Top 10 Risk Management Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements

Risk management simply identifies and handles risks that could affect a business’s success. But let’s be clear—risk management isn’t just about “avoiding bad things” or handling emergencies after they happen.

True risk management goes beyond quick fixes; it’s about preparing for the unexpected while allowing a business to take smart, calculated risks that support growth.

In South Africa, businesses are catching on to the value of this skill, so there’s a high demand for quality courses. So, in this article, we will cover the top risk management courses in South Africa, complete with their costs and entry requirements to help you choose the right one.

Risk Management
Is risk management a good career in South Africa?
Risk Management Courses in South Africa
What are the requirements to study risk management in South Africa?
Risk Management Courses Fee Structure in South Africa
How long does studying a risk management course in South Africa take?
Where can I study risk management in South Africa online?
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

Risk Management

Risk management is about understanding potential risks a business might face and finding ways to manage or reduce those risks. Think of it as a safety net that helps companies stay steady, even when unexpected problems arise.

As a course, risk management teaches the skills and tools to assess risks, develop strategies to handle them, and protect a business’s future. Training risk managers is important in South Africa, where industries face economic shifts and natural challenges.

They help businesses make smarter decisions and remain resilient. Studying risk management here isn’t just about a career; it’s about contributing to building stronger, more adaptable organizations that can thrive even in uncertainty.

Read: Top 15 Vocational courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

Is risk management a good career in South Africa?

Yes, risk management is a promising career in South Africa! The country’s business environment is often unpredictable, with everything from economic changes to environmental issues affecting companies’ operations.

This makes skilled risk managers highly valuable, as they help businesses identify potential problems, plan, and stay stable even during tough times. Risk management offers a stable career with good growth potential, as companies need these skills to protect their future.

So, if you’re interested in a role that’s both challenging and impactful, risk management could be a great choice.

Risk Management Courses in South Africa

See the best risk management courses in South Africa in 2025:

Fundamentals of Risk Management (FIRM)
Financial Risk Management (FRM) Certification
Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management
Cybersecurity Risk Management Course
Short Course in Enterprise Risk Management
Credit Risk Analysis and Management
Supply Chain Risk Management
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Course
Risk Management in Banking and Finance
Certificate in Risk Management

1. Fundamentals of Risk Management (FIRM)

The Fundamentals of Risk Management (FIRM) course is about giving you a strong understanding of risk management essentials. This course covers key concepts, such as identifying, assessing, and controlling risks across various sectors.

It’s widely considered one of the best risk management courses in South Africa because it provides both foundational knowledge and practical tools to help professionals manage risks effectively, preparing them for high-stakes roles in a growing field.

One well-regarded institution offering the FIRM course in South Africa is the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA). Their FIRM course typically spans a few days, giving participants a quick but intensive overview of risk management basics in a structured, hands-on way.

2. Financial Risk Management (FRM) Certification

The Financial Risk Management (FRM) Certification is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to assess, manage, and control financial risks in complex business environments.

It’s one of the best risk management courses in South Africa, and also doubles as one of the best financial risk management courses because it goes deeply into specialized areas like market risk, credit risk, and investment risk, making it ideal for those looking to work in banking, finance, or investment.

The FRM Certification course is offered at The Knowledge Academy, a respected institution in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The course is usually structured in two levels, with each level requiring months of focused study and preparation to cover all the material and practical aspects fully.

3. Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management

Let’s say you’re in charge of keeping a workplace safe and healthy—that’s where an Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management course becomes invaluable.

This course teaches you how to identify and manage health and safety risks, helping to ensure that everyone goes home safe at the end of the day. It covers essential topics like hazard identification, safety protocols, and creating a safe work culture, all tailored for high-risk environments like construction, manufacturing, and mining.

In South Africa, you can study this course at CPD Management & Consulting, which offers it over a few months.

This makes it one of the best risk management courses in South Africa, ideal for anyone serious about making workplaces safer and more compliant with health and safety regulations.

Also, read: Best 15 TUT Courses In South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

4. Cybersecurity Risk Management Course

How about you learn how to protect a business from digital threats? That’s exactly what a Cybersecurity Risk Management Course is all about. It is one of the best security risk management courses.

It teaches you how to identify, assess, and manage cybersecurity risks that threaten company data, finances, and operations. With cyberattacks on the rise, this course has become essential for anyone who wants to be on the front lines of protecting valuable digital assets.

