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M-Z career guide

Click on the career of your choice from the options below.
You can also explore careers categorised as Professional, Practical, and Creative.

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Click on the career of your choice from the options below.
You can also explore careers categorised as Professional, Practical, and Creative.

Subscribe to Long Story Short, a newsletter for the young at heart. Follow us on TikTok and Instagram.

Medical technologist

Medical technologists do professional work in a laboratory following clinical procedures and performing chemical and biological tests on patient specimens to aid medical diagnosis. 

NSC or equivalent. English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences.

Minimum APS of 30, English (5), Mathematics (4), Physical Sciences (4) , Life Sciences (5). Diplomas on offer at CPUT, CUT, DUT, MUT, NMU, VUT, INTEC

Neurosurgeon

Specialist doctors, neurosurgeons work on preventing, diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain, spine and nerves. They treat and manage conditions that affect the flow of blood to the brain. They perform operations and are involved in the rehabilitation of patients postoperatively.

NSC or equivalent Grade 12 qualification with bachelor’s pass. English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and two others. Percentages are considered. A National Benchmark Test (NBT) must also be written.

Most universities that offer medicine require APS of at least 38 to 42. This differs depending on the university.

After qualifying as a doctor, time needs to be spent specialising in neurosurgery. This could take another two to three years. Universities that offer neurosurgery: UCT, SU, UCT, UKZN, WITS, UP.

CREATIVE

Make-up artist

They are professionals who apply make-up to change or enhance the appearance of people in productions, fashion shows or movies. They can also work specifically on brides.

No specific subjects, but Visual Arts and Drama are recommendations. NSC or equivalent.

Northlink FET, Prestige Academy, College SA, TUT. 

Master of ceremonies

The MC or various gatherings of people is a programme organiser. They have the presence and confidence to start, conduct and conclude formal ceremonies for a group of people.

No specific requirements. English, especially speaking in public.

Various online courses, Udemy, Toastmasters International short courses.

Network designer

They analyse existing networks and create customised computer systems to meet business needs, intranets, LANs, WANs and components.

NSC or equivalent. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, CAT, IT.

Bachelor’s degree in network engineering, information systems, IT or computer engineering. SU, UCT, WITS, UWC, RU, NMU, UFS, DUT, CUT, VUT, UV, UM, UFH, UL, UNIZULU, WSU, SPU, UP, SMU, College of Cape Town, Helderberg College, MANCOSA. Some TVET colleges.

Nanoscientist

They study the infinitely small – atoms and subatomic particles that make up the universe – to create new materials and make advances in the world of science , biology and chemistry.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, or Life Sciences.

Bachelor of Science degree – at most universities. Then a master’s degree.
UJ, UWC, WITS, UP, Unisa, SU, UKZN, UFS, UCT, TUT

PROFESSIONAL

Mechanical engineer

They work at planning and manufacturing and maintaining new mechanical systems by combining engineering physics and mathematics with materials science.

NSC or equivalent with APS between 26 and 42 depending on the university. Mathematics, Physical Sciences. 

UCT, UP, UKZN, SU, NWU, NMU, WITS, UJ, WSU, Unisa

Also, CPUT, CUT, DUT, MUT, TUT, VUT

They study biological, chemical, physical and geological  oceanography to understand the organisms that live in the sea.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. APS 30. Mathematics (6; Physical Sciences (5).

A specialist doctor that treats disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and two others. Percentages are considered. A National Benchmark Test (NBT) must also be written. Most universities that offer medicine require APS of at least 38 to 42. This differs depending on the university.

After qualifying as a doctor, you will need to specialise as a neurologist. 

WITS, SU, UP, UCT, UFS, UKZN, UL.

They provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about health conditions and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass. Mathematics, Life Sciences.

Training can happen on the job, while at a teaching hospital, or at university, interspersed with practical training.

PRACTICAL

They pose for artists, photographers or customers to help advertise a range of products. They also work as fitting or runway models to show off new clothing ranges.

No specific requirements. NSc or equivalent

Reputable modelling agencies. The Modelling Academy, Steele Model Studio, KS Modeling Academy.
University courses: Acting & Dramatics, Fashion & Lifestyle Design, Certificates in Modeling, Acting: LISOF, UJ, TUT, Vega, Damelin, Villioti Fashion Institute, Fedisa, Inscape.

They treat clients by using touch and pressure to manipulate soft tissue muscles to relieve pain, rehabilitate injury and reduce stress.

