The PGDip (Distance Higher Education) is designed to foster a scholarly and professional approach to university facilitation through the professional development of academics as university facilitators. The development of this programme is in accordance with a broad move towards online learning (e-learning) and the tendency to supplement contact programmes with a range of online teaching technologies, at both public and private higher education institutions world-wide.
On completion of the PGDip (Distance Higher Education) the graduate will demonstrate an understanding of the theories, pedagogies, methodologies, technologies and practices relevant to the field of distance higher education in the form of e-learning and be able to apply his/her knowledge in a particular distance education context.
This qualification is aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions with an interest in embracing e-learning.
On achieving this qualification, a learner will be able to:
Students need to complete four compulsory modules and three elective modules.
Compulsory Modules:
Elective Modules:
To enrol for this programme, potential students must possess:
Postgraduate Diploma in Distance Higher Education is offered as an e-learning qualification. The minimum period for completion is 12 months and the maximum period is 24 months.
SAQA ID 109941, NQF Level 8, 120 Credits.
To successfully complete and meet the requirements of the programme, participants must pass various formative and summative assessment tasks for each of the modules.
The successful candidate will be awarded with a Postgraduate Diploma in Distance Higher Education (NQF Level 8).
R 31 000 (Inclusive of all VAT and taxes where applicable).
Please note that there is a R350 application fee.
The first intake will commence:
Intake 1: Registrations close on
03 June 2022 for July 2022
Intake 2: Registration close on
21 September 2022 for October 2022
Applicants for the Postgraduate Diploma in Distance Higher Education will follow these easy steps on their path to enrolment:
Step 1: Apply for Enrolment
You will be required to complete and submit the attached application form for enrolment, together with the supporting documents, via email to sisipon@foundation.co.za. Please note that there is a non-refundable R350 application fee. Banking details to pay the application fee are provided at the bottom of the Application Form.
Please note that by signing the Application Form and submitting the supporting documents you indicate that you understand that, should your qualification(s) be found to be misrepresented or from a degree mill, then your name will be included in the Register of Misrepresented Qualifications and Providers operating outside of the South African NQF (RMQP). You will also not receive the qualification.
Application form 2021 Formal qualifications
The following supporting documents need to be submitted:
Once you have submitted your application, along with all supporting documentation, you will receive correspondence from FPD regarding the outcome of your application.
Step 2: Apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) / Credit Accumulation & Transfer (CAT)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Applicants aiming to enter the FPD proposed PG Dip Distance Higher Education programme may already be working in a (distance) higher education context and/or have gained knowledge as a result of learning in the workplace and in other settings.
If this applies to you, you can apply for RPL by providing testimonials/reference letter from previous or current employers. The testimonials/reference letter must include the number of years worked and your responsibilities/duties. Please send these via email to sisipon@foundation.co.za.
Credit Accumulation & Transfer (CAT)
Students who have previously successfully completed relevant modules, courses or programmes at FPD or another institution and who wish to have such modules, courses or programmes recognised by FPD should apply for CAT. To apply for CAT, complete the attached application form for CAT together with supporting documents and send via email to sisipon@foundation.co.za.
The maximum CAT allowable is 60 credits.
Application for CAT Postgraduate Diploma in Distance Higher Education
The following supporting documentation is required to be submitted:
You will receive correspondence from FPD regarding the outcome of the CAT.
Step 4: Registration and Payment
Successful applicants will also receive an invoice from FPD, in order to make payment. A 10% non-refundable registration fee is required upfront. As a student you have the option of paying the remainder of the fees at the start of each quarter or alternatively you may also pay for the entire qualification in advance.
Once proof of payment has been received, you will receive an acknowledgement letter with a link for you to register on the FPD Student Portal.