University of South Africa (Unisa) follows an Open Distance e-learning (ODeL) model, allowing students to study from home without attending any in-person classes. In recent years, the university has also moved its examinations online.
As an ODeL institution, Unisa is an ideal choice for many individuals, regardless of their circumstances, work commitments, or lifestyle.
Obtain A Higher Certificate In Economic And Management Sciences
The Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences is a foundational qualification offered by Unisa. It is designed to prepare students for further studies in the fields of Economics, Business Management, and Accountancy.
This qualification is particularly suited for individuals who do not meet the minimum statutory or institutional admission requirements for diploma or degree programs in the Economic and Management Sciences.
The Higher Certificate is classified at NQF Level 5 and carries a total of 120 credits. Its SAQA ID is 90677, and it requires an Admission Points Score (APS) or Admission Score (AS) of 15.
The primary objective of this Higher Certificate is to introduce learners to the foundational concepts and principles within the disciplines of Economics, Business Management, and Accountancy.
Additionally, it aims to enhance learners' basic proficiency in English, computer literacy, and numeracy skills, which are essential for academic success in the Economic and Management Sciences. The qualification is delivered through both online and distance learning modes, providing flexibility for learners.
The course is structured in a manner that requires students to pass a specified number of NQF-level credits within a given timeframe to graduate. Students are advised to select their modules carefully, following a recommended structure to ensure a coherent progression through the course.
For the year-long modules, it is suggested that students enrol in ECS1500 (Introduction to Economics) and INF1505 (Information Literacy and Skills). In the first semester, students should consider taking BNU1501 (Introduction to Business Management), BSM1501 (Basic Accounting Principles), ENG1503 (Academic English), and FAC1501 (Financial Accounting Principles).
For the second semester, the recommended modules include CLA1501 (Commercial Law), QMI1500 (Quantitative Methods), FAC1502 (Advanced Financial Accounting Principles), and SUS1501 (Sustainability and Ethics).
It is important to note that throughout their studies, students will need access to a computer, a printer, and the internet. Additionally, several module changes have been implemented: CLA1501 has replaced ENG1512, INF1505 has replaced EUP1501, FAC1502 has replaced INM1501, and ENG1503 has replaced ENN103F.
Students who have already passed the previous modules will retain the credits and will not be required to complete the replacement modules.
Regarding registration, only applicants who have received an offer of placement from Unisa and have accepted the offer online are eligible to register. The university reserves the right to cancel registrations if a student was incorrectly admitted to the qualification.
Returning students who wish to continue their studies may register for the 2024 academic year once the registration period commences. Should a student wish to start a new qualification, they must apply online during the prescribed application period for an alternative qualification.
In terms of module selection, students must be mindful of core and prerequisite requirements. If Module A is a co-requisite for Module B, both modules must be registered simultaneously. If Module A is a prerequisite for Module B, it must be completed before registering for Module B.
Additionally, students are advised not to exceed the maximum allowable credits per academic year, which is 60 credits per semester or 120 credits per year. Students need to manage their time effectively, as semester modules typically require six to eight hours of study per week, while year modules demand four to six hours per week.
