The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) is a standardised system that ranks qualifications in South Africa. NQF Level 6 means an individual has completed a National Diploma or an Advanced Certificate.
These qualifications are typically field-specific and are ideal for those who wish to join the workforce early. For employers, this means reduced training time and quicker integration into the workplace. Students who complete an NQF Level 6 programme develop conceptual knowledge and strong workplace-ready skills.
In this article, we will cover the NQF Level 6 jobs that graduates can explore and the skills that are required at this level.
Table of Contents
What Is an NQF Level 6 Qualification?
An NQF Level 6 is a qualification students enrol in after completing a Higher Certificate or a National Diploma course. NQF Level 6 provides greater insight and builds on the skills and concepts covered in NQF Level.
An Advanced Certificate at NQF Level 6 requires students to complete 120 credits and take 1 year to complete. A National Diploma requires students to complete between 240-360 credits and can take between 2-3 years to complete.
Level 6 introduces greater responsibility, problem-solving, and independent work. While it does not carry the same academic depth as an NQF Level 7 qualification, it might be preferred in industries that rely on operational expertise.
Read more on NQF Level 6 vs NQF Level 7: Differences and Career Paths
High-Paying Careers for NQF Level 6 Graduates
The qualifications that students can progress to at NQF Level 6 are typically field-specific. These build on the learnings that students have gained from relevant NQF Level 5 programmes. The skills and conceptual knowledge that students develop in NQF Level 6 can be used to explore roles in specific sectors.
1. Information Technology and Digital Roles
NQF Level 6 graduates entering the technology sector are expected to combine technical knowledge with strong problem-solving abilities. The NQF Level 6 jobs in this sector help to provide operational support. Individuals should be able to work well with various systems and infrastructure requirements.
As organisations continue to rely on digital tools, demand for skilled IT support professionals remains strong. Some high-paying careers at this level include:
- Systems Support Technician
- ICT Infrastructure Administrator
- Data or IT Support Analyst
2. Finance and Administration Roles
The jobs at this level in finance require analytical thinkers with a strong foundation in numerical skills. These roles support financial planning, risk management, and day-to-day business operations.
With experience and consistent performance, professionals in this field can progress into more specialised or supervisory positions. Some high-paying NQF 6 jobs in finance include:
- Financial Adviser
- Risk Officer
- Banking Sales Account Executive
3. Engineering and Technical Roles
Technical NQF Level 6 jobs focus on skills and operational competency. These are field-based roles that value experience and individuals who can efficiently maintain systems.
With exposure to complex systems and projects, professionals in these roles have the potential to earn high salaries. Some NQF 6 roles that are available in this field include:
- Procurement Manager
- Senior Technician-Hydraulic Engineering
- Construction Manager
4. Education and Community Development
South Africa is facing a shortage of trained teachers and educators. While you need to complete a Bachelor of Education programme to qualify as a Senior Phase teacher, there are other roles available.
NQF Level 6 graduates can contribute through administrative, learning support, and early childhood roles. Some NQF Level 6 jobs in this sector include:
- Librarian
- Bridging Class Teacher
- Preschool Teacher
Read more on NQF Levels 1-10 Explained – Qualifications, Credits & Study Pathways here
Salaries for NQF Level 6 Jobs
Most NQF Level 6 graduates begin their employment journey from entry-level roles. Since most of these roles require technical competency, individuals have the opportunity for growth and higher earning potential. Consistent effort and field-based learning can help NQF Level 6 graduates to secure high-paying roles.
The table below highlights the average annual salary for some Level 6 jobs:
|
Job Role |
Average Annual Salary |
|
Data Support Analyst |
R 400,208 |
|
Financial Adviser |
R 213,141 |
|
Risk Officer |
R 442,200 |
|
Construction Manager |
R 485,856 |
|
Preschool Teacher |
R 103,751 |
|
Procurement Manager |
R 416,024 |
Factors That Influence High-Paying Careers at NQF Level 6
While NQF Level 6 can lead to well-paying jobs, salaries vary across industries and roles. At this level, employers often reward practical skills and sector-specific knowledge more than holding a certificate.
Listed below are some factors that influence earning potential for NQF Level 6 jobs:
- Industry Demand: Industries facing skills shortages, such as engineering and healthcare, tend to pay higher wages.
- Location: Jobs in urban centres such as Johannesburg or Cape Town typically offer better salaries due to higher living expenses.
- Technical Expertise: Roles that require the use of specialised systems or tools often pay higher wages due to the niche job profile.
- Experience: While initial pay might be low, salary rises significantly as you gain experience and build technical expertise.
How to Increase Your Earning Potential After NQF Level 6?
Graduating with an NQF Level 6 is only the first step. While many NQF 6 jobs offer high salaries, growth depends on how graduates build on experience and skills over time. Employers notice commitment to the field and reward professionals who demonstrate initiative and passion for growth.
To improve prospects and earnings, individuals can:
- Gain workplace experience through internships and junior-level roles
- Complete short courses aligned with your field of learning
- Enrol for professional certifications
- Complete an accredited higher-level programme at NQF Level 7
Is an NQF Level 6 Qualification Worth It?
For many individuals in South Africa, an NQF Level 6 offers the perfect balance between affordable learning and employability. These qualifications are designed to prepare individuals for defined professional and technical roles.
While this level does not carry the same academic depth as NQF 7, jobs at NQF 6 help to provide technical and operational support. Programmes and qualifications at this level focus on preparing students with work-ready practical skills.
This level allows graduates to enter the workforce earlier than those pursuing longer academic programmes, such as a Bachelor’s degree. An NQF Level 6 is ideal for those who:
- Prefer practical skills-based learning over purely academic paths
- Want to start earning sooner while building practical skills
- Are seeking affordable higher education pathways
- Looking to balance work and study without committing to a full-time degree
- Plan to enrol for NQF Level 7 after gaining experience
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Conclusion
NQF Level 6 plays an important role within South Africa’s education system. It provides an alternative path towards higher education while preparing students for specific fields. In NQF Level 6 jobs, graduates bring technical and operational expertise. This support allows businesses to run smoothly.
Depending on the industry, demand, and skills, there are several high-paying careers for NQF Level 6 graduates. They can help increase their earning potential by gaining experience and seeking academic growth. For those seeking to build on their experience, visit the Regenesys Education website to explore our various NQF Level 7 programmes.
FAQs
How much is an NQF Level 6 salary in South Africa?
The salary for NQF Level 6 roles varies depending on the sector, experience, and the demand for particular skills.
Which qualification is level 6?
An NQF Level 6 aligns with an Advanced Certificate and National Diploma in South Africa. These focus on applied skills in a particular field and are ideal for technical roles.
How long does it take to complete NQF Level 6?
NQF Level 6 qualifications can take between 1 and 3 years to complete. An Advanced Certificate requires students to complete 120 credits, while a National Diploma requires 240-360 credits.
Which industries hire NQF Level 6 graduates?
Jobs for these graduates are available in finance, education, logistics, and many other fields. These roles help to provide operational and business support.
Can I study further after completing NQF 6?
Yes, professionals can enrol for accredited NQF Level 7 programmes. Many programmes, such as those offered by Regenesys Education, can be completed online.
