The Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences at the University of South Africa (Unisa) is a three-year open distance learning degree that provides students with a rigorous scientific education across biological disciplines including biochemistry, botany, microbiology, zoology, physiology, genetics, and more. Students select from a range of subject combinations — such as Biochemistry and Botany, Microbiology and Zoology, or Biomedical Sciences — allowing specialisation in areas aligned with career interests in health sciences, environmental science, biotechnology, and research. Unisa's distance learning format makes this science degree accessible to South Africans who cannot attend traditional campus programmes, including those in remote areas or already working in science-adjacent roles. Graduates contribute to South Africa's research capacity, healthcare system, and environmental management.
Admission requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) with Degree endorsement and at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning, 50% in Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, and 50% in Physical Science or Technical Science (if any Physics or Chemistry modules form part of the curriculum), or an appropriate Higher Certificate satisfying the Mathematics and Physical Science requirements.