Pursuing a career in teaching can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a Diploma in Teaching that provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective teachers.
One of the most common questions prospective students ask is how long it takes to complete the diploma.
How Long Is a Diploma in Teaching?
The Diploma in Teaching at UNISA is a 360-credit qualification that can be completed in a minimum of three years. The programme is structured into three levels, each consisting of 120 credits.
Students are required to complete a total of 12 modules, including six compulsory modules and six elective modules.
The programme is designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete it at their own pace. However, students are expected to complete a minimum of 60 credits per year.
This means that students can complete the diploma in three years by completing 120 credits per year.
Teaching Specializations
The Diploma in Teaching at UNISA offers several teaching specializations that students can choose from. These specializations include:
- Foundation Phase Teaching (Grade R-3)
- Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grade 4-6)
- Senior Phase Teaching (Grade 7-9)
- Further Education and Training Phase Teaching (Grade 10-12)
Each specialization has its own set of compulsory and elective modules. Students are required to choose a specialization at the beginning of their studies and complete the required modules for that specialization.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the Diploma in Teaching at UNISA, students must meet the following requirements:
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor’s pass
- A minimum of 50% in the language of teaching and learning
- A minimum of 40% in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- A minimum of 40% in the subject(s) to be taught
Students who do not meet the admission requirements may be considered for admission through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process.
Assessment and Examination
The Diploma in Teaching at UNISA is assessed through a combination of assignments, examinations, and practical teaching experience.
Students are required to complete a teaching practice module in their final year of study, which provides them with hands-on experience in a real classroom setting.
Examinations are written at the end of each semester, and students are required to pass a minimum of 50% of the modules to progress to the next level of study.
Career Opportunities
The Diploma in Teaching at UNISA provides students with a range of career opportunities in education.
Graduates can work as teachers in public or private schools, or pursue careers in education management, education policy development, or education research.
In addition, the diploma provides a foundation for further study, and graduates can pursue a Bachelor of Education degree or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.