Tertiary Qualifications: Does Every job need one?

by FundiConnect Editorial Team | 22 July 2019

If you think your lack of tertiary qualifications is standing in your way of getting a job, think again. We have a reality check that is going to bust the myths and give you some perspective.

Tertiary Qualifications: who needs to be Formal?

New graduates can often find themselves feeling a little out of their depth when they venture into the working world. Why? Well, it seems there is a gap between what they learned at university and what they are actually expected to know in order to do their job well. It also seems that the value of a university degree is decreasing, and there are plenty more after school options. At the same time, recruiters and employers are demanding them, regardless of whether they are actually required to do a specific job. While a tertiary qualification may land you a higher paying job, employers know that they limit their candidate pool. Especially since the connection between education and job performance is weak.

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I’m a Graduate – I need a Job!

You’ve completed your degree, but now you really need a job. Being a graduate is awesome, but often this also means being unemployed – at least until you find that first job.

Jobs that don’t need a Degree

With education costs rising and the value of our tertiary education decreasing, we find ourselves in a bind. We’re told we need a tertiary education, but do we really? Or can we land a great job and grow a promising career without potentially wasting thousands of rands. It seems we can. If you think in terms of what is popular in today’s job market, it would be a good call to take IT, Computer Applications, Engineering and Technology related subjects as well as Business, Commerce and Management studies or Hospitality and Tourism at school. Take a look at these career fields that don’t necessarily require a formal qualification:

Developer – you can become a developer by doing an online course and some on-the-job training. This career is really in demand and can earn you a cool R1.2 million annually.
Digital Marketer – if you have a certificate from an online college and the right attitude you can land a job with a reputable digital marketing company. If you gain the right amount of experience you can earn great money.
Flight Attendant – want to earn dollars and not even get taxed on it? Consider becoming a flight attendant.
Real Estate Agent – if you have the gift of the gab and can sell ice to an Eskimo, why not try your hand at becoming the next Pam Golding? Intern for 12 months and complete a NQF4, land a few big sales and you’re soaring.

You may be thinking: well, that’s great, but what about that on-the-job training you mentioned?

Keep reading.

Learnerships and Apprenticeships: The Way Forward

The best way to learn on your feet while gaining experience is through learnerships and apprenticeships.

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Learnerships and Apprenticeships: How to get Them

Learnerships and Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain new skills, network yourself and gain working experience! That’s a fact.

What is the Difference Between a Learnership and an Apprenticeship?

A learnership is for those individuals who are looking for general work experience. It is where a company will hire and train you into becoming the employee they want you to be. They teach you the desired skills for their specific field. It involves theoretical, as well as practical, training and will eventually lead to a registered qualification.

An apprenticeship is required for trades such as plumbing, engineering, electrical etc. it could last three to four years, depending on the duration of the programme. There is no guarantee of employment in an apprenticeship, but you gain practical experience in the specific environment.

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So if you can’t afford a tertiary education, don’t fret. All hope is not lost. Most employees would take practical experience over a degree any day, we rate. All you have to do now is decide which career you’d like to venture into.

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FundiConnect Editorial Team

The FundiConnect Editorial Team researches, writes, and maintains comprehensive guides on South African higher education, bursaries, NSFAS funding, and career development. Our content is verified against official institutional sources, DHET publications, and direct admissions office communications to ensure accuracy for students navigating their post-school journey.