Business, Commerce & Finance Careers

Career overview

Understand the field before choosing a qualification.

01 · The field

What is Business, Commerce & Finance?

Business, Commerce & Finance covers accounting, economics, management, marketing, human resources, entrepreneurship, banking and financial analysis. It suits students who enjoy working with numbers, people, strategy, problem-solving or commercial decision-making.

02 · Career possibilities

Where could this field take you?

Accountant
Chartered Accountant (CA(SA))
Auditor
Financial Analyst
Economist
Banking Professional
Marketing Specialist
Human Resources Practitioner
Business Analyst
Management Consultant
Entrepreneur
Financial Manager

Study pathways

Choose a study route that matches the career you actually want.

Qualification names and admission rules differ between institutions. Use these as common study routes, then check the exact programme before applying.

Typical qualifications

Study routes to explore

BCom in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Management, Marketing or Human Resources
Bachelor of Accounting or another accounting-focused degree
Diploma in Accounting, Financial Management, Business Management or Marketing
Economics or business analytics degree
Professional and industry-specific qualifications depending on the chosen career

Find Institutions Offering These Routes

Alternative entry

Other ways to build your path

Higher Certificates and Diplomas can provide a route into business studies and may allow progression to higher qualifications.
Learnerships and internships are valuable for accounting, banking, administration, marketing and sales roles.
Entrepreneurship can begin through practical experience, but formal business and financial skills improve decision-making.

Prepare at school

Build the subjects and skills that support this field.

The subjects below are helpful, not universal admission requirements. Always check the current requirements of the qualification and institution you plan to apply to.

Helpful school subjects

Mathematics
Accounting
Economics
Business Studies
Languages

Skills to develop

Numerical reasoning
Communication and negotiation
Planning and organisation
Analytical thinking
Commercial awareness

Before you apply

Compare admission requirements across institutions.
Check whether the programme is recognised for your intended career.
Confirm application dates, costs and funding options.
Check for portfolios, auditions, licences or professional-registration steps where relevant.

Why consider it?

What this career field can offer.

Very broad range of industries

Management and leadership opportunities

Strong entrepreneurship potential

Qualifications can support many career directions

Ready to compare where you can study?

Our institutions directory will help students find universities, colleges and other providers linked to the qualifications on this page.

Find Institutions

Career and study information is for guidance. Programme names, admission criteria and professional requirements can change; confirm current details with the institution and relevant professional body before applying.

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