Higher certificates are university-level programmes that act as bridging programmes to help prepare students for the job market and undergraduate programmes. These programmes are offered in a wide variety of fields. They are aimed at students who pass the matric exams with a Diploma or Higher Certificate pass.
These programmes were introduced to motivate students to complete higher education. This, in turn, helps to improve employability and earning potential. It also allows students to gain a clearer understanding of the subject material and develop transferable skills. In this article, we cover where to study with a higher certificate, popular fields of study, admission requirements, and key benefits.
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Higher Certificate Programmes Overview
Students who complete an accredited higher certificate programme are awarded an NQF level 5 qualification. It can be used to gain employment. Many universities also allow students with this qualification to apply for undergraduate programmes.
For students questioning where to study with a Higher Certificate in South Africa, Regenesys Education offers various Higher Certificate programmes. This includes business management, public management, and information systems support programmes. Students who complete these programmes can choose to continue their education in the relevant field by applying for Bachelor’s degrees.
The table below lists some popular higher certificate programmes available in South Africa. It also shows the educational and job paths students can follow after completing the qualification:
| Higher Certificate Courses | Job Prospects | Educational Path |
| Higher Certificate in Business Management | Office Manager, Office Secretary, Administrative Assistant, Personal Assistant, Front Office Manager, Customer Relations Officer | Bachelor of Business Administration |
| Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences | Accounting Clerk, Accounts Officer, Data Entry | Bachelor of Accounting Science |
| Higher Certificate in Banking | Administrative Assistant, Credit Officer, Customer Service Representative, Banking Clerk | Bachelor of Business Administration in Banking |
| Higher Certificate in Public Management | Project Co-ordinator, Human Resource Assistant, Public Administrator, Administrative Assistant, Governance and Administration | Bachelor of Public Management |
| Higher Certificate in Tourism Management | Front Desk Tour Co-ordinator, Travel Consultant, Sales Executive, Event Co-ordinator | Bachelor of Hospitality Management |
| Higher Certificate in Information Systems Support | IT Support Technician, Helpdesk / Service-Desk Analyst, Desktop Support Technician, Technical Support Specialist, Field Service Technician, Junior Systems Administrator, Application Support Technician | Progress to a Diploma or a Bachelor’s in IT/Computer Science. Learners often take an advanced diploma or a bridging programme to enter a bachelor’s degree. |
Read more on What is a Higher Certificate? An Essential Guide to South African Qualifications.
What are Some Top Institutions Offering Higher Certificates in South Africa?
Higher Certificate qualifications are part of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and are integral to the South African education system. They aim to bridge inequality in education and help students clear foundational doubts. They also provide students with employable knowledge in a particular field.
The programmes are available in public universities and private institutions in South Africa. Some accredited institutes offer this programme as a 100% remote study option, allowing students to complete the qualification at their own pace.
The following are prominent institutes offering accredited higher certificate programmes:
Universities offering Higher Certificates
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Pretoria
- University of Mpumalanga
- University of Fort Hare
- University of Free State
- University of Cape Town
Private institutions providing Higher Certificates
- Regenesys
- Unisa
- Mancosa
- Damelin
- Rosebank
- Regent Business School
Read more on Higher Certificate Courses in South Africa: Everything You Need to Know.
What are the Admission Requirements for Higher Certificate Programmes?
Before finalising where to study with a higher certificate, students should ensure that they meet the admission requirements for the programme. One of the main requirements for admission is for students to pass the matric exam at the diploma or higher certificate level.
In addition to this, specific programmes might include further language, mathematical competency, or computer literacy requirements.
These are some higher certificate admission requirements.
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Diploma or Higher Certificate pass
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of teaching
- Senior Certificate (SC) with at least an F symbol on HG or an E symbol on SG in the language of teaching
- National Certificate (Vocational) 4 with at least 40% in the language of teaching
Read more on Higher Certificate Pass Requirements You Need To Know.
