In the evolving landscape of South African higher education, the Open Learning Group (OLG) has established itself as a prominent private institution dedicated to accessible, career-focused learning. Specialising in distance, online, and part-time qualifications, OLG caters to working professionals, school-leavers, and anyone seeking flexible study options without sacrificing academic quality or industry relevance. Navigating the offerings and processes of such an institution requires clear, structured information.
This comprehensive guide provides a detailed breakdown of OLG’s academic portfolio across its faculties, the associated fee structures, specific admission requirements, the step-by-step online application process, national campus network, and essential contact details. It is designed to equip prospective students with all the practical information needed to make an informed decision and commence their educational journey.
Open Learning Group – Courses, Fees, Requirements, Online Application, Campuses, Contacts: A Complete Practical Guide
Academic Structure and Course Offerings
OLG organises its qualifications under distinct faculties, each targeting key economic sectors. Their model emphasises flexibility, allowing students to study via supported distance learning with online resources, or through blended learning at selected campuses.
Faculty of Business and Management:
Courses: This faculty offers a range of qualifications including Higher Certificates in Business Principles and Practice, Diplomas in Management, Retail Management, and Human Resource Management, a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Business Management, and an Advanced Diploma in Management.
* Focus: Programmes are designed to develop practical skills in leadership, operations, strategy, and people management, aligning with the needs of both corporate and entrepreneurial environments.
* Faculty of Information Technology and Digital Innovation:
* Courses: Qualifications include Higher Certificates in IT in Systems Development and Network Management, Diplomas in IT (specialising in Software Development or Network Management), and a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.
* Focus: Curricula are built around current industry demands, covering programming, networking, cybersecurity, and data management to prepare students for the dynamic tech sector.
Faculty of Education:
* Courses: OLG provides a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R-3), a Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Development, and a Diploma in Grade R Teaching.
* Focus: These programmes combine pedagogical theory with practical teaching competency, aiming to produce qualified, reflective educators for the critical early childhood and foundation phase sectors.
Faculty of Law and Criminal Justice:
* Courses: This faculty offers a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, a Diploma in Policing, and a Higher Certificate in Paralegal Studies.
* Focus: Courses are tailored for careers within the justice system, law enforcement, and legal support services, covering criminal law, forensic procedures, and constitutional principles.
Faculty of Healthcare and Social Services:
* Courses: Qualifications include a Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work, a Diploma in Child and Youth Care, and a Diploma in Welfare and Community Development.
* Focus: Programmes are practice-oriented, equipping students with the skills to provide support, advocacy, and care in various community and social work contexts.
Understanding the Fee Structure
OLG’s fees are structured on a modular or per-subject basis for most programmes, which is a key feature of its flexible study model. This allows students to manage costs by registering for fewer modules in a given semester.
* Fee Range (Current Estimates):
* Higher Certificates: Total programme fees typically range from R 25,000 to R 40,000.
* Diplomas: Total programme fees generally fall between R 45,000 and R 70,000.
* Bachelor’s Degrees: The total cost for a full degree can range from approximately R 85,000 to R 120,000, depending on the qualification.
* Module-Based Cost: A typical individual module may cost between R 3,500 and R 6,500.
Important Financial Notes:
* Fees are subject to annual increases and vary slightly between qualifications. The most accurate quote is obtained directly from OLG.
* The fee usually includes core prescribed digital learning materials (e-books, study guides) accessible via the online student portal.
* Additional costs may include optional printed textbooks, examination venue fees (for distance students), and re-registration fees for outstanding modules.
General Admission Requirements
Admission is based on a combination of academic history and, for some programmes, relevant work experience. The National Senior Certificate (NSC) is the baseline requirement.
Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 30% in the language of teaching and learning (English), or a Senior Certificate (SC). Alternative qualifications like the National Certificate (Vocational) are also considered with specific level 4 achievements.
Bachelor’s Degrees: An NSC with a minimum of 30% in the language of teaching and learning, coupled with specific subject and achievement level requirements. For example, a BCom may require Maths or Maths Literacy at a specified level. A minimum Admission Point Score (APS) is applied.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): OLG has an RPL policy for applicants who do not meet the standard academic requirements but possess relevant work experience and informal learning. This involves a formal portfolio of evidence assessment.
International Students: Applicants with foreign qualifications must have their certificates evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and may need to prove English proficiency.
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
OLG operates a streamlined online application system via its website, designed for efficiency and accessibility.
1. Research and Choose:
Visit the OLG website and navigate to the ‘Qualifications’ section. Select the programme that aligns with your career goals and carefully review its fact sheet for details on subjects, fees, and requirements.
2. Begin Application:
Click the ‘Apply Now’ button on the programme page. You will be redirected to the online application portal.
3. Create an Account:
Register by providing a valid email address and creating a password. This will give you access to the application dashboard.
4. Complete the Form:
Fill in all required biographical, demographic, and academic history fields accurately. You will need your ID number and details of your highest school and/or tertiary qualifications.
5. Upload Documents:
Submit certified electronic copies of the following:
* South African ID document (or passport for international applicants).
* Latest academic certificate(s) and full transcript of results.
* A completed and signed OLG application form (downloadable from the portal).
* Any other programme-specific documents (e.g., CV for RPL applications).
6. Submit and Pay:
Review your application thoroughly. A non-refundable application fee (approximately R 300 – R 500) is payable online via credit card or instant EFT to finalise submission.
7. Follow Up:
Monitor your application status via your online dashboard and your email for communication from OLG’s admissions team regarding acceptance, conditional offers, or requests for further information.
National Campuses and Support Centres
While OLG is a distance learning specialist, it maintains physical support centres to assist students with administrative services, academic advice, and examination facilitation.
Main Campuses & Offices:
* Head Office & Johannesburg Support Centre: Located in Midrand, Gauteng. This is the central administrative hub.
* Pretoria Support Centre: Situated in the Brooklyn area, serving students in the capital city and surrounds.
* Durban Support Centre: Based in Umhlanga, providing services to KwaZulu-Natal students.
* Cape Town Support Centre: Located in the city bowl, assisting students in the Western Cape.
* Polokwane Support Centre: Serving the Limpopo province region.
* Nelspruit (Mbombela) Support Centre: Assisting students in Mpumalanga.
* Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) Support Centre: Providing services in the Eastern Cape.
Essential Contact Information
For inquiries and support, the following channels are available.
* General Enquiries: 087 354 1992
* Email: info@olg.co.za
* Website: www.olg.co.za
* Physical Address (Head Office): OLG House, 170 Maxwell Drive, Vorna Valley, Midrand, 1682.
*Social Media: Active profiles on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for updates and community engagement.
Prospective students are strongly advised to use the contact details above to request the most current prospectus and programme-specific fee schedules. Engaging with an OLG student advisor can provide clarity on the best study path, financing options (including available payment plans and NSFAS accreditation where applicable), and the realistic workload of balancing study with other commitments. Taking these steps ensures a smooth transition into a flexible learning environment tailored for success.