In South Africa, Cyber Security Insitutte offers a well-regarded Cybersecurity Risk Management course that can be completed in about six months. This makes it one of the best choices for anyone looking to improve their skills in this fast-growing area.

With the knowledge from this course, you’ll be prepared to keep sensitive information safe and respond to cyber security incidents like a pro.

5. Short Course in Enterprise Risk Management

We all know that short courses are the new fast track to skill-building, and the Short Course in Enterprise Risk Management is a perfect example.

This course helps you understand how to identify, assess, and manage risks that could impact an organization’s goals. Whether it’s financial, operational, or strategic risks, you’ll learn to minimize potential damage and maximize opportunities.

One of the best places to take this course is at University of Cape Town (UCT). It’s designed to be completed in just a few weeks, so it’s perfect for anyone looking to add value to their career without committing to a long-term program.

If you’re serious about risk management, this course is a great way to level up!

6. Credit Risk Analysis and Management

Are you a financial professional looking to deepen your understanding of credit risks? The Credit Risk Analysis and Management course is a game-changer.

It focuses on understanding how to assess and manage the risks involved in lending money, whether it’s to individuals or businesses. You’ll learn to evaluate creditworthiness and make smarter decisions to avoid financial losses.

This course is highly regarded and offered by The Univesity of South Africa (UNISA)). It is one of the best risk management courses UNISA. It typically runs for a few months, making it perfect for those who want to boost their skills without a huge time commitment. If you’re keen to go deeper into financial risk, this course is worth considering

7. Supply Chain Risk Management

Now, if you’re interested in risk management especifically in the supply chain, the Supply Chain Risk Management course is exactly what you need. It teaches you how to identify, assess, and mitigate risks that can disrupt the smooth flow of goods and services.

From natural disasters to financial instability, you’ll learn how to handle all sorts of supply chain challenges.

The Accredited Africa Training Institute for Capacity Development offers this highly respected course. It’s designed to fit your busy schedule and can typically be completed in just a few months. It’s a great way to sharpen your skills in one of the most crucial areas of modern business!

8. Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Course

The Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) course helps you understand how to manage a company’s risks, ensure they follow the right laws and rules, and establish a strong governance framework.

Balancing these elements in today’s business world is crucial for protecting the company and its stakeholders.

It’s one of the best courses in South Africa because it gives you a well-rounded understanding of risk management, making you a valuable asset in any industry.

The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers this course, which can typically be completed in a few months, depending on your schedule. It’s perfect if you want to boost your career in this field!

9. Risk Management in Banking and Finance

Let’s imagine you work in banking or finance and need to understand the risks involved—whether in lending, investment, or market volatility.

The Risk Management in Banking and Finance course teaches you just that. You’ll learn how to identify, assess, and manage risks in these sectors to keep everything running smoothly and profitably.

#It’s one of the best courses in South Africa because it gives you the practical knowledge to make informed decisions in an industry full of uncertainties. The University of South Africa offers this course, and you can complete it in a few months. It’s ideal if you want to specialize in this area!

10. Certificate in Risk Management

These days, risk management is such an important skill to have, especially if you’re in any business sector. The Certificate in Risk Management gives you a solid foundation in identifying, assessing, and managing risks that can affect an organization.

It’s perfect for anyone looking to build a career in risk management or wanting to improve their decision-making skills.

It’s one of the best courses in South Africa because it’s designed to give you practical knowledge that you can apply right away. Imsimbi Training offers this course, which can be completed in about six months. It’s a great way to get a professional edge in the field!

Also, read: Top 15 Best Bridging Courses in South Africa

What are the requirements to study risk management in South Africa?

To study Risk Management in South Africa, here are the key requirements you’ll typically encounter. Keep in mind that these can vary based on the specific program or university, but this gives you a good general idea:

