Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education

Career Opportunities & Professional Pathways

The Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education is designed to professionalise academic practice and enhance the quality of teaching and learning at tertiary institutions. Graduates emerge as critically reflexive practitioners equipped to link theory with scholarly teaching. Career pathways include:

  • Academic Teaching & Development: University Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and Academic Development Practitioner, driving excellence in teaching and learning within the Post-Schooling, Education and Training (PSET) sector.
  • Curriculum, Assessment & Quality Assurance: Higher Education Curriculum Developer, Assessment and Evaluation Specialist, and Quality Assurance (QA) Manager, ensuring institutional compliance and academic enhancement.
  • Educational Technology & WIL Coordination: E-Learning and Instructional Designer, Educational Technology Specialist, and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Coordinator, bridging the gap between academic theory and industry practice.
  • Research & Further Academic Study: Higher Education Researcher and Academic Scholar, with this qualification providing a robust foundation for further postgraduate studies, such as a Master’s or Doctoral degree in Higher Education Studies.
Postgraduate diploma : Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education

PD_HED

Campus

Duration of Programme

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

Bloemfontein Campus

2 years (part-time)

120

8

Minimum Credits Required: 120

Programme-Specific Requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification

An appropriate Bachelor’s degree, an Advanced Diploma in Education (or a related field), or any qualification at NQF Level 7 in a related field.

Professional Experience & Prerequisites

  • Mandatory Teaching Status: Applicants must have at least 2 years of teaching experience in the higher education sector and must currently be teaching in the Post-Schooling, Education and Training (PSET) sector (specifically at a university).
  • Required Skills: Effective oral and written communication skills, and proficiency in generic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office).
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Candidates with a relevant NQF Level qualification and a minimum of 3 years’ experience in the PSET sector may be considered for admission through the RPL process.

Selection Process & Additional Requirements

Selection Process

Admission is strictly subject to the verification of the applicant's current employment status as a university educator in the PSET sector, alongside the successful assessment of their prior qualifications and teaching experience.

Important Note for Applicants

Because this is a work-integrated professional qualification designed for current higher education practitioners, applicants who are not currently employed as teaching staff at a university or PSET institution will not be eligible for this programme.


Need the Full Programme Details? Consult the Student Calendar

We know that choosing your future is a big step! While this page gives you the key highlights, the official CUT Student Calendar is your complete, authoritative guide. We highly recommend reviewing it to see full details on this programme, including admission criteria, complete module structures, assessment rules, and what to expect during your studies.

View the Student Calendar →

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