If you’re looking to kick-start your career with a practical and industry-aligned qualification, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) offers a range of Higher Certificate (HCert) programmes across multiple faculties. These 1- to 2-year foundational qualifications are designed to bridge the gap between school and diploma-level study, giving you both theoretical and practical skills to enter the workforce or progress academically. Here’s a closer look at some standout HCert programmes offered at TUT in 2026.
Faculty of Arts and Design
Higher Certificate in Music
- Campus: Arts Campus
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 18
- Further Study: Diploma in Performing Arts
- Careers: Jazz Musician, Music Producer, Opera Singer
Faculty of Economics and Finance
Higher Certificate in Accounting
- Campuses: Ga-Rankuwa, Polokwane
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 22–23
- Further Study: Diploma in Accounting, Internal Auditing, Financial Management, Financial Planning, or Public Finance
- Careers: Accounting Technician, Bookkeeper, Accounts Clerk, Tax Consultant
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Higher Certificate in Construction Engineering: Material Test
- Campus: Pretoria
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 20
- Further Study: BEngTech in Civil Engineering
- Careers: Material Tester, Construction Technician
Higher Certificate in Construction Engineering: Water and Waste
- Campus: Pretoria
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 20
- Further Study: BEngTech in Civil Engineering
- Careers: Water & Sanitation Technician, Construction Site Technician
Higher Certificate in Electrical Engineering
- Campus: eMalahleni
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 20
- Further Study: BEngTech in Electrical Engineering
- Careers: Electrical Technician, Systems Maintenance
Higher Certificate in Industrial Engineering
- Campus: Pretoria
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 20
- Further Study: BEngTech in Industrial Engineering
- Careers: Industrial Technician, Operations Assistant
Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
- Campus: Pretoria
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 20
- Further Study: BEngTech in Mechanical Engineering
- Careers: Mechanical Technician, Manufacturing Technologist
Faculty of Management Sciences
Higher Certificate in Administrative Information Management
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 20
- Further Study: Diploma in Administrative Information Management
- Careers: Secretary, Personal Assistant, Office Manager
Higher Certificate in Contact Centre Management
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 1 year
- APS Requirement: 20
- Further Study: Diploma in Contact Centre Management
- Careers: Call Centre Agent, Team Leader, Contact Centre Supervisor
Faculty of Science
Higher Certificate in Forestry Management
- Campus: Mbombela
- Duration: 2 years
- APS Requirement: 18–21
- Further Study: Not specified
- Careers: Forest Assistant, Junior Forestry Technician
Why Choose an HCert at TUT?
- Ideal for students with lower APS scores needing academic support
- Practical, career-focused training with real-world relevance
- Pathway to advanced diplomas and bachelor’s degrees
- Multiple campuses and some online options