As 2018 comes around, you may still be considering what to study. In the rapidly evolving world of work, it is vital to continually stay up to date on the study options that will give you the best possible chance of getting hired.

 

Have a look at our list of 6 top study directions for 2018:

 

1. Information Technology (IT)

The modern workplace revolves largely around digital technology. Many of the most in-demand careers today involve IT, including computer programming, software development, network security, and web development. One of the main advantages of going into this career is that your qualifications matter much less than your experience and practical know-how. With demand for IT professionals on a steady rise, this is undoubtedly the hottest study direction to take in 2018.

Looking to equip yourself with marketable skills? Consider taking one of these computer courses, which you can complete in your own time from home.

 

2. Engineering

With a scarcity of engineering professionals in South Africa, engineering qualifications are highly prized and open up a wealth of job opportunities. A look at the Department of Labour’s National Scarce Skills List (2014) reveals that engineering occupations dominate. Although engineering degrees are the most sought-after, technical engineering skills linked to the mechanical, chemical, industrial, civil, or electrical engineering sectors are also very attractive to employers.

 

3. Financial Management and Financial Analysis

Every business and every government institution needs to hire a financial manager, making courses in this field a great study choice for people with sound organisational, critical thinking, and number-crunching skills. Financial managers are amongst the highest-paid professionals in South Africa, and financial analysts (who can interpret financial data) are just as well paid. Pair these skills with knowledge of financial technology, and you’ll become one of the most sought-after professionals out there.

 

4. Business Management

In a highly competitive corporate world, business managers are often the defining factor in a business’s success or failure. Across most sectors, more and more businesses are opening every year, meaning that demand for skilful business managers is on the rise, and unlikely to slack off any time soon. Business management qualifications are handy in that they don’t limit your career choices to one particular sector: you give yourself the chance to learn management skills that you can apply across many different industries.

 

5. Human Resources and Skills Development

The skills required of businesses and employees are changing faster than ever before, with skill sets becoming obsolete in as little as five years. This means that organisations are placing increased emphasis on hiring human resource professionals who can recruit skilful, adaptable employees. If you want a solid career with good growth prospects, then consider studying a human resources course. It has also become necessary for organisations to continually upskill their staff as new technologies and business trends emerge, making skills development specialists well sought-after.

 

6. Specialised Sales

Accelerating product and service development comes with an increasing need for salespeople with the ability to sell new offerings. Specialised salespeople, especially those with knowledge of emerging technologies, are needed to explain products and services to a wide range of potential clients. For example, digital media companies may seek out salespeople with knowledge of areas such as mobile media, ecommerce, or digital advertising. An advertising course or marketing management course can lay the foundations for a career in this field.

 

Is the career you want to follow not listed here? Click here to check out the wide range of distance learning courses offered by Oxbridge Academy.