University of South Africa (UNISA)
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is Africa’s largest open distance learning institution, providing flexible and accessible education to students both in South Africa and internationally. Known for its unique distance education model, UNISA plays a critical role in making higher education more inclusive and widely available.
Brief History
Founded: in 1873 as the University of the Cape of Good Hope.
Renamed: In 1916, the institution was renamed the **University of South Africa**.
Distance Education Pioneer In 1946, UNISA transitioned into a distance education university, pioneering online and correspondence education on the African continent.
Global Reach: Today, UNISA serves more than 400,000 students from across South Africa and the world, making it one of the largest universities globally.
UNISA’s educational model allows students to study from anywhere, enabling those who are working, live far from campus, or have other commitments to pursue higher education.
Programs Offered
UNISA offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs through its nine colleges, which cater to different fields of study:
1. College of Accounting Sciences
- Financial Accounting
- Taxation
- Auditing
- Management Accounting
2. College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
- Animal Health
- Horticulture
- Environmental Management
3. College of Economic and Management Sciences
- Business Management
- Economics
- Marketing
- Human Resource Management
4. College of Education
- Foundation Phase Teaching
- Intermediate and Senior Phase Teaching
- Educational Leadership and Management
5. College of Graduate Studies
- Advanced research programs across disciplines
6. College of Human Sciences
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Languages
- Political Science
7. College of Law
- Criminal Law
- Constitutional Law
- Commercial Law
8. College of Science, Engineering and Technology
- Information Technology
- Mathematics
- Engineering
9. College of Graduate Studies
- Multidisciplinary research and PhD programs
In addition, UNISA provides various diplomas, certificates, and short learning programs, offering a wide variety of academic and vocational training.
Steps to Apply
1. Check Admission Requirements
Review the general and program-specific admission requirements for the course you wish to apply for. For undergraduate programs, you will need a **National Senior Certificate (NSC)** or an equivalent qualification.
2. Online Application
- Go to the UNISA website and click on the Apply for Admission link.
- Create a profile on the myUNISA portal to begin your application process.
3. Complete the Application Form
Fill in the necessary details, including your personal information, academic history, and the qualifications you are applying for. You can apply for more than one program.
4. Submit Supporting Documents
Upload the required documents, which include your identity document, certified copies of your academic transcripts, and other relevant documents (like work experience details if required).
5. Pay the Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee must be paid. Details for the payment will be available on the UNISA portal.
6. Track Your Application
After submitting your application, you can track the status of your application through the myUNISA portal.
7. Acceptance and Registration
If your application is accepted, you will receive an official offer. Follow the registration instructions to confirm your place and begin your studies.
UNISA’s application dates are specific to different programs, so it’s important to stay updated by regularly checking their official website for announcements.