15 Best Office Administration Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements

Office administration is such a solid career. These administrators are the glue that holds companies together. They keep everything running smoothly, from organizing schedules and handling paperwork to making sure the office environment is efficient and productive. It’s one of those jobs that might not always get the spotlight, but trust me, businesses would crumble without skilled office admins.

In South Africa, the demand for well-trained office administrators continues to grow, and the best part is—there are fantastic courses to help you get there.

Now, here’s the fun part: you don’t have to waste hours searching for the best options. I’ve done the work for you and gathered the 15 Best Office Administration Courses in South Africa, complete with their costs and requirements.

Office Administration
Office Administration Courses in South Africa
Office administration courses at UNISA
How many years to study office administration in South Africa?
What are the requirements for office administration?
Which university offers office administration in South Africa?
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

Office Administration

Office administration is the heart of any organization—it keeps everything running smoothly. It’s not just about answering phones or filing documents; it’s about managing schedules, organizing tasks, and ensuring the workplace flows efficiently. Think of it as the silent engine that makes teams productive and businesses successful.

It’s not a role where you “just do paperwork” or sit idle all day. Office administration is about problem-solving, multitasking, and creating order out of chaos.

It requires sharp organization skills, attention to detail, and a knack for communication. In short, office administrators don’t just support a business—they help it thrive.

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What jobs does an office administrator do?

An office administrator wears many hats, making sure the workplace runs like a well-oiled machine. They manage schedules, coordinate meetings, and keep track of important documents.

Think of them as the glue holding everything together—organizing calendars, handling emails, and making sure the office stays on top of tasks.

They also help with budgeting, ordering supplies, and ensuring everyone has what they need to do their jobs. It’s not just about “keeping things tidy”—it’s about being the backbone of the office.

Imagine an office without an administrator: missed appointments, unanswered calls, and complete chaos. They bring order, solve problems quickly, and keep everyone focused. Office administrators don’t just “work in the background”—they’re the ones keeping things afloat.

Is office admin a skilled job?

Yes, office admin is a skilled job. It takes sharp organizational skills, strong communication, and the ability to juggle multiple tasks seamlessly.

Imagine managing schedules, solving problems on the spot, and keeping a team moving—all without breaking a sweat. It’s not just “simple paperwork”—it’s about being the calm in the chaos, keeping everything and everyone on track.

Is office admin a good course?

Yes, Office Admin is a fantastic course! Think about it—every business, big or small, needs someone to keep things running smoothly. This course teaches you practical, real-world skills like organizing schedules, managing emails, and handling office systems.

It’s like learning to be the glue that holds a workplace together. Plus, it opens doors to many jobs across different industries.

So, if you’re looking for a versatile career, in-demand, and always valued, office admin is a smart and rewarding choice.

Is office administration in demand in South Africa?

Yes, office administration is in high demand in South Africa. With businesses growing and expanding, there’s a real need for skilled office admins who can keep everything running smoothly.

Roles in office admin are expected to continue growing because companies rely on organized, efficient staff to handle daily operations.

Whether it’s managing schedules, handling communications, or organizing documents, there’s always a need for professionals who can help keep things in order. So, it’s a career that’s not going away anytime soon!

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Office Administration Courses in South Africa

Here’s a list of the best office administration courses in South Africa:

National Certificate (Vocational) in Office Administration
Diploma in Office Administration
Higher Certificate in Office Administration
Certificate in Office Administration
Office Administration and Secretarial Studies
Business Administration
Office Management
Executive Secretarial Studies
Medical Secretarial Studies
Legal Secretarial Studies
Personal Assistant Studies
Business Communication
Office Management and Applications
Customer Service
Front Office Management

1. National Certificate (Vocational) in Office Administration

The National Certificate (Vocational) in Office Administration is one of South Africa’s best options if you’re looking to get into the admin world. It teaches you practical skills like managing office tasks, communication, filing, and using office software—things that are essential in today’s workplaces.

This course is perfect for anyone who wants to be the backbone of an office, handling everything from schedules to customer queries. It’s hands-on, practical, and designed for people who are looking for solid office admin roles.

One place you can check out for this course is at False Bay College where the course is offered as a full-year program at each of the NQF levels 2, 3, and 4. The full qualification takes three academic years to complete. False Bay College offers this course at around R25,000 depending on the level.

Alternatively, you can go for the courses at the College of Cape Town and at Majuba TVET College where it is delivered at NQF Level 2 and considered one of the best office administration courses at TVET College.

2. Diploma in Office Administration

The Diploma in Office Administration is an excellent course if you’re looking to go deeper into office management.

It covers everything from managing office operations, coordinating meetings, and handling budgets, to mastering office software and customer relations.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to become an office manager or administrator, giving you the tools to run the day-to-day operations of an office smoothly.

Damelin offers this course in South Africa. Also, you can go for the course at MSC Education Online where it costs R33,380. This course is one of the best online office administration courses.