 

No specific requirement. NSC or equivalent is recommended but not essential.

Also called manicurists or pedicurists, they groom hands and feet.

No specific requirements.

An accredited nail technology course. Some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

They take care of one or more children in their homes while parents are at work. They often do household chores, prepare meals and transport children. They could assist with homework.

 

No specific requirements.  

They evaluate and treat people who have injuries, illnesses or disabilities and work with them to meet goals to recover, improve or maintain the skills they need to live and work.

English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences/Life Sciences. National Benchmark Test.

Once you earn a degree in Occupational Therapy at an accredited university, you need to be licensed by the HPCSA as an OT.

Once you earn a degree in Occupational Therapy at an accredited university, you need to be licensed by the HPCSA as an OT.

They are responsible for dispensing and advising on the safe use of prescribed and over-the-counter medication. They control, sell and store medicine. Industrial pharmacists are involved in research, development and manufacturing of drugs.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma endorsement. Mathematics (5), Life Sciences (5), Physical Sciences (5), English (5)

Entrance to  BPharm degree usually requires an APS of 27 to 32, depending on the university. RU, TUT, NMU, UL, UWC, WITS, UKZN, SMU, NWU, Unisa, UP. 

To practise as a pharmacist, you need a BPharm degree. After that, you need to gain practical experience for one to two years and then register with the SA Pharmacy Council.

Seen as the financial consultants of the construction industry, their training and experience qualify them to advise on costs and contractual arrangements. They are independent experts who are called in to conduct feasibility studies to estimate materials, time and labour costs. 

APs scores between 26 and 42 depending on the university.

Minimum APS of 30, English (5), Mathematics (4), Physical Sciences (4) , Life Sciences (5). Diplomas on offer at CPUT, CUT, DUT, MUT, NMU, VUT, INTEC

A bachelor’s degree in surveying, civil or structural engineering or construction is a good start. Some universities offer a BSc in Quantity Surveying. UJ, CPUT, DUT, UCT, UP, WITS, UFS, NMU. Others offer a specific Honours course upon completion of the bachelor’s degree. Registration is required with the SA Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession.

CREATIVE

They conduct their business on the internet. This can include being a blogger, a content creator, a consultant or owning an e-commerce site.

 

No specific requirements, but NSC or equivalent with English and Business Studies would be a recommendation.

Short courses on entrepreneurship: WITS, Unisa, CPUT, Regent Business School. 



They are shoe and leather workers who specialise in making shoes for people with foot deformities. This is to improve the function of walking, especially through using orthopaedic insoles called plantar orthoses.

No specific requirements.

Footwear Design & Technology School of SA, Style Architects Shoe Design Course, MISA School of Shoemaking & Design, Bonney & Wills School of  Shoemaking & Design. Also, some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

They select and review photos, edit them to their best advantage and work on an attractive layout. This can be for promotion, publication or distribution.

 

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass. Visual Arts a recommendation.

A bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, like visual arts, digital media or photojournalism. DUT, UCT, WITS, CPUT, UP, RU. Or a diploma in photo editing. UCT, Vega, Photography Institute of SA, TUT, VUT.

 

They are professionals who create and sell items of pottery, both functional and artistic. 

No specific requirements, but NSc or equivalent if you want to study at university. Visual Arts or Ceramics.

NMU, TUT, UKZN.

Also, pottery courses: Elza van Dyke, Calico Ceramics and many more.

Quilter

They make quilts, either by hand or machine, sewing together fabric and decorating the finished product with particular stitches.

 

No specific requirements. 

SA Quilters Guild has accredited teachers who offer training. SAQG Accredited Quilt Teachers



PROFESSIONAL

They are specialist doctors who provide prenatal care to pregnant women. They diagnose and treat pregnancy complications. They deliver babies and monitor the mother afterwards. 

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and two others. Percentages are considered. A National Benchmark Test (NBT) must also be written. Most universities that offer medicine require APS of at least 38 to 42. This differs depending on the university.

After you qualify as a doctor you need to complete a specialisation in obstetrics. WITS, UCT, SU, UP, UKZN, UFS, UL.

They are specialist dentists who perform surgery to the mouth, jaw and face.

NSC or equivalent Grade 12 qualification with bachelor’s pass. English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and two others. Percentages are considered. 

They study all fossilised past life, plants and animals to reconstruct early communities and try to understand the changes in the environment since then.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Geography.