What are the Benefits of Studying for a Higher Certificate in South Africa?
The education system in South Africa is designed to offer everyone advanced learning opportunities. It allows them to gain educational and vocational qualifications beyond NQF level 4. Before students decide on where to study with a higher certificate or search for jobs, it is important to understand the benefits of this qualification.
The higher certificate allows students who do not receive a Bachelor Pass during the matric exams a chance to continue their education. It also helps them build foundational knowledge in a particular field and gain skills which can be used to apply for jobs or an undergraduate programme of their choice.
Here are some of the benefits of higher certificate programmes:
- Pathway to diploma and degree programmes
- Industry relevance and employability
- Cost-effective
- Short duration
- Recognition
- Accredited programmes
- Personal growth
- Flexible study options in South Africa
Factors to Consider When Choosing Where to Study a Higher Certificate
Higher Certificate programmes are recognised by the NQF and designed to meet the job-market needs of low-skilled profiles. However, it is still essential for students to choose a reputable institute, as this qualification can serve as a stepping stone towards higher education.
Students should select an institute that aligns with their study goals. If they wish to continue towards a Bachelor’s programme, it might be beneficial to apply to an institute that offers both qualifications. Choosing the same field ensures a smoother transition between the programmes.
Students should consider the following factors when deciding:
- Accreditation of the institution
- Curriculum
- Location
- Learning flexibility
- Student funding options
- Campus facilities
- Student support services
- Resources
Read more on What Can I Study in a Higher Certificate?
How To Apply For Higher Certificate Programmes In South Africa?
Before students can begin a higher certificate programme at a university or a private institution, they must check if they meet the higher certificate entry requirements. Next, they need to apply directly on the university website. Students need to check the higher certificate requirements and apply to individual programmes of study.
When students begin to research where to study with a higher certificate, they must note application deadlines. To be considered for admission, students must submit a completed application with the required documents before the deadline.
These are the steps in the application process for a higher certificate.
- Research institutions and programmes
- Check the admission requirements
- Prepare the required documents
- Certified copy of your ID or passport.
- Certified copy of your matric certificate
- Proof of address
- Any additional certificates or documents
- Complete the application form and attach the required documents on the institute website.
- Pay the application fee
- Submit your application
- Wait for acceptance
- Accept offer
- Register and pay the fees
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Conclusion
Higher Certificate qualifications in South Africa serve as a stepping stone for students who wish to improve their employability or pursue further studies. These programmes provide foundational knowledge in various fields and are designed to teach technical skills that align with industry needs. Before students finalise where to study a higher certificate, they must check whether they meet the admission requirements.
Graduates with a higher certificate qualification can enter the job market directly or continue their studies towards a degree programme, making them a versatile option. The NQF recognises higher certificate qualifications and helps bridge the gap for students who did not achieve a Bachelor’s pass in Matric.
Students interested in pursuing a higher certificate must check out the various programmes offered by Regenesys Education.
Contact us today to speak with a career adviser and learn more about the higher certificate programmes.
FAQs
What are some universities offering higher certificates?
Some public universities offering higher certificate qualifications include the University of Johannesburg, the University of Pretoria, and the University of Fort Hare.
What are some private institutions for higher certificates?
Regenesys Education, Unisa, and Regent Business School are some private institutes that offer higher certificate programmes.
What are the higher certificate admission requirements?
Most programmes require students to pass the matric exams with a diploma or higher certificate pass. Specific programmes may also have additional requirements, such as subject proficiency in math or languages.
What are some benefits of higher certificate qualifications?
Benefits include shorter study duration, industry relevance, and affordable cost. They also include flexible learning options and the potential to continue to a Bachelor’s degree or diploma programme.
Can I study a higher certificate online in South Africa?
Yes, many institutions, including Regenesys Education, offer higher certificate programmes online. This allows students to study remotely and at their own pace.
How long does it take to complete a Higher Certificate programme?
Higher Certificate programmes typically take one year to complete.
