UNISA Courses in Accounting Sciences (2026 Guide)

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of South Africa’s leading institutions for distance learning, offering a wide range of accredited Accounting qualifications. Accounting is a crucial field in the business world, covering areas like finance, auditing, taxation, and corporate governance.

This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Accounting Sciences qualifications at UNISA, from Higher Certificates to Bachelor Degrees, and explain how these qualifications can help you build a successful career in accounting.

Why Study Accounting Sciences at UNISA?

UNISA offers an affordable and flexible way to study Accounting Sciences while working. Their qualifications are accredited and recognised both in South Africa and internationally, making them a valuable investment for your future.

Whether you aim to become a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), an internal auditor, or a tax consultant, UNISA’s programmes provide a clear pathway for students to achieve their professional goals. The demand for qualified accountants continues to grow in finance, auditing, taxation, and management, making this a strong career choice.

Overview of Accounting Sciences Qualifications

UNISA’s Accounting Sciences programmes offer a variety of qualifications to suit different career goals:

• Higher Certificate: This entry-level qualification is a stepping stone to more advanced studies, like a diploma or degree.
• Advanced Certificate: This builds on your foundational knowledge, preparing you for degree-level studies.
• Diploma: A more practical qualification that focuses on preparing students for middle-level roles in business and finance.
• Advanced Diplomas: These offer specialisation in areas like auditing, taxation, management accounting, or financial accounting.
• Bachelor Degrees: Comprehensive qualifications that prepare students for professional accounting exams and high-level careers.

Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences

• Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences (98201)
  • Purpose: Provides foundational knowledge for entry into accounting and finance.
  • Entry Requirements: Minimum APS with relevant subjects.
  • Progression: Leads to a Diploma or Bachelor of Accounting Sciences.
  • Careers: Junior bookkeeper, accounts clerk, payroll assistant.

Advanced Certificate in Accounting Sciences

• Advanced Certificate (90017)
  • Purpose: Builds on a Higher Certificate or Diploma.
  • Progression: Prepares students for degree-level studies.
  • Careers: Finance clerk, assistant accountant, audit support officer.

Diploma in Accounting Sciences

• Diploma (98200)
  • Focus: Practical training in accounting, taxation, auditing, and management.
  • Progression: Articulates into Advanced Diplomas or a Bachelor’s degree.
  • Careers: Bookkeeper, payroll officer, accounts administrator, assistant tax consultant.

Advanced Diplomas in Accounting Sciences

UNISA offers specialised Advanced Diplomas, each tailored to specific career paths:

• Theory of Accounting (98230 – CT1)
  • Stepping stone to Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA).
  • Critical for the SAICA Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) pathway.
• Financial Accounting (98230 – FAC)
  • Focuses on corporate financial reporting.
  • Career: Accountant, financial analyst, financial controller.
• Internal Auditing (98230 – AUI)
  • Emphasis on assurance, risk management, and compliance.
  • Career: Internal auditor, risk consultant, compliance officer.
• Management Accounting (98230 – MA1)
  • Covers cost management, budgeting, and strategic decision-making.
  • Career: Management accountant, business strategist.
• Taxation (98230 – TAX)
  • Specialises in South African tax law and planning.
  • Career: Tax consultant, SARS compliance officer, financial planner.

Bachelor Degrees in Accounting Sciences

UNISA offers four Bachelor Degrees in Accounting Sciences, each focused on a specific area within the accounting field:

• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Financial Accounting (98302 – FA1)
  • Pathway: Chartered Accountant (CA(SA))
  • Curriculum: IFRS, auditing, taxation, corporate finance
  • Careers: Auditor, financial manager, CA(SA) (after completing board exams)
• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Internal Auditing (98303 – AUI)
  • Focus: Auditing, risk management, and compliance
  • Careers: Internal auditor, risk consultant, compliance specialist
• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Management Accounting (98304 – MA1)
  • Focus: Financial planning, performance management, and strategic accounting
  • Careers: Management accountant, business analyst, consultant
• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Taxation (98318 – TAX)
  • Focus: Tax law, compliance, and planning
  • Careers: Tax consultant, tax advisor, SARS official

Professional Pathways After UNISA Degrees

After completing your degree, you can pursue several professional designations and qualifications, including:

• Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)): This requires completing the CTA and passing the SAICA board exams.
• CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants): Management accounting recognition.
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor): A globally recognised internal auditing certification.
• Tax Practitioner: Registered with SARS to practise tax consulting.

How to Apply for UNISA Accounting Sciences (2026)

Applying to study Accounting Sciences at UNISA is simple:

1. Visit UNISA official website and create an account.
2. Upload required documents, such as your ID, matric results, or transcripts.
3. Pay the application fee.
4. Check APS requirements to ensure you meet the qualifications needed.
5. Keep an eye on application dates and fees.

Career Opportunities with Accounting Sciences

Graduates of UNISA’s Accounting Sciences programmes have a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as:

• Financial Accountant
• Auditor
• Management Accountant
• Tax Consultant/Advisor
• Risk and Compliance Officer
• Business/Finance Manager

Important Notes for Students

• APS requirements vary depending on the qualification level.
• Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) is required for most degrees.
• Some programmes prepare students for professional board exams, while others are stand-alone qualifications.
• CTA (Certificate in the Theory of Accounting) is essential for those pursuing the CA(SA) route.

Check also: UNISA 2026 Applications Now Open

Studying Accounting Sciences at UNISA provides flexible and affordable pathways into the accounting profession. Whether you’re aiming for a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), an internal auditor, or a tax consultant, there’s a qualification that will suit your career goals.

Apply early for 2026 to secure your place and start your journey in the world of accounting and finance.