Short Computer Courses at Unisa with No Matric

Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) are non-degree, introductory courses offered through the Centre for Lifelong Learning and various academic departments, including the School of Computing. These programs focus on practical, job-relevant skills in areas like basic computer literacy, programming, and IT applications, making them ideal for beginners or professionals seeking to upskill. Importantly, many SLPs have no matriculation requirement, relying instead on minimal entry criteria like a Grade 10 certificate or relevant work experience. Below, we detail the available courses, their requirements, and how to apply for 2025.

Short Computer Courses at Unisa with No Matric

Available Short Computer Courses with No Matric Requirement

Unisa’s School of Computing offers several SLPs suitable for students without a matric certificate. Below are the key programs available for 2025, based on Unisa’s official listings and historical offerings. Note that some courses may be on hold or updated, so always check Unisa’s website for the latest details.

1. Short Course in Basic Financial Life Skills (76976)

This course introduces basic computer skills for managing personal or business finances, ideal for beginners with no prior IT experience.

• Content:
  • Using Microsoft Excel for budgeting and financial calculations.
  • Basic computer operations (e.g., file management, keyboard use).
  • Introduction to financial software and online tools.
• Entry Requirements:
  • No matric required; Grade 10 certificate or equivalent.
  • Basic literacy and numeracy skills.
• Duration: 3–6 months, self-paced.
• Cost: Approximately R2,000 (confirm on Unisa’s website for 2025 fees).
• Certification: Unisa certificate of completion.
• Accessibility: Online via myUnisa, requiring a computer and internet access.

2. Short Course in Barista Skills (76902)

While primarily focused on coffee-making skills, this course includes basic computer literacy for deaf students, such as using digital tools for workplace tasks.

• Content:
  • Basic computer operations for workplace communication.
  • Using software for inventory tracking and customer service.
  • Practical barista skills (coffee preparation, hygiene).
• Entry Requirements:
  • Grade 10 certificate or equivalent; designed for deaf students but open to others.
  • No matric required.
• Duration: 3 months, self-paced.
• Cost: Approximately R1,500–R2,000 (confirm on Unisa’s website).
• Certification: Unisa certificate of completion.
• Accessibility: Online with some practical components (may require access to a training facility).

3. Workshop in Nutrition and Food Safety (76929)

This workshop includes basic computer skills for managing health and nutrition data, suitable for beginners in community or workplace settings.

• Content:
  • Using Microsoft Word and Excel for data entry and reporting.
  • Basic internet research for nutrition information.
  • Food safety principles and digital documentation.
• Entry Requirements:
  • No matric or formal qualifications required.
  • Basic literacy and access to a computer.
• Duration: 1–2 months, self-paced.
• Cost: Approximately R1,000–R1,500 (confirm on Unisa’s website).
• Certification: Unisa certificate of completion.
• Accessibility: Fully online via myUnisa.

4. Short Course in Introduction to Visual C#.Net (70076)

This course introduces programming basics using C#, suitable for beginners interested in software development.

• Content:
  • Fundamentals of C# programming.
  • Basic computer operations and software installation.
  • Building simple applications using Visual Studio.
• Entry Requirements:
  • Grade 10 certificate or equivalent.
  • Basic computer literacy (recommended but not mandatory).
  • Access to a computer with Windows 7 or later and internet.
• Duration: 6 months, self-paced.
• Cost: Approximately R3,000–R4,000 (confirm on Unisa’s website).
• Certification: Unisa certificate of completion.
• Accessibility: Online via myUnisa, with software download requirements.

5. Short Course in Introduction to Visual Basic.Net (70122)

This course teaches programming fundamentals using Visual Basic, ideal for those new to coding.

• Content:
  • Basics of Visual Basic programming.
  • Creating simple applications and user interfaces.
  • File management and software navigation.
• Entry Requirements:
  • Grade 10 certificate or equivalent.
  • Basic computer literacy (recommended).
  • Access to a computer with Windows 7 or later.
• Duration: 6 months, self-paced.
• Cost: Approximately R3,000–R4,000 (confirm on Unisa’s website).
• Certification: Unisa certificate of completion.
• Accessibility: Online via myUnisa, with software download requirements.

Table: Summary of Short Computer Courses at Unisa with No Matric (2025)

Note: Costs are approximate and subject to change. Confirm 2025 fees on Unisa’s website.

Application Process for 2025

Applications for Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes for the 2025 academic year are open from 8 January to 15 February 2025 for first-semester modules and 8 January to 15 March 2025 for second-semester and year modules. The process is online-only via Unisa’s application portal. Follow these steps:

