Benefits of graduating with a degree
In a country where only 13% of adults have a tertiary education, it is clear to see the benefits of working hard to graduate and get a degree. It, quite literally, puts you in a small and high-demand talent pool. In fact, Stats SA tells us that:
“Education plays an important role in the labour market in several respects. Graduates are more likely to be employed in the formal sector. As many as 97,3% were employed in that sector compared to 52,9% of persons whose education level was below matric level.”
(http://www.statssa.gov.za/?p=1377)
The many benefits of getting a degree are well researched and reported (just google it and see what other researchers have to say). This google search will also tell you that graduates earn significantly more than non-graduates from the very first paycheque and their incremental pay increases continue to outstrip those of their non-graduate co-workers each year.
But sadly, not everyone working had the chance to go to university immediately after school. Most new matriculants had to find a job and start contributing to the family income. Once in the workplace it was more difficult to leave and enrol to study full time at a university, so the only option was distance learning. Many try this and find that the lack of support and guidance often leads to frustration and failure. (UNISA, South Africa’s main distance degree provider has a very low graduation rate, with 68% of students who enrol dropping out prior to graduation according to the Mail & Guardian): (Source: http://mg.co.za/article/2013-05-17-dropout-rate-points-to-lack-of-support)
But distance learning is evolving, and the use of technology is changing it for the better. Imagine attending online lectures, that are recorded so you can view them in your own time and as often as you need to? Imagine group discussion forums and tutorial groups with ample time to engage with your online e-lecturer? All of this is now possible to access from the comfort of your home or office. An online student adviser can work with you, tracking your progress and nudging you back on-track if you lose your way (a lot like that teacher at school who kept you focused and on the right path!).
Studying online for a degree makes sense for busy working adults. It gives you the flexibility (your time, your space, your pace), you can engage with as much or as little content as you want to at any time and you can move around in the course (within reason as there are still assignments to do) to study what you want to at a particular point in time (which could be driven by an immediate business need).
The Chartall Business College Bachelor of Business Administration degree is available online. It is made up of online lectures, online discussion forums, online tutorials and self-study. It may be what you are looking for. Email [email protected] to see if you qualify for admission.