After a BSc, you need postgraduate qualifications to become a palaeontologist.  WITS, UCT, SU, U, UJ, UFS, RU. 

Palliative care specialist

They are qualified doctors who have specialised in palliative care, i.e. caring for the terminally ill and their families.  

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and two others. Percentages are considered. A National Benchmark Test (NBT) must also be written. Most universities that offer medicine require APS of at least 38 to 42. This differs depending on the university.

After you qualify as a doctor you need to complete a specialisation in palliative care. UCT, UP, SU.



Quantitative researcher

They analyse data for organisations to develop business models and aid in financial decision-making.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Business Studies.

Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or Finance. BSc in Quantitative Risk Management. NWU, WSU, Unisa, UP, UJ, 

PRACTICAL

Office assistant

Well-organised individuals, they take calls and deliver messages, maintain a filing system, organise travel arrangements, manage inventory and do data entry.

NSC is not essential, but is recommended.

Matric College offers various Office Admin courses with or without matric. Boston City Campus, College of Cape Town, Unisa. 

 

Orchid grower/orchidist

They cultivate orchids for the commercial market.

No  specific requirements. 

Various short and online courses. Join an orchid society. 

Plumber

Specialist artisans, plumbers fit, maintain and repair water lines. This includes toilets, baths, showers, sinks, washing machines and dishwashers

No specific subjects, but Mathematics is recommended.

Industry-recognised training is needed (Construction Education Training Authority), you must pass a trade test and register with the Plumbing Industry Registration Board. Some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

Specialist artisans, they apply paint, stain and other coatings to walls and ceilings, buildings, large machinery and equipment, bridges and other structures.

No specific subjects. NSC is not essential, but recommended.

Plascon Paint Academy, Northlink College, Protech Training Handyman Courses. Some TVET colleges: TVET Colleges



In the police or army, this is a relatively senior soldier who supervises stores or barracks and distributes supplies and provisions.

NSC or equivalent. English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences.

On-the-job training, gaining experience  and promotion in the army or police. 

The first contact with the public for any organisation, the receptionist helps everything to run smoothly. They greet visitors, answer the phone, run errands and remain professional in their interactions with customers or potential clients.

No specific requirements. NSC is a recommendation. Basic computer skills.

Subjects like Office Administration, Public Relations and Communication are useful. Boston City Campus, and Damelin offer one-year courses. DUT, CPUT, TUT, VUT and Unisa offer Office Management courses. Northlink and Boland FET Colleges offer Secretarial qualifications. You could also focus on becoming a medical receptionist through a Netcare learnership, Cape Town College or Skills Academy.

Getting a job as an office worker might be a good place to start and to gain the experience you need to become a receptionist.

Social workers are professionals who, as counsellors,  provide support and guidance and inform community members of their needs and human rights. As advocates for others, they champion the rights of those who are vulnerable and are unable to speak up for themselves, like children, women and the elderly.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. English and Mathematics.

Usually no fewer than 30 APS points, depending on the university. English HL (4) or FAL( 5), Another language (4), Mathematics (3) or mathematical Literacy (4).

Bachelor of Social Work – SA College of Applied Psychology, UCT, Unisa, UJ, UWC, SU, RU, UKZN, UP.  also, at some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

To qualify as a social worker, you need to register for an internship at an approved welfare organisation within the social services sector, where a specified number of hours of field instruction need to be completed. You are required to register with the SA Council for Social Services Professions (SACSSP) in order to practise as a social worker.

A teacher is anyone who provides instruction or education. This can be a very rewarding career because you can make a difference in the lives of your students. In South Africa you can qualify to be a Foundation Phase teacher (Grade R to 3); Intermediate phase(Grade 4 to 6); Senior phase (Gr 7 to 9) or Further education and training phase (Gr 10 to 12).

There are two routes to follow:
· A four-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree
· A three-to-four-year Bachelor’s degree, followed by a one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. Then, there are other requirements depending on the subjects you want to teach.

Minimum requirements for the BEd degree differ at each university, but you will need to have passed the NSC, IEB or equivalent final school examination with a bachelor’s entrance pass. Minimum APS score is 26
For those who wish to do the degree course followed by the PGCE, they will need to meet the APS requirements for the particular field of study, e.g., Arts, Commerce, Science.

