Skills for a changing banking landscape

The Higher Certificate (HC) in Banking Services on NQF Level 5 will appeal to students that seek employment or are employed in an organisation that promotes banking services. Its value, in other words, is not limited to those working in traditional banks. It is an entry-level higher education qualification and aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to operate successfully in a specific junior/entry role in banking services. In addition, the banking industry in South Africa is experiencing a major change towards compliance, requiring a large number of individuals employed in the banking arena to have an NQF Level 5 qualification.

Admission onto the programme can be attained with a Senior Certificate certified by Umalusi. The programme is on NQF level 5 and provides for progression onto NQF level 6/7 programmes. For example, students may proceed to an Advanced Certificate in Banking Services, a Diploma or a Bachelor's degree.

The Advanced Certificate (AC) in Banking Services on NQF 6 is a second-level higher education qualification that aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to operate professionally in a more senior role in an organisation that promotes banking services.

Admission onto the programme can be attained with a Higher Certificate in Banking Services or equivalent qualification on level 5. The Advanced Certificate is on NQF level 6 and provides for further study at NQF level 6 (on a Diploma, for example) or on an NQF level 7 Bachelor's degree.

Both programmes make for a sound education in banking services, especially if completed together. For example, for someone interested in selling banking services, the route could be to get the HC with elective combinations in sales and then the AC with elective combinations in sales and relationship management. Such an individual would then be fit to perform the role of sales manager in a bank.

Applications open on 1 October 2013. Be sure to discuss your study needs with a Milpark student advisor to determine the best study path for your needs.