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).
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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.