UNISA Courses 2027: Popular Undergraduate Degrees & Diplomas

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a leading provider of distance education, offering a wide array of undergraduate qualifications for students across the country. If you are planning to further your education in 2027, understanding the popular UNISA courses and application process is essential. This article provides a guide to some of the most sought-after UNISA programmes and crucial information for your application to secure a spot for distance learning.

Popular UNISA Undergraduate Courses for 2027

UNISA offers a diverse range of Higher Certificates, Diplomas, and Bachelor's Degrees. Here are some of the popular choices for the 2027 academic year, preparing students for various career paths:

Bachelor's Degrees at UNISA

• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences: This degree is compulsory for individuals aspiring to become Chartered Accountants. It provides a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices, a key offering among UNISA courses.
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): The BCom programme offers various specializations to prepare students for the corporate world, banking, or government finance roles. Popular areas include Financial Management, Marketing Management, Human Resource Management, and Industrial and Organisational Psychology.
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB): A highly accessible degree, the LLB at UNISA has an Admission Point Score (APS) of 20 and has trained many of South Africa's legal professionals. The programme consists of 40 modules (37 compulsory, 3 optional), totaling 480 credits, and typically takes a minimum of four years to complete.
• Bachelor of Education (BEd): As a major provider of teacher education, UNISA offers BEd degrees for different teaching phases, including Foundation, Intermediate, Senior, and Further Education and Training (FET). An APS of 20 is generally required for the Bachelor of Education (Intermediate and Senior Phase).
• Bachelor of Science in Computing: This degree offers a strong foundation in computer science principles and typically requires an APS of 20. It prepares students for careers in the rapidly evolving technology sector.
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology: This programme aims to develop mental health professionals and researchers. Students gain an understanding of human development, behaviour, and mental health services. An APS of 20 is required for the BA Psychology and Philosophy stream.
• Bachelor of Social Work: This is a four-year professional degree that is required for individuals to register as a Social Worker in South Africa.

UNISA Diplomas and Higher Certificates

• Diploma in Safety Management: This diploma is popular for those seeking careers in specific industries, such as mining and factories, focusing on workplace safety protocols.
• Higher Certificate in Law: Requiring an APS of 17, this certificate serves as a bridging mechanism for students who may not initially meet the direct admission requirements for a Bachelor's Degree.

UNISA Application Dates for 2027

It is crucial to be aware of the application period for the 2027 academic year. The undergraduate application period for UNISA courses is expected to open on 18 August 2026 and will close on 10 October 2026. Please note that UNISA does not accept late applications, so ensure you apply within this timeframe to secure your place in distance learning.

General UNISA Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission at UNISA, applicants must meet specific requirements:

• For Bachelor's Degrees, you generally need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor's endorsement.
• For Diplomas, an NSC with a Diploma endorsement is required.
• For Higher Certificates, an NSC with a Higher Certificate endorsement is needed.
• Many degrees, such as the LLB, require a minimum of Level 4 (50-59%) in English (Home Language or First Additional Language).

Meeting the minimum UNISA admission requirements does not guarantee admission. Acceptance also depends on the availability of space and other course-specific criteria. For the most accurate and up-to-date details on UNISA courses, consult UNISA's 2027 Prospectus, which is an online database providing real-time information on qualifications, admission requirements, APS/AS scores, and module details.

How to Apply for UNISA Courses Online

The application process for UNISA is mainly online. Here are the steps and required documents for your 2027 application:

• The application fee for online UNISA applications is R150.
• You will need certified copies (not older than six months) of the following documents:
  • Your South African ID or passport.
  • Your Matric/NSC results or equivalent qualification.
  • Academic transcripts if you have studied at another institution previously.
• If you have international qualifications, these will require an evaluation from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Important UNISA Links and Resources

For official information and to begin your UNISA application, use the following links:

• UNISA Official Website: https://www.unisa.ac.za/
• UNISA Apply for Admission: https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Apply-for-admission

Frequently Asked Questions About UNISA Courses

What are the most popular UNISA courses for 2027?

Some of the most popular UNISA undergraduate courses for 2027 include Bachelor of Accounting Sciences, Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Bachelor of Education (BEd), and Bachelor of Science in Computing, along with various Diplomas and Higher Certificates.

When do UNISA applications open for 2027?

The application period for UNISA undergraduate courses for the 2027 academic year is expected to open on 18 August 2026 and close on 10 October 2026. It's vital to apply within this timeframe as late applications are not accepted.

What are the general admission requirements for UNISA?

General UNISA admission requirements typically include a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with the appropriate endorsement (Bachelor's, Diploma, or Higher Certificate). Specific courses may also require a minimum English proficiency level and a certain Admission Point Score (APS).

Can I apply to UNISA if I don't meet direct degree admission requirements?

Yes, UNISA offers Higher Certificates, such as the Higher Certificate in Law, which can serve as a bridging mechanism. Successfully completing a Higher Certificate can allow students to meet the admission requirements for certain Bachelor's Degrees.

How much is the UNISA application fee for 2027?

The application fee for online UNISA applications for the 2027 academic year is R150. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid as part of the application process.

Conclusion

Applying to UNISA for 2027 opens doors to quality distance education across various fields. By familiarising yourself with the popular UNISA courses, understanding the admission requirements, and adhering to the application deadlines, you can successfully embark on your academic journey. Remember to utilize the official UNISA online prospectus for the most current information and submit your UNISA application early to secure your spot.