Pursuing a career in teaching can be a highly rewarding experience, offering the opportunity to shape young minds and inspire future generations.
If you’re considering a career in teaching and are interested in studying through the University of South Africa (UNISA), you may be wondering how many points are required for admission.
UNISA Teaching Admission Requirements
To be eligible for a teaching qualification at UNISA, you’ll need to meet the university’s admission requirements. These requirements vary depending on the qualification you’re applying for and your prior educational experience.
For example, if you’re applying for a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree, you’ll typically need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 30% in the language of teaching and learning, as well as a minimum of 40% in four other subjects. In terms of points, this translates to a minimum Admission Point Score (APS) of 24.
It’s essential to note that meeting the minimum admission requirements doesn’t guarantee acceptance into your chosen qualification.
The university may also consider other factors, such as your academic performance, work experience, and personal statement.
Teaching Qualifications Offered at UNISA
UNISA offers a range of teaching qualifications, from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate diplomas and certificates. Some of the most popular teaching qualifications offered at UNISA include:
The Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree is a popular choice among prospective teachers, offering specializations in areas such as Foundation Phase Teaching, Intermediate Phase Teaching, and Senior Phase Teaching.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to pursue a teaching qualification.
The Master of Education (MEd) degree is a postgraduate qualification that offers advanced training in education, with specializations in areas such as Curriculum Studies, Education Management, and Inclusive Education.
Calculating Your Admission Point Score (APS)
To determine your eligibility for a teaching qualification at UNISA, you’ll need to calculate your Admission Point Score (APS). The APS is a score that’s calculated based on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results.
The APS calculation takes into account your performance in seven subjects, including the language of teaching and learning. Each subject is allocated a points value, ranging from 1 to 7, depending on your percentage score.
For example, if you achieved a percentage score of 80% in a subject, you’d be allocated 7 points for that subject. If you achieved a percentage score of 40%, you’d be allocated 3 points.
Once you’ve calculated your APS, you can use the UNISA website’s APS calculator to determine your eligibility for a specific qualification.
Additional Requirements for Teaching Qualifications
In addition to meeting the admission requirements and calculating your APS, you may also need to meet other requirements for your chosen teaching qualification. These requirements may include:
A valid matriculation exemption certificate is required for all UNISA qualifications.
A minimum level of proficiency in the language of teaching and learning is required for all teaching qualifications.
A police clearance certificate may be required for certain teaching qualifications, particularly those that involve working with children.
A medical certificate may be required for certain teaching qualifications, particularly those that involve working with children or individuals with special needs.
The Application and Registration Process at UNISA
Once you’ve met the admission requirements and calculated your APS, you can proceed with the application and registration process. This process typically involves:
Submitting an online application through the UNISA website is the first step in the application process.
Uploading required documents, such as your ID, matric certificate, and academic transcripts, is an essential part of the application process.
Paying the application fee is required to complete the application process.
Registering for your modules and paying the relevant fees is the final step in the registration process.