Higher Certificate in Paralegal Studies

The Higher Certificate in Paralegal Studies is an entry-level qualification aimed at paralegal professionals who assist lawyers in their legal work.

This Higher Certificate in Paralegal Studies aims to present students with basic knowledge of South African law and its procedures. The flexible structure of this qualification enables candidates to select outcomes that meet the diverse roles and contexts required by a wide range of legal firms, the corporate environment, as well as the public sector.

FURTHER STUDY OPPORTUNITIES

Upon successful completion of the Higher Certificate in Paralegal Studies a student may articulate to the BA Law or BCom Law.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR DISTANCE LEARNING

Distance learning students have access to STADIO’s student support services via the learning management system. Students can access a range of presentations and online support initiatives aimed at success and wellness. At the start of the semester, new students will be invited to join the online student orientation programme to familiarise themselves with the services offered by STADIO.

STADIO, in partnership with SADAG, has a dedicated STADIO student helpline providing students with free telephonic counselling, information, referrals, and support. Students will also have access to general counselling services.

THE ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR THE HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN PARALEGAL STUDIES ARE:

• a Senior Certificate (SC); OR
• a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 40% in three modules, including a Home Language and a minimum of 30% in three other modules; OR
• a National Senior Certificate – Vocational Level 4 (NC(V)),
  with
• a minimum of 40% in English Home Language or First Additional Language.

NAMIBIAN STUDENTS: 

• Grade 12 with no less than 20 points* over 6 modules (No G's)

*Conditional admission limited as per academic quota

MATURE AGE EXEMPTION

Candidates who do not meet the requirements for degree studies listed above, but who have reached the ages of 23 or 45 respectively, may apply for Mature Age Exemption via the USAF Matriculation Board under the following conditions:

• Candidates who have reached/will reach the age of 23 during the first year of registration and who have achieved a Senior Certificate with a pass in at least four subjects, including one of the official languages experience and including one subject on Higher Grade;

• Candidates who have reached the age of 45 before or during the first year of registration.