Why should I study a Bachelor’s degree in Education?

Why should I study a Bachelor’s degree in Education?

Teaching is one of the most important and fulfilling careers a person can have. It is an extremely important part of every person’s growth stage in life. If knowledge is not passed from one generation to the next, the future of society could be compromised. The purpose of a B Ed degree is to develop students into educators at all levels of the educational system. These educators need to have the skills and knowledge to deliver quality education for the youth of South Africa. A passionate person with the ability to educate another person can change lives. People who never had a bright future can look back to when their lives changed and say, “My future is bright” thanks to dedicated and determined educators. Before choosing a career in education you should also look at the type of person you are. If you do not have patience and you have a short temper, this career path might not be for you. After studying a B Ed degree you will have many options available to you. Profgrad would like to discuss a few.

http://profgrad.co.za/opportunities.html

APS score

The Admission Points Score differs at most universities in South Africa. It would be advisable to contact the University of your Choice and find out what the APS score is to qualify. An APS score of 26 is usually the accepted norm. It is also important to realise that there are subject requirements to meet to study this degree. Mathematics is usually a requirement. You would need to score an APS score of 4 or more for Mathematics. You would also need a first language APS score of 4 or more. If you do not have the minimum subjects needed, usually Mathematics, English or Afrikaans and you do not achieve an APS score of 4 or more, you will not be allowed admission into the degree.

Duration of undergraduate degree

A B Ed degree usually takes 4 years to complete. This can differ from university to university. However, the standard norm is a 4 year time horizon. You will be expected to do practical hours and theoretical based studies.

Which institutions offer the undergraduate degree?

There are many universities across the country which offers a B Ed degree. The following universities offer the degree.  The University of Pretoria, University of Western Cape, University of Venda, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, University of Stellenbosch, University of the Witwatersrand, Walter Sisulu University, University of KwaZulu Natal, University of the Free State, University of Johannesburg, University of Fort Hare, University of Limpopo, University of Zululand, University of South Africa, North West University. If you would like to study a general B Ed degree, you could apply at almost all the above universities. If you would like to specialize in a certain subject, for example a B Ed (Languages and Social Science), you would need to apply at the University of Western Cape.

Jobs relevant to undergraduate degree

There are many different jobs you can get once you have completed all your necessary education in this field. The 2 main job roles and the purpose of the degree is to create teachers and lecturers. The degree will allow you the ability to instil knowledge to a younger generation which could lead to job satisfaction and fulfillment.

Have you researched all of the above before embarking on your journey?

Why should I study a Bachelor’s degree in …?

Why should I study a Bachelor’s degree in …?

Over the course of the next few weeks, Profgrad will discuss various undergraduate degrees each week, in detail. Profgrad will determine how long it takes to complete a specific degree, what kind of APS score is needed, if there are specific subjects needed during your school career to study the degree, where the degree can be studied and what kind of jobs you could expect to find with your qualification. These are all important aspects you would need to consider before studying in a certain direction. Once you have completed a degree, there are many options available. All these options will be discussed in the blog posts about a certain subject. Becoming a professional in a field takes hard work, commitment and many years of your life. Therefore, making the right choice upfront is of the utmost importance. Profgrad will explore many opportunities over the next few weeks.

http://profgrad.co.za/opportunities.html

APS score

APS stands for Admission Points Score. To qualify for entrance to study a certain degree, you would need to meet the minimum requirement by the universities APS score standards. Each University will have different admission requirements. It is important to confirm with the university what the APS Score should be. If you do not meet the minimum APS score, you will not be allowed to study the degree you would like at that specific institution. In most undergraduate degrees, there are also subjects which need to be taken to qualify for entrance in your degree. If you do not have these subjects at school level, you will not be able to study a degree if it is a requirement by the university.

Duration of undergraduate degree

The term or duration of the degree depends on the University. Each University will have its own modules which need to be completed over a certain amount of time. Although the degree might have the same name attached to it, the university could prescribe different requirements which need to be met to obtain the degree. You could even study for an extra year or two at some universities as the university will have its own requirements which need to be met before offering the degree to you.

