Courses That Require 20 Points at Unisa

The University of South Africa (Unisa) stands as a beacon of accessible education, offering a wide array of courses tailored to diverse academic and career aspirations. For students with an Admission Point Score (APS) of 20, Unisa provides numerous opportunities to pursue higher education through its open distance learning model. This score, calculated based on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results, opens doors to various undergraduate programs, particularly bachelor’s degrees in fields like arts, humanities, and sciences. Understanding which courses align with an APS of 20 is crucial for prospective students aiming to kickstart their academic journey without needing top-tier scores.

This article explores the specific courses at Unisa requiring 20 points, delving into their details, admission requirements, and potential career paths. Whether you’re a recent matriculant or an adult learner seeking flexible study options, this comprehensive resource will help you navigate Unisa’s offerings and make informed decisions about your future.

Courses Requiring 20 Points at Unisa

For students with an APS of 20, Unisa offers a range of bachelor’s degree programs that balance accessibility with academic rigor. Below, we outline some of the standout courses available, focusing on their structure, requirements, and relevance in today’s job market. These programs are ideal for those who may not have achieved higher APS scores but still aspire to earn a recognized qualification from one of Africa’s leading universities.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) General (99311)

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) General is a versatile degree with an APS requirement of 20. This program allows students to explore a broad spectrum of subjects in the humanities, such as anthropology, history, psychology, and communication studies. It’s perfect for those unsure of their career path, offering flexibility to tailor the degree with majors and electives that align with personal interests.

Duration: 3 years (full-time equivalent, though flexible via distance learning).
Admission Requirements: NSC with a minimum APS of 20, including at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning (English).
Career Prospects: Graduates can pursue roles in education, media, public administration, or further studies in specialized fields.

This degree’s adaptability makes it a popular choice for students seeking a foundational qualification with diverse applications.

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing (99313)

For aspiring writers, the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing is an excellent option requiring an APS of 20. This program hones skills in storytelling, poetry, scriptwriting, and other creative genres, blending practical workshops with theoretical study.

Duration: 3 years.
Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 20 and a minimum of 50% in English.
Career Prospects: Opportunities include roles as authors, editors, content creators, or copywriters in creative industries.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Leadership and Citizenship (99314)

This degree, also requiring an APS of 20, delves into political theory, governance, and civic engagement. It’s designed for students passionate about leadership, public policy, and societal change.

Duration: 3 years.
Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 20 and 50% in English.
Career Prospects: Graduates can work in government, NGOs, or advocacy groups, with pathways to roles like policy analysts or community organizers.

In an era of global political shifts, this program offers timely and relevant training.

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science (98051)

With an APS of 20, the Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science focuses on media studies, public relations, and corporate communication. It prepares students for the fast-evolving world of media and messaging.

Duration: 3 years.
Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 20, plus 50% in English.
Career Prospects: Careers in journalism, advertising, PR, or digital marketing await graduates.

This course aligns with the growing need for skilled communicators in both traditional and digital platforms.

Bachelor of Arts in Community Development (98618)

The Bachelor of Arts in Community Development, requiring an APS of 20, targets students interested in social justice and improving living conditions. It covers community engagement, project management, and development theories.

Duration: 3 years.
Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 20 and 50% in English.
Career Prospects: Roles in NGOs, community organizations, or government social programs are common outcomes.

This degree is ideal for those driven by a desire to make a tangible societal impact.

Bachelor of Arts in Visual Multimedia Arts (99315)

For creatively inclined students, this program with an APS of 20 explores digital arts, graphic design, and multimedia production. It’s a gateway to the expanding creative technology field.

Duration: 3 years.
Admission Requirements: NSC with an APS of 20 and 50% in English.
Career Prospects: Graduates can become graphic designers, multimedia artists, or digital content creators.

As industries increasingly rely on visual storytelling, this course offers a competitive edge.