Currently, quite a selection of institutions are available. You can study at university, but also at FET and TVET colleges or even online through distance learning institutions.

https://www.careersportal.co.za/education/requirements-to-study-teaching-in-south-africa
Which Matric Subjects Are Needed For Teaching? https://www.skillsacademy.co.za/where-to-study-teaching-in-south-africa/

They provide tax advice services to clients in a range of industries. This includes the preparation and review of tax returns and reports. They review SARS assessments, manage billing in departments and complete individual tax returns.

NSc or equivalent with bachelor’s endorsement. Mathematics and English. Accounting and Business Studies recommended but not essential.

APS score = 26, depending on the university. Mathematics (3), English (3).

Specific courses on taxation are offered at: CPUT, DUT, VUT, WITS, UJ, UP, Unisa, NMU. Other courses: Credo Business College, SA Institute of Professional Accountants

You qualify if you have a three-year bachelor’s degree with Tax as a major subject and Accounting 3, together with three years of verifiable practical experience in a tax environment, and pass the CoTE Professional Tax Exam. 

CREATIVE

They play music, interact with listeners, interview artists, advertise forthcoming events and discuss current events on broadcast, satellite and internet radio services. They research for and host talk shows or news programmes.

NSC  with bachelor’s or diploma pass, for journalism with broadcasting as a major subject. English, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.

WITS, UCT, SU, UKZN, Unisa, UJ, UWC, NMU, RU, UP, WSU, CPUT, DUT, AFDA.

 

In traditional circuses, the ringmaster is the master of ceremonies for each performance, introducing each act. In smaller circuses, they are often the owner and artistic director as well.

No specific subject requirements. NSC or equivalent recommended.

Circus schools: SA National Circus School, Zip-Zap Circus.

Usually trained artists, they create art using metal, wood, wire, glass, plastic, paper, clay, fibreglass or a combination of these, through moulding, cutting or carving.

You can learn sculpting through private classes, but a degree or diploma in Fine Art is excellent grounding in all aspects of art. NSc or equivalent with bachelor’s endorsement.

They write copy for the web, i.e., the text we read on a website, social media or blogs. SEO (search engine optimisation) boosts your site up Google rankings.

NSC or equivalent is always a recommendation. English, CAT. 

Training can occur online but a bachelor’s degree in English, Communications or Journalism is a good foundation. SEO experience is essential to build up a portfolio. SA Writers College, GetSmarter (with UCT), and Jellyfish Training offer online courses.

They troubleshoot to diagnose and resolve the various problems that users of software, hardware and networks encounter.

NSC or equivalent with a bachelor’s or diploma endorsement. Mathematics, CAT, IT.

Berea Technical College, SA College of Technology, Varsity College, Skills Academy, CTU Training Solutions. Some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

 

Travelling to various destinations around the world, they experience the culture, food  and tourist attractions – and then they write about their experiences for others who might want to visit the same places.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass. English and Tourism are recommendations.

Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, Travel and Tourism. Specific courses: SA Writers College. Then build up a portfolio of your writing.

PROFESSIONAL

As qualified doctors, they have specialised in radiology, i.e., performing and interpreting diagnostic imaging tests and interventions using X-ray, Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging equipment.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and two others. Percentages are considered. A National Benchmark Test (NBT) must also be written. Most universities that offer medicine require APS of at least 38 to 42. This differs depending on the university.

Business experts, they are responsible for determining the possible results of performing a specific business action. They analyse data, create visual models to represent possible outcomes and prepare reports about business decisions.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Business Studies, Accounting recommended.

Bachelor’s degree in finance-related subjects. Then about five years’ work experience. Specific diplomas in risk management: Unisa, MANCOSA, UJ, Institute of Risk Management, Milpark Education, WITS.

Also called software developers, they design and create computer systems and software applications in order to solve real-world problems.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass.

A bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, Physics, Design Technology. WITS, UP, SU, UJ, NMU, UCT, RU, NWU, Unisa, CPUT, School of IT.

Some colleges also offer software development courses: Rosebank College, Varsity College, CTU, Academic Institute of Excellence, False Bay College, STADIO. Also, some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

 

Speech-language pathologists work at assessing, diagnosing, treating and preventing speech, language, social communication, cognitive- communication, and swallowing disorders in both children and adults.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. 

WITS, UCT, UP, SMU, UFH, SU, UKZN, UL.

They assist in planning the best use of public spaces, land and buildings. To achieve sustainability, they look at balancing social, environmental and economic issues when deciding whether to build in an area or not. 