Which institutions offer the undergraduate degree?

You have choice of location for most undergraduate degrees in the country. There are some undergraduate degrees that might only be offered by one or a few universities. It is important to figure out which institution has the degree you would like to study. Once you have established that, you would need to determine where you are going to live whilst studying the degree and how you are going to get to the university. There are 17 major universities in South Africa. These universities are scattered throughout the country. You have a university in almost every province in the country. Gauteng and the Eastern Cape each have 4 universities. The Western Cape has 3 universities located in the province. Limpopo and Kwa-Zulu Natal each have 2 universities whilst North West and Free State each have 1 university. There are no major universities in the Northern Cape and Mpumalanga.

Jobs relevant to undergraduate degree

Once you have completed your studies and begin searching for jobs, you might not get the job you set out or intended to get when you started your studies. Sometimes jobs are rare and as a student needing work, you usually take what you get. Once you have found your feet you can start searching for the specific job that you aimed for initially.

Have you researched all of the above before embarking on your journey?

How to become a Sport Scientist

A sport scientist researchers, develops and improves on existing techniques and scientific principles to improve the overall physical performance of an athlete. Sport Science enhances an athlete’s performance which could lead to sporting success. Technological improvements in the form of slow motion replays, freeze frame, infrared and other technological advancements help a sports scientist develop more efficient training methods. Profgrad.co.za provides a summary of how to become a Sport Scientist on the link below.

http://profgrad.co.za/proffesion/sport/SPORT%20SCIENTIST.html

How many years of study?

It will take three years of study to complete your undergraduate degree. During this term you could be required to complete theoretical as well as practical assignments. This will enhance not only your knowledge but experience in the field.

What is the degree called?

The degree is an undergraduate Bachelor’s degree in Human Movement Sciences. This degree is not known by the same name at all the Universities. The Universities that offer this degree and the name is as follows: North West University – BA Human Movement Sciences and Psychology; Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University – B Human Movement Science, University of Fort Hare – BHS in HMS (Bachelor of Health Science in Human Movement Science), University of Pretoria – BA (Human Movement Sciences), University of the Free State – BA (Human Movement Science).

Do I Need to do Community Service?

Community Service in this field is not required. You might however be required to participate in an internship. During this time the business you are employed by will teach you the ropes of being a Sport Scientist. You will learn from experienced professionals in the field and will be able to apply the knowledge gained at University in a practical environment.

                                                                                                                                                                                                        

 What can I expect as a salary?

As a junior leaving University you could expect a starting salary of between R8 000 and R15 000. After gaining experience and working for a few years, you could expect an average salary of between R20 000 and R30 000 per month. Sport Scientist can also derive an income from books, interviews and articles published as a professional using their unique expertise. To learn more about the salary as well as job satisfaction of a Sport Scientist see the link below:

http://www.salaryexplorer.com/salary-survey.php?loc=201&loctype=1

A general description of your life as a Sport Scientist

Your daily duties will consist of being in the field as well as being in the office. Research would be a vital aspect of your job. Your job could have a substantial amount of challenges as you will be measured on an athlete’s performance. Your success will be determined by the success of the athletes you assist. You can also publish your research via books, articles and blogs, which can give many athletes a better chance of success. Through these mediums you will not only help others but will also promote and market yourself. For a successful Role Model in the industry see link below:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Noakes

Do you plan to become a Sport Scientist?

What Profgrad is all about - Part 4

What Profgrad is all about – Part 4

Over the past few weeks Profgrad has discussed How to get into University, What degree to study and what you can do with your degree. This week Profgrad will focus on how to prepare for your career once you have acquired your degree. This will answer the question of how to go for an interview, how to get a suitable CV, Where to look for jobs and what questions might be asked in a psychometric test. http://profgrad.co.za/getPrepared.html

