Wondering whether your child really needs a degree to succeed?
With so many career options after matric, studying towards a degree is no longer the only choice.
Some careers don’t require a degree. Students can also gain skills through apprenticeships, short courses, and on-the-job training.
However, a degree can still offer many benefits, including better job opportunities and higher earning potential.
So, does my child need a degree? And is a university degree worth it?
In this article, we look at the benefits of getting a degree and how it can help your child build a successful career.
Key takeaways
- Degrees often provide access to more job opportunities, higher earning potential, and better chances of career growth.
- A degree isn’t the only path to success. Students can also pursue diplomas, higher certificates, or practical training, depending on their interests and career goals.
- Choosing the right qualification is important. Parents should consider their child’s strengths, matric results, career goals, and study costs before deciding on a qualification.
What exactly is a degree and what are the different types?
A degree is a higher education qualification that students can earn after completing a course at a university or registered higher education institution.
There are different types of degrees available in South Africa:
- Bachelor’s degree: An undergraduate qualification that usually takes three to four years to complete, and there are many options to choose from, including accounting, business administration, business law, supply chain management, and more.
- Honours degree: A postgraduate qualification that typically takes one additional year.
- Master’s degree: An advanced qualification involving specialised study, research, or both.
- Doctoral degree: The highest academic qualification, mainly focused on original research.
These qualifications fall under different NQF levels and have different university admission requirements.
If you’re starting, a bachelor’s degree is the best option, since it usually only requires a National Senior Certificate to apply (i.e., you can study after matric).
That being said, admission requirements differ from university to university. So, be sure to look through the requirements of your chosen institution.
As for the other degrees mentioned, they’re what’s known as postgraduate degrees and can only be pursued after undergraduate studies.
Have a look at some high-demand degrees here.
Advantages of obtaining a degree
There are many benefits of a university degree, especially for students who want more career opportunities.
For students considering higher education in South Africa, a degree can be a valuable investment in their future.
Some of the benefits of studying a degree include the following:
1. Earning potential
One of the biggest benefits of getting a degree is the chance to earn a higher salary.
In many industries, employers are willing to pay more for workers with advanced qualifications.
For example, someone with a BCom degree or MBA may earn more than someone with a Higher Certificate in Business Management.
However, salaries also depend on experience, skills, and the type of job.
2. Additional workplace benefits
Employees with degrees may also qualify for jobs that offer better workplace benefits.
These can include:
- Medical aid
- Pension contributions
- Insurance
- Paid training opportunities
- Performance bonuses
Companies often offer these benefits to attract and keep skilled employees.
However, having a degree doesn’t guarantee better benefits. These depend on the employer and the position.
3. Career prospects
Some careers require a degree before you can apply for a job.
For example, students who want to become doctors, lawyers, or certain types of engineers need specific qualifications.
Other industries may not require a degree, but having one can still improve your chances of finding work.
The unemployment rate in South Africa for graduates was 12.4% in the second quarter of 2026, compared to 36% for people with matric as their highest qualification.
This shows that graduates generally have better employment prospects, although a degree doesn’t guarantee a job.
A degree can also prepare students for different career paths.
For example, someone with a business degree in South Africa may explore careers in marketing, finance, management, or sales.
This makes a degree a valuable option for students who want more career choices.
4. Promotion and growth
A degree can also help employees grow in their careers.
Some companies require certain qualifications before promoting employees to higher positions.
Employees with degrees may therefore have more opportunities to move into management or leadership roles.
They can also continue studying to improve their skills.
For example, someone with a bachelor’s degree in business may later complete an MBA to prepare for senior management positions.
5. Personal development
Getting a degree isn’t only about finding a good job. It can also help students develop important personal and workplace skills.
These include:
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Working with others
Completing a degree can also help students become more confident and independent. These skills can benefit them throughout their lives.
FAQ
Is a degree better than a diploma in South Africa?
Not always. When comparing a degree vs diploma in South Africa, the best choice depends on your child’s career goals.
A degree usually provides broader academic knowledge, while a diploma qualification focuses more on practical skills.
Both can lead to good career opportunities.
How many years does it take to complete a bachelor’s degree?
Most bachelor’s degrees in South Africa take three to four years of full-time study. However, this depends on the course and institution. Students who study part-time may take longer.
Can my child study further without qualifying for degree admission?
Yes. If your child’s matric results don’t meet university admission requirements, they can consider a higher certificate or diploma.
These qualifications can help students develop useful skills.
They may also provide a pathway to degree studies later, depending on the institution’s requirements.
What should parents look for when choosing a higher education institution?
Parents should consider:
- Course fees and payment options.
- Admission requirements.
- Available qualifications.
- Student support.
- Distance learning options.
- Registration and accreditation.
It’s important to check that the institution is registered and the programme is accredited. This helps ensure your child receives a recognised qualification.
What business qualifications can my child study at REGENT Business School?
REGENT offers several qualifications for students interested in business careers.
These include the Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Business Administration, and Higher Certificates in Business Management and other fields.
These qualifications can prepare students for careers in management, finance, marketing, and other business areas.
Study further with REGENT
If a degree is the right option for you, take a look at our degree options here. It includes areas such as accounting, retail management, supply chain management, public administration, and more. Need help choosing a degree? Read this article next.
Considering other options? A degree isn’t the only path to career success.
A Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management, Marketing, Retail Management, or Management for Estate Agents can also help students develop valuable skills.
REGENT Business School offers different study options for students who want to build careers in business and management.
Whether your child wants to complete a degree, diploma, or higher certificate, there are several qualifications to consider.
For more information about available courses, contact REGENT Business School today.
