Great careers that don’t require a degree
There are a myriad of options in the broader tertiary sector, where those without a higher education can study towards workplace-geared qualifications that are in high demand.
“There is still too much of a fixation on degree study as the only solid path towards a sustainable career, when the reality is quite the opposite,” said Elbie Liebenberg, principal at Oxbridge Academy.
“Our economy has many sectors, and businesses across all these sectors are desperate for young people who are technically qualified and experienced to fill a host of positions.”
Many of these positions don’t require someone who studied towards a degree, but rather someone who studied towards a qualification that gave them the technical expertise and the workplace readiness to be an asset from day one.
Deon Roets, from a culinary school, said that the tourism and hospitality industries, for instance, are growing apace, and constantly require new recruits.
He said there are a number of programmes that young people can pursue to access the industry.
“For instance, you only need to be 18 years old with Grade 10 to pursue an Occupational Certificate as a chef, or an International City and Guilds IVQ Level 2 in Patisserie,” he said.
In the broader hospitality industry, there are also numerous career paths open to young people who don’t hold a Bachelor’s degree.
Not only our country, but countries across the world are filled with opportunities for those who are qualified in specific vocations. And the opportunity for success really is out there for those who identify their passions and interests, and pursue them, even if their route doesn’t include degree study.