This website explains what you need in a CV. A Cover letter is the employer’s first impression of who you are and what you can offer. It is extremely important that this cover letter is not only professional but a summary of the best of you in a working environment. You need to change your cover letter for each position you apply for. Always address the employer in your cover letter. Profgrad has an example of what a cover letter should look like as well as links where you can download cover letters that might suit you. A CV must be easily readable and well structured. There are various layouts and styles that can be used. Try and stay away from unnecessary pictures and borders as this is a professional document. If you are unsure about what the do’s and don’ts are the website will give you pointers to make it easier. See the link for an elaborate explanation on your cover letter, CV and pointers. http://profgrad.co.za/getPrepared/CV.html

Once you are successful in your application, you will be invited to attend an interview process. It is here where the employer has face to face contact with you. The employer will decide whether you are the best person for this position during this interview. You need to prepare and make sure that you come across in the best light possible. The website will provide you with information regarding the dress code for both ladies and men as well as a few pointers on how to prepare before the interview, what to do during the interview and how to follow up after the interview. To prepare for the possible questions that might come your way and how to answer them, have a look at the pdf download on the website. View the link for more information.  http://profgrad.co.za/getPrepared/interviews.html

Finding a job is not easy. You need to know where to look and when to apply. You have to have patience and use all available avenues in this process. Profgrad provides you with the different resources and links. The website will also provide you with links if your preferred method of job seeking is the internet. Have a look at the link to see more. http://profgrad.co.za/getPrepared/Jobs.html  

Psychometric tests are designed by businesses in order to analyse whether you will be a suitable candidate to fit in with the company values and culture. This will usually be in the form of an assessment. You will be asked mathematical, logical, rational and personality type questions to name a few. It is important to answer these questions truthfully and to the best of your ability. You might end up not enjoying your job or the company morale if you do not answer honestly. The website provides you with examples of questions asked during these tests as well as links to practice free psychometric tests. See the link http://profgrad.co.za/getPrepared/psychometric.html

Are you prepared for when you need to enter the workplace?

How to become a Surgeon

How to become a Surgeon

A surgeon is a specialist in the field of surgery. Surgeons perform surgery to repair, alter or improve body functions. Becoming a surgeon, as with a doctor, requires a lot of preparation from an early age. Subjects at school level, such as Biology, Mathematics and Science need to be above a certain standard in order to qualify for further studies at a University.  Profgrad would like to discuss in detail how one will go about becoming a Surgeon. Profgrad.co.za provides a summary of how to become a surgeon on the website below.

http://profgrad.co.za/proffesion/health/SURGEONS.html

How many years of study?

In order to become a surgeon one needs to study and complete the necessary qualification at an approved University. In South Africa not all Universities offer this as a degree. The degree will be offered at University of Pretoria, University of Stellenbosch, University of the Witwatersrand, Walter Sisulu University, University of KwaZulu Natal, University of the Free State, University of Cape Town and University of Limpopo. You would need to apply to a University of your choice. The selection process is quite strict and only a select few applications get approved. It will be good if you could do job shadowing and charity volunteering before you apply. You might want to apply at more than one University. You will need to become a qualified doctor. After completing this degree {MBChB}, you will need to study another 3-4 years depending on the specialty.

What is the degree called?

This degree is generally known as a MMed Degree. This abbreviation is short for Master of Medicine. It is a post graduate qualification that follows your MBChB degree. You will still need to attend lectures and complete educational activities. However, most of the degree will be of a practical nature.

Do I Need to do Community Service or continuous development?

You will need to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). In order to become a surgeon you would need to do 4 years registrarship. Registrarship will consist of in depth knowledge of different aspects of a specific specialty. During this time you will learn the most complex aspects of your profession and will need to do research assignments and dissertations. Once completed, you will need to write an assessment. It will be required of you to do continuous development as the industry is always changing.

                                                                                                                                                                                                        

 A general description of your life as a Surgeon

Surgeons usually get referrals from General Practitioners. You are booked out weeks in advance and work strictly on an appointment basis. Once you have seen the patient and identified whether an operation is necessary, you will be able to book a surgery for the specific procedure. You will be able to plan your days in advance and you will be able to determine the amount of hours you work per week. You will usually have your own practice. Being a surgeon requires you to do post operation care. You will not work office hours and might need to schedule surgeries after hours.   

Do you plan to become a surgeon?