Course Details
next intake
Term 2
Applications Open
16 March 2026Applications Close
18 June 2026
duration
5 Academic terms, part-time | 1 Year, full-time
accreditation
NQF 5, CHE Accreditation
Campus
Why take this course
SACAP’s Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management is an excellent introduction to this dynamic and growing field. A skills-based vocational qualification at an NQF 5 level, our online Higher Certificate equips you with comprehensive knowledge and skills encompassing Human Resource functions and principles, Occupational Health and Safety Management and Project Management.
As a successful graduate, you will be able to apply the knowledge you gain in real-world work settings and have the option to become a registered HR Technician through the South African Board of People Practices (SABPP). You will also be well-positioned to further your studies by applying for SACAP’s Diploma in Counselling and Communication Skills, or any one of SACAP’s Bachelor of Applied Social Science degrees, with the potential for credit transfer for selected first-year modules. In addition, you will be eligible to apply for SACAP’s Bachelor of Psychology and Bachelor of Social Work, both professional, four-year degrees that provide an undergraduate entry point leading to an NQF Level 8 professional registration upon completion.
This Higher Certificate is a digitally-led learning journey with ongoing support from the class facilitator. It is ideal for those who value the flexibility to balance their daily commitments and studies and to work at their own pace while meeting weekly milestones.
What you can expect
You’ll get an introductory understanding of:
- Human Resource concepts and principles
- How to manage a diverse workforce
- South Africa Labour Relations
- Workforce planning and recruitment
- Recruitment, selection and onboarding
- Training and development
- Remuneration and reward
- Health, safety and employee wellness
- Technology in workforce management
- Organisational development and change management
- Current Trends in HR
- Project management
You will also develop:
- Business, digital and academic literacy skills
- Understanding of the use of Artificial Intelligence in business
Course Highlights
An alternative entry point into higher education with an emphasis on HRM skills.
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Endorsed by SABPP allowing registration as a HR Technician on graduation.
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A vocational qualification that is skills-based.
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A broad overview of the HRM discipline
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NQF accredited programme.
Who is this course for?
Do you:
- Individuals who have completed Grade 12 but are ineligible for diploma or degree programmes.
- Workers seeking to gain insight into labour rights.
- Employers and supervisors aiming to grasp HR best practices.
- Aspiring HR professionals.
- Trade union representatives seeking foundational knowledge in Industrial Relations and HR-related topics.
- Individuals employed in social work or psychology looking to comprehend the intricacies of Industrial Relations and HR-related issues.
Engagement through technology. Inside the classroom
- This qualification takes a self-directed and digitally-enabled approach to learning. Although you’ll be steering your learning journey you won’t be alone. A dedicated facilitator will guide you through online discussions, provide feedback on your progress, and ensure you’re on track.
- Materials are released on a Monday morning and you’ll explore a topic via varied resources designed to deepen your understanding of the subject matter throughout the week. Resources may include articles, book chapters, videos, multiple-choice quizzes, Q&A sessions and interactive learning activities to help you apply what you’ve learned in a hands-on way.
- Assessment is ongoing and summative. This means you will be evaluated throughout the module rather than relying solely on final exams. Continuous assessments might include quizzes, reflective assignments, or project work that allows you to demonstrate your understanding and practically apply it. The Higher Certificate also includes two summative assessments, which are more comprehensive evaluations of your learning, making sure you’ve met the key outcomes of the module.
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Entry-level HR positions such as
- HR Assistant
- Recruitment Coordinator
- Recruitment Administrator
- HR Coordinator
- HR Administrator
- Payroll Administrator
- Skills Development Facilitator
- Onboarding Specialist
- Industrial Relations Officer
- Junior HR Generalist
Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management Modules
Modules
Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management
Part Time Study Plan
Full Time Study Plan
Module Descriptors View
Additional information
British Accreditation Council (BAC)
SACAP is fully accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) as an Independent Higher Education Institution
The BAC accreditation is a globally recognised hallmark of quality assurance, and achieving this accreditation demonstrates that we have met the high standards set by the BAC. This accreditation is validation of our commitment to excellence and our mission to provide our students with a world-class education that prepares them for success in their future careers.
Our students can be assured that their education provider has met a gold standard. To maintain BAC accreditation SACAP needs to continue to meet BAC’s standards. BAC ensure that colleges, universities and training providers provide high quality education and a great learning experience for students.
Admission requirements
Minimum Entrance Requirements:
- A National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 45% in English as certified by the Council for General and Further Education and Training (Umalusi). OR
- A National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 with a minimum of 45% in English issued by the Council for General and Further Education and Training (Umalusi). OR
- A Senior Certificate (pre-2008) with a minimum overall D-aggregate (50%) with a minimum of 45% in English, or an equivalent school leaving certificate. OR
- Applicants who do not meet the above requirements should provide a portfolio of evidence demonstrating formal, informal, and non-formal knowledge, training, work experience, and/or learning equivalent to a National Senior Certificate (NQF level 4) to support admission into the programme on the basis of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
See SACAP’s full Admissions Policy here
How can I apply?
You will need these docs
- SACAP application form
- Certified copy of highest level of study
- Certified copy of ID
- Proof of Application fee of R300.00
Apply Online here
Course details
- Duration: 5 Academic Terms, Part-Time and 1 Year Full Time
- Modules: 9
- Accreditation: NQF 5, CHE, SABPP Endorsement
- SAQA ID 118461
Credit Accumulation Transfer (CAT)
If you complete SACAP’s Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management, you may receive credit transfer for selected first-year modules in the Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Majoring in Psychology and Human Resource Management). This means that three of the modules you complete in this Higher Certificate, namely, Human Resource Management 1, Business Management Fundamentals 1, and Diversity in the South African Context can count towards your degree when you continue your studies.
Credit transfer is assessed individually in line with SACAP’s Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) policy.
