The University of Namibia (UNAM) stands as an inspiration of quality and distinction in higher education, offering a suite of professional programmes that are not only distinguished by their rigorous curricula but also by their accreditation from relevant professional bodies.
A professional programme is a programme that leads to an occupation governed by a mandatory regulatory body. Members of the profession must be registered with the relevant professional body by meeting the pre-determined minimum standards before they can actively practice and must keep their registration current, through additional education mandated by the regulatory body.
As one of the few higher education institutions in Namibia with all undergraduate programmes accredited by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) and registered with the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), UNAM ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of their chosen professions.
Professional programmes at UNAM are squarely designed to align with the regulatory requirements of their respective professional bodies. This alignment ensures that the curriculum not only meets but often exceeds industry standards, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary for professional practice.
Dr. Ngepathimo Kadhila, the Director of the Centre for Quality Assurance & Management (CEQUAM) at UNAM, emphasises, “Our professional programmes are developed with precision, ensuring that each graduate is not only academically proficient but also professionally competent and ready to contribute eloquently to their field.”
Preparing Graduates for the Highest Standards in their Professions
UNAM’s current 20 professional programmes span various fields, including Law, Agriculture, Commerce, Engineering, and Health.
Dr Kadhila assures that: “Each programme is backed by a guarantee that graduates will be eligible for registration with the relevant professional body, a prerequisite for practicing in their respective profession.”
Engineering programmes
In the School of Agriculture & Fisheries Sciences, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering Honours, being approved for offering by the Engineering Council of Namibia, and endorsed by the NCHE. This programme prepares students to address critical issues in agricultural productivity and sustainability.
The School of Engineering & the Built Environment offers a robust suite of engineering programmes, approved for offering by the Engineering Council of Namibia, and endorsed by the NCHE. These include:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Honours
- Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering Honours
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Honours
- Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Computer Engineering Honours
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Honours
- Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical Engineering Honours
Law and Accountancy programmes
In the School of Law, the Bachelor of Laws Honours is accredited by the Law Society of Namibia, equipping students with the legal expertise required to practice law in Namibia.
The School of Accounting offers the Bachelor of Commerce in Chartered Accountancy (Level 7), accredited by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Namibia (ICAN), preparing students for the rigorous demands of the accounting profession.
Health Sciences and Veterinary Medicine programmes
Veterinary enthusiasts can enrol in the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine in the School of Veterinary Medicine, accredited by the Namibia Veterinary Council, ensuring that graduates can provide top-notch animal healthcare.
The School of Allied Health Sciences offers several programmes, each accredited by the Allied Health Professions Council of Namibia. These include:
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Honours
- Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy Honours
- Bachelor of Science in Radiography (Diagnostic) Honours
In addition, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work Honours (Level 7) and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology are accredited by the Social Work and Psychology Council.
For those interested in dental and medical fields, the School of Dentistry and School of Medicine offer the Bachelor of Dental Surgery, and Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery, respectively, both accredited by the Medical and Dental Council of Namibia.
The School of Nursing & Public Health provides a Bachelor of Nursing Science Honours, accredited by the Nursing Council of Namibia, while the School of Pharmacy offers a Diploma in Pharmacy (Level 6) and Bachelor of Pharmacy Honours, accredited by the Pharmacy Council of Namibia.
Investing in quality is essential
Prof. Frednard Gideon, the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, notes, “Our commitment to quality education is solid. Our professional programmes are proof of our dedication to producing graduates who are ready to meet the highest standards of their professions.”
He adds, “Investing in the sustained quality of our professional programmes is essential, as it ensures that we provide premium facilities and employ seasoned staff, which are invaluable components of our educational excellence.”
Especially after the transformed curriculum in 2023, UNAM’s professional programmes are a hallmark of difference, ensuring that graduates are not only equipped with academic knowledge but also with the professional credentials needed to excel in their careers. With the new transformed curriculum and the stringent quality measures in place, UNAM continues to lead the way in higher education in Namibia, and beyond.
