The University of South Africa (Unisa) is a cornerstone of higher education, renowned for its open distance and e-learning (CODeL) model that makes quality education accessible to over 400,000 students worldwide. Among its diverse offerings, Business and Society courses stand out for blending practical business skills with an understanding of societal dynamics, preparing students to navigate complex professional landscapes. These programs, offered through Unisa’s College of Economic and Management Sciences and other interdisciplinary colleges, cater to those eager to influence business practices while addressing social challenges. This article dives into the latest Business and Society courses at Unisa, detailing qualifications, subjects, and their relevance to modern career paths.
Business and Society Courses at Unisa
Unisa’s Business and Society courses integrate disciplines like business management, economics, and social sciences to foster professionals who can balance profit-driven goals with societal impact. These programs span undergraduate, postgraduate, and short learning programs (SLPs), aligning with Unisa’s mission to advance development and nurture critical citizenry. Below is a comprehensive overview of these offerings, drawn from Unisa’s official qualifications and subject lists as of 2025.
Undergraduate Qualifications
Unisa’s undergraduate programs provide foundational knowledge in business while incorporating societal perspectives, such as ethics, community development, and governance. These degrees and certificates are designed for flexibility, catering to both new students and working professionals.
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Business Management (98310): Focuses on core business principles like strategic management, marketing, and financial management, with modules on corporate social responsibility and business ethics to address societal impacts.
- Bachelor of Commerce in Economics (98305): Combines economic theory with real-world applications, including courses on public economics and development economics, emphasizing societal welfare and policy.
- Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies (99311 – DSH): Integrates business concepts with social sciences, covering community development, social policy, and sustainable development to address societal challenges.
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching (Hospitality Studies and Business Studies) (90104 – HSB): Prepares educators to teach business-related subjects with a focus on societal roles, such as entrepreneurship and consumer studies.
- Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences with Business Management (98053 – BBM): Blends biochemistry, physiology, or microbiology with business management, ideal for careers in biotech industries with a societal focus.
- Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences (98237): An entry-level qualification covering business fundamentals and societal influences, perfect for students building toward a BCom degree.
Postgraduate Qualifications
For those seeking advanced expertise, Unisa’s postgraduate programs deepen the understanding of business-society intersections, preparing graduates for leadership roles in diverse sectors.
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching (Business Studies) (90148 – BUS): Equips educators with advanced skills to teach business studies, emphasizing ethical business practices and societal impact.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) (90070): Offered through the Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL), this program includes modules on corporate governance, sustainable business practices, and social entrepreneurship, addressing global and local societal needs.
- Master of Commerce in Business Management (98452): Focuses on advanced topics like strategic leadership and business ethics, with research components exploring business-society dynamics.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration (98236): Combines public sector management with societal issues like policy implementation and community engagement, ideal for government or NGO roles.
Short Learning Programmes (SLPs)
Unisa’s SLPs are non-degree courses designed to upskill professionals in specific areas. These are ideal for those seeking targeted knowledge without committing to a full degree.
- Programme in Local Government Management (76082): Focuses on municipal governance, community development, and public finance, equipping professionals to manage local government initiatives.
- Short Course in Developing a Project Plan for an Advocacy Campaign on Healthy Lifestyles, Social Diversity, and Inclusion (77136): Teaches skills to create campaigns promoting social inclusion and community health, with business applications in CSR.
- Programme in International Freight Management and Administration (01929): Covers supply chain management with an emphasis on ethical and sustainable practices, addressing global societal impacts.
- Short Course in Mainstreaming Healthy Lifestyles, Diversity, and Inclusion (77137): Focuses on integrating diversity and inclusion into business and community settings, fostering socially responsible practices.
Key Subjects in Business and Society
Unisa’s curriculum includes subjects that bridge business acumen with societal awareness, ensuring graduates are well-rounded and impactful. These subjects are embedded across various programs:
- Business Management: Covers strategic planning, organizational behavior, and corporate social responsibility, emphasizing ethical decision-making.
- Development Studies: Explores sustainable development, community engagement, and social policy, linking business to societal progress.
- Public Administration: Focuses on governance, public finance, and policy analysis, preparing students for roles in public and nonprofit sectors.
- Economics: Includes public economics, development economics, and economic policy, addressing societal welfare through economic frameworks.
- Communication Science: Enhances skills in corporate communication and stakeholder engagement, vital for managing business-society interactions.
- Social Sciences: Subjects like sociology and anthropology provide insights into societal structures, informing business strategies.
