Unisa does not currently offer an Office Administration Short Learning Programme or an ICB Office Administration course. Students who want to study a related formal qualification through Unisa can consider the Diploma in Administrative Management.
Students specifically interested in the ICB Office Administration programme can study through distance learning colleges such as:
These colleges allow students to complete their studies from home while receiving course material and academic support.
Can I Study Office Administration At UNISA?
Unisa does not currently offer a dedicated Office Administration course. Its closest related option is the Diploma in Administrative Management.
This qualification covers broader administrative and management skills and is not the same as the ICB Office Administration programme.
If you specifically want to learn how to manage office tasks, communicate professionally, maintain records and handle basic business finances, the ICB Office Administration pathway may be a more focused option.
How Long Does It Take To Study Office Administration?
The ICB states that its Office Administration programme can take approximately 18 months to three years. Your study period will depend on the programme level, number of subjects and study pace.
Distance learning gives you the flexibility to plan your studies around your employment, family and other responsibilities.
What Skills Will I Learn if I Study ICB Office Administration?
An ICB Office Administration course can help you develop skills in:
- Professional communication
- Record keeping and filing
- Office organisation
- Business documentation
- Customer service
- Bookkeeping
- Marketing
- Human resources
- Financial administration
These skills can be used in businesses, government departments, non-profit organisations and other professional environments.
What Can I Do With an ICB Office Administration Course?
Depending on your qualification level and experience, you may be able to pursue opportunities such as:
- Office assistant
- Administrative assistant
- Receptionist
- Secretary
- Junior office administrator
- Senior office administrator
- Administrative manager
- Office manager
Completing a course does not guarantee employment, but it can help you build relevant knowledge and workplace skills.
What Requirements Are Needed To Study Office Administration?
To enrol in the ICB Office Administration programme, you generally need:
- A Matric certificate or equivalent qualification
- The ability to read, write and understand English
- Basic mathematical ability
- Access to a computer or suitable digital device
- An email address and internet access for communication and assessments
You do not need previous bookkeeping, accounting or office administration experience to begin the first level.
The programme follows a progressive structure. After completing the first level, you can continue to the higher levels of the Office Administration pathway. Each subsequent level requires the knowledge and subjects completed at the previous level.
Entry requirements may be different for shorter provider programmes. Some non-ICB office administration courses may accept students without Matric.
How Much Do Office Administrators Earn?
According to Indeed South Africa, the average base salary for an office administrator was approximately R9,995 per month as of July 2026.
Indeed reported an average of approximately R16,764 per month for an office manager as of July 2026.
You have to remember: Earnings differ according to experience, qualifications, location, employer and responsibilities. These figures are market estimates and do not represent guaranteed salaries.
What Is the Difference Between an Office Administrator and an Office Manager?
An office administrator usually handles everyday tasks such as filing, scheduling, communication, record keeping and document preparation.
An office manager generally has broader responsibility for coordinating office operations. This may include supervising staff, managing supplies, monitoring budgets and introducing office procedures.
What Have We Learned?
- Unisa does not currently offer a dedicated Office Administration course.
- Its closest related option is the broader Diploma in Administrative Management
- You generally need Matric or an equivalent qualification to begin the ICB Office Administration pathway.
- You do not need previous office administration or bookkeeping experience.
- The complete programme may take approximately 18 months to three years.
- Office Administrators and Office Managers handle different aspects of the office environment
Last Updated: 5 August 2026