Success

03 February 2026  |  30 November 2026

Communication and Learning Skills for Academic Purposes

Applications accepted until
20 January 2026
Short Course Coordinator:
Mmabotsile Myeni
Accreditation:
Certificate of Competence
Course dates
03 February 2026 - 30 November 2026
Applications close
20 January 2026
Overview
Designed for mature age students preparing for part-time degree studies, this course develops the foundational communication and academic literacy skills required at university and in professional settings. Participants learn effective reading strategies, essay and report writing, oral presentation skills, and techniques for critical thinking and analysis. Course content includes note-taking methods, summarising tools (such as double entries and graphic organisers), referencing, argument construction, and academic essay writing. This course is mandatory for applicants over 23 years old who do not hold full university exemption, but have a National Senior Certificate with at least a D in Higher Grade English or Level 4 English, and apply to Wits via the mature age access route. Successful completion strengthens both study and communication skills for academic and workplace success. A quality-assured certificate from the University of the Witwatersrand is issued on successful completion.
Duration
14 Weeks
Format
Weekly classes and tutorials
Pricing
VAT Incl. = R12,800.00

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Please complete the following info:

    The course content addresses the following topics: 


    • Introduction to communication and learning skills
    • Note-taking: quoting, paraphrasing, summarising, language varieties and interactive reading
    • Summarising strategies: text to self, double entries, alpha box, and graphic organisers
    • Academic literacy: technical terms, referencing, plagiarism, evidence, cohesion and coherence
    • Oral presentation: preparation workshop
    • Drafting academic essays: preparation for assignment
    • Argumentative essay
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    Course reviews

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