If you are wondering, “Can I earn a degree without university?” the short answer is no. You can only get a degree by completing a degree course.
But, while you need to get such a qualification through an accredited educational institute, it does not always have to be a traditional university. This means alternative degree options exist rather than just your standard on-campus degree.
This article will discuss what you need to know about getting a degree in Cape Town (either at a traditional or non-traditional university), alternative degree options, and more.
What you should know about getting a degree in Cape Town
Before we discuss what it takes to get a degree in Cape Town, we must first understand the differences between various learning institutes. They are often lumped together, but the learning style, admission requirements, and cost can vastly differ depending on where you study.
The term university comes from the Latin phrase “universitas magistrorum et scholarium,” meaning “community of teachers and scholars.”
These higher learning institutions offer undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications, including degrees, diplomas, higher certificates, and short courses.
These institutes typically have branches throughout various regions, such as REGENT Business School, which has campuses in Cape Town and many other parts of South Africa.
Traditional universities require students to be present on campus, while remote universities allow students to learn from anywhere in the country using various tools and systems.
This means that getting a degree through a conventional on-campus university or college will differ from getting one through a distance-learning university.
What is distance learning?
Distance learning is a form of remote education that allows you to study while having other commitments — such as a full-time job. Let us look at the benefits of distance learning:
- You do not have to be based in the same town or city to obtain your qualification. Suppose you live in a rural area and lack access to a campus, which is why you cannot study. In that case, distance learning allows you to complete your course without the extra struggles of finding a residence, getting transport, and moving into an urban centre.
- You can qualify while working full-time. Remote learning will also address this barrier if you cannot study because you are already working. As studying is done remotely, in your own time, you will be able to juggle work and studies, with time off needed only for exams.
- You can find an affordable study solution. Some of the larger, on-campus centres are notoriously expensive, a significant barrier to further study. While investing in your education is essential, remote classes are more achievable financially, as overhead costs are reduced when lessons are planned remotely.
Accredited online degree programmes
REGENT offers many accredited degree options through distance learning, meaning you will mainly study online. These include degrees such as:
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): This general degree covers a broad range of business skills. It equips you to work in various business industries, including marketing, finance, human resources, etc. As a result, it opens many careers and offers maximum flexibility.
- BCom in Public Administration: Pursuing a BCom in public administration could be ideal if you have a passion for helping your community. This degree equips you with the skills to make a true impact in South Africa.
- BCom in Retail Management: This degree is ideal for people seeking careers in the retail sector. It teaches you the main functions and practices of the retail industry, including retail trading, operations in different environments, and more.
- BCom in Supply Chain Management: The supply chain industry could be perfect if you want to work in a fast-paced sector where digital advancements are making extreme breakthroughs.
Other degree options depend on your specific interests and career goals. You can look at REGENT’s other degrees here.
FAQ
Are online degrees as valuable as traditional ones?
Typically, online degrees are considered just as valuable as traditional degrees if they are accredited by a reputable institution. This means these degrees have the same NQF level and can get you the same jobs.
For example, an online or distance learning BCom degree at an accredited institution carries the same weight as a traditional BCom.
How do I verify if an alternative degree is accredited?
The easiest way to check if a degree is accredited is to look on the institution’s website. Usually, they will have an accreditation page like this one from REGENT. You can then verify educational qualifications through SAQA VeriSearch.
Can I get a job without a university degree?
Yes, you can get a job without a degree since employers value experience. This is especially true if you pursue a highly skills-based career, such as photography or real estate.
However, having a degree can increase your chances of finding a job and help you grow into higher-level positions. Plus, degrees are typically preferred for more knowledge-based jobs, so employers know you understand the fundamental principles of that field.
Study a degree with REGENT
For students serious about obtaining a genuine degree from an accredited learning centre, don’t be put off by the thought of only having one route to get where you want to go. You have now seen that it is possible to earn accredited degrees without a traditional university.
Distance learning in Cape Town offers all the advantages of getting a degree, with plenty of additional benefits that help you reach your dreams, including flexibility, affordability, and more. For more information on the REGENT Cape Town campus, contact us today.
