Kick-start your career with a higher certificate: The benefits of pathways

At times we may have to start from the bottom and progress to where we want to go; the same applies to education. Many institutions offer different qualifications to enable students to access higher education and move to higher-level qualifications to achieve their career or life goals. Education has become a lifelong requirement as the world is so dynamic. To keep up with this fast-paced environment, one needs to keep learning to remain empowered and relevant.

Whether you are looking to enter the world of work as an employer, employee or even start an NGO, it is essential to arm yourself with skills to propel your venture or career forward. A wise man once said that education offers you the ability to see things differently, solve problems and create opportunities.

Education can be viewed from different perspectives. This could be addressing skills shortages, grooming future entrepreneurs with skills to move their businesses forward or empowering the future workforce. Factors such as affordability or a higher certificate pass in matric may leave some feeling like they do not have what it takes to progress to higher education. There are academic pathways that permit one to start with a higher certificate and articulate on to a diploma or degree.

How do pathways work?

Pathways provide access and the flexibility to work around your pocket and learning abilities. One can start with a higher certificate and progress to a higher-level qualification, such as a diploma or degree. Looking at the Faculty of Commerce at IIE Rosebank College, you can begin with an IIE Higher Certificate in Business Management. Once you have completed this qualification successfully, you can progress to the IIE Bachelor of Business Administration to refine your business skills. The benefit of starting with an IIE Higher Certificate is that it is an accredited qualification at an NQF Level 5, empowering one to start work immediately after completing their studies.

How to get started?

As with many things, thorough research and asking for advice is the first step. The internet has made information accessible; we now have mini-PCs in our pockets, with some mobile phones performing even better than entry-level PCs. Access to information means that one can research any career you may want to pursue. These days, one can also verify the customer service offered by institutions as well as the quality of qualifications offered by referring to online reviews. Once you have done your research, choose your institution based on your preferences, ie, safety, cost, accessibility, to name a few. Finally, ask for advice before committing yourself. Many institutions have student advisors who offer advice on study modes, qualification types and career paths. A student advisor is there to assist in aligning one’s career goals, academic abilities and available study opportunities.

The benefits of pathways

Pathways enable access and progression for different learners. This widens access for students who may not meet academic admission requirements into their desired careers. With access comes a responsibility to offer flexible modes of delivery to accommodate the changing demographics of the student population. When considering a higher learning institution, it is essential to consider modes of delivery, accreditation of qualifications and the registration status of the institution. The proof is in the pudding – chat to some of the current students or alumni to verify facts.