Psychology is one of the most sought-after fields of study at the University of South Africa (UNISA). As the country’s largest open distance learning institution, UNISA offers a flexible pathway into psychology for students who cannot attend traditional full-time classes. Whether you are just starting your journey with a Bachelor of Psychology or aiming for a Master’s degree, understanding the costs and admission requirements is essential for planning your studies.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of UNISA’s psychology programmes, including tuition fees, admission requirements, and registration deadlines for the current academic year.
UNISA Psychology Courses: Fees & Requirements
Psychology Programmes Offered at UNISA
UNISA offers psychology programmes at every level of higher education, from undergraduate degrees to doctoral studies. The main psychology qualifications include:
Bachelor of Psychology (BPsych): An undergraduate professional degree that prepares students for registration as Registered Counsellors with the HPCSA.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology: A general undergraduate degree that provides a foundation in psychological theory and research methods. Graduates can pursue Honours in Psychology, provided they meet the specific admission requirements.
Bachelor of Arts Honours in Psychology: A one-year postgraduate qualification that serves as a gateway to Master’s programmes. This is typically required for students who wish to specialise further.
Bachelor of Psychology Honours (BPsych Equivalent): An advanced professional qualification that builds on the BPsych degree and leads toward registration as a psychologist.
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MA Clin Psych): A professional Master’s degree that leads to registration as a Clinical Psychologist with the HPCSA. This is a highly competitive programme with limited spaces.
Master of Arts in Research Psychology (MA Research Psych): A Master’s degree focused on research methodologies and psychological assessment, leading to registration as a Research Psychologist.
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology: A professional Master’s degree leading to registration as a Counselling Psychologist.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology: A research-focused doctoral degree for those seeking academic or high-level research careers.
Summary of Fees by Qualification Level
The table below provides a consolidated overview of module fees for psychology courses at UNISA for the current academic year.
| Qualification Level | Module Type | Total Fee | Minimum Payment on Registration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Standard Module | R1,470 | R485 | Most psychology modules fall into this category |
| Undergraduate | Half Module | R735 | R245 | Fewer credits; less common in psychology |
| Undergraduate | Larger Module | R2,860 | R945 | Includes modules with additional practical components |
| Honours | Standard Module | R3,275 | R1,080 | Coursework modules |
| Honours | Dissertation/Paper | R6,440 | R2,125 | Research component of Honours degree |
| Master’s | Coursework Module | R3,060 | R1,010 | Master’s‑level taught modules |
| Master’s | Dissertation/Paper | R6,115 | R2,020 | Master’s research component |
Additional fees to budget for:
– Application Fee: R150 (non-refundable), payable when submitting your application
– Prescribed Textbooks: Costs vary by module; students purchase their own materials
– Electronic Device and Internet Access: As an ODeL (Open Distance e-Learning) institution, UNISA requires reliable internet access and a computer or mobile device
– HPCSA Registration Fees: For professional programmes leading to psychologist or counsellor registration
Admission Requirements by Qualification Level
Undergraduate Psychology Programmes (BPsych & BA in Psychology)
Admission requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent school-leaving qualification. UNISA is known for flexible admission requirements, making higher education accessible to a broader range of students. However, competitive programmes like psychology may have higher demand and require better academic results.
Documents Required:
– Certified copy of your ID document
– Certified copy of your final Grade 11 results or your National Senior Certificate
– Proof of application fee payment (R150)
All applications must be completed online through the official UNISA admissions portal.
Honours in Psychology
Admission is highly competitive and requires:
– An appropriate bachelor’s degree with psychology as a major subject
– A minimum average of 60% in the final year of the undergraduate degree
– Meeting the specific selection criteria set by the Department of Psychology
The Honours programme requires students to complete a research dissertation in addition to coursework modules.
Master’s in Psychology
Admission to Master’s programmes, particularly MA in Clinical Psychology, is extremely competitive due to limited spaces. General requirements include:
– An Honours degree in Psychology or a Bachelor of Psychology Honours degree
– A minimum average of 65% – 75% in the Honours degree (varies by specialisation)
– For professional Master’s programmes, applicants must meet selection criteria including interviews and psychometric assessments
– Registration as a student psychologist with the HPCSA may be required during the programme
Applications for Master’s programmes typically open in the third quarter of the year for the following academic year.
Doctoral Programmes (PhD)
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology requires:
– A Master’s degree in Psychology or a closely related field
– A research proposal accepted by the department
– Demonstrated research competence, often through a completed Master’s dissertation
Application and Registration Process
Application Dates
UNISA follows strict application windows. For the current academic year, the standard application periods are:
| Qualification Type | Application Period |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate & Honours | August – October |
| Postgraduate Diplomas | August – October |
| Master’s & Doctoral | September – November |
| Semester 2 Applications | April – May |
Applications for Semester 1 are processed in the previous year. If you miss the main application window, limited qualifications may reopen for applications towards the end of the year.
