UNISA Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work (90011) Qualification

UNISA Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work (90011) Qualification. Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you dream of working in the field of social work but want a practical, guided starting point? The UNISA Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work is your ideal first step toward becoming a professional in the social service sector.

This qualification is designed to provide you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to support social workers and contribute meaningfully to the development of individuals, families, and communities across South Africa.

Qualification Stream: Not Applicable
Qualification Code: 90011
NQF Level: 5
Total Credits: 120
SAQA ID: 93971
APS/AS Requirement: 15

The UNISA Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work is a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5 qualification that equips students with theoretical understanding and practical skills to serve as Social Auxiliary Workers.

This course is offered via distance and online learning, making it accessible to students throughout South Africa, including those in rural and underserved areas.

This course is ideal for:

• Individuals with a passion for community upliftment
• Matriculants or adult learners seeking entry-level roles in the social work field
• Those who aspire to work closely with qualified social workers in non-profit organisations, government departments, or community-based services

Before registration, applicants must:

• Be registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP)
• Complete Form 30 for the National Child Protection Register (NCPR)
• Submit police clearance and two character testimonials

Failure to meet these requirements will prevent registration.

The purpose of the Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work is to produce competent graduates who can:

• Assist professional social workers in executing social work duties
• Operate effectively in diverse and challenging environments
• Offer supportive services in various specialised fields, such as child protection, substance abuse recovery, family counselling, and elder care

Upon successful completion, graduates will be eligible to register as Social Auxiliary Workers with the SACSSP.

UNISA offers this qualification through a combination of online and distance learning, making it flexible and adaptable to your schedule. This format is particularly suitable for:

• Working individuals
• Parents and caregivers
• Students living in remote areas

However, students must ensure they have access to:

• A computer or laptop
• A printer
• Reliable internet connectivity

• New applicants must apply for admission and receive confirmation before registering.
• Re-registering students can sign up once the official 2025 registration period opens.
• Students should apply for new qualifications during the designated application period.

NOTE: Incorrect admission may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Each qualification at UNISA, including the Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work, is structured to ensure academic progression and skill development.

Maximum module load:

• 60 credits per semester
• 120 credits per academic year

Study Time Recommendations:

• 6 to 8 hours per week for semester modules
• 4 to 6 hours per week for year modules

• Co-requisite: Modules that must be taken together (e.g., SAW1501, SAW1503, SAW1504, SAW1506)
• Pre-requisite: A module that must be completed before advancing to another (e.g., SAW1501 must be passed before certain other modules)

First-level compulsory modules:

1. AFL1501 – Language Through an African Lens
2. APY1501 – Anthropology in a Diverse World
3. ENG1511 – English Proficiency for University Studies
4. INS1502 – Developing Information Skills for Lifelong Learning
5. SAW1501 – Introduction to Social Auxiliary Work (Co-requisite: SAW1503, SAW1504, SAW1506)
6. SAW1502 – Human Development and Fields of Practice in Social Auxiliary Work
7. SAW1503 – Social Auxiliary Work Practical Skills (Co-requisite: SAW1501, SAW1504, SAW1506)
8. SAW1504 – Integration of Theory and Practice (Co-requisite: SAW1501, SAW1503, SAW1506)
9. SAW1505 – Introduction to Social Welfare, Social Work and Social Auxiliary Work
10. SAW1506 – Introduction to Social Auxiliary Work to Social Work as a Profession (Co-requisite: SAW1501, SAW1503, SAW1504)

• UNISA is one of South Africa’s largest distance learning institutions, respected locally and internationally.
• The programme is accredited, recognised by SAQA and aligned with SACSSP requirements.
• Affordable tuition and flexible payment options make this qualification accessible to many.

Enrolling in the UNISA Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work opens doors to a meaningful and impactful career in social services. With this qualification, you’ll become an essential part of South Africa’s social development framework, helping individuals and communities thrive.