Summary of Business and Society Courses at Unisa
| Qualification Type | Program Name | Code | Key Focus Areas | Duration | NQF Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | BCom in Business Management | 98310 | Strategic management, business ethics | 3 years | 7 |
| Undergraduate | BCom in Economics | 98305 | Public economics, development economics | 3 years | 7 |
| Undergraduate | BA in Development Studies | 99311 – DSH | Community development, social policy | 3 years | 7 |
| Undergraduate | BEd (Hospitality and Business Studies) | 90104 – HSB | Business education, societal roles | 4 years | 7 |
| Undergraduate | BSc with Business Management | 98053 – BBM | Biochemistry, business management | 3 years | 7 |
| Undergraduate | Higher Certificate in EMS | 98237 | Business fundamentals, societal influences | 1 year | 5 |
| Postgraduate | PGCE in Business Studies | 90148 – BUS | Teaching business, ethical practices | 1 year | 7 |
| Postgraduate | MBA | 90070 | Corporate governance, social entrepreneurship | 2 years | 9 |
| Postgraduate | MCom in Business Management | 98452 | Strategic leadership, business ethics | 2 years | 9 |
| Postgraduate | Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration | 98236 | Public sector management, community engagement | 1 year | 8 |
| SLP | Local Government Management | 76082 | Municipal governance, public finance | 6-12 months | N/A |
| SLP | Advocacy Campaign (Healthy Lifestyles) | 77136 | Social inclusion, community health | 6 months | N/A |
| SLP | International Freight Management | 01929 | Supply chain, ethical practices | 6-12 months | N/A |
| SLP | Mainstreaming Diversity and Inclusion | 77137 | Diversity, inclusion in business | 6 months | N/A |
Why Choose Unisa’s Business and Society Courses?
Unisa’s programs stand out for their flexibility, accessibility, and relevance to global and local challenges. As the largest CODeL institution in Africa, Unisa allows students to study at their own pace, making it ideal for working professionals. The integration of business and societal perspectives ensures graduates are equipped to address ethical, environmental, and social issues in their careers. For example, the MBA program emphasizes sustainable business practices, while the Development Studies degree tackles community empowerment, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Additionally, Unisa’s qualifications are internationally recognized, with programs like the BCom and MBA accredited by bodies such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in some contexts. The university’s focus on open distance learning means students from over 130 countries can access these courses, fostering a diverse learning community.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
To enroll in Unisa’s Business and Society courses, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Undergraduate Programs: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with degree endorsement or equivalent, with minimum scores in relevant subjects (e.g., Mathematics for BCom degrees).
- Postgraduate Programs: A relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent, with additional requirements like work experience for the MBA.
- SLPs: Vary by program, often requiring a matric certificate or relevant work experience.
- Application Process: Applications are primarily online via Unisa’s website. Students can apply for up to two qualifications, with deadlines typically in April for the second semester and September for the first semester.
For detailed requirements, visit Unisa’s official admissions page. Note that TVET college graduates may need to complete bridging courses or higher certificates to meet degree entry standards.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Unisa’s Business and Society courses are well-positioned for diverse roles:
- Business Management: Roles like business analyst, corporate manager, or CSR consultant in private and public sectors.
- Development Studies: Careers in NGOs, community development, or policy analysis, addressing social issues.
- Public Administration: Positions in government, municipal management, or public policy advising.
- Education: Teaching roles in business studies or hospitality, shaping future professionals.
- Biotech and Business: Unique roles in biotech startups or healthcare management, combining science and business.
These programs equip students with critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and leadership skills, making them competitive in South Africa and globally.
Unisa’s Commitment to Societal Impact
Unisa’s ethos is rooted in advancing knowledge production and responsible citizenship. The university’s partnerships, such as with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation for the G20 Presidency Community Engagement Program, reflect its commitment to societal engagement. Courses like the Short Course in Mainstreaming Healthy Lifestyles directly address pressing issues like diversity and inclusion, aligning with global sustainability goals.
FAQ: Common Questions About Unisa’s Business and Society Courses
What are the admission requirements for Unisa’s Business and Society courses?
Admission varies by program. Undergraduate degrees require an NSC with degree endorsement, while postgraduate programs need a relevant bachelor’s degree. SLPs may require a matric certificate or work experience. Check Unisa’s website for specific criteria.
Can I study Business and Society courses online at Unisa?
Yes, Unisa’s CODeL model offers fully online or distance learning options, with access to resources via myUnisa, the university’s online platform. Regular internet access is recommended for coursework and assessments.
What career paths can I pursue with these qualifications?
Graduates can enter roles in business management, public administration, community development, education, or biotech industries, depending on the program. These courses emphasize ethical leadership and societal impact, opening doors to diverse sectors.
Conclusion
Unisa’s Business and Society courses offer a unique blend of practical business skills and societal awareness, preparing students to make a meaningful impact in their careers. From BCom degrees to SLPs, these programs cater to diverse interests and career goals, all accessible through Unisa’s flexible CODeL model. Whether you aim to lead in business, influence public policy, or drive community change, Unisa provides the tools to succeed. For more details or to apply, visit Unisa’s official website or contact their student support services.