UNISA Law Courses 2025 Fees And Requirements

Studying law at UNISA could be one of the best decisions of your life. This is one of the oldest, and also largest universities in the country. The University of South Africa is not just a trusted citadel of learning, it is also the place where a great number of practicing lawyers got their education. 

From Higher Certificate courses to Bachelor Degree courses, to Advanced Diplomas, there are several options for you to choose from, depending on your ability to meet their requirements, as well as your personal circumstances.

The following paragraphs contain information about the various LLB law courses available at the University of South Africa, as well as basic information about them.

UNISA Law Courses

UNISA’s Law Qualifications In 2025

UNISA offers several law-related programs, ranging from entry-level certificates to a full LLB degree. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

1. Higher Certificate in Law (Qualification Code: 98751)

The Higher Certificate in Law is a bridging qualification designed for students who do not meet direct entry requirements for a law degree. It provides foundational legal knowledge and academic literacy.

Duration: 1 year (full-time), up to 3 years part-time

NQF Level: 5 (120 credits)

Admission Requirements:

National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching, or

Senior Certificate (SC) with a minimum of F on Higher Grade (HG) or E on Standard Grade (SG), or

National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 with 40% in English

Estimated Tuition Fees:

R4,000–R6,000 per semester, depending on the number of modules registered.

You may expect to pay R8,000–R12,000 per year in total.

Who Should Apply?

This is ideal for:

Matriculants with lower scores

Working professionals transitioning into law

Those unsure of committing to a full degree

Graduates may articulate into the Diploma in Law or LLB, depending on performance.

2. Diploma In Law (Qualification Code: 98750)

This three-year program prepares students for roles in legal support, law enforcement, administration, and paralegal services.

Duration: 3 years (full-time)

NQF Level: 6 (360 credits)

Admission Requirements:

NSC with Diploma endorsement and 50% in English, or

SC with a D on HG or C on SG, or

Completion of the Higher Certificate in Law

Estimated Tuition Fees:

About R6,000–R8,000 per semester

Total per year: R12,000–R16,000

Full cost: Approximately R36,000–R48,000 over 3 years

Notable Modules:

Introduction to Law

Law of Persons

Criminal and Civil Procedure

Legal Research and Writing

Paralegal Practice

Career Paths:

Legal secretary or assistant

Court clerk

Paralegal officer

Compliance assistant

Further Study:

Graduates may apply for admission into the LLB program.

3. Bachelor of Laws – LLB (Qualification Code: 98680)

The LLB is the cornerstone qualification for becoming an attorney or advocate in South Africa. It also opens doors for careers in public administration, corporate law, human rights advocacy, and academia.

Duration: 4–6 years (part-time study possible)

NQF Level: 8 (480 credits)

Admission Requirements:

NSC with Bachelor’s degree endorsement, including 60%+ in English, or

Relevant diploma or higher certificate with good academic standing

Tuition Costs:

Around R7,000–R9,000 per semester

Yearly estimate: R14,000–R18,000

Total program cost: Roughly R56,000–R72,000 (depending on pace and module choices)

Compulsory Modules (37 total):

Constitutional Law

Criminal Law

Civil Procedure

Law of Evidence

Legal Interpretation

Administrative Law

Elective Modules (3 required):

Environmental Law

Media Law

International Human Rights

Refugee Law

Legal Careers:

After graduation, you may:

Serve as a candidate attorney

Apply to the Legal Practice Council (LPC)

Serve as a prosecutor or public defender

Pursue postgraduate studies, such as LLM

UNISA Law Courses: Fees And Module Costs Explained

UNISA fees are calculated per module, with most undergraduate modules costing between R850 and R1,700. The total fee depends on how many modules you take per semester. Students typically register for 4–6 modules per semester.

Additional Costs:

Prescribed Textbooks: May add R500–R3,000 per semester, depending on course

Registration Fee: A once-off non-refundable fee (approx. R135)

Technology Access: Students need reliable internet and a computer for online learning

UNISA also allows payment plans and offers NSFAS funding for eligible students.

Applying to UNISA Law Programs in 2025

Applications to UNISA are online only. Follow these steps:

Visit the UNISA application portal

Choose your qualification (e.g., Higher Certificate in Law, LLB)

Upload certified documents:

South African ID or passport

Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate

Academic transcripts (if applicable)

Pay the application fee

Wait for the admission decision (may take several weeks)

UNISA has two application windows:

For Semester 1 (Jan–June): Apply between August and November

For Semester 2 (July–Dec): Apply between April and May

Study Support and Resources for UNISA Law Students

UNISA understands that distance learning can feel isolating. That’s why it offers extensive support:

MyUNISA Platform: Digital access to course materials, tutor communication, and assignment submissions

e-Tutors: Online academic tutors for each module

UNISA Library: Massive digital and physical law library, with courier book services

Regional Learning Centres: Access points across provinces with study spaces and academic help

Can International Students Apply?

Yes, UNISA accepts international students! However, you must:

Meet equivalent academic entry requirements

Have proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS if needed)

Pay international tuition rates, which are 10–15% higher

All study is still conducted online or via post, unless specified otherwise.

Common Questions About Studying Law At UNISA

Is UNISA’s LLB Accredited?

Yes. The LLB is fully accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and recognized by the Legal Practice Council (LPC).

Can I Practice Law With A UNISA LLB?

Absolutely. After completing the LLB, you must:

Do articles of clerkship or serve pupilage

Pass the LPC Board Exams

Be admitted by the High Court

Can I Study While Working?

Yes. UNISA’s model supports working professionals, offering flexibility with part-time schedules and asynchronous content.

UNISA Law Alumni: Real Impact in South Africa

UNISA’s law graduates are found across South Africa’s legal landscape—from small town magistrates to Constitutional Court legal clerks. Many former students praise the discipline and self-motivation fostered by distance learning, which prepares them for the real-world pressures of legal work.

Notable UNISA alumni include:

Former public defenders

Corporate legal advisors

NGO legal researchers

Graduates who progressed to top LLM programs at Wits, UCT, and abroad

Why Study Law At UNISA?

UNISA’s College of Law is highly respected for its academic rigor and flexible distance learning model. With over a century of experience, UNISA has helped thousands of students pursue legal careers, especially those who might not have access to traditional, campus-based universities.

Benefits Of Studying Law At UNISA:

Accessibility: Learn from anywhere in South Africa or abroad.

Affordability: Lower tuition fees compared to full-time universities.

Career Flexibility: Start with a certificate or diploma and work your way up to a full LLB degree.

Accreditation: All qualifications meet the standards set by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Related:

Summary

UNISA law courses are actually quite affordable and accommodating. For one thing many of these courses can be done while also occupied with work; and the fee structures are also quite favorable. This institution has been a pillar of the legal profession in South Africa over the years; producing many capable lawyers.