1. Choose Your Course:
   • Visit Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes page to confirm course availability, as some SLPs may be on hold for 2025.
   • Select one or two courses that align with your goals (e.g., Basic Financial Life Skills for general skills or Visual C#.Net for programming).
2. Obtain a Student Number:
   • New applicants must apply for a Unisa student number unless previously registered for a formal qualification.
3. Complete the Online Application:
   • Access the application portal at www.unisa.ac.za/applySLP.
   • Provide a valid email address (preferably Gmail) and cellphone number for communication.
   • Upload required documents (see below).
4. Pay the Application Fee:
   • Pay a non-refundable fee (approximately R125–R150, confirm on Unisa’s website) using your student number and the allocation number (e.g., STUDENTNUMBER 5370810030).
   • Payment must be made via bank transfer by the application deadline.
5. Upload Supporting Documents:
   • Certified Grade 10 Certificate: Or equivalent (e.g., school report or statement of results).
   • Identity Document: Certified copy of a South African ID or passport (international students).
   • Proof of Payment: For the application fee.
   • Additional Documents: For RPL, include a DSAR04 form, work experience evidence, or syllabus (if applicable).
   • Documents must be black-and-white, in PDF, DOC, or TIF format, and not exceed 2MB per file. Fraudulent documents may lead to rejection or disciplinary action under Unisa’s Student Disciplinary Code.
6. Await Application Outcome:
   • Unisa processes applications within two to four weeks after the closing date. Feedback is sent via your provided email or myLife email (for returning students).
   • If accepted, you’ll receive an offer of placement, which you must accept within 10 working days.
7. Register Online:
   • Register during the registration period (typically January–March 2025 for SLPs; check www.unisa.ac.za/register).
   • Pay the minimum registration fee and select your course modules.

Technical Requirements for SLPs

To engage with SLPs, students need:

• Computer Access: A device with Windows 7 or later, 2 GB RAM, and 80 GB storage. Some courses (e.g., Visual C#.Net, Visual Basic.Net) require specific software like Visual Studio or Python.
• Internet Access: Regular access to myUnisa for study materials, assignments, and communication. Use a personal device, internet café, or Unisa Regional Learning Centre.
• Basic Software: Microsoft Office 2013/365 for courses like Basic Financial Life Skills or Nutrition and Food Safety.

Check the first tutorial letter or myUnisa module information for specific requirements.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you lack a Grade 10 certificate, Unisa’s RPL process may allow admission based on relevant work experience or informal learning. To apply:

• Submit a DSAR04 form (available on Unisa’s website).
• Provide evidence of IT-related experience (e.g., employment letters, portfolios).
• Include any academic records or syllabi from prior studies.
• For international qualifications, submit a SAQA evaluation.

RPL is evaluated case-by-case, and approval depends on available spaces.

International Applicants

International students must meet the same entry requirements, with additional steps:

• SAQA Evaluation: Foreign qualifications (e.g., Grade 10 equivalent) require evaluation to confirm equivalence to South African standards.
• English Proficiency: If prior education was not in English, proof of proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL) may be required.
• Certified Documents: Submit academic records and passports in PDF, DOC, or TIF format (maximum 2MB).

Benefits of Unisa’s Short Computer Courses

• Accessibility: No matric requirement lowers barriers for beginners.
• Career Boost: Certificates enhance employability in roles like data entry, IT support, or administrative assistant.
• Flexibility: Self-paced, online learning suits busy schedules.
• Pathway to Further Studies: SLPs can build skills for formal qualifications like the Higher Certificate in Information Technology (90093).
• Industry Relevance: Courses align with South Africa’s growing demand for digital skills.

Tips for Success

• Verify Course Availability: Check Unisa’s website, as some SLPs may be on hold for 2025.
• Prepare Documents Early: Ensure all files are certified and within the 2MB limit.
• Invest in Technology: Secure a reliable computer and internet connection.
• Engage with myUnisa: Regularly check for updates, assignments, and tutor support.
• Contact Unisa: Reach out via 0800 00 1870 or unisa@thehotline.co.za for assistance.

FAQ: Common Questions About Short Computer Courses at Unisa with No Matric

1. Can I study a computer course at Unisa without a matric certificate?

Yes, Unisa offers Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) like the Short Course in Basic Financial Life Skills (76976), Barista Skills (76902), and Introduction to Visual C#.Net (70076) that require only a Grade 10 certificate or equivalent. No matric is needed, and some courses accept RPL based on work experience. Always confirm specific requirements on Unisa’s website.

2. How much do Unisa short computer courses cost in 2025?

Costs vary by course:

• Basic Financial Life Skills: ~R2,000.
• Barista Skills: ~R1,500–R2,000.
• Nutrition and Food Safety: ~R1,000–R1,500.
• Visual C#.Net/Visual Basic.Net: ~R3,000–R4,000. A non-refundable application fee (~R125–R150) applies. Confirm exact fees on Unisa’s website, and explore funding options via Unisa’s funding portal.

3. How long do Unisa short computer courses take to complete?

Durations are:

• Basic Financial Life Skills: 3–6 months.
• Barista Skills: 3 months.
• Nutrition and Food Safety: 1–2 months.
• Visual C#.Net/Visual Basic.Net: 6 months. All are self-paced, allowing flexibility, but must be completed within the maximum timeframe set by Unisa (typically 12 months). Check myUnisa for deadlines.

Conclusion

Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes provide an accessible entry point for those without a matric certificate to gain valuable computer skills in 2025. Courses like Basic Financial Life Skills, Introduction to Visual C#.Net, and Barista Skills require only a Grade 10 certificate or equivalent, making them ideal for beginners or professionals seeking to upskill. With a straightforward online application process (open 8 January to 15 March 2025), flexible learning, and industry-recognized certificates, these programs can enhance your career or pave the way for further studies. For the latest details, visit Unisa’s official website or contact their support team.