Graduating from REGENT Business School, or any university for that matter, is a huge milestone — but it’s also just the beginning. Whether you’ve earned your BCom, BBA, or another degree, your next step is about more than just what’s on paper.
It’s about your post-graduation career strategy in South Africa. Should you start working right away, continue your studies, or do both?
In this article, we’ll explore your options, explain which postgraduate course is best for your unique situation, and more.
Post-degree: Should you start working, keep studying, or do both?
The best choice after graduation depends on your goals, finances, and career path:
- If you’re eager to gain post-degree employment readiness and hands-on experience, entering the workforce can help you build practical skills and expand your professional network. You’ll learn how businesses really operate, something that can’t always be taught in a classroom.
- On the other hand, continuing your studies immediately can help you leverage your undergraduate degree for faster career growth. A postgraduate qualification can boost your credibility, open leadership pathways, and help you specialise.
- A third option is to study while working. This option can give you the best of both worlds. Many REGENT programmes offer flexible online study options, making it possible to upskill without pausing your career.
Ultimately, it’s about aligning your studies with your goals, lifestyle, and timing.
Who should consider an honours, postgraduate diploma, or MBA?
Postgraduate studies offer many benefits. The question is, which qualification is best for you? Each qualification serves a different stage in your career journey:
- An Honours degree (NQF 8) is ideal for graduates who want to deepen their understanding of a specific field, such as accounting, human resources, or marketing. It’s a significant step for those who plan to pursue management roles or research-based careers.
- A Postgraduate Diploma (NQF 8) is perfect if you want to expand your skill set without committing to a full degree. It’s a powerful credential for professionals looking to shift careers or boost their competitiveness in the job market.
- An MBA, short for Master of Business Administration (NQF 9), on the other hand, is designed for professionals who already have some management experience and want to accelerate into executive or entrepreneurial roles. When weighing MBA decision factors in South Africa, consider your leadership goals, industry, and financial readiness.
Whether you choose an honours, postgraduate diploma, or MBA, each option enhances your career growth and specialisation opportunities.
How do I evaluate if a postgraduate programme will offer a good ROI (return on investment)?
Before enrolling, it’s essential to ensure your next qualification will pay off (both financially and professionally).
Start by researching your industry:
- Are employers actively looking for professionals with postgraduate degrees?
- Will the qualification lead to higher earning potential or faster promotions?
Next, assess the career growth and specialisation guide for your chosen field. Compare tuition costs with expected salary increases and career opportunities after completion.
Also, consider the continuous professional development (CPD) aspect. A qualification that strengthens your lifelong learning mindset will continue to pay off over time.
At REGENT, all postgraduate programmes are designed with real-world ROI in mind. Courses are industry-relevant, flexible, and aligned with the evolving South African economy — giving you a strong return in knowledge, confidence, and opportunity.
How do I decide between starting work and pursuing an honours degree (NQF 8)?
Ask yourself what you want most right now: Experience or expertise.
If you want to build confidence, income, and industry exposure, start working. But if you’re still exploring your interests or aiming for specialised roles that require advanced qualifications, go straight into an honours programme.
Remember, there’s no “wrong” order. The key is to keep learning and growing in whichever path you take.
What is REGENT Business School’s approach to supporting alumni career success?
REGENT Business School alumni success doesn’t stop at graduation. The institution offers continuous guidance through networking opportunities, postgraduate pathways, and flexible online learning options.
Graduates are encouraged to stay connected, engage with mentorship initiatives, and explore new qualifications that align with their evolving career goals. REGENT’s mission is to ensure every graduate thrives in a competitive, ever-changing world.
FAQ
What’s the best qualification to pursue after a BCom or BBA?
It depends on your career path. Many students choose a BCom Honours or Postgraduate Diploma to specialise further.
If you want to move into leadership, an MBA or a management-focused diploma is a significant next step. That said, you will need additional entry-requirements for an MBA.
Should I work before doing a postgraduate qualification?
It’s not mandatory, but gaining work experience can help you better understand your strengths and career interests. This makes your studies more meaningful and practical.
How can lifelong learning improve my career prospects in South Africa?
Continuous professional development (CPD) keeps your skills relevant and competitive. It helps you adapt to industry changes, qualify for promotions, and expand your career opportunities locally and globally.
How long does a postgraduate qualification take to complete?
Most postgraduate qualifications at REGENT Business School take one to two years to complete, depending on the level and your study pace.
Honours and postgraduate diplomas usually take one year full-time or two years part-time, while an MBA typically takes around two years of part-time study.
Study postgraduate qualifications with REGENT
Your next steps after a BCom degree or BBA could define your future. Whether you choose to study further, start your career, or do both, REGENT Business School will help you every step of the way.
Explore REGENT’s postgraduate programmes, from Honours and Postgraduate Diplomas to MBAs, and start building your next chapter today.
