Program Overview

---

Bachelor of Arts

Qualification Stream:

• Information Science and Public Administration

Qualification Code:

• 99311 - IPA

NQF Level:

• 7

Total Credits:

• 360

SAQA ID:

• 14352

APS/AS:

• 20

Rules:

• This qualification consists of 30 modules. Students must have access to a computer or laptop, printer, and the internet during their studies.

Purpose Statement:

The Bachelor of Arts qualification aims to:

• Familiarize learners with the content and basic theories of various disciplines in the humanities and social sciences at the basic and intermediate levels, providing a deeper understanding of one or more of these disciplines at exit level (level 6).
• Enable learners to contextualize new knowledge and employ appropriate methods for problem-solving.
• Cultivate basic scholarly and intellectual competencies, including the ability to critically question assumptions of a limited range of theories and authorities, and to understand elementary research methods used within chosen disciplines.
• Equip learners with the skills to articulate their opinions clearly and coherently, both in written and oral communication, preparing them for further study and diverse professions crucial to societal welfare.
• Foster lateral, critical, and creative thinking, encouraging lifelong learning and critical citizenship.

Delivery Mode:

• The qualification will be presented using both online and distance learning modes.

Who Can Register?

• New Applicants: Applicants, both new and those already enrolled at Unisa who wish to apply for a new qualification, can only register if they have received and accepted an offer of placement from Unisa.
• Re-registering Students: Students may register for the 2026 academic year once the registration period opens. Those wishing to start a new qualification must apply online for an alternative qualification during the prescribed application period.

Module Selection:

Each Unisa qualification is structured to require the completion of a certain number of NQF level credits within a specific time frame to graduate.

Co-requisites:

• Module A must be taken if registering for Module B if not yet passed. Cancellation of Module A is not permitted unless Module B is also canceled.

Pre-requisites:

• Module A must be passed before registering for Module B.

Credit Registration Limits:

• Maximum of 60 credits per semester or 120 credits per academic year, not including supplementary and/or aegrotat examinations from previous semesters. Modules taken for non-degree purposes also count towards these limits.

Curriculum for this Qualification:

Below are the groups of modules available for registration.

Group A: Compulsory Modules

• EUP1501 - Ethical Information and Communication Technologies for Development Solutions
• INS1501 - Introduction to Information Science
• INS1502 - Developing Information Skills for Lifelong Learning

Group AA: Compulsory Modules

• PUB1501 - The Nature, Content and Scope of Public Administration
• PUB1601 - The Structuring and Functioning of Public Services (Co-requisite: PUB1501)

Group B: Fundamentals (Select 2 Modules)

• AFC1501 - Isandulelo kwizifundo ngezindlela zokucwaninga ulwazi lwaseThebes/ Afrika (offered to NGUNI speaking students ONLY)
• AFL1501 - Language Through an African Lens
• ENG1503 - Academic Language and Literacy in English

Group C: Electives (Select 1 Module)

• AFK1501 - Voetspore: Op reis deur die Afrikaanse Letterkunde
• AFK1502 - Inleiding tot teksontwerp in Afrikaans
• AFK1503 - Afrikaans Vandag: Taalkunde en skriftelike kommunikasie
• Additional electives available in various disciplines.

Examination and Timetable:

Conclusive details regarding scheduling and specific exam arrangements will be communicated according to academic protocols.

Transitional Arrangements:

Specific details pertaining to changes or adaptations in course structure will be provided as necessary.

This structured program is designed to ensure comprehensive educational development, preparing students for diverse professional pathways in Information Science and Public Administration.