University of South Africa (UNISA) Short Courses 2026: Programme Overview, Requirements,How to Apply and Qualify

UNISA opens applications for 2026 Short Learning Programmes, offering flexible, career-focused courses across multiple disciplines for professionals, graduates, and students seeking to upskill or reskill.

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has officially opened applications and registrations for its Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) for the 2026 academic year. These programmes are designed for professionals, graduates, entrepreneurs, and students who want to upskill, reskill, or gain practical, industry-relevant knowledge without committing to a full qualification.

UNISA delivers its short courses across all colleges through open distance learning, enabling students to study from anywhere in South Africa and beyond. This flexible approach makes the programmes particularly suitable for working professionals, remote learners, and busy students.

UNISA Short Course Registration Dates for 2026

Applicants must take note of the official registration periods to ensure successful enrolment:

• First semester registration: 5 January – 20 February 2026
• Year registration: 5 January – 20 March 2026

Late registrations are generally not accepted, so early application is strongly recommended.

What Are UNISA Short Learning Programmes?

Short Learning Programmes are career-focused, skills-based courses that range from a few weeks to several months. They do not lead to a formal degree but provide practical expertise, improve professional competence, and enhance employability.

UNISA offers short courses in several categories:

• Advanced Courses
• Advanced Programmes
• Advanced Short Courses
• Courses and Programmes
• Workshops and Seminars

These programmes are structured to provide practical, industry-relevant learning aligned with professional and workplace needs.

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Fields of Study Available in 2026

UNISA’s 2026 SLPs cover a wide range of disciplines suitable for public and private sector professionals, educators, students, and job seekers.

Law, Governance & Policy

• Corporate Law and Securities Law
• Business Rescue Practice
• Drafting of Contracts
• Pension Funds Law
• Public Competition Law
• Corporate Governance
• Good Governance in Africa

Business, Finance & Management

• Financial Management
• Practical Bookkeeping
• Taxation and Value Added Tax
• Credit Management
• Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management
• Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
• Project Management
• Supply Chain Management

Technology, IT & Digital Skills

• C++ Programming
• Java Programming
• Python Programming for Everybody
• Database Design and Implementation
• Artificial Intelligence Management
• Strategic Digital Government Communication

Education, Psychology & Social Sciences

• Teaching in a Digital Age
• Psychology of Mentorship
• Industrial and Organisational Psychology
• Employee Wellness
• Ethics Education and Social Justice

Security, Risk & Safety

• Security Management
• Risk Management
• Safety Management
• Explosives and Mining-related Programmes
• Insurance Crimes Investigation

Language, Humanities & Creative Fields

• Creative Writing
• Biblical Studies and Hebrew
• African Feminist and Gender Studies
• Music Theory
• Communication Skills in multiple South African languages

Mining, Engineering & Agriculture

• Mining Engineering Fundamentals
• Mineral Processing
• Climate-Smart Agriculture
• Agribusiness Management

This diversity allows learners to select programmes aligned with their career goals and professional development needs.

How to Apply and Who Qualifies

Applications for UNISA Short Courses 2026 must be submitted online through the official UNISA platform.

Application link: UNISA Short Learning Programmes

Who Qualifies

UNISA short courses are suitable for:

• Professionals seeking to upskill or reskill
• Graduates looking to enhance employability
• Entrepreneurs and small business owners
• Public and private sector employees
• Students seeking additional skills or practical knowledge

To qualify for admission, applicants must:

• Meet course-specific admission requirements
• Be able to commit to the course duration and workload
• Complete all required online application forms accurately
• Submit supporting documentation requested for the chosen programme

Early application is strongly recommended, as popular programmes may reach capacity quickly.

Why Choose UNISA Short Learning Programmes?

UNISA’s SLPs provide multiple benefits for career-oriented learners:

• Study through South Africa’s largest distance-learning university
• Flexible learning suitable for working professionals
• Affordable, skills-driven programmes
• Recognised training aligned with industry needs
• Improved employability and career progression

These programmes allow learners to upskill, reskill, and gain practical knowledge immediately applicable to their professional environment.

Conclusion

UNISA Short Learning Programmes 2026 offer a practical, flexible pathway for professionals, graduates, and students seeking to enhance their skills or gain industry-relevant knowledge.

Applicants are encouraged to review course requirements carefully, prepare all documentation, and submit applications promptly through the official UNISA portal. By enrolling in these programmes, learners can gain practical competence, improve employability, and position themselves for career growth across multiple industries.