3. Higher Certificate in Office Administration

The Higher Certificate in Office Administration is an amazing starting point if you’re looking to get into office management. It covers essential skills like managing office systems, handling communication, and organizing documents, as well as understanding business principles.

It’s a perfect course if you want to step into roles like office assistant, secretary, or admin clerk. It’s all about learning how to keep everything running smoothly in an office environment.

Rosebank College offers this course at R16,992 per year.

4. Certificate in Office Administration

The Certificate in Office Administration is a fantastic course if you’re looking to build a foundation in office management. It covers basics like managing schedules, handling calls, organizing documents, and understanding office procedures. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to become an admin assistant or receptionist.

One of the best places to study this course is Damelin, where the course costs around R8,000.

The difference between a Certificate and a Higher Certificate is simple: a Certificate is more basic and entry-level, while a Higher Certificate goes a bit deeper into the field, giving you more advanced skills and better opportunities for career growth.

You can go for this course at the Institute of Business Management of South Africa where it costs R12,500.

5. Office Administration and Secretarial Studies

The Office Administration and Secretarial Studies course is a great choice if you’re looking to master the art of managing office tasks and supporting executives.

It covers everything from typing, scheduling, and handling correspondence to organizing meetings and understanding office etiquette. If you want to be the backbone of an office, this course is for you!

This course is perfect if you’re aiming for a career as a secretary, personal assistant, or office manager. It gives you the practical skills and knowledge to run things smoothly behind the scenes!

The Certificate in Secretarial Studies at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology costs R8,500. It’s one of the best office administration short courses.

6. Business Administration

Every business needs strong leaders who can make decisions, organize tasks, and keep things running smoothly. That’s where a Business Administration course comes in. It’s all about learning how to manage and oversee the different areas of a business.

You’ll get to grips with things like finance, marketing, human resources, and project management. It’s perfect if you want to be in charge of operations or start your own business.

This course is perfect for anyone wanting to step into management roles or build a career in business leadership.

Stellenbosch Business School offers this course online at R109,648. Alternatively, you can go for this course at Mancosa.

7. Office Management

Office Management is a course designed for those who want to keep the wheels of an office turning smoothly. It covers everything from managing office supplies and technology to handling staff, organizing meetings, and making sure all systems are in place for maximum efficiency.

It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys being organized, keeping things in order, and making sure everything in the office is working as it should.

This course is great for individuals who want to step into administrative or managerial roles and help businesses run efficiently. If you’re in South Africa, you can take this course at the University of South Africa at R1 700 per module and R6 800 for the total programme.

8. Executive Secretarial Studies

Executive Secretarial Studies is all about training you to be the right hand of top executives. Think of it as the backbone of any business—managing schedules, coordinating meetings, handling communication, and ensuring everything runs like clockwork. This course teaches you advanced administrative skills, professional communication, and how to manage high-pressure tasks with ease.

It’s one of the best options to gain skills that make you indispensable in any office. You’ll come out confident, capable, and ready to take on executive-level responsibilities.

It’s perfect for those who are detail-oriented, organized, and ready to support business leaders in reaching their goals.

Optimi College offers this course at R8,106, with a deposit of R1,785. The remaining balance is paid in five monthly instalments of R1,264.20. The study duration is eight months.

9. Medical Secretarial Studies

Not many people realize how important Medical Secretarial Studies is. Imagine being the person who keeps a hospital or doctor’s office organized and running smoothly.

This course teaches you everything—from handling medical records and booking appointments to understanding medical terminology and assisting healthcare professionals.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to combine office skills with a passion for healthcare. You’ll learn how to manage patients, support doctors, and keep everything in order, even on busy days.

You can go for this course at Oxbridge Academy at R14 700 with a registration fee of R800.

10. Legal Secretarial Studies

Not many people talk about Legal Secretarial Studies, but it’s one of those courses that can open doors to a stable, professional career.

Think of it this way: lawyers handle complex cases, and you’ll be the one who keeps them organized, prepared, and focused. This course teaches you legal terminology, drafting court documents, managing schedules, and even understanding basic law processes.

It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys precision, and organization and wants to work in law firms, courts, or corporate legal departments.

A great place to study this in South Africa is Beliview Institute of Distance Learning at R13,900 and R17,500 as their courses are structured around the N4 National Certificate levels, including registration fees.

11. Personal Assistant Studies

Lots of businesses today rely on Personal Assistants (PAs) to keep everything running smoothly. If you love being organized, multitasking, and supporting busy professionals, this course is for you.

It teaches you how to manage schedules, handle emails, plan meetings, book travel, and handle office communications—basically, you’ll become the go-to person for everything.

This course is perfect for anyone who enjoys structure and wants to work alongside executives, managers, or entrepreneurs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology offers this course at R6 740. Alternatively, you can go for this course at The Knowledge Academy.