NSc or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Geography, Economics recommended. 

A bachelor’s degree in related subjects; then an Honours degree in Economics, Public Administration, Sociology, Statistics, Geography or Mathematics. Bachelor in Urban and Regional Planning: UP, WITS, UJ, UCT, CPUT, SU, TUT, DUT.

 

They are  involved in the planning, design, commissioning and monitoring

of complex telecommunications networks and associated broadcasting equipment.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass.  Mathematics, Economics, Geography.

CPUT, UJ, UP, WITS, NWU, UFS, DUT, UCT, TUT.

PRACTICAL

They provide assistance to support research teams who are conducting experiments and gathering and analysing data.

 

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass.

Bachelor’s degree in your area of interest, any field. Honours in that subject. Consider a master’s degree. Gain experience by becoming an assistant for doctoral or postdoctoral students. Any university or university of technology.

Usually runners themselves, they train athletes at all levels after having achieved certification.

No specific subject requirement. NSC or equivalent recommended.

Athletics South Africa offers coaching courses at various levels and on specific topics, including kids athletics and health and safety. Evaluation occurs at each level, including national coaching.

They greet and advise customers, help them to choose products and assist with special orders.  Advice includes care and use of products.

No specific subject requirements. NSC or equivalent is recommended. 

Training is usually on the job. Some TVET colleges offer short courses:  TVET Colleges.

 

As assistant to the head chef, they create menu items, recipes and dishes. They assist with purchasing and inventory compliance as well as managing food costs and production planning.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass.

False Bay TVET, Capsicum Culinary Studio, CPUT, UJ, TUT, International Hotel School, Prue Leith Culinary Institute, Fusion Cooking School, Chef’s Training and Innovation Academy.

They use their understanding of garment construction to create and construct new items of clothing. They measure, mark alterations and sew.

No specific subject requirements. NSC or equivalent recommended.

Various sewing courses are on offer where the basics are taught: SewAfrica, Elna Swiss Design, Sew & Grow, StitchIt, Villioti Institute. Also, some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

They take much of the effort out of making your own travel arrangements. They do flight bookings and transfers, hotel bookings, arrange insurance, tours and activities, and give advice about visas and medical requirements.

NSc or equivalent with diploma or bachelor’s pass. Tourism, Geography, and CAT are recommended.

NMU, Unisa, DUT, CPUT, UJ, VUT. Various TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

On-the-job training to gain experience is also essential.

UX & UI designers are web designers that combine typography, colour, interface and layout design and interactive design work to create immersive digital experiences. UX stands for user experience and UI stands for user interface. Both terms cover how someone interacts with a website.

Building a portfolio of designs is a great way to get started. But the most important key to success is to be able to explain your thinking process. Successful UX/UI job candidates should be able to explain why or how they changed or created a product, what the results were when users tested the prototype and what value it added to the business.

Those who want to be UX/UI designers should be capable in Sketch, Adobe Suite and other design tools and software. They should have experience creating wireframes, prototypes, user flows, process flows and sitemaps.

Here are some certified courses you can take if you would like to get started as a UX/UI designer in South Africa:
Human Factors
Future Learn
Get Smarter, backed by UCT

 

If you love and would like to care for animals, being a vet could be the job for you. Veterinarians, or vets, treat diseases and injuries in animals. Vets can work in a variety of different places. Those who want to treat sick pets have their own private practices. Others work in the agricultural sector and test livestock for diseases. Finally, many vets specialise in wildlife and take care of wild animals. Veterinarians in South Africa study for a minimum of 6 years. This entails a Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree (four and a half years), followed by one and a half years of work-integrated training and a research project.

English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences

Students of veterinary science are required to register with the SA Veterinary Council before the 1 June of the year in which they first enrol for their studies.

Web designers design sample pages and create mockups for clients. They work in Adobe programs to create visuals, graphics or animations. They register web domains and collaborate on website updates.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s endorsement. Mathematics, CAT, IT recommended.

Most institutions require an APS score of 26 to 28 with English (4) and Mathematics or Technical Mathematics. Institutions differ on their entry requirements.
CPUT, TUT, UP, STADIO, WITS, UJ, School of IT, Pearson Institute of Higher Education, GetSmarter (with UCT), College of Cape Town

After qualifying, it is always a good idea to get some hands-on experience. See Glassdoor or VACorps.