Why Unisa Offers Courses with Lower APS Requirements

Unisa’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity sets it apart from many traditional universities. By offering courses with an APS of 20, Unisa ensures that students from varied backgrounds—whether recent matriculants or mature learners—can access higher education. This approach recognizes that academic potential isn’t solely reflected in APS scores and supports South Africa’s broader goal of educational equity.

Additionally, Unisa’s open distance learning format allows students to study at their own pace, making it feasible for those balancing work or family responsibilities. The university’s diverse course offerings also cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring that even students with lower scores have viable pathways to meaningful qualifications.

How APS is Calculated and What 20 Points Means

The Admission Point Score (APS) is a standardized metric used by South African universities to assess NSC results. It’s calculated by assigning points to your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation), based on your percentage scores:

80–100%: 7 points
70–79%: 6 points
60–69%: 5 points
50–59%: 4 points
40–49%: 3 points
30–39%: 2 points
0–29%: 1 point

An APS of 20 typically means a mix of moderate scores (e.g., four subjects at 50–59% for 4 points each, plus two at 30–39% for 2 points each). While this may not qualify you for highly competitive programs like medicine or engineering, it’s sufficient for many of Unisa’s bachelor’s degrees, particularly in the humanities and social sciences.

Additional Admission Considerations Beyond APS

Meeting the APS of 20 is a starting point, but Unisa also considers specific subject requirements. For instance, most courses listed above require at least 50% in English, reflecting the language of instruction. Some programs may have additional prerequisites, such as mathematics or specific electives, so always check the Unisa prospectus for the latest details.

Unisa also offers Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for mature students, allowing work experience or prior education to supplement your application. This can be a game-changer for those whose APS alone doesn’t fully reflect their capabilities.

Benefits of Studying at Unisa with 20 Points

Choosing a Unisa course with an APS of 20 comes with several advantages:

Flexibility: Distance learning lets you study from anywhere, ideal for working professionals or those in remote areas.
Affordability: Unisa’s fees are generally lower than those of campus-based universities, with payment plans available.
Accreditation: Degrees are globally recognized, accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Career Relevance: Courses align with industry needs, offering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

How to Apply for These Courses at Unisa

Applying to Unisa is straightforward, especially with its online system. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Visit the Unisa Website: Go to www.unisa.ac.za and navigate to the “Apply for Admission” section.
Choose Your Qualification: Select a course requiring 20 points from the undergraduate qualifications list.
Submit Your Application: Complete the online form during the application window (typically August–September for the following year).
Upload Documents: Provide your NSC certificate, ID, and any additional materials like RPL evidence.
Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable fee (around R135 as of recent years) is required.
Await Confirmation: Unisa will notify you of your acceptance, after which you can register for modules.

Applications for 2025 are expected to open around mid-2024, so monitor the website for exact dates.

Career Pathways and Further Study Options

A degree requiring 20 points from Unisa isn’t just a stepping stone—it’s a launchpad. Graduates can enter the workforce directly or pursue honors degrees, postgraduate diplomas, or master’s programs. For example, a BA in Communication Science could lead to a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing, while a BA in Community Development might pave the way for an honors in Social Work.

In the job market, these qualifications open doors to roles in education, media, government, and creative industries. With South Africa’s emphasis on skills development, Unisa graduates are well-positioned to meet employer demands.

Tips for Success in Unisa’s Distance Learning Environment

Studying at Unisa requires discipline, especially with an APS of 20, as it indicates a need for focused effort. Here are some tips:

Set a Schedule: Allocate consistent study hours each week.
Engage Online: Use Unisa’s myUnisa platform for resources and forums.
Seek Support: Contact tutors or join study groups for guidance.
Stay Motivated: Focus on your career goals to maintain momentum.

These strategies can help you thrive in a self-paced learning setting.

Conclusion

Unisa’s courses requiring 20 points offer an accessible entry into higher education, blending flexibility with quality. From creative writing to community development, these programs cater to varied interests while preparing you for meaningful careers. By leveraging Unisa’s distance learning model, affordable fees, and recognized qualifications, students with an APS of 20 can unlock their potential without the constraints of traditional university barriers.