Matriculated, now where do I go?

As the year kick-starts, matriculants have an abundance of tertiary providers to consider when it comes to choosing an institution to further their studies. But the true question remains, what are the basic and most crucial criteria to consider when making this very important choice?

Very often, students are blindsided by impressive marketing campaigns or consider some institutions simply because it is the 'obvious' choice due to popularity or lack of information.

There are, however, key considerations before signing on the dotted line and paying your registration fee.

Students should be aware that not all institutions of education that claim to be providers of education are actually registered with the relevant authorities. For institutions of education to offer recognised programmes/courses, they must be registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the programmes must be registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and accredited by the Council for Higher Education (CHE). The DHET regulates the standard of education provided by tertiary institutions and ensures that programmes are at least aligned with the national academic quality and standards.

In addition to being registered with the DHET and ensuring the programmes/courses offered are duly registered and accredited, private providers of education such as the Independent Institute Education (IIE), as well as public providers, are also governed by their own strict guidelines and standards.

"Students can feel confident about starting and finishing an IIE qualification at Rosebank College, an educational brand of the Independent Institute of Education (IIE). With over 70 accredited programmes across 20 delivery sites in South Africa that is also accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), we are proud to say that learners not only receive world-class training, but also receive a world-class qualification," comments Greg Fillmore, Managing Director of Rosebank College.

The employment rate in South Africa also poses an enormous concern, and young South Africans who have concerns about whether or not they will secure a job once they have completed their studies need to assess what additional services are offered by tertiary providers. Soft skill programmes, also offered by Rosebank College, equip students with the necessary tools and skills to enter the job market and bridge the gap of educated youngster and unemployment.

"Rosebank College has placed a staggering 1 610 students during 2014 in various positions related to their IIE qualifications. This provides our students with a foot in the door so to speak and sets them up for the world of work," comments Lillian Bususu, National Graduate Development Manager at Rosebank College. "It is not only crucial that we present South Africa with well-trained students, but it is also our responsibility to assist our students to enter the job market when they have done their part in working hard."

More information on Rosebank College: visit www.rosebankcollege.co.za.