Choosing to study further is a big decision. One of the most important questions people ask: Is a business degree worth it?
This is where ROI comes in. ROI helps you understand whether the cost vs benefit of studying business makes sense over time.
For students, parents, and working professionals, the ROI of a business degree is not only about what you pay today. It’s about your future income, career growth, and long-term stability.
This article explains the return-on-investment of business degrees in simple terms, using real-world examples in a South African context.
What is ROI, and is it only about salary after graduation?
ROI stands for return-on-investment. In education, it measures the financial and career benefits you gain compared to the initial cost, including tuition, books, and time spent studying.
However, business education ROI is not only about a salary increase. It also includes:
- Soft skills
- Better job security
- Career flexibility
- And promotion opportunities
Many graduates also benefit from networking opportunities, alumni networks, and leadership skills that improve their long-term career prospects.
So when evaluating the value of a business degree, income is important — but it’s not the full picture.
How to calculate ROI in business studies?
To evaluate the ROI of business studies, start with the initial cost, including tuition, study materials, and whether you study full-time or part-time. Then look at your financial return over time.
Ask simple questions:
- Will this qualification help me earn more?
- Will it improve my job security?
- Will it open doors to leadership roles?
For example, if your studies lead to a salary increase within a few years, your return on investment improves quickly. The ROI of a business qualification also grows over time as your experience and responsibilities increase.
What is a good ROI for a business qualification?
A good ROI means the benefits clearly outweigh the costs. In education, this often shows through steady income growth, promotions, and long-term employability.
In South Africa, data shows that having a tertiary education (including higher certificates, diplomas, and degrees) increases your chances of being employed. Data further suggests that employees with these qualifications also often enjoy more benefits.
Benefits include:
- Higher salaries
- Career advancement
- Other benefits, such as medical aid coverage
Learn more about the importance of tertiary education in South Africa.
A strong long-term career ROI usually comes from qualifications that combine theory with practical skills, industry relevance, and employer recognition.
Have a look at REGENT’s business degrees.
Which degree has the highest ROI?
There’s no single “best” degree for everyone. The highest ROI depends on your career goals, experience level, and study pathway. However, business degrees, including Higher Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees, and an MBA programme, consistently rank well for ROI.
- A Higher Certificate in Business offers a low initial cost and fast entry into the job market. This makes it attractive for students who want a quicker return and practical workplace skills.
- A Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree increases your salary prospects in South Africa and supports long-term growth into supervisory and management roles. These qualifications often deliver a strong return on investment over time.
- An online MBA or traditional MBA programme usually has a higher upfront cost, but it often delivers one of the strongest long-term career ROI outcomes. MBA graduates frequently move into senior leadership, consulting, or entrepreneurship roles.
The key factor is relevance. Degrees aligned with real business needs, such as leadership, finance, operations, and strategy, offer the highest business education ROI.
Therefore, you can look at fast-growing careers to see which skills and pathways you need to consider to get the most from your qualification.
Lastly, choosing an accredited business school with strong industry links also increases your chances of success.
FAQ
Does work experience improve the ROI of a business degree?
Yes. Work experience strengthens the return-on-investment ROI by helping you apply theory in real situations. Employers value graduates who can combine knowledge with practical skills, which often leads to faster promotions and better pay.
Are Higher Certificates and Diplomas worth the investment?
Yes. These qualifications have a lower initial cost and offer a strong cost-to-benefit ratio for studying business, especially for entry-level roles or career changes. They also allow progression to higher qualifications later.
For example, after studying a Higher Certificate or Diploma, you may consider getting a degree in a specialised field.
How does Regent Business School support graduate employability?
The REGENT Business School business degree focuses on practical learning, real-world case studies, and workplace-ready skills. Students also benefit from networking opportunities, industry exposure, and strong alumni networks.
Can a business degree help with entrepreneurship?
Absolutely. Pursuing a business degree builds skills in finance, strategy, marketing, and operations, which are all essential for starting and growing a business. Many entrepreneurs use these skills to improve decision-making and profitability.
Study a degree with REGENT
If you’re looking for a qualification with real value, studying at REGENT Business School offers a clear return. Our accredited programmes are designed for working professionals, adult learners, and students who want measurable results.
Whether you choose a Higher Certificate, Degree, or online MBA, you gain practical skills, recognised credentials, and strong career support. With a focus on real-world application and long-term success, REGENT helps students turn education into lasting career growth.