How to start a successful web design business – GoDaddy Blog
Web Development Internships in Cape Town, South Africa | Connect-123
Web Development Internships in Cape Town, South Africa | Connect-123

 

CREATIVE

They install, repair and replace upholstery of furniture, orthopaedic appliances, car seats, railways coaches, aeroplanes and ships with fabric, leather or other upholstery material. 

NSC or equivalent not essential. 

There are upholstery schools: MAKERS Upholstery & Design, St Anthony’s Education Centre, BHC School of Design, El Jireh School of Upholstery and Curtain Making.  Some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

They are professional instrumentalists playing the violin in an orchestra. 

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Music (Violin as major instrument).

They are in charge from start to finish in video projects, from casting and coordinating logistics to distribution.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Dramatic Arts, English, CAT, Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Music.

Various sewing courses are on offer where the basics are taught: SewAfrica, Elna Swiss Design, Sew & Grow, StitchIt, Villioti Institute. Also, some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

They make fabric by weaving fibre together, often using a loom that holds the threads as they are woven. They can weave cloth or carpets or baskets.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Recommended subjects: Art, Design, Graphic Design.

CPUT, DUT, TUT.

There is a Weaver’s Guild with members all over the country. Weaving tutors near me – 147 tutors available In-service training also offered by some employers.

They advise retailers on the displays of merchandise in shop windows, often doing the displays for organisations.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass. Art, Graphic design.

Unisa, STADIO, Skills Academy, Udemy.

PROFESSIONAL

Also called a sonographer, they use imaging equipment and sound waves to form images of parts of the body called ultrasounds, which help doctors to diagnose and treat medical conditions.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass. English (5), Mathematics (4), Physical Sciences (4), Life Sciences (5)

UJ, CPUT, UFS, UP, DUT, SMU, UL, NMU, TUT.

They are qualified doctors who have specialised in Urology, medicine concerned with the functions and disorders of the urinary system. 

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and two others. Percentages are considered. A National Benchmark Test (NBT) must also be written. Most universities that offer medicine require APS of at least 38 to 42. This differs depending on the university.

SU, UP, UCT, WITS, UWC, UFS, UKZN,

They are qualified teachers who teach online. All teaching, grading, tests and assessment are done online.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. 

Training is the same as for any other teacher. Proficiency and comfort in working with computers and online technology is essential. Also, working with online management platforms: 10 Best Online Teaching Platforms to Start Your Teaching Career

They help people to look at their interests, styles and abilities in order to follow a profession that suits them best. 

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. 

A teaching qualification, preferably with Psychology as a major subject (See Educator). A PGCE  with Life Orientation to become a School Counsellor.

Most universities. SA College of Applied Psychology.

They can help you to navigate complicated financial decisions and provide specific financial investment and financial planning advice based on your needs and objectives.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Business Studies, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics  are recommended.

BCom degrees in Commerce, Finance, Accounting or Economics. Most universities. Regent, STADIO, Independent Institute of SA, UP, UCT, WITS, RU, UWC.  Wealth Management: UJ, Unisa, Damelin, Milpark Business School. 

They analyse meteorological data from various sources to prepare and issue forecast advisories and warnings about weather conditions. 

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Geography.

US, UCT, WITS, UP, RU, UJ, UKZN, NWU, UNIZULU.

PRACTICAL

They enforce on-field rules and render decisions on judgement calls in various sporting codes.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Business Studies, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics  are recommended.

Rules are determined by the various federations governing the sport code for which you wish to umpire. Levels range from junior to top leagues. Theory needs to be covered (much of this can be done online) as well as practical. In rugby, e.g., all umpires need to undertake a BokSmart course covering safety principles

They make funeral arrangements for clients, prepare the deceased for burial or cremation, and supervise and assist the proceedings of funerals.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences.

A bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Science, UCT. 

Funeral Academy for Africa.

They perform services such as maintaining and selecting their employer’s clothes, greeting guests and parking cars.  

NSC or equivalent is recommended, especially if you want to continue to study hospitality management.

SA Butler Academy offers an eight-week training programme. IIE School of Hospitality offers an online degree in Hotel Management.

Vehicle mechanic

They repair or replace broken or damaged parts on a vehicle to ensure that it remains in good working condition. They also do servicing and maintenance inspections on cars. 

NSC or equivalent is recommended but not essential. To start an apprenticeship, you need to be 16 years old. NQF Level 1 with a pass in Mathematics. 