Education:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree or advanced diploma at NQF level 7 is typically required. This means you would need to have completed a qualification relevant to risk management, such as a BCom, BSc, or similar.
Mathematics:
- A pass in Matric mathematics (higher grade) or a C symbol (standard grade) is generally needed. Some programs may accept equivalent courses or qualifications.
Admission Requirements:
- A minimum of 60% for your major(s) or a selected number of NQF level 7 modules in your previous qualification. This is typically needed to show you’re ready for the level of study in risk management.
CV:
- You’ll need a detailed CV, ideally covering the last ten years of employment. This will help the admissions team assess your work experience, skills, and achievements.
Motivation:
- You’ll need to demonstrate your motivation for studying risk management and show a strong academic aptitude. This could include a motivational letter or statement of purpose.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
- If you’re over 30 and have significant work experience, some programs may consider Recognition of Prior Learning, where your practical experience can be evaluated as part of your application.
National Senior Certificate (NSC):
- If you’re coming straight from school, you’ll need an NSC with at least 50% in four 20-credit subjects and a minimum of 40% in English Home Language or First Additional Language.
APS (Admission Point Score):
- If your APS score is between 35 and 37, you may be wait-listed, depending on space availability. For those applying, universities will typically consider your English and Mathematics levels, so a minimum of Level 5 in both is often required.
Additional Documents:
- Depending on the university, you might also be required to submit additional documents such as a certified copy of your ID, matric certificate, and proof of payment for application fees.

Risk Management Courses Fee Structure in South Africa

Here’s a breakdown of the fee structures for Risk Management courses from Oxbridge Academy and UNISA in South Africa so you can get a better idea of the costs involved:

Oxbridge Academy (Skills Certificate: Risk Management)

Total Course Price: R8 400.00
- Registration Fee: R800.00
- Course Price (excluding registration): R7 600.00
Payment Plan:
- You can pay in monthly installments of R650.00 over 11.7 months.

You’ll be awarded an Oxbridge Academy Skills Certificate in Risk Management upon completing this course. This is a good choice if you want a quick, affordable option for entry-level skills.

UNISA (University of South Africa)

1. Short Course in Applied Risk Management

Cost per module: R1 850
Total Cost for Programme: R1 850

This course is ideal for those looking to understand risk management in a focused, short format. It’s a more budget-friendly option.

2. Programme in Risk Management

Cost per module: R1 700
Total Cost for Programme: R11 900

A more comprehensive course, this option gives a deeper dive into risk management and is great for someone who wants to pursue a solid foundational understanding of the field.

3. Advanced Programme in Risk Management

Cost per module: R2 000
Total Cost for Programme: R10 000

In summary: Oxbridge Academy’s course might be the way to go if you’re after something more cost-effective and short-term.

But suppose you’re looking for more in-depth study and potentially a university-backed certification. In that case, UNISA offers some solid options, especially for those ready to commit to a complete program.

How long does studying a risk management course in South Africa take?

The duration of a risk management course in South Africa depends on the program and the institution offering it.

For example, a postgraduate diploma in risk management at Milpark typically takes around 18 months to complete. If you’re looking for something shorter, the Business Risk Management online short course at UCT lasts just 10 weeks.

Some international certificates in enterprise risk management can take 6 to 9 months. For those seeking a quicker learning experience, workshops and on-site courses at Leadership Institute range from 2 to 3 days.

Alternatively, their blended e-learning courses can be completed in a few hours or two 2 months, depending on the course and your pace.

Where can I study risk management in South Africa online?

Here are some places where you can study risk management online in South Africa:

University of Cape Town (UCT): Offers a 10-week online short course in Business Risk Management, ideal for business owners and professionals.
Unisa: Provides a Postgraduate Diploma in Risk Management, available through online and distance learning.
Damelin Online: Offers a Risk Management Course with a dedicated Student Success Coordinator for support.
SBS-ED: Provides an online short course in Risk Management.
Other Institutions: Stellenbosch University, University of Pretoria, African Institute of Financial Markets and Risk Management, and Lyceum College also offer online risk management courses.

FAQs

Is risk management a critical skill in South Africa?

Yes, risk management is a critical skill in South Africa, especially with its dynamic business environment. It helps organizations navigate uncertainties, protect assets, and ensure long-term sustainability and success.

How much is risk management at UNISA?

At UNISA, the cost for a Short Course in Applied Risk Management is R1,850 per module. The total cost for the Programme in Risk Management is R11,900, and R10,000 for the Advanced Programme.

Is risk management in demand in South Africa?

Yes, risk management is in high demand in South Africa as businesses and organizations need skilled professionals to navigate financial, operational, and strategic risks, ensuring stability and growth in uncertain environments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right risk management course in South Africa depends on your goals, budget, and the time you can commit. Whether you’re looking for a short course to boost your skills or a more in-depth program to advance your career, there are plenty of great options available. These risk management courses will equip you with the knowledge to handle risks confidently in any organization. So, take the time to explore the options that best suit your needs and start your journey today!