If you’re passionate about teaching and hold a relevant undergraduate qualification, the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) offered by the University of South Africa (UNISA) can help you become a professional educator.
The PGCE program is specifically designed for individuals who wish to teach in South African schools and provides the necessary qualifications to register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
This program is tailored to prepare future educators to meet the demands of South Africa’s diverse education system.
The UNISA Postgraduate Certificate in Education [PGCE] program
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a professional teaching qualification that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to teach specific subjects in the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6), Senior Phase (Grades 7-9), or Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grades 10-12).
This qualification is designed for students with a bachelor’s degree, including school-related subjects. By completing the Postgraduate Certificate in Education [PCGE], you will gain the theoretical and practical expertise needed to manage a classroom, design lesson plans, and contribute effectively to South Africa’s education system.
Eligibility to apply for the UNISA Postgraduate Certificate in Education in 2025
To qualify for the UNISA Postgraduate Certificate in Education program, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification with sufficient credits in school-related subjects. Specifically, you must have:
- At least two school-related subjects in your undergraduate qualification.
- One teaching subject studied up to the third-year level and another to at least the second-year level.
- A minimum average of 55% in your teaching subjects.
Those applying for the Intermediate Phase Postgraduate Certificate in Education must have a strong foundation in specific subjects like Mathematics, Science, or an African language.
If you are unsure about the compatibility of your qualifications, UNISA’s admissions office can assess your transcript.
How do you apply for the UNISA Postgraduate Certificate in Education in 2025?
The application process for the 2025 Postgraduate Certificate in Education program is completed online through the UNISA application portal. Follow these steps to apply:
- Check the application dates: Applications for 2025 are expected to open in September and close in November. Confirm the exact dates on the UNISA website.
- Register on the myUNISA portal: First-time applicants must create an account to access the application platform.
- Complete the application form: Fill in your details, academic background, and desired Postgraduate Certificate in Education specialization.
- Submit required documents: Upload certified copies of your ID, academic transcripts, and other supporting documents.
- Pay the application fee: The non-refundable fee must be paid to finalize your application.
Once your application is submitted, you will receive a reference number, which you should keep for future correspondence.
Documents required for the UNISA PGCE application.
To apply for the PGCE, you need the following documents:
- A certified copy of your South African ID or passport (for international applicants).
- Certified copies of your degree certificate and academic transcripts.
- Proof of payment for the application fee.
Ensure your documents are clear and correctly certified, as incomplete applications may lead to delays or rejection.
Cost of the UNISA PGCE program
The fees for the PGCE program vary depending on the number of modules you register for. You can expect to pay between R3,000 and R6,000 per module. There are also additional costs for study materials, textbooks, and exam fees.
UNISA’s official website provides a detailed fee breakdown, which helps prospective students plan their finances.
Funding options for UNISA PGCE students
There are several funding options available for students pursuing a PGCE at UNISA. These include:
- NSFAS: The National Student Financial Aid Scheme provides financial assistance to students from low-income households who meet the eligibility criteria.
- Funza Lushaka Bursary: This bursary is specifically for students pursuing teaching qualifications and covers tuition, accommodation, and other expenses.
It’s important to apply for funding early to increase your chances of securing financial support.
What you do with a UNISA PGCE qualification
A PGCE qualification from UNISA allows you to teach in South African schools, depending on your chosen phase and subject specialization.
Beyond classroom teaching, the qualification can also open doors to careers in educational consultancy, curriculum development, and school administration.
Teaching offers a stable career path and the chance to impact learners’ lives significantly. With a UNISA PGCE, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of education in South Africa.