Distance Learning

Bridge the gap with the University Preparatory Programme

Bridge the gap

When you write your grade 12 final exams and your results are not what you were hoping for, you think that it’s the end of your dreams of obtaining a degree.  Don’t give up yet.  North-West University’s Preparatory Programme (UnivPrep) might just be the answer for you.  UnivPrep offers a unique opportunity to prospective students who do not meet the minimum requirements for admission to a formal degree/diploma.  You can look at it as a kind of a bridging course.  Interested?  Read on.

What programmes do UnivPrep offer?

The duration of the programme is 1 year comprising academic modules as well as academic development modules.  UnivPrep aims at laying a foundation for prospective students in preparation for the following formal NWU programmes:

  • Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) Degree
  • Bachelor of Science (BSc) Degree in Information Technology
  • Bachelor of Theology (BTh) Degree
  • Bachelor of Education (BEd) Degree
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree in Public Governance (with Policing Practice)
  • Diploma in Grade R Teaching

All these programmes are offered in the Distance Learning mode at NWU and if completed successfully, you may continue with the formal degree study.  It is worth noting that the BCom degree is a fulltime degree after completion of the UnivPrep, meaning that it is not offered in the Distance Learning mode.

Who qualifies?

To be admitted to the UnivPrep programme you will need to have two, but preferably three, higher level subjects of which one must be English.  Your National Senior Certificate must also state that you have passed grade 12, qualifying for a diploma or degree status with at most 2 points under the APS requirement.  For the BCom programme, Mathematics is a requirement.

How does UnivPrep work?

Upon successful completion of the programme (PASSING ALL MODULES with 50%), you may APPLY for recognition of prior learning and admission to one of the above-mentioned NWU qualifications.

Admission to formal degree/diploma study and granting of recognition of prior learning is not an automatic process and is based on faculty discretionary decision and your academic performance.  After successful completion of the UnivPrep programme, you will also be required to write and pass the NWU Admission test.

How do I attend classes?

Contact sessions are provided by means of live broadcasts of lectures on interactive whiteboards at various learning support centres.  Participants attend contact sessions on certain weekdays and weekends with an average of 4-8 sessions per module per semester, and you are expected to do independent self-study to ensure that you are thoroughly prepared when attending contact sessions.

How much does it cost?

The total course fee for the UnivPrep programme for 2018 is R9,500.00 per annum. The fee includes registration and study material.  Note that the fee structure will differ from year to year.

How do I apply?

Click here to download the application form.  You may apply for admission in one of the following ways:

  • Scan and e-mail the completed application form and supporting documents to UnivprepApplications@nwu.ac.za.  Applications sent to any other e-mail address will not be processed.
  • Send hard copies of the completed application form and supporting documents by post to:  Ms A Jacobs, Unit for Open Distance Learning, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520
  • Deliver hard copies of the application form and supporting documents to:  UnivPrep Office, NWU Potchefstroom Campus, Unit for Open Distance Learning, Building B11, Room G42.

All applications must be accompanied by the following supporting documents. Your application will not be processed without all your supporting documents.

  • Certified copy of your ID document
  • Certified copy of your Matriculation Certificate (National Senior Certificate)
  • Certified copies of other qualifications (if applicable)
  • An applicant who is not a SA citizen and who does not have a permanent residence permit, must obtain a study permit, issued by the National Department of Home Affairs of the RSA.

Now for the good news.  There is NO application fee payable for UnivPrep.

For enquiries, please contact:  Ms Annemarie Jacobs Tel:  018 285 2039 or E-mail:  Annemarie.Jacobs@nwu.ac.za

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