University vs. Colleges in South Africa (Which Should I Choose)

As a student who just completed high school, you might have difficulty picking one among the higher education options available. You’ve heard about universities and colleges, and you’re wondering which one will be the perfect choice for you.

But before making your choice, how about we check out what distinguishes both institutions and their differences? It would help if you had a clear understanding of both institutions after reading this article.

The Difference Between College and University

When compared to a university, a college is a smaller institution. However, a college is structured to offer Undergraduate degrees and Associate degrees. Unlike in universities, the number of courses available in colleges is limited, and the study duration is always between two to four years. 

As a student, you might choose to enroll in a college at first as that will not obstruct you from seeking a degree in a university in the future. 

A university provides undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs and is a larger institution than a college. Universities operate with an expanded curriculum, offer many courses, and have an outstanding infrastructure with research and sports facilities. 

Universities also boast a larger population of students than colleges, and it is also the major choice of international students over colleges that are more filled with local students. Universities can also consist of different schools, colleges, and academic departments. 

In this setup, the college will function like a department in the university. The university will be responsible for the student’s degrees while the students will also have access to all the university facilities. However, the students will continue to take lectures in their various colleges. 

University vs College In South Africa

When picking the next institution to further your education, you should check out how both colleges and universities fair against each other, what are their distinctive traits and what makes both special.

Level Of Education

While both colleges and universities provide advanced education and training in South Africa, there are differences in the level of education offered by both institutions. 

Colleges in South Africa offer the maximum of N.Q.F. level six, and students will be awarded a certificate or diploma. However, universities in South Africa provide qualifications from at least N.Q.F. level seven to the maximum of N.Q.F. level ten, and students are awarded bachelor’s degrees up to doctorates.

Accreditation And Types Of Qualifications

To offer degrees in South Africa, universities must get accreditation from the education department. The department of education is also the same department tasked with college accreditation. However, colleges should create different applications. These applications are to get accredited for certificate and diploma courses. 

The accreditation of colleges in South Africa is also handled by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA). SETA is a body tasked with regulating qualifications that fall under some specific professions and industries. 

Types Of Courses And Education

Courses in universities are majorly academic, while colleges are designed to provide students with vocational training and skills development related to certain jobs. 

The types of qualifications available in universities include. 

• Bachelors Degree
• Doctorate Degree
• Honors Degree
• Masters Degrees
• Post Graduate Diploma

The types of qualifications available in colleges include.

• Diploma
• Short Course Certificate
• Advanced Certificates
• Certificate
• National Diploma
• National Certificates

Undoubtedly, universities have the upper hand in the labor market. However, a university graduate might require additional specialist training or vocational qualifications to be hired for specific jobs. 

If you aspire to secure a job in a certain industry, you might want to enroll in a national qualification or an accredited college course to obtain your needed qualification. With this college course, you will acquire several skills related to your chosen career.

While university students will earn more income than college students, it will take lots of processes for university students to move up the food chain. In contrast, college students can secure their aspired job and roles more quickly.

Length Of Courses

It will take up to two to four years to complete a full-time study at a university, so students will have to invest their time and finance to acquire a professional qualification. 

However, you can acquire your certificate or diploma quickly in a college. College courses only require six months, while the maximum duration is three years. 

Time Table Flexibility

Universities are structured to have rigid semesters, timetables, and classes. Students will have to make sure all arrangement is made to complement this rigid setup. While some colleges have adopted this structure, numerous colleges in South Africa provide part-time, distance learning, and flexible study arrangements for their students. 

Registration

Universities in South Africa only provide a fixed registration date, and you will be unable to complete registration once the registration date has been missed. Apart from the University Of South Africa, most universities in South Africa often halt their registration in September. 

At colleges, registration is more flexible, giving students enough time to complete the registration. 

Costs

University education is quite expensive, and a large amount of money must be paid upfront to proceed with your education. The cost of a university education is why some students resolve to receive loans to cover the cost of study. 

Colleges, however, are less expensive and much more affordable. Some colleges also have a setup that allows students to pay for their studies in installments.

Conclusion

Your choice of an institution should be determined by your future aspiration, as both college and university are outstanding options. If you want a bachelor’s degree, you might want to enroll in a university, and the college will be perfect for your wish to have a vocational career. 

You could also want to go to a university if you wish to be a professional in your field who can carry out legal research and become a Ph.D. holder.