Diploma in Economics Course Requirements at TUT

The Diploma in Economics at TUT is a rigorous program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in economic theory, applied economics, and quantitative methods. Offered at the Ga-Rankuwa Campus, this NQF Level 6 qualification spans 360 credits, preparing students for diverse careers in economics, finance, and policy analysis.

Requirements to Study Diploma in Economics at TUT

For applicants who obtained a National Senior Certificate in or after 2008:

• Admission requirements: A National Senior Certificate with a bachelor’s degree, diploma endorsement, or an equivalent qualification, with an achievement level of at least 4 for English (home language or first additional language) and 3 for Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, or 6 for Mathematical Literacy.
• Selection criteria: An Admission Point Score (APS) of at least 22 (with Mathematics or Technical Mathematics) or at least 24 (with Mathematical Literacy). Life Orientation is excluded from APS calculation.

For applicants with a National Certificate (Vocational) at NQF Level 4:

• Admission requirements: A National Certificate (Vocational) at NQF Level 4 with a bachelor’s degree or diploma endorsement, achieving at least 50% for English (home language or first additional language) and 40% for Mathematics or 70% for Mathematical Literacy.
• Selection criteria: An APS of at least 22 (with Mathematics or Technical Mathematics) or at least 24 (with Mathematical Literacy). Life Orientation is excluded from APS calculation.

For applicants with an N Diploma (Nated 191: N4/N5/N6) at NQF Level 5:

• Admission requirements: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% for English, and a National N Diploma at NQF Level 5 with at least 40% in Financial Accounting.
• Exemptions: Applicants may be exempted from certain NQF Level 5 modules based on their N4/N5/N6 subjects passed.

High School Subject Guide to Study Diploma in Economics at TUT

Embarking on a Diploma in Economics at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) requires strategic subject choices in high school, particularly from Grade 10 to Grade 12. Here’s what you need to focus on:

1. Mathematics or Technical Mathematics: Strong analytical skills are foundational in economics, and mathematics provides the tools necessary for economic modeling and statistical analysis. This subject is essential for understanding and solving complex economic problems.
2. English: Effective communication is crucial in economics. Whether you’re writing reports, presenting findings, or debating economic theories, a strong command of English is essential.
3. Economics: If available, taking economics in high school will give you a preliminary understanding of economic principles and theories, setting a solid groundwork for your studies at TUT.
4. Business Studies: This subject complements economics well, providing insights into business operations and management, which are integral to understanding economic environments.
5. Accounting: Although not mandatory, accounting is beneficial for grasping financial documentation and processes, which are often analyzed in economic studies.

Selecting these subjects from Grade 10 to Grade 12 will not only enhance your application but also provide you with a strong foundation for tackling the rigorous curriculum of the economics diploma.

How to Apply for a Diploma in Economics

1. Verify that you meet the admission criteria.
2. Apply through the TUT Application Portal before the deadline on 31 July.
3. Applications are ranked according to the Departmental Student Enrolment Plan, with selection favoring the top-ranking applicants.

Career Opportunities After Completing the Diploma in Economics at TUT

Graduates of this program can pursue careers such as:

• Economist and Financial Analyst: Providing analysis and forecasts of economic conditions to inform decision-making in public and private sectors.
• Consultant and Entrepreneur: Offering expert advice on economic strategies and starting new ventures.
• Banking and Insurance Professional: Working in various capacities within banks and insurance companies to manage assets, investments, and risk.
• Public Sector Roles: Engaging in policy formulation, economic planning, and project management within government departments.

Further studies might include Advanced Diplomas, Postgraduate Diplomas, and a Master of Economics (MEcon), focusing on Comparative Local Development or other specialized areas of economic study.

This diploma equips students with analytical skills, economic reasoning, and the practical application of economic concepts, preparing them for successful careers in a wide range of economic and financial fields.

Pursuing a career as an economist in South Africa

Pursuing a career as an economist in South Africa can be particularly advantageous due to several specific factors that characterize the country’s economic and social landscape:

Key Role in Economic Policy

Economists in South Africa are crucial in shaping economic policy to tackle pressing issues such as the country’s energy crisis, public debt management, and structural unemployment. These roles often extend beyond government, influencing corporate strategies and NGO programs.

Frontline of Emerging Markets Challenges

As an emerging market, South Africa presents unique challenges like currency volatility and economic diversification, which provide economists with the opportunity to engage in high-impact research and solution development that can be adapted for use in other emerging economies.

Impact on Social Equity

With one of the world’s highest inequality rates, South Africa needs economists who can craft strategies to improve wealth distribution, educational access, and health outcomes. Economists have the potential to influence programs that directly affect the socioeconomic status of millions.

Involvement in National Development Plans

Economists can play a strategic role in long-term planning initiatives such as the National Development Plan (NDP), which aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030 through focused investments in public infrastructure, youth development, and small business support.

Dynamics of a Sophisticated Financial Sector

South Africa’s advanced financial markets offer economists the chance to work on complex issues such as financial regulation, derivatives, and pension reform, providing a depth of experience that is competitive on a global scale.

Academic and International Research Opportunities

The country’s academic institutions and economic think tanks are engaged in cutting-edge research on local and international economic issues. Economists have the opportunity to contribute to influential publications and participate in global economic discussions, particularly within contexts relevant to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and other BRICS nations.

This specific, impactful scope of work makes a career in economics particularly fulfilling and influential within the South African context.