The December holiday is a distant memory and reality struck when the matric results were released on Tuesday.
But what happens if you did not apply at a university in time, or you didn’t want to study and have now had a change of heart?
Senior Consultant at MEROPA Communications, Shelly Stamatiadis, together with W. Ntshinga, Senior Head of Programme: Faculty of ICT at The Independent Institute of Education, is giving the matric Class of 2019 advice and options for possible study courses.
- Enrol for a short course
“You don’t have to commit to a three-year degree if you are not yet sure what you want to do career-wise. But at the very least, commit to developing your skills and not stagnating. There is a wide range of courses on offer in a variety of fields, all of which will allow you to get your foot in the door in the world of work,” said Ntshinga.
- Enrol for a Higher Certificate
Students can enrol for a one-year Higher Certificate, which will provide them with an excellent foundation to attain a full qualification, while mastering the essential skills which are needed for higher education success.
“A Higher Certificate is also a good option for those matrics who do not expect to achieve a Bachelor’s Pass, as it gives access to degree study,” explained Ntshinga. A student can enter the workplace after only a year of study, which is excellent if they have to earn an income while studying. Higher Certificates are available across a wide range of disciplines and fields, which can align with your career aspirations, and will allow you to enrol for degree studies if you would choose to.
- Degree study
If you’ve decided to pursue a degree next year, there is still a possibility you can gain access at a private higher education institution if you move quickly. Ntshinga said good institutions would have a range of registered and accredited qualifications alike to those on offer at public universities. Some of these qualifications are uniquely geared toward specific careers. Ntshinga encouraged future students to have a look at various faculties of Commerce, Education, Humanities, ICT and Social Sciences on the institution’s website. A degree form a respected private institution is highly regarded among employers, particularly when the institution has a reputation for producing work-ready graduates. Identify a qualification and visit the institution, speak to a student adviser and commit to a path which will set you up for a successful future.
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