The Diploma in Chemical Engineering at the University of South Africa (UNISA) is a three-year open distance learning qualification at NQF level 6, offered through the College of Science, Engineering and Technology. It develops applied competence in chemical process principles, including mass and energy balances, unit operations, thermodynamics, process control, and plant operations, supported by mathematics and physical science. Students gain the practical and theoretical grounding to support the operation and optimisation of chemical, petrochemical, and process plants, and the qualification includes work-integrated learning that provides real industry exposure. It also prepares students for further study towards an advanced diploma in chemical engineering.
Admission requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Diploma endorsement, with at least 50% (a rating of 4) in the language of teaching and learning, at least 50% in Mathematics or Technical Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy), and at least 50% in Physical Sciences or Technical Sciences, or a National Certificate Vocational (NCV) at level 4 with at least 50% in English, Mathematics, and Engineering Science, or a Senior Certificate (SC) with at least a D symbol on the higher grade or a C symbol on the standard grade in the language of teaching and learning, Mathematics, and Physical Science. The minimum admission point score (APS) for this qualification is 18. The qualification is offered through open distance learning.
