Ready to upskill, reskill, or explore a new career path without committing to a full degree? UNISA’s Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) are now open for 2025 applications—and they could be your quickest route to real career advancement.
Whether you’re a working professional, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone looking to gain targeted knowledge in your field, these practical, non-degree courses are designed to meet your immediate learning needs and improve your employability.
Learn more or apply today at: www.unisa.ac.za/ucl
What Are UNISA’s Short Learning Programmes (SLPs)?
UNISA’s SLPs are bite-sized, accredited, skills-focused programmes designed for fast, effective learning. Offered by the Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLL), these courses cover essential knowledge areas in various industries and can be completed in a shorter time compared to formal qualifications.
Key Features:
- Duration: Short-term, non-degree format
- Focus: Practical, job-ready skills
- Flexibility: Ideal for part-time or full-time learners
- Recognition: Issued by South Africa’s largest open distance e-learning university
SLPs use a “just enough” learning approach—meaning they give you exactly what you need for a particular job role or career challenge.
Why Choose an SLP in 2025?
In a changing job market, microcredentials and focused learning are more relevant than ever. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, advancing in your current role, or pivoting to a new industry, these programmes offer:
✔ Updated skills aligned with current job market demands
✔ Fast-tracked learning—without the time and cost of a full qualification
✔ The backing of a credible institution like UNISA
Examples of Available Programmes Include:
- Project Management for Non-Project Managers
- Occupational Health and Safety Law
- Introduction to Cybersecurity
- Small Business Management
- HIV/AIDS Care and Counselling
- Financial Management for Non-Financial Managers
- Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
…and many more across education, business, IT, and law sectors.
Browse the full list on the UNISA CLL site: www.unisa.ac.za/ucl
Who Should Apply?
You should apply if you are:
- A first-time SLP applicant at UNISA
- A current UNISA student switching to a new SLP
- Someone who applied previously but didn’t secure a spot
The programmes are open to South African and international applicants aged 18 and older.
When to Apply?
Applications for the 2025 academic year are now open! Early application is highly recommended, as spaces are limited and in high demand.
What You’ll Need to Apply
To apply successfully, ensure you have the following:
- Valid personal details
- One email address and one cellphone number
- These will be used for all communications from UNISA
- Required documents (scanned & uploaded):
- Copy of your ID or passport
- Copy of your highest school qualification (e.g. National Senior Certificate)
- Copies of academic records (if applicable)
- Any additional documents for your selected SLP
- Sworn translations for non-English/Afrikaans documents
Related: NYDA Unlocks Opportunities for South African Youth
Document Format Rules:
- Format: PDF, DOC, or TIF only
- Size: Max 2MB per file
- Colour: Black & white documents only
- Upload each file individually (not as one large combined file)
Important: Incomplete or late applications will not be processed.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online via the UNISA SLP portal:
Visit: www.unisa.ac.za/ucl
📧 Questions? Contact [email protected]
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit a complete application:
- UNISA reviews and assesses your documents
- If successful, you’ll receive a “Temporarily Registered” (TP) letter via email
- The TP letter will indicate your provisional status and the fees required
- Pay the fees to officially activate your registration
Note: Be sure to download and open your TP letter using the latest version of Adobe Reader on your smartphone or computer. If you have trouble opening it, contact [email protected].
Why Lifelong Learning Matters in 2025
In a world where technology and industries are changing rapidly, staying competitive means constantly updating your skills. UNISA’s SLPs empower you to do just that—on your terms, in your time.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, mid-career professional, or retiree exploring a new passion, there’s an SLP for you.
Ready to get started?
Unlock new possibilities in 2025 with a UNISA Short Learning Programme. Apply now and take your first step toward lifelong learning and career success.
🌐 Apply here: www.unisa.ac.za/ucl
📧 Support: [email protected]
