The University of South Africa (UNISA) has officially opened applications and registrations for Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) for the 2026 academic year. These programmes are ideal for professionals, graduates, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to upskill, reskill, or gain industry-relevant knowledge without committing to a full qualification.
UNISA’s short courses are offered across all colleges and are delivered through open distance learning, allowing students to study from anywhere in South Africa (and beyond).
UNISA Short Course Registration Dates for 2026
Applicants must take note of the official registration windows:
- First semester registration:
5 January – 20 February 2026 - Year registration:
5 January – 20 March 2026
Late registrations are generally not accepted, so early application is strongly recommended.
What Are UNISA Short Learning Programmes?
Short Learning Programmes are career-focused, skills-based courses that range from a few weeks to several months. They do not lead to a degree but enhance employability, professional competence, and practical expertise.
UNISA offers SLPs in the following categories:
- Advanced Courses
- Advanced Programmes
- Advanced Short Courses
- Courses
- Programmes
- Short Courses
- Workshops and Seminars
Fields You Can Study in 2026
UNISA’s 2026 Short Learning Programmes cover a wide range of disciplines, including but not limited to:
Law, Governance & Policy
- Corporate Law and Securities Law
- Business Rescue Practice
- Drafting of Contracts
- Pension Funds Law
- Public Competition Law
- Corporate Governance
- Good Governance in Africa
Business, Finance & Management
- Financial Management
- Practical Bookkeeping
- Taxation and Value Added Tax
- Credit Management
- Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management
- Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
- Project Management
- Supply Chain Management
Technology, IT & Digital Skills
- C++ Programming
- Java Programming
- Python Programming for Everybody
- Database Design and Implementation
- Artificial Intelligence Management
- Strategic Digital Government Communication
Education, Psychology & Social Sciences
- Teaching in a Digital Age
- Psychology of Mentorship
- Industrial and Organisational Psychology
- Employee Wellness
- Ethics Education and Social Justice
Security, Risk & Safety
- Security Management
- Risk Management
- Safety Management
- Explosives and Mining-related programmes
- Insurance Crimes Investigation
Language, Humanities & Creative Fields
- Creative Writing
- Biblical Studies and Hebrew
- African Feminist and Gender Studies
- Music Theory
- Communication Skills in multiple South African languages
Mining, Engineering & Agriculture
- Mining Engineering Fundamentals
- Mineral Processing
- Climate-Smart Agriculture
- Agribusiness Management
This makes UNISA short courses suitable for public servants, private-sector professionals, NGOs, educators, students, and job seekers.
How to Apply for UNISA Short Courses 2026
All applications must be completed online through the official UNISA platform.
👉 Apply here:
https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Apply-for-admission/Short-Learning-Programmes
Before applying, applicants are encouraged to:
- Carefully review course admission requirements
- Confirm registration periods
- Check course duration and delivery method
- Ensure they can meet assessment and workload expectations
Why Choose UNISA Short Learning Programmes?
- Study through South Africa’s largest distance-learning university
- Flexible learning suited for working professionals
- Affordable, skills-driven programmes
- Recognised training aligned with industry needs
- Improve employability and career progression
Final Reminder
UNISA Short Course applications for 2026 are now open, with registration already underway. Popular programmes fill up quickly, so do not delay your application.
If you’re looking to upgrade your skills in 2026, UNISA’s Short Learning Programmes are a smart and flexible choice.