Purpose statement
The purpose of the Advanced Diploma in School Leadership and Management is to provide an advanced qualification within the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) pathway, aimed at equipping school leaders with the necessary skills, knowledge, and values to effectively and efficiently manage and lead schools. This qualification targets existing school leaders and educators aspiring to leadership roles who are motivated by the prospect of enhancing their capabilities to contribute significantly to the improvement of educational quality and delivery across the school system. Learners will benefit from a curriculum that fosters the development of effective leadership and management practices, facilitating both personal and professional growth within the education sector. Upon completing this qualification, learners will possess a sophisticated understanding of educational leadership that extends beyond basic management concepts to include deep engagement with leadership theories and their practical applications in educational settings. Learners will be prepared to take on higher responsibilities within their institutions, such as senior management or specialised advisory roles. This qualification not only bolsters their current expertise but also prepares them for further academic pursuits, potentially progressing to higher qualifications such as a master's degree in education leadership or related fields.
| Qualification code: | 90197 |
| NQF level: | 7 |
| Total credits: | 132 |
| SAQA ID: | 125397 |
| APS/AS: | 60 |
Your admission to Unisa is dependent on you meeting the specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification.
Bachelor of Education degree, NQF Level 7.
Or
Postgraduate Certificate in Education, NQF Level 6.
Or
Higher Diploma in Education (Postgraduate), NQF Level 6.
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 experience in the study field in which they would like to apply for admission to a qualification. Participation in school leadership and management is recommended. For more information on RPL criteria visit: www.unisa.ac.za/rpl
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.