What are Courses Without Matric in South Africa?

Completing the matric or grade 12 is an essential rite of passage in South Africa. There could be many reasons why someone could not complete their matric and had to leave school. 

However, furthering your education and career without your matric is possible. These individuals can enrol for accredited courses in a private college. They can also learn a trade at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) or apply for a distance learning programme.

Therefore, not having a matric is not a hindrance. Those who have not completed their matric can still look forward to gaining a specialisation and being employed in various industries. Knowledge can be gained from other avenues, such as vocational training, short courses, and workshops. Individuals need to explore alternative sources of learning for self-growth and self-reliance. 

Continue reading to learn about the various courses without a matric in South Africa, how to choose the perfect course, and job opportunities.

What are the Different Types of Courses Without Matric in South Africa?

Individuals without a matric can improve their career prospects by enrolling in offline or online courses. The duration of these courses can vary from a few weeks for a micro-course to three years for a vocational programme.

After completing the course, students are awarded a certificate that signifies that they have gained the required skills and knowledge to perform efficiently in a workplace setting. Some course types that prospective students can enrol for are:

1. Certificate courses

These are short courses offered across various fields of study. The length of the certificate courses can vary depending on the subject and the proficiency level. Many of the courses are divided into Short Certificate Courses, Certificate Courses, and Comprehensive Certificate Courses. Each represents a different level of qualification.

2. Accredited Courses

These courses, such as those offered by Regenesys Education, are recognised by the Department of Higher Education and Training and accredited by independent organisations. Completing them can help students to earn a matric equivalent certification or NQF Level 4.

3. Vocational Training

These programmes are taught by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa. They serve as a bridge between school and university and aim to provide students with the required skills to gain employment. After completing the course, students are awarded a National Certificate: Vocational (NCV), equivalent to a matric certificate.

What are Some Short Courses Without Matric?

When students are applying for courses without matric, they should research prospective employment opportunities and determine whether they match their future goals. Some of the most favoured short courses without matric in South Africa help students find employment and a steady income.

Let us take a look at some of the popular short courses without matric that are a step towards gaining financial independence:

1. Child Day Care

This course teaches candidates how to care for children and help them develop mental and emotional skills. They are also taught how to communicate effectively with children and in business settings. After completing this course, students can seek employment as daycare administrator, or babysitter.

2. Financial Management

It helps students understand basic accounting terms and teaches them to analyse income statements and other financial documents. Students can continue to a more advanced course or work in an office assisting the finance department.

3. Make-up Application

This course teaches students the correct mannerisms and communication skills required to work in a salon. They are also introduced to human anatomy, facial structure, tools, and application techniques. This can allow for employment opportunities in a salon or be the beginning of an entrepreneurial journey.

A short course certification helps improve credibility and demonstrates to the prospective employer that the applicant has learned skills and gained knowledge from a reputed source. Additionally, short courses without matric in South Africa are popular because of their:

• Duration: These courses take less than a year to complete, with most lasting 4 to 8 months.
• Flexibility: Students can choose to study these courses online. Some also include access to online study groups and tutors. 
• Affordability: These courses are more affordable than traditional courses as study materials are included in the fees. For online courses, students save money on commuting.
• Practical skills: These courses are skill-based and can help students develop business English skills.
• Career prospects: These courses expand existing knowledge or provide new skills to prepare students for a specific skill.

Are There any Accredited Courses Without Matric in South Africa?

The South African education system has been structured to make it possible for students to access university education through multiple pathways. While there are various short courses and certifications that students can apply for, it is important to choose one that is accredited.

When a course is accredited, it means that it meets the requirements set by the Department of Education. Additionally, these courses are also regularly evaluated to ensure that the curriculum is updated.

It is possible for students to gain admission to National Certificate (Vocational) courses, which typically require an NQF Level 1 for admission.

Regenesys Education also offers accredited qualifications that do not require a matric certificate:

1. Family Law Practitioner

This is an 18-month, NQF Level 5 course that prepares students with knowledge of laws relating to marriage, divorce, child custody, and maintenance. Graduates gain the expertise needed to work in law firms, social services, or legal aid organisations.

2. Paralegal Qualification

The Paralegal Qualification course at Regenesys Law School is a 2-year NQF Level 5 programme that teaches students how to assist lawyers with research, legal writing, case preparation, and administrative tasks. 

Students who complete these accredited qualifications without matric can gain entry into Regenesys Higher Certificate programmes.

CTA: Explore courses that don’t require Matric – Study online with Regenesys Education

How to Choose the Right Course Without Matric?

Picking a course to study the right course without matric in South Africa should involve the same thought process as with any other educational programme. Prospective students should research the types of courses available and the NQF level they will achieve upon completion. An NQF level 4 from an accredited course can be used in place of a matric certification to gain employment and apply for higher education.

Since this is a second chance for some to complete their educational aspirations, individuals should consider these factors before finalising their decision:

• Course duration: Students must decide how much time they will dedicate to the course since course lengths vary from 4 months to 3 years.
• Cost: This is another important factor and can be a deciding factor in choosing offline or distance learning.
• Accreditation and reputation: An accredited programme from a reputed institute is better received and improves the chances of future employment.
• Flexibility: Prospective students working part-time or with other commitments might prefer enrolling in an online course. Many courses without matric can be completed from the comfort of home.

Career Opportunities with Courses Completed Without Matric

South Africans who have not completed their matric have many educational and career opportunities at their disposal. Those who do have a matric certificate can choose to pursue short certificate courses, longer accredited courses, or vocational training courses. These provide them with skills and knowledge specific to a job profile.

After completing the certificate or vocational training course, students improve their chances of employment. Some of the most popular industries to apply for without a matric certificate are:

• Law: Roles such as paralegals or legal assistants, where students can support lawyers, prepare documents, and conduct research.
• Business and Administration: Positions such as office administrators, customer service representatives, and data entry clerks.
• Information Technology: Entry-level roles such as IT support technicians, junior web developers, or computer operators.
• Healthcare and Social Services: Jobs such as community health workers, caregivers, or pharmacy assistants.

Conclusion

The education system in South Africa is designed to offer education and training to individuals who might have had to quit school due to unforeseeable circumstances. Courses without matric in South Africa also allow a second chance at learning for those who did not manage to pass their matric. This enables individuals to learn new skills and seek employment.

Visit the Regenesys Education website to apply for our qualifications without matric.

What are Courses Without Matric in South Africa – FAQ