SPU Higher Certificate Courses Now Open for 2026 – Full List and Requirements
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), located in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, has officially opened applications for its Higher Certificate programmes for the 2026 academic year. These intensive one-year qualifications at NQF Level 5 are designed to give students both academic grounding and real-world skills to unlock job opportunities and further education.
Whether you’re finishing matric, looking for a fresh start, or planning to upskill, these SPU Higher Certificate courses available for 2026 could be your stepping stone to a brighter future.
Why Choose an SPU Higher Certificate?
Sol Plaatje University’s Higher Certificate programmes are ideal for students who:
- Want to improve their chances of entering degree or diploma programmes later.
- Need a practical qualification that can lead directly into a job.
- Aspire to launch their own business or work in dynamic industries like heritage, business, or public services.
These programmes combine academic knowledge, workplace skills, and a deep understanding of South Africa’s economic and social needs — especially in the context of the Northern Cape.
Higher Certificate Courses at SPU for 2026
Below is a detailed breakdown of each Higher Certificate currently available at SPU for 2026, including their SAQA ID, admission requirements, and career prospects.
1. Higher Certificate in Court Interpreting
SAQA ID: 115460
Duration: 1 year
NQF Level: 5
Overview:
This programme trains students to work as professional court interpreters in the South African justice system. You'll also gain skills that are transferable to health, education, local government, and corporate interpreting.
Admission Requirements:
- NSC or NCV with Higher Certificate endorsement
- English Home Language (HL): Level 4 OR English First Additional Language (FAL): Level 5
- One African Language (e.g., Afrikaans, Setswana, isiXhosa): HL Level 4 or FAL Level 5
- APS: Minimum 25 points
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available for mature students with industry experience
Career Opportunities:
- Courtroom Interpreter
- Health or Municipal Interpreter
- Business Conference Interpreter
- Legal Translator in NGOs or public institutions
2. Higher Certificate in Heritage Studies
SAQA ID: 94804
Duration: 1 year
NQF Level: 5
Overview:
Ideal for those passionate about culture and history, this programme focuses on South African heritage, preservation, and museum work. It opens pathways to heritage management roles or further studies in social sciences.
Admission Requirements:
- NSC with Higher Certificate endorsement
- English HL: Level 4 OR English FAL: Level 5
- Mathematics: Level 2 OR Mathematical Literacy: Level 3
- APS: Minimum 25 points
Career Opportunities:
- Museum or Gallery Assistant
- Tourism Industry Guide
- Heritage Research Assistant
- Archivist in public or private sector
3. Higher Certificate in Entrepreneurship
SAQA ID: 123433
Duration: 1 year
NQF Level: 5
Overview:
Perfect for self-starters and business-minded individuals, this programme provides the skills needed to start a business, manage finances, and lead small teams. Learn practical entrepreneurship in a South African context.
Admission Requirements:
- NSC, NCV, or Senior Certificate (Level 4) with Higher Certificate endorsement
- English HL: Level 4 OR English FAL: Level 5
- Mathematics: Level 3 OR Mathematical Literacy: Level 4
- One of the following subjects at Level 3: Accounting, Business Studies, or Economics
- APS: Minimum 25 points
Career Opportunities:
- Start-up Founder
- Franchise Manager
- Small Business Owner
- Junior Business Consultant
- Entry-level Admin or Operations Manager
What Makes SPU a Great Choice?
Sol Plaatje University isn’t just about education—it’s about transformation. SPU serves as a gateway to opportunity, particularly for students from underserved communities. The university prides itself on:
- Affordable and accessible programmes
- Culturally relevant education
- Academic support services
- Modern facilities and a central location in Kimberley
How to Apply to SPU for 2026
Follow these steps to secure your spot in one of SPU’s Higher Certificate programmes:
- Visit the official website: www.spu.ac.za
- Navigate to the "Apply" or "Undergraduate Admissions" section
- Select your preferred Higher Certificate programme
- Complete the online application form
- Upload certified copies of your documents (ID, results, etc.)
- Submit your application before the closing date
✅ Tip: Apply early to avoid last-minute stress and secure your space.
Need Financial Aid? Explore Your Options
Studying at SPU can be affordable thanks to multiple funding avenues:
NSFAS – www.nsfas.org.za
Covers tuition, accommodation, and more for qualifying students.
Fundi – www.fundi.co.za
Offers student loans for tuition and learning resources.
Feenix – www.feenix.org
Crowdfunding platform that connects students to donors.
For assistance, contact
Ms. Chrizelle Mally – +27 (0)53 491 0102 | [email protected]
Ms. Malebo Tshelane – +27 (0)53 491 0366 | [email protected]
Final Words: Take Charge of Your Future
If you’ve been asking, “Which SPU Higher Certificate is available for 2026?”, now you know — three high-impact programmes are open and ready for your application. Each one offers a path to employment, entrepreneurship, or academic growth.
Whether you're passionate about justice, culture, or business, SPU gives you the tools to turn your dreams into reality.
