
• NQF Level: 5
• Total Credits: 120
• SAQA ID: 110744
• APS/AS: 15

The Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences aims to:

• Provide students with introductory scientific knowledge applicable to life and environmental sciences.
• Develop cognitive, conceptual, and practical skills necessary for higher education studies.
• Enhance understanding of general scientific principles and their applications.
• Equip students with problem-solving and analytical skills essential for academic and professional growth.
• Offer a pathway for students to articulate into diplomas and degree programs, such as Bachelor of Consumer Sciences and BA in Environmental Management.

This Higher Certificate qualification is presented through online and distance learning, making it accessible to students across South Africa and beyond. The flexibility of e-learning allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.

• New applicants (including those applying for a new qualification) must have received an offer from UNISA and accepted it online.
• Re-registering students can register for the 2025 academic year once the registration period opens.
• If you wish to start a new qualification, you must apply online within the designated application period.

UNISA reserves the right to cancel registrations if a student was incorrectly admitted.

Each qualification at UNISA is structured based on National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level credits. You must complete a specified number of credits per semester or academic year to progress successfully.

• Co-requisite: If a module is a co-requisite for another, you must register for both simultaneously. Example: If Module A is a co-requisite for Module B, you cannot cancel Module A unless you also cancel Module B.
• Pre-requisite: You must pass a pre-requisite module before registering for the next-level module. Example: If Module A is a pre-requisite for Module B, you must pass Moduble A before enrolling in Module B.
• Maximum Credits Per Semester/Year:
  • 60 credits per semester
  • 120 credits per academic year

Additional credits from supplementary or aegrotat exams do not count towards the maximum credit limit.

Time Commitment Per Module

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

Managing your time effectively is crucial for academic success.

When registering, note down the module names and codes to ensure a smooth process.

1. BLG1501 – Basic Biology
2. BNU1501 – Basic Numeracy
3. CSP1501 – Introduction to Applied Sciences
4. ENG1503 – Academic Language and Literacy in English (Students who passed ENN103F do not need to register for ENG1503)
5. ENL1501 – Environmental Literacy
6. EUP1501 – Ethical Information and Communication Technologies for Development Solutions
7. GEL1503 – Fundamentals of Earth Sciences
8. GGH1502 – World Issues: A Geographical Perspective
9. INS1502 – Developing Information Skills for Lifelong Learning
10. QMI1500 – Elementary Quantitative Methods

Note: Students who have already passed PTP1501 do not need to register for BLG1501.

With distance and online learning, you can study from anywhere while balancing work and personal commitments.

After completing this qualification, students can articulate into higher qualifications like:

• Diploma programs
• Bachelor of Consumer Sciences
• Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Management

Gain foundational knowledge in biology, environmental sciences, numeracy, and research skills, preparing you for higher education and future career opportunities.

UNISA provides cost-effective higher education opportunities for students across South Africa and beyond.

The Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences at UNISA is an excellent opportunity for students looking to gain fundamental scientific knowledge and build a strong academic foundation. Whether you aim to pursue a diploma or bachelor’s degree, this qualification will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.