12. Business Communication

If you’ve ever struggled to say exactly what you mean in the workplace, Business Communication is the course for you. This course teaches you how to write clear emails, give presentations, handle meetings, and communicate professionally in any business setting.

It’s about making sure your ideas are heard and understood—because good communication is the backbone of every successful business.

This course is perfect for students, office professionals, or anyone who wants to improve their speaking and writing skills in the workplace.

Cape Peninsula Un iversity of Technology offers this course at R 6,550.

13. Office Management and Applications

When you think about any modern office, you’ll find technology running the show. Office Technology and Applications is all about teaching you how to master the tools that keep businesses organized and efficient.

From working with software like Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) to understanding basic IT systems, this course sets you up to handle any office task with confidence.

It’s perfect for anyone looking to work as an office administrator, receptionist, or personal assistant—or even someone running their own business.

The Central University of Technology offers this course at R3,670 for the practical component (WIL) of the program, with additional fees depending on the specific modules and course structure.

14. Customer Service

When you walk into a store or call for help, it’s customer service that makes or breaks your experience. This course teaches you how to interact with customers, handle complaints, solve problems, and leave people happy.

You’ll learn communication skills, professional etiquette, and how to keep clients coming back—skills that every company needs.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to work in retail, hospitality, call centres, or any client-facing role. One great place to study this in South Africa is at the Institute of Business Management of South Africa where it costs R3 500.

15. Front Office Management

Imagine walking into a hotel or office, and the first person you meet makes you feel valued and welcomed—that’s Front Office Management in action.

This course teaches you how to manage reception areas, handle bookings, assist clients, and keep operations running smoothly. You’ll master communication, time management, and problem-solving, making you the heartbeat of any organization.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants a career in hotels, corporate offices, hospitals, or any front desk environment.

The International Hotel School offers this course at R9 500.

Office administration courses at UNISA

Here’s a breakdown of the Office Administration courses at UNISA:

Diploma in Administrative Management
This qualification offers 360 credits and is at NQF Level 6. It focuses on equipping students with the skills needed for high-level administrative management roles, covering areas like communication, organizational theory, and office technologies.
ICB Office Administration
Offered as an online distance learning course, this program is ideal for those specializing in office administration. It includes key topics such as office procedures, business communication, and financial management, providing practical skills for a career in administration.
Public Office Management I
A 12-credit module that introduces the basics of office management in public organizations. It covers essential topics like client service, filing, and security measures, helping students develop practical skills needed to manage offices efficiently.
Administrative Management IA
This module focuses on administrative management basics, including organizational practices and effective office communication. It helps students understand the importance of efficiency and organization in office settings.
Programme in Public Administration and Management
This program includes modules on Public Policy Making and Public Financial Management. It’s ideal for those interested in public sector management, teaching students the essentials of managing public resources and policy development.
Reflective Public Administration
A 12-credit module that helps students critically analyze public administration practices. It encourages reflective thinking on policies and management approaches, allowing students to articulate ideas for improvement in public governance.

How many years to study office administration in South Africa?

The Office Administration NC(V) takes three years to complete full-time. This program covers essential skills like managing office tasks, communication, and organizational skills across NQF Levels 2–4. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a solid career in admin.

What are the requirements for office administration?

Here’s all to know about the office administration courses requirements:

Matric Certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent qualification.
Ability to read, write, and understand English.
Minimum age of 16 years old (some institutions may specify this).

For higher-level programs (e.g., NQF Level 4):

National Certificate Vocational (NC(V)) at NQF Level 4 with the right combination of subjects.
Further Education and Training (FET) at NQF Level 4.
Mature Age Exemption for those 23 years or older, as per Higher Education Regulations.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for those with relevant experience or prior knowledge.

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Which university offers office administration in South Africa?

If you’re looking to dive into office administration in South Africa, there are several great options to consider. Many universities offer courses to help you build strong skills for the workplace.

For example, Cape Peninsula University of Technology offers a course that covers key areas like office technology and ergonomics. If you’re interested in something more specific, Richfield College provides a one-year Higher Certificate in Office Administration, perfect for gaining hands-on experience quickly.

One of the best options in South Africa is UNISA, which offers a Diploma in Administrative Management that really prepares you for the challenges of office environments. Richfield offers this one-year course for about R11,000, a great value for building your admin skills!

FAQs

Is office administration a skill?

Yes, office administration is a valuable skill that includes organization, communication, time management, and problem-solving in office settings.

Is office administration hard?

Office administration can be challenging, but with practice, organization, and communication, it becomes manageable.

How many points are needed for Office Administration?

To study Office Administration in South Africa, you typically need at least 18–20 matric points.

Conclusion

Finding the right office administration courses in South Africa can open doors to a rewarding and stable career. It doesn’t matter if you’re starting fresh, upgrading your skills, or making a career switch, these courses equip you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in any business environment.

With options that fit various budgets and schedules, there’s no reason to wait. Invest in yourself, sharpen your skills, and take that first step toward becoming an essential part of any organization.