Purpose statement
The Advanced Diploma in Inclusive Education is designed as a pivotal element in the professional development pathway within the Programme Qualification Mix (PQM) at the College of Education. It aims to strengthen the field of Inclusive Education by providing teachers and practitioners with deepened theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and the correct attitudes necessary for teaching, supporting, and assessing all learners, including those with special educational needs, in inclusive settings. This qualification is intended for teachers who have completed a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or an Advanced Certificate in Teaching (ACT) and are seeking to expand their expertise to include specialised skills in Inclusive Education. Learners will be drawn to this qualification because it enables them to effectively engage with a diverse learning environment, enhancing their professional capabilities and making them more adept at addressing the needs of all learners. Ultimately, this qualification benefits the learner by equipping them with the tools to foster an inclusive classroom, which is increasingly recognized as essential in modern educational practices. Upon completion the qualification learners will possess a comprehensive understanding of multi-level and differentiated teaching approaches, assessment strategies, and the use of assistive technologies. This qualification ensures that educators can implement inclusive educational practices effectively, addressing the unique needs of each learner and providing reasonable support where necessary. Learners will be responsible for delivering inclusive education in their respective schools and settings, contributing to the development of inclusive policies and practices. This qualification links directly to professional pathways in education, particularly within roles that require specialised knowledge in managing and supporting diverse and mixed-ability classrooms. Upon completion the qualification, a qualified learner will be able to: Deepen their commitment to the principles of quality education for all. Conduct teaching, learning, and assessments using a multi-level and differentiated approach. Create awareness about the uniqueness of each learner and provide reasonable support. Gain competencies to interact with all learners, including those with disabilities, in meaningful ways. Gain familiarity with different types of assistive technologies and use them appropriately to enhance learning for all. Develop and implement appropriate assessment and intervention strategies; and deepen their understanding of policies and theoretical underpinnings of Inclusive Education. These attributes will prepare learners to be innovative leaders in the field of Inclusive Education. In addition, attributes relating to scope of knowledge, knowledge literacy, method and procedure, problem solving, ethics and professional practice, accessing, processing and managing information, producing and communicating information, context and systems, management of learning, and accountability, will be integrated into the learning process. These NQF Level 7 descriptors ensure that learners is not only well-prepared to address educational challenges but also equipped with a broad range of competencies that enhance their professional development and readiness to contribute effectively to various educational contexts.
| Qualification code: | 90198 |
| NQF level: | 7 |
| Total credits: | 120 |
| SAQA ID: | 125337 |
| APS/AS: | 60 |
| Maximum time to complete this qualification: | 3 years |
Your admission to Unisa is dependent on you meeting the specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification.
Further Diploma in Education, NQF Level 6.
Or
Advanced Certificate in Education, NQF Level 6.
Or
Postgraduate Certificate in Education, NQF Level 6.
Or
Higher Diploma in Education, NQF Level 6.
Or
Bachelor of Education degree, NQF Level 7.
Applicants who would like to apply for admission through recognition of prior learning (RPL) must be at least 23 years old; have completed Diploma at an NQF level 6; and have at least five years' relevant teaching / work-based experience in inclusive, psychology, special needs education, or related subject fields. For more information on RPL criteria visit: www.unisa.ac.za/rp
NOTE: No foreign Diploma's will be accepted for admission.
Applicants who do not comply with the above requirements should consider applying for a lower level qualification for which they meet the statutory and additional requirements.
Pay the application fee once you've received your student number:
Please note that this application fee is non-refundable even if you decide not to study through Unisa, do not qualify for admission to Unisa or cannot be offered a space due to limited spaces available.
Click here to find out more about Unisa's student fees, and the bursaries and loans for Unisa students.
Apply for admission to an undergraduate qualification between 17 August and 9 October 2026.
Please take note of the following:
Unisa will send the necessary information about registration dates and the registration process to all successful applicants who have confirmed their acceptance of Unisa's offer. Visit www.unisa.ac.za/register for registration information.
The curriculum information displayed on this page is based on the current academic year and may be updated for future academic years.
The curriculum information for this qualification will be available closer to the registration phase.