How to Apply
The application process is entirely digital and must be completed through the official UNISA website:
Visit www.unisa.ac.za and create an online account using your email address and personal details
Select your desired programme from the programme directory
Choose your preferred modules for the first year of study
Complete all application sections with accurate information
Upload certified copies of your Grade 12 certificate, ID document, and any other required qualifications
Pay the R150 application fee online
Submit your application before the deadline
Monitor your email and the UNISA student portal for admission decisions
Once admitted, log into myUNISA to finalise your registration and select your modules for the semester
Payment of Fees
UNISA requires that a minimum payment be made at registration to activate your registration. The remaining balance must be paid by the specified due dates:
– For Semester Modules: The balance is typically due by the examination date of that semester
– For Year Modules: The balance is split across two or three due dates, usually in March, May, and August
Important: If the minimum payment is not received by the registration closing date, UNISA will not process your registration. Late payments are not accepted.
Funding Options:
– NSFAS: Students from households with income below R350,000 per year may qualify
– Bursaries: Various organisations offer bursaries for psychology students
– Employer Sponsorship: If your employer sponsors your studies, ensure they pay fees on time
Career Paths for Psychology Graduates
Registered Counsellor (BPsych or BPsych Equivalent): Provide supportive counselling at primary healthcare level. Work in schools, clinics, NGOs, and private practice under supervision.
Clinical Psychologist (MA Clinical Psychology + Internship + Community Service): Diagnose and treat mental health disorders. Work in hospitals, mental health clinics, private practice, and academic settings.
Counselling Psychologist: Help individuals cope with life challenges. Work in private practice, universities, corporate settings, and community organisations.
Research Psychologist: Conduct psychological research and assessments. Work in academia, research institutions, market research, and policy development.
Academic and Lecturer Positions: Teach psychology at universities and colleges, typically requiring a Master’s degree or PhD.
Human Resources and Organisational Psychology: Apply psychological principles in workplace settings, focusing on employee wellbeing, recruitment, and organisational development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UNISA require a minimum APS for psychology courses?
UNISA does not publish a strict minimum APS for most programmes, making it accessible to students with varied academic backgrounds. However, competitive programmes like Honours and Master’s have specific grade requirements (60% – 75%).
How much does a Bachelor of Psychology degree cost at UNISA?
A standard bachelor’s degree requires 20 to 24 modules. At approximately R1,470 per module, the total cost ranges from R29,400 to R35,280, excluding textbooks and sundry fees.
Can I study psychology at UNISA while working full-time?
Yes. UNISA is an open distance e-learning institution designed for students who need to balance work, family, and study commitments.
How do I apply for the Master of Clinical Psychology at UNISA?
Apply through the UNISA online portal during the Master’s and Doctoral application window (September – November). This programme is highly competitive and has additional selection requirements.
Does UNISA offer fully funded psychology bursaries?
UNISA does not directly offer bursaries, but students can apply for NSFAS (if eligible) or external bursaries from organisations such as the NRF, Canon Collins Trust, or private sector companies.
How long does a psychology degree take at UNISA?
The BPsych and BA in Psychology typically take 3 years of full-time study. Honours takes 1 year, and Master’s takes 2 years (plus internship and community service for professional programmes).
Is a psychology degree from UNISA accredited by the HPCSA?
Yes, UNISA’s professional psychology programmes (BPsych, MA Clinical Psychology, MA Counselling Psychology, MA Research Psychology) are accredited by the HPCSA and recognised for professional registration.
What is the minimum payment required at UNISA registration?
For a standard undergraduate module, the minimum payment is R485, plus the R150 application fee if you are a new applicant.
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The Bottom Line
Studying psychology at UNISA offers flexibility and accessibility that traditional universities cannot match. However, you must plan carefully. The Honours and Master’s programmes are highly competitive, and only top-performing students gain admission.
Key takeaways for your application:
– Application Fee: R150 (non-refundable)
– Undergraduate Module Fee: Approximately R1,470 per module
– Honours Module Fee: R3,275 per module
– Minimum Registration Payment: R485 for undergraduate, R1,080 for Honours, R1,010 for Master’s
– Apply Online: Through www.unisa.ac.za during the application windows (August – October for the following academic year)
– Budget for: Textbooks, internet access, and a suitable device for online learning
Start your application early, ensure all your documents are certified and uploaded correctly, and pay your application fee promptly. With careful planning, UNISA can be your pathway to a rewarding career in psychology.
Fees and application dates are subject to change. Always verify current information on the official UNISA website before applying.