Northlink College, College SA, Oxbridge Academy, some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges

Waiter

They welcome and seat guests, take their drinks and food orders, communicating them effectively to the kitchen. They memorise the menu and make recommendations about special dishes.

No specific subject requirements. At least 18 years old. NSC or equivalent if you want to study culinary courses.

BCom degrees in Commerce, Finance, Accounting or Economics. Most universities. Regent, STADIO, Independent Institute of SA, UP, UCT, WITS, RU, UWC.  Wealth Management: UJ, Unisa, Damelin, Milpark Business School. 

Welder

They weld and cut metal parts using gas flame, electric arc and other heat sources to melt, cut or fuse metal.

NSC or equivalent recommended, but not essential. You must be 16, NQF level 1 Communication, Science and Mathematical Literacy.

Many TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges
SEIFSA Training Centre, Varsity Institute of Science and Technology

X-ray technician

X-ray technicians, also known as radiographers, have specialised training to perform medical exams such as x-rays, CT scans and MRIs which help to evaluate a patient beyond surface level symptoms. They usually work in doctors’ offices or hospitals. Radiographers prepare patients for the exams, position patients correctly, operate the equipment and minimise the radiation doses that patients receive. 

Physical Sciences, Mathematics, Life Sciences, English Home Language, or First Additional Language.

Physical Sciences, Mathematics, Life Sciences, English Home Language, or First Additional Language.

Yacht crew

If you love the crash of waves and dream of living life on the water, starting as a yacht deckhand could be a great career choice.

Deckhands need an STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) Basic Training Certificate. Some things you will learn in the course include marine firefighting, personal survival techniques, personal safety and social responsibilities, proficiency in security duties and elementary maritime first aid. The certification programme currently takes 11 days and costs R8750.

Other certification programmes can help you, such as jet ski and powerboat courses. The more courses and skills you have, the better.

Other certification programmes can help you, such as jet ski and powerboat courses. The more courses and skills you have, the better.

Researching animal behaviour, physiology, genetics and ecology allows a zoologist to gain valuable insights into how animals interact with their own species and with others as well as with their environment.
To become a zoologist you would need at least a Bachelor of Science degree, but often a master’s degree or more is needed as this has become quite a specialised field. However, with a degree in zoology there are a number of career paths you can follow:
· A researcher
· Animal nutritionist
· Ecologist
· Environmental consultant or education officer
· Higher education lecturer
· Marine scientist
· Nature conservation officer
· Zookeeper
· Palaeontologist

Whatever the entrance requirements at each university, good results in Mathematics (4), Physical Sciences (4) and Life Sciences (4) are required for a Bachelor of Science degree.

UJ requires a minimum APS of 30, while most of the other universities require an APS of between 26 and 35.

CREATIVE

A xylophone is a percussion instrument, consisting of musical keys that are struck with mallets. They can be made with wood or metal tubing.

No specific  requirements. 

Online courses. YouTube tutorials. In-person: African Musical Instruments (Makhanda)

They work at supporting and mentoring young people who might be at risk, running programmes about health, bullying, crime or drugs. They work with social workers, teachers, probation officers and the police.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma endorsement. English and Mathematics/ Mathematical Literacy. Careers in Child and Youth Care can be pursued via diplomas, bachelor’s degrees or postgraduate degrees.

 

IIE MSA (Monash), DUT. SAQA can provide a list of accredited providers.

PROFESSIONAL

X-ray technician

They operate imaging machines like an x-ray machine, to diagnose injuries and diseases.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s or diploma pass. English (4), Mathematics (4), Physical Sciences(4)

PRACTICAL

Xerox (photocopy) machine operator

They install, service and repair copiers, printers and scanners.

NSC or equivalent recommended.

Training is done on the job. A course in Electronics or in Information Technology is a basic requirement. Some TVET Colleges: TVET Colleges offer courses. Certification with the International School of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) 

They are fitness and wellness instructors who lead group classes in yoga. They also teach stretching, mindfulness and meditation.

No specific school requirements.

There are different yoga disciplines and various trainings to become and instructor: List Of Yoga Schools In South Africa 2023-2024 – Uni24.co.za

Zookeeper

They clean and maintain animal habitats, prepare food and feed the animals. They can also train animals so that interactions with them are safe. They observe the behaviour of the animals.

NSC or equivalent with bachelor’s pass. Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Geography.

An alphabetical list of abbreviations for the various universities and universities of technology in South Africa are as follows: