Whether you’re a recent matriculant, a working professional looking to upskill, or a public servant aiming to serve your community more effectively, the College of Human Sciences at UNISA offers a wide range of qualifications tailored to your ambitions. But with so many choices-from African Languages and Psychology to Social Work and Politics-it can feel overwhelming.
This guide will walk you through the qualifications, entry requirements, and career prospects for UNISA’s Human Sciences programmes. You’ll also learn how to make smart application choices, understand the NQF levels, and avoid common mistakes South African students make when choosing a course.
Understanding Human Sciences at UNISA
What Are Human Sciences?
Human Sciences explore how people think, behave, communicate, and interact within societies. At UNISA, this faculty includes fields such as:
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Languages and Linguistics
- Politics and International Relations
- Archives and Records Management
- Community Development
- Anthropology and Sociology
These programmes combine theory with practical application, equipping you to solve real-world social challenges.
Step-by-Step: How to Choose the Right Human Sciences Qualification
Step 1: Understand ODeL and Whether UNISA Suits You
UNISA is a distance learning university (Open Distance e-Learning or ODeL), ideal for:
- Working students
- Stay-at-home parents
- Students in rural provinces
- Learners with part-time commitments
Pro Tip: Make sure you have consistent internet access and time management skills, as ODeL requires a lot of self-discipline.
Step 2: Match Your Interests to a Qualification
If you’re passionate about helping people or analysing society, fields like Social Work, Psychology, or Development Studies may be ideal.
UNISA Human Sciences Qualifications by NQF Level
Higher Certificates (NQF Level 5)
These one-year programmes are ideal if:
- You don’t meet the admission requirements for a degree
- You’re re-entering academic study after a long break
Examples:
- Higher Certificate in Archives and Records Management (98577)
- Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work (90011)
Entry Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Higher Certificate pass
- 30–40% in the language of teaching and learning (usually English)
Diplomas (NQF Level 6)
Example:
- Diploma in Public Relations (90077)
Entry Requirements:
- NSC with Diploma pass
- Language and specific subject requirements may apply
Bachelor’s Degrees (NQF Level 7)
UNISA offers over 100 Bachelor of Arts (BA) combinations within the Human Sciences stream.
Examples:
- BA in Psychology (90180)
- BA in Community Development (98618)
- BA in Creative Writing (99313)
- BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics (90079)
Entry Requirements:
- NSC with Bachelor’s pass
- Minimum of 50% in the language of learning and teaching
- Additional programme-specific requirements may apply
Tip: You can apply for two qualifications. If unsure, pair your preferred BA degree with a related Higher Certificate (e.g., BA Psychology + Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work).
Popular Human Sciences Degrees and Career Paths
1. Bachelor of Social Work (90088)
Careers: Social worker, Child Protection Officer
Accreditation: South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP)
Minimum Requirements: NSC with a Bachelor’s pass; good academic standing
2. Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (90180)
Careers: Counsellor, HR assistant, mental health support roles
Next Steps: You’ll need postgraduate studies to register as a psychologist
3. BA in International Relations (99302)
Careers: Diplomat, policy advisor, NGO project officer
Suitable for: Students interested in global affairs and diplomacy
4. Bachelor of Information Science (90188)
Careers: Librarian, archivist, digital knowledge manager
Good fit for: Analytical students with a passion for managing information
5. Bachelor of Arts in Community Development (98618)
Careers: Development facilitator, municipal outreach officer
Ideal for: Public servants and NGO workers aiming to improve communities
Read more: How to Use the APS Calculator for 2026 Applications
Funding and Support Options
Can You Get NSFAS for Human Sciences?
Yes. NSFAS covers many UNISA qualifications if you meet the criteria:
- South African citizen
- Studying an approved qualification
- Household income under R350,000
Visit www.nsfas.org.za to apply for 2025 funding.
How to Apply for Human Sciences at UNISA (2025)
- Visit www.unisa.ac.za
- Register an account or log in via the myUnisa portal
- Upload documents: certified ID, results, proof of address
- Apply for up to two qualifications
- Track your application online
Application Tip: Apply early-space in popular programmes like Social Work is limited.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for a degree without checking subject requirements
- Missing the chance to apply for a Higher Certificate as a backup
- Assuming a Higher Certificate guarantees entry into a BA – it doesn’t
- Ignoring how self-discipline is essential for distance learning
Where to Get Help
- UNISA Student Enquiries Line: 0800 00 1870
- UNISA Ethics Hotline: 0800 075 278
- Email for Support: [email protected]
- Visit a UNISA campus: Pretoria Muckleneuk or Sunnyside, or regional offices across provinces
Also check: TUT Faculty of Arts and Design
Choosing a qualification in Human Sciences at UNISA can open doors to meaningful careers in government, NGOs, education, health, and corporate sectors. With a variety of entry points-from Higher Certificates to full BA degrees-there’s something for every South African learner, no matter where you’re starting from.
Ready to take the first step?
Explore courses and start your application at www.unisa.ac.za.
Disclaimer: Admission requirements and course availability are subject to change. Always refer to the latest UNISA prospectus or contact the university directly for the most accurate information.
