Why a Higher Certificate in Business Management is the Ideal Foundation for Your Business Career

A business management course is a great way to build a strong foundation for a thriving business career.

A Higher Certificate in Business Management covers foundational factors such as business communication, system management, entrepreneurship, marketing, and finances. 

This article examines an HC in Business Management, what careers you can pursue with this qualification, entry requirements, and more.

What is a Higher Certificate in Business Management?

An HC in Business Management is an undergraduate qualification that equips students with the fundamental business skills to manage business processes, systems, and people effectively. 

It is a comprehensive course that prepares you for the business environment by teaching you how to communicate and manage business operations effectively.

Depending on the institution, you may need to take anywhere from 6 to 10 modules, including:

• Business communication
• Business management
• Management of information systems 
• Financial fundamentals
• Marketing management
• Economics
• Operations management
• Strategic planning
• Entrepreneurship

What are the benefits of studying an HC in Business Management?

This business qualification offers several benefits, including vast career opportunities, increased earning potential, and a foundation for further education. Let’s examine these benefits in more detail.

• Vast career opportunities: This certificate gives you foundational management skills, which can lead to various careers in different business industries, including finances, marketing, project management, and more.

• High earning potential: Managers in South Africa can earn high salaries, with Marketing Managers earning over R26,750 monthly and Finance Managers earning over R44,400 monthly in 2024.

• Broad business skills: This qualification helps you gain a broad understanding of how businesses operate, including human resources, financial management, marketing, and more. This way, you can manage a business in its entirety.

• Foundation for further studies: It provides a solid foundation in business principles and practices, making it easier to study further and earn additional diplomas and degrees.

• Entrepreneurial skills: If you want to start your own business, an HC in Business Management will provide you with all the necessary skills and knowledge to do so.

What careers can you get with a Higher Certificate in Business Management?

You can pursue many different careers with a business certificate. These include jobs in various industries and at multiple levels.

However, remember that you will need to start in entry-level positions and work your way up. For example, if you want to become a Marketing Manager, you will likely need to start as a Marketing Assistant first.

Here are a few career paths you can step into or grow into.

• Administrative Assistant: Support executives and teams by managing schedules, organising meetings, and handling communications.
• Office Manager: Oversee daily operations of an office, manage administrative staff, and ensure efficient business processes.
• Sales Coordinator: Coordinating sales activities, managing customer relationships, and supporting sales teams.
• Marketing Assistant: Help develop and implement marketing strategies, manage social media accounts, and conduct market research.
• Financial Assistant: Support financial operations, including bookkeeping, budgeting, and reporting.
• Project Coordinator: Assist in planning, executing, and closing projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
• Business Development Associate: Identify new business opportunities, build relationships with potential clients, and support business growth initiatives.
• Operations Coordinator: Oversee and optimise business operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in various processes.
• Entrepreneur: Use your business management knowledge to start and run your own business.
• Human Resource Assistant: Support HR functions such as recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and benefits administration.
• Retail Manager: Manage day-to-day operations of a retail store, including staff supervision, inventory management, and customer service.

Are business management careers in demand?

The demand for business management professionals is high across various industries, including finances, retail, marketing, manufacturing, healthcare, and more.

A Higher Certificate in Business Management can be used as a ladder to step into several of the most in-demand jobs in South Africa, such as Business Development Manager, Finance Manager, and Marketing Manager.

However, as mentioned above, you may need to work your way up to these positions by starting in an entry-level role.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete a Higher Certificate in Business Management?

The time it takes to complete a Higher Certificate in Business Management varies depending on whether you study full-time, part-time, or through distance learning.

For example, studying full-time can take six months to a year. And, if you study part-time, it can take one or more years. Plus, it also depends on the specific institution, programme structure, and your own pace.

What are the entry requirements for the HC in Business management?

Entry requirements for this programme depend on the institution. However, you will typically be required to have the following:

• A National Senior Certificate with minimum grade requirements
• A relevant NQF4 qualification
• You need to be at least 18 years old 
• Proficient in the language of instruction (usually English)

Depending on where you choose to study, you may also be required to undergo an interview as part of the admission process.

Can I continue my studies after completing an HC in Business Management?

Yes, you can continue your studies after completing this qualification. This higher certificate is a stepping stone into other programmes, such as diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and specialised certifications.

Study a Higher Certificate in Business Management with REGENT

Pursuing an HC in Business Management is a strategic choice for students who know they want to enter the business world but do not necessarily know what industry they are most interested in.

This programme gives you an excellent overview of the business world and exposes you to different business areas, including finances, marketing, project management, and more.

If you are interested in enrolling or learning more about this qualification, check out REGENT’s Higher Certificate in Business Management here.