Rise in business degree applications at private institutions

There has been an increase in the number of students studying toward BCom and other business degrees at private higher institutions than at public institutions in South Africa, according to the Independent Institution of Education.

Director of the institution Dr Felicity Coughlan said that two reasons can be attributed to this. Although the fees at private institutions are higher, the classes are much smaller with more individual attention and therefore potential students feel that they have a better chance of succeeding at private institutions.

“The second reason is the fact that in the context of insufficient space at public institutions, potential students have started to look at the best quality of higher education available. Other reasons like convenience and access as well as the exciting curriculum are also a given,” said Dr Coughlan.

Dr Coughlan also said students must think carefully about what they need before picking an institution to study at. They should consider factors such as the size of the class, the experience of lecturers, curriculum relevance to the corporate world, the campus infrastructure and student support.

She believes that students should be encouraged to open up their minds and investigate several institutions in both sectors and make a decision that works for them and that will increase a higher success level.

Dr Coughlan added that the perception of private institutions not being credible, therefore minimising the chances of students being employed, has gradually declined throughout the years. South Africa has a quality assurance and registration system that private and public institutions are required to meet those standards.

“The reality is that your degree is only part of what gets you in the door. Just as important is what you did while you studied and what sort of CV you can put on the table,” said Dr Coughlan.