| Qualification code: | 98024 |
| NQF level: | 6 |
| Total credits: | 360 |
| SAQA ID: | 90512 |
| APS/AS: | 18 |
| Maximum time to complete this qualification: | 8 years |
Purpose statement:
The purpose of this qualification is to develop competent conservation officers who can provide support to conservators and resource managers or actively participate in management functions in natural resource management areas. Qualifying learners will be able to apply acquired technical and scientific knowledge, skills and attitudes, to interpret observations made and information and data gathered, regarding natural resources. This qualification aims to enhance professional competence in the field of nature conservation on local, regional and national levels by providing the conservation industry with persons who are able to participate in ecosystems' management, environmental education and ecotourism. This, in turn, will contribute to sustainable and responsible utilisation of natural resources in Africa, thus contributing to economic development. It further aims to advance social and economic transformation by providing accessible opportunities for individual, career and entrepreneurial development for people from all social and cultural groups.
This qualification contains modules with work-integrated learning components, which will require you to spend time away from your home and responsibilities, to gain the required industry exposure through applying your theoretical understanding in a workplace. You will be expected to complete tasks which will reflect your experience and skills gained while in the workplace. These tasks will be formally assessed and grades awarded.
Your admission to Unisa is dependent on you meeting the specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification.
A National Senior Certificate (NSC) (Diploma endorsement) with at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning and with at least 50% in Mathematics. In addition, at least 40% in one of the following: Physical Science or Life Sciences or Agricultural Science,
or
a Senior Certificate (SC) with at least a D symbol on HG or a C symbol on SG in the language of teaching and learning, and a D symbol on HG or a C symbol on SG in Mathematics. In addition, an E symbol on HG or a D symbol on SG in one of the following: Physical Science or Biology or Agricultural Science,
or
a Higher Certificate (HC) in Life and Environmental Sciences,
or
applicants who would like to apply for admission through recognition of prior learning (RPL) must be at least 27 years old; have completed at least Grade 10; and have at least five years' relevant work experience in the study field in which they would like to apply for admission to a qualification. For more information on RPL criteria visit: http://www.unisa.ac.za/rpl />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.
Study material for this qualification will only be available online.
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.