IT IS important to understand the differences between varsity and college.
Many think that a university education is far better than that of a college.
This reporter asked a few people in the Daily Sun newsroom and many thought that a university was better than a college diploma, but more working people have college diplomas than degrees.
So what is the difference and how should you decide which is best for you?
Felicity Coughlan, director of The Independent Institute of Education, said a big difference is that universities get a subsidy from government while private colleges do not.
“Rosebank College of the independent institute, for example, prides itself on the quality of its teaching and individual support, as well as its world of work orientation.”
Quality is an important factor to consider so make sure you research which schools make the cut. It must be noted that some colleges are illegitimate so you should double check to make sure you don’t waste your time and money.
Coughlan said interested people can do these checks:
,All private, higher education institutions need to be registered with the Department of Higher Education. Any credible campus must be able to show you a certificate detailing their qualifications.
,All higher education qualifications need to be accredited by the higher education quality committee of the Council on Higher Education – if they are not accredited, they will not have a legal certificate.
,All qualifications must be registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and students should ask institutions for their SAQA-NQF identity numbers.
“Once you established these three things you can be sure you are dealing with a legitimate institution. Then you can research what they offer and the quality of their education,” said Coughlan.
The biggest advantage of colleges is that often it is more affordable than a university.
But remember, your qualification is only as good as your attitude and willingness to learn.
