Public Administration

Higher Certificate in Public Administration
The Higher Certificate in Public Administration (HCPA) is your gateway to a fulfilling career in governance and public service.
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NQF Level:

5

Credits:

120

Minimum Duration:

1 year

Faculty:

Faculty of Public Administration, Governance & Sustainability

Department:

Public Administration & Governance

Accreditation Authority:

Council on Higher Education
LEAD WITH IMPACT—BUILD A CAREER IN PUBLIC SERVICE
The Higher Certificate in Public Administration provides foundational knowledge in public administration, governance, and policy, emphasizing ethics, accountability, and digital transformation. Hands-on learning and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) equip students for impactful roles in governance and public service.

Why Choose This Qualification?

Prepares learners for the Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions with modules on digital transformation, public policy, and sustainable governance. Includes real-world applications through a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) module.

Admission Requirements.

National Senior Certificate (NSC) with endorsement for Higher Certificate admission. Relevant NQF Level 4 National Certificate Vocational (NCV) or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) based on professional experience.

Qualification Structure.

Semester 1: Public Administration, Public Policy and Governance, Ethics and Accountability, Digital Transformation, Communication Skills
Semester 2: Economics and Finance, Public Sector Management, Innovation and Sustainability, Governance and Leadership, Work Integrated Learning (WIL)

Learning Outcomes.

Graduates will demonstrate foundational knowledge of public administration, apply ethical principles, use digital tools, lead with innovation, and contribute to effective public sector management.

International Comparability.

Aligns with leading international programmes such as the Certificate in Public Administration (UK) and the Certificate in Government and Public Administration (Canada).

Qualification Modes of Delivery and Support.

Offered via contact, blended, and distance learning with access to Moodle LMS and additional academic support services.

Career Opportunities.

Administrative Officer, Community Development Worker, Policy Assistant, Public Service Assistant, Local Government Officer, Human Resource Assistant (Public Sector).

Articulation Options.

Horizontal Articulation: Higher Certificate in Public Management, Higher Certificate in Local Government Management (NQF Level 5)
Vertical Articulation: Diploma in Public Administration (NQF Level 6), Bachelor of Public Administration (NQF Level 7)
Diagonal Articulation: Occupational Certificate: School Principal (NQF Level 6)

Ensure Compliance, Empower Financial Accuracy.

Prepares learners to navigate governance frameworks and uphold ethical principles in public service roles.