PGCE Requirements At UNISA

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The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at University of South Africa is designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to become qualified teachers. It is one of the most popular teaching pathways in South Africa because it allows graduates from non-education fields to enter the teaching profession without completing a full Bachelor of Education degree.

The qualification mainly focuses on Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET) teaching, which generally covers Grades 7 to 12. Depending on the subject stream you choose, the admission requirements can differ slightly because UNISA requires applicants to have studied teachable school subjects during their undergraduate degree.

PGCE Requirements at University of South Africa

General PGCE Admission Requirements

To qualify for a PGCE at UNISA, you generally need:

  • An accredited Bachelor’s degree (360-credit or 480-credit qualification)
  • Appropriate school subjects completed during your degree
  • Sufficient subject specialization at second-year and third-year university level
  • An APS score that meets the qualification requirement (usually APS 50 for many PGCE streams)
  • Proficiency in the language of teaching and learning

UNISA states that students who do not meet the subject requirements may need to consider a Bachelor of Education instead.

Subject Requirements

One of the most important parts of PGCE admission is having “teachable subjects” in your degree.

For example:

  • If you want to teach English, you usually need English studied up to third-year level.
  • If you want to teach Mathematics or Physical Sciences, you need strong university-level maths and science subjects.
  • If you want to teach History or Geography, those subjects must appear in your undergraduate studies at the required level.

For the English and Social Sciences stream, UNISA requires:

  • English completed up to third-year level
    AND
  • History or Human Geography completed up to second-year level.

For Physical Sciences and Mathematics teaching, UNISA requires:

  • Physics and Chemistry (one to third-year level and the other to second-year level)
    AND
  • Mathematics up to second-year level.

Important Changes

UNISA notes that from 2026, certain National N Diplomas are no longer accepted for PGCE admission in many streams.

This means applicants should carefully check whether their qualification is recognized before applying.

Duration of the PGCE

The PGCE is usually completed:

  • In 1 year full-time
    or
  • Over 2 years part-time

UNISA allows a maximum completion period of about 3 years for many PGCE streams.

Teaching Practice Requirement

The qualification includes compulsory teaching practice where students work in real schools under supervision. This practical component is extremely important because it develops classroom management and teaching skills.

Teaching practice normally lasts several weeks and must be completed successfully before graduation.

Common PGCE Streams at UNISA

UNISA offers many PGCE specialization streams, including:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Physical Sciences
  • Business Studies
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • History
  • Life Sciences
  • Tourism
  • Consumer Studies
  • Languages
  • Mathematical Literacy
  • Accounting

The exact requirements vary depending on the stream chosen.

Application Process

To apply for the PGCE at UNISA, students generally need:

  • Certified ID copy or passport
  • Academic transcripts
  • Degree certificate
  • Proof of payment for the application fee
  • Proof of name change (if applicable)

Applications are submitted online through the official UNISA admissions portal.

How to Improve Your Chances of Acceptance

Here are some important tips:

  • Apply early because space can become limited.
  • Make sure your degree subjects align with school teaching subjects.
  • Check the exact admission requirements for your chosen stream before applying.
  • Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly.
  • Verify that your qualification is accredited and recognized by UNISA.

Some students discover too late that they do not have enough credits in teachable subjects, which can prevent admission into the PGCE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do a PGCE with any bachelor’s degree?

Not always. Your degree must contain appropriate school subjects studied to the required level. For example, a degree without teachable school subjects may not qualify.

Can I become a teacher with a PGCE?

Yes. The PGCE is a recognized professional teaching qualification in South Africa.

Does NSFAS fund PGCE studies?

Funding rules can change, so students should confirm directly with NSFAS and UNISA before applying.

Is the PGCE difficult?

The qualification can be demanding because it combines theory, assignments, and practical teaching experience. Good time management is important, especially for distance-learning students.

Can I study the PGCE online?

Yes. UNISA primarily uses distance learning and online support systems for PGCE students.

Keep In Mind

The PGCE at University of South Africa is one of the fastest and most respected routes into teaching for graduates who already hold a university degree. However, admission depends heavily on whether your undergraduate subjects match the teaching specialization you want to pursue.

Before applying, carefully review the subject-specific requirements for your intended teaching stream. Having the correct university-level subjects is often more important than your matric subjects when applying for postgraduate teaching qualifications.

For the latest admission updates and qualification details, always consult the official UNISA website directly.