Too much of a good thing can be bad, but not when it comes to furthering your studies. Learn all about the wonders of Postgraduate Studies and how it can boost your career.
What is Postgraduate Studies?
In South Africa, postgraduate studies refers to the programme you study after you graduate with a bachelor’s degree. You can complete it at a university or technikon. Depending on your degree and field of interest, your postgraduate studies can range between 1 – 6 years long.
Degrees That are Postgraduate Studies
There are many different fields when it comes to studying further, e.g. law, humanities, education, etc. And each has their own postgraduate degrees. However, most of them fall under the following categories:
- Honours
- Postgraduate diploma
- Masters
- Doctorate
Benefits of Studying After you Graduate
If improving your skills is what you want, you’re on the right track. There are many benefits of studying further, that can take your career to new heights. Benefits of postgraduate studies are:
Increased Chances of Becoming Employed
Become your future employers first pick. Recruiters seek professionals to build a skilled workforce. Studying further means you have the qualification to back skills many do not have.
Looks Great on Your CV
Allow your qualification to make you a cut above the rest. Recruiters are sent hundreds of CVs. Make your CV stand out by making your qualification the stepping stone to a successful job.
Become a Professional in Your Field
A lot of students stop studying after their first degree. Yet, when you further your studies, you become an expert in your field. Others will be looking to you for leadership and advice.
Better Career Opportunities
With a higher level of education, you have better career opportunities at your doorstep. Even if you start an entry-level position, the chances of moving up the corporate ladder is possible.
Create a Network of Experts
Postgraduate classes are generally smaller than undergraduate classes. So you will be in close contact with researchers and professionals. Your network will be beaming with experts.
Personal Achievement
Studying further doesn’t just boost your career. It improves your confidence, and emotional state as well, knowing you are able to achieve what so many are afraid to complete.
Factors to Consider Before You Start Studying
No one can stop you from studying further. But diving head first into a course without much consideration isn’t the best choice. Think about the following factors before making a decision.
Are you ready? – Studying further is a big commitment. Your studies are more detailed, taking up more time. Make sure you are ready to take up this major step in your academic career.
Speak to a tutor – You might feel like you are ready, but allow your tutor and lecturer to help you decide. They can advise you on what your strengths and weaknesses are.
Financial situation – Sometimes you’re not the one standing in your way. Your finances could stop you from studying further. Ensure that you secure funding like a bursary or scholarship.
Check out job posts before you commit – Before you study a postgraduate programme, check out job posts. You may not need a higher qualification to get the career of your dreams.
External pressure – Do you want to study, or do your parents want you to study further? You are the one doing all the work. Don’t be pressured by family to study, when you want to work.
Qualifications vs. Experience: What Counts Most?
While studying further is great, in the world we live today, experience matters more. It shows employers you have the ability to perform practical tasks. Many graduates have a long list of qualifications but can’t find work. So try to work and study. That way you can build experience too.
Studying Further – Your Next Step
So you’ve studied before and might think you know the ropes. But being a little over prepared never hurt anyone. So follow our steps below and make an informed decision when you tackle your studies.
What to Study
Your undergraduate studies are on a much broader spectrum. But your postgraduate studies are more career-specific. Before you make your choice, keep your career in mind. You don’t want to end up committing to a course that won’t benefit your career. Figure out what you want to study by determining the:
- The faculty you want to enrol in
- Your field of study
- Research topic (for your thesis)
Institution
Where you want to study is just as important as what you study. This will determine which learning options are available to you. Sticking with an institution where you completed your undergrad is a great option, as you are familiar with their processes. When choosing a college, make sure they:
- Offer the course you want
- Are an accredited institution
- Offer remote learning if the campus is out of reach
- Provide part-time courses if you want to work and study
Funding
When you are a postgrad student, you need to take a lot more responsibility for your studies. This includes figuring out how to pay for your course. Ask your lecturers for possible funding, as they usually have research associates or organisations willing to lend a hand. You also have the option of:
- Applying for a government bursary loan
- Landing a scholarship
- Asking your employers to pay for your studies (skills levies)
Getting Started
Now that all the technicalities are out of the way, all you have to do is get started. Although college life is where all the fun begins, it’s best to get a headstart on your studies so you can ace your course. To make sure your pass your studies:
- Start studying early to avoid cramming
- Set up a study schedule
- Do your readings
- Consult with lecturers and tutors
- Follow a healthy lifestyle
Level up With Postgraduate Studies
Postgraduate studies focus on the theory side of your academics. But how about gaining the practical skills your career needs? You can achieve this with our distance learning courses. Contact one of our course consultants and earn your credibility with us. You can:
- Call us on 0800 39 00 27
- Fill in our contact form for a call back
