Opting for distance learning is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for students in South Africa, and it's not without good reason!
Distance learning offers students the flexibility to pursue a degree or diploma, even when physical attendance at a university is not possible. Moreover, it enables individuals to maintain their full-time or part-time employment while pursuing their studies.
For those contemplating distance learning in South Africa, we've compiled a useful list of accredited institutions that offer fully recognized degrees and diplomas through remote study. It's important to note that while various online school programs provide diplomas and short courses, such as GetSmarter, City Varsity Online, and HyperionDev, our focus here is on institutions offering comprehensive accredited programs.
With this criteria in mind, explore the diverse range of South African institutions that allow you to engage in remote study and attain a recognized degree or diploma!
1. UNISA
Established in 1873, the University of South Africa (UNISA) is Africa’s biggest open distance learning institution, offering internationally accredited qualifications. UNISA offers a wide range of qualifications—ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate—in all fields of study as well as short Online Courses.
UNISA has three core business areas: teaching, research and community engagement. UNISA’s research is led by the Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation portfolio. The community outreach is led by the UNISA Community Engagement and Outreach Policy.
The university’s vision is “towards the African University shaping futures in the service of humanity”.
2. STADIO
STADIO started as a subsidiary of Curro Holdings Limited, but in 2017, STADIO Holdings was listed on the JSE. STADIO’s intention was to create a separately listed business with a focus on higher education.
STADIO Holdings has since acquired a number of higher education institutions, such as AFDA, Milpark Education, LISOF, STADIO Higher Education, Prestige Academy and Southern Business School. With that said, Milpark Education and AFDA function independently; however, the other institutions have been consolidated to form the STADIO higher education institution.
STADIO offers qualifications in their faculties of Commerce, Administration and Management; Education; Arts and Design; Science and Technologies; and Law.
STADIO is hoping to empower South Africa by providing easier access to high-quality higher education.
3. College SA
College SA serves as a private distance education institution, aiming to bridge the gap for individuals seeking quality tertiary education but facing financial constraints or not meeting traditional entry requirements. The college provides numerous courses that don't necessitate a matric certificate, offering bridging programs for those who fall short of the minimum requirements.
Originally established in 2007 as Curro College, the institution underwent a transformation in 2008 when Curro School Partners divested their shares, leading to the rebranding as College SA.
The core mission of College SA is to offer affordable and high-quality distance learning opportunities. The college's diverse range of courses encompasses fields such as accounting, bookkeeping, beauty therapy, project management, events management, tourism, and human resources.
4. Lyceum Correspondence College
Established in 1917, Lyceum Correspondence College stands as a distinguished distance learning institution with a rich legacy of delivering higher education in South Africa.
Lyceum Correspondence College provides courses that are not only academically enriching but also more cost-effective compared to traditional in-person studies. This affordability contributes to increased accessibility, making Lyceum's courses available to a broader segment of the population.
Emphasizing a personalized approach to learning, Lyceum offers tailored study journeys with the support of qualified academics to guide students through their degrees, diplomas, certificates, or short courses. The college's course offerings span various disciplines, including humanities, commerce, and education.
5. INTEC College
At INTEC, the mantra is "earn while you learn," reflecting the belief that the student's experience is paramount. This principle allows INTEC students the flexibility to study at their own pace, choosing when and where it best suits them. With a commitment to delivering reputable, convenient, affordable, and student-centric study options, INTEC has been providing tertiary education to South African students for over a century.
The institution boasts a diverse array of qualifications ranging from engineering to dressmaking, ensuring a comprehensive range of educational opportunities. INTEC offers diplomas in Science and Technology, Humanities, Education, and Commerce, affirming its dedication to providing a well-rounded and accessible educational experience.
6. Oxbridge Academy
For more than two decades, Oxbridge Academy has been a leading provider of remote tertiary education. The institution extends its educational opportunities to students in South Africa and overseas, allowing them to pursue studies remotely. Flexibility is a key feature, enabling students to opt for part-time study if needed.
Guided by the motto "effortless excellence in education," Oxbridge Academy is dedicated to delivering high-quality education and going the extra mile to ensure student success. The institution's diverse course offerings include fields such as Advertising and Marketing, Events Management, HR, Beauty Therapy, and Engineering, providing a comprehensive range of educational pathways.
7. Damelin Correspondence College
Damelin Correspondence College is dedicated to delivering top-notch tertiary education that is not only credible and quality-assured but also affordable. With a reputation for excellence and prestige, the institution aims to cover all facets of academia.
Focusing on flexibility and innovation, Damelin's programs allow students to pursue their educational goals while accommodating personal and work objectives. The institution offers a diverse array of courses and diplomas in Education, Commerce, Science and Technology, as well as Humanities.
8. BMT College
As a fully accredited and industry-recognized online institution, BMT College places a strong emphasis on social interaction and student success. The institution firmly believes that active participation, engagement with lecturers, study content, and fellow students are pivotal elements in achieving academic excellence.
Understanding the challenges faced by part-time students with busy schedules, BMT College has designed programs that facilitate interaction. Whether studying for a diploma or an advanced diploma in HR Management and Business Management, students at BMT can navigate their coursework effectively.
With over 29 years of experience, BMT College has cultivated a positive reputation by prioritizing students and ensuring they can always connect with the right person for support and guidance.
9. Milpark Education
Established in 1997, Milpark Education was among the pioneering private providers of higher management education in South Africa. Today, it operates as a subsidiary of STADIO Holdings while maintaining its independent status, offering both distance and in-person tertiary learning.
Milpark Education has two teaching campuses, one situated in Cape Town and the other in Johannesburg, along with a support office in Durban.
The institution's flagship qualification is the MBA, and it stands out as the sole institution in Africa with AMBA accreditation for both content and online distance learning. This prestigious accreditation places Milpark's MBA among the top 2% of global business schools in more than 70 countries.
10. Boston City Campus & Business College
Established in 1991, Boston City Campus has been providing internationally accredited qualifications for the past three decades. Recognized by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) and currently a candidate for accreditation for specific programs with the Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs in the United States, the institution facilitates opportunities for students to seamlessly pursue studies overseas.
This accreditation also ensures that Boston City Campus qualifications adhere to international standards for higher education, enhancing the employability of graduates on a global scale. The institution offers a diverse range of qualifications, spanning from degrees in accounting, law, and economics to diplomas in management, systems development, event management, and more.
11. Open Learning Group
Founded in 1997, the Open Learning Group (OLG) stands as an accredited Private Higher Education Institution (PHEI) in South Africa. It employs a blended distance learning model to deliver qualifications, along with learnerships, skills programs, and short learning programs conducted through contact sessions.
Open Learning Group specializes in providing Further Education and Training (FET) learnerships, skills training, and short learning programs. This private higher education institution collaborates with companies seeking to enhance their employees' professional development through accredited programs.
12. Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
Established in 1990 as a Computer Training Centre in Tongaat, the Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology has expanded with campuses across various regions in South Africa and offers distance learning options.
Registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training, Richfield is fully accredited by the Council of Higher Education and stands as the most affordable Higher Education Institution in South Africa.
The institution is committed to providing students with access to cutting-edge technology, offering free high-tech devices and data networks. Since 2012, Richfield has equipped students with a complimentary tablet, desktop computer, and a free Vodacom Smart Tab in their first year, preloaded with relevant learning materials and 500MB of data. Richfield's academic offerings include degrees and diplomas in Business, Finance, Education, Information Technology, Engineering, and Hospitality.