Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice

Qualification Code

• 90006

NQF Level

• 5

Total Credits

• 120

SAQA ID

• 93594

APS/AS

• 17

Rules

• Students should note that during the course of their studies, they are required to have access to a computer, printer, and the internet.
• Students who have passed phased-out modules will retain the credit and do not need to pass the replacement modules. However, phased-out modules must have been passed for this specific qualification and it does not necessarily mean the modules are equivalent.
• EUP1501 has been replaced with ILW1501. ENN103F has been replaced with ENG1503.

Purpose Statement

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare students who do not meet the minimum institutional admission requirements for access to diploma or degree studies in the College of Law, particularly in the various fields of Criminal Justice. The qualification aims to introduce students to the main areas of criminal justice theory and practice by imparting systematic knowledge, skills, and theoretical competence within the field, thereby preparing them for more advanced training. Moreover, this higher certificate program seeks to cultivate graduates who possess a solid understanding and the confidence to apply their skills within contemporary society, thus enabling further study in the College of Law, particularly in Criminal Justice, or in other colleges without specific subject requirements, such as Mathematics. The qualification will be presented through both online and distance learning modes.

Who Can Register?

• Applicants: New applicants and Unisa students wishing to apply for admission to a new qualification may only register if they have received and accepted an offer of placement from Unisa. The university reserves the right to not process or cancel a registration if it is found that a student was incorrectly admitted to a qualification.
• Re-registering Students: May register for the 2026 academic year once the registration period opens. If you wish to start a new qualification, please apply online for the alternative qualification during the prescribed application period.

Module Registration Guidelines

Each Unisa qualification is structured such that students must pass a designated number of NQF level credits within a specified timeframe to graduate.

• Co-requisite: If Module A is a co-requisite for Module B, registration for both is mandatory. Cancellation of Module A is not permitted unless Module B is also canceled.
• Pre-requisite: Module A must be passed before registering for Module B.

Students may not register for more than the allowed maximum number of credits/modules per academic year and/or semester:

• 60 credits per semester
• 120 credits per academic year

The maximum credits do not include supplementary and/or aegrotat examinations from a previous semester. Additionally, modules taken for non-degree
on-diploma purposes also count towards the maximum credit limit.

Curriculum for This Qualification

The following modules are part of the Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice curriculum:

First Level

• Group A. Compulsory Modules
  • CMY1501 - Introduction to Criminology: Crime, Offenders and Criminal Behaviour
  • ENG1503 - Academic Language and Literacy in English
  • FOR1501 - Forensic Methods and Techniques
  • ILW1501 - Introduction to Law
  • INS1502 - Developing Information Skills for Lifelong Learning
  • PEN1502 - Introduction to Corrections Science
  • POL1501 - Crime Prevention Principles for Policing IA
  • SEP1501 - Security Principles and Practices I
  • SJD1501 - Social Dimensions of Justice
• Group B. Elective Module (Choose One)
  • AFL1503 - Language and Communication Skills Acquisition in an African Language I
  • CMY1502 - Introduction to Criminology: Victims and Reduction of Crime

University of South Africa

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Overview:

The University of South Africa (Unisa) is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa and the longest-standing dedicated distance education university in the world. It is a public university with a global reach, enrolling nearly one-third of South African students.

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Services Offered:

Unisa offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Online learning platform:

Unisa provides a comprehensive online learning platform, myUnisa, which allows students to access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with lecturers, and participate in online discussions.

Student support services:

Unisa offers various support services to students, such as academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and disability support.

Library resources:

Unisa has a vast library collection, accessible both online and through physical branches, providing students with access to a wide range of books, journals, and other research materials.

Regional centers:

Unisa has regional centers across South Africa, offering students access to physical learning spaces, support services, and opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

As a distance learning institution, Unisa's campus experience is primarily online. Students can expect to engage with their studies through online platforms, participate in virtual discussions, and connect with fellow students through online forums. While there are limited opportunities for face-to-face interaction, Unisa offers regional centers and occasional events that provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers and faculty.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Accessibility:

Unisa offers flexible and accessible learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds and locations.

Global reach:

Unisa's online platform allows students from around the world to access its programs and resources.

Wide range of qualifications:

Unisa offers a diverse range of qualifications, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, covering various disciplines.

Affordable education:

Unisa strives to provide affordable education options for students, with various financial aid programs available.

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Academic Programs:

Unisa offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting Sciences

Agriculture & Environmental Sciences

Economic & Management Sciences

Education

College of Graduate Studies

Human Sciences

Law

Science, Engineering & Technology

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Other:

Unisa is committed to research and innovation, with a focus on addressing societal challenges and contributing to the development of Africa. The university has several research institutes and chairs, and its researchers are actively involved in various national and international collaborations. Unisa also has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach, working to make a positive impact on the communities it serves.