| Qualification code: | 98028 |
| NQF level: | 7 |
| Total credits: | 120 |
| SAQA ID: | 85127 |
| APS/AS: | 60 |
| Maximum time to complete this qualification: | 3 years |
Purpose statement:
The purpose of this qualification is to develop competent conservation managers who are able to conduct research under supervision and to scientifically manage natural resource areas. Qualifying students will be able to apply acquired research and management knowledge, skills and attitudes to holistically manage areas according to ecologically sound scientific objectives. This qualification provides the conservation industry with persons who are suitably skilled to scientifically manage ecosystems.
Your admission to Unisa is dependent on you meeting the specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification.
A Diploma in Nature Conservation (or equivalent), with an average of 60% or more for Animal Studies III, Plant Studies III, Conservation Ecology III and Conservation Resource Management III or equivalents,
or
applicants who do not meet the admission requirements as indicated above may apply for admission through recognition of prior learning (RPL) provided they are at least 27 years old with a minimum of five years' current, relevant working and research experience in line with the approved qualification's RPL requirements. For more information on RPL criteria visit: http://www.unisa.ac.za/rpl who have a final major mark of 50% to 59% or who completed the diploma more than 5 years previously, may be considered by the department by submitting a motivation, CV and evidence of relevant industry working experience for at least three years after completing the Diploma in Nature Conservation. These appeals will only be considered if the enrolment target of the particular qualification has not been met and/or additional enrolment spaces are available.
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 undergraduate qualifications for the 2026 academic year between 18 August and 10 October 2025.
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.