Software engineers and developers are extremely well-paid and sought-after in the Innovation Economy of the 21st century. Find out where you can study in the computer sciences field and what career options you could consider.
Let’s first clarify what these terms mean and how they differ from each other. A list of jobs and a list of places to study IT, Computer Science and Software Engineering with a GED follows further down the page.
Information Technology (IT) is about applying existing technology to solve real-world problems and manage systems. IT professionals deal with the practical application of technology within organisations. They focus on ensuring systems are operational, networks are secure, and data is managed efficiently. Their tasks may include installing and maintaining computer systems, troubleshooting technical issues, managing databases, and ensuring network security. Their goal is to make technology work effectively for businesses and organisations.
Computer Science focuses on the theory, design, and development of new technologies. Computer science professionals may perform tasks like designing algorithms, creating software, developing computer systems, and researching new computing concepts. Their goal is to push the boundaries of what’s possible with technology and create new tools and solutions.
Software Engineering focuses on the practical application of those theories to develop and maintain software systems. Essentially, computer science deals with the “why” and “how” of computing, while software engineering is the “how” in building and maintaining software. Software engineers focus on the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software systems. They may build web applications, develop mobile apps or creating enterprise software solutions. They may perform tasks like programming, software design, project management, collaboration, problem-solving. The goal is to create and maintain reliable software systems that meet user needs.
In essence, IT professionals apply existing technologies, while computer scientists and software engineers create and innovate with technology.
As the world moves into the Innovation Economy, these roles are becoming highly sought-after and are usually well-paid. Employers are less interested in what you know, than WHAT YOU CAN DO, with what you know. If you have skills, you are likely to get a job!
Here’s a list of the kinds of jobs you can get if you study in this field:
Teaching: Instruct students on computer science principles and programming.
Software Engineering: Design, develop, and maintain software applications for various platforms.
Web Development: Build and maintain websites, focusing on both the front-end (visual design) and back-end (server-side logic).
Data Science: Analyze and interpret large datasets to extract valuable insights and make predictions.
Cybersecurity: Protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
IT Consulting: Provide expert advice to organizations on how to best utilize technology to solve business problems.
Project Management: Lead and coordinate software development projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Game Development: Create video games, including designing game mechanics, programming game logic, and developing game art.
Database Administration: Manage and maintain databases, ensuring data integrity and availability.
Computer Systems Analyst: Analyze business needs and recommend technology solutions.
Entrepreneurship: Start and run your own tech company, leveraging your knowledge and skills.
Research: Engage in research in areas like machine learning, AI, and natural language processing.
Where can you study IT, Computer Science or Software Engineering with a GED?
We found multiple institutions where you can study in this field. The institutions are listed in no particular order. Please refer to their respective websites to research the details of their admission requirements.
Since many GED students find the public universities very unfriendly towards them, we have only listed private institutions of higher education. The list may not be exhaustive. It is just a start.
1. University of the People – Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
This is a accredited, online university, based in the US, which has received high praise from many of our GED graduates who have studied there. As lessons are all online, you can study in your own time and they offer a pay-as-you-go option. Tuition is free, you only pay for your assessments when you complete each course.
The university accepts students with a GED alone.
Hanlie van Gend – My son completed his B.Sc Computer Science successfully at University of the People.
Renel Wagener – My son finished GED® last year. He is studying a Bachelors degree in Computer Science, through University of the People.
2. IIE Diploma in IT in Software Development
Diploma in Information Technology in Network Management
IIE Diploma in Information Technology Management
Rosebank College, one of the IIE institutions, offers an NQF Level 6 Diploma. Contact lectures take place during the day, on weekdays, at the following campuses: Bloemfontein, Braamfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Mbombela, Nelson Mandela Bay, Polokwane, and Pretoria. Their admission requirements state that they accept international credentials which are comparable to NQF Level 4 plus a SAQA certificate. Always check for yourself.
3. School of IT
This institution offers a multitude of industry-specific courses. Their website boasts: “Get internationally accredited & recognized in under 3 months!
“We want you to become internationally accredited and recognized including getting an industry job in under 6 months! All in all we are client and industry focused. In turn we focus on Microsoft, Oracle, Comptia and Adobe qualifications to gain international exposure and levels.”
Courses are online with one-on-one tutoring. The courses are generally industry accredited certifications.
4. IIE Varsity College – Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Application Development
This is a degree course and therefore students with a GED must meet additional requirements to be eligible for admission. Their requirements for International credentials state: “An USAf Exemption Certificate is required and meeting the relevant Maths and English requirements.” For more information about how to achieve exemption with a GED, refer to our University page.
5. IIE Varsity College – Higher Certificates
Varsity College offers a number of Higher Certificates in Information Systems. Students with a GED plus a certificate of evaluation issued by SAQA may be admitted.
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Cyber Security)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Data Analytics)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Engineering)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Machine Learning)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Network Engineering)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Robotics and Intelligent Systems)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Software Development)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Open Source)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Web Development)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Software Development Lifecycles)
Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Strategic Information Systems)
6. Berea Technical College – Software Engineer
An NQF Level 4 qualification is required for admission to this two-year certification. On successful completion of the programme, the student will receive a statement of result from Berea College of Technology and upon meeting the EISA requirements, receive an Occupational Certificate: Software Engineer from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
7. Boston City College – Diplomas in IT
Boston offers two different 3-year diplomas and a variety of short courses in the field of IT. Their website states: “At Boston City Campus, we offer a wide selection of IT programmes and courses, ranging from introductory level to more advanced levels. The IT certifications and computer programmes and courses will open many doors for you, including work as an Application Developer, Programming Specialist, Cloud Solutions Professional, Computer Technician and Network Support Technician, to name but a few.”
Boston is very GED-friendly.
Diploma in Network Systems
Diploma in Systems Development
8. IIE MSA – Bachelors Degree and Higher Certificate
MSA is another educational brand of The Independent Institute of Education, along with Rosebank College and Varsity College.
Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Application Development
As with admission to all degrees in SA, exemption is required. Check with the institutions if they offer alternative pathways. Usually a GED Plus NQF 5 is sufficient to meet the requirements for exemption.
Higher Certificate in Mobile Application and Web Development. For admission with a GED, A SAQA Evaluation Certificate is required.
9. Vega – Bachelor Degree in Experience Design
Vega is a school for creative design. “The IIE Bachelor of Experience Design degree introduces students to user-first design principles and digital product development strategies. At the start of their second year, students have the opportunity to select a learning programme (specialisation) in either User Experience (UX) Design or Motion Design that prepares them for a career path built around their creative strengths and personal area of interest.”
Bachelor of computer and information sciences in Game Design and Development Degree
“The IIE BCIS degree in Game Design and Development equips students with the necessary skills to pursue a career in creating digital games for different platforms, from computers to platforms like mobile phones and other hand-held devices. A graduate will be qualified in both the programming and creative aspects of a career in designing and developing games; gamified applications and immersive content for new technologies.”
Alice Goodall – My daughter is studying Game Development and Design at Vega. It’s a full stack degree… meaning it covers coding, design, animation, programming. They accepted her GED plus a higher certificate, which she also did at Vega ( app and web development).
Check this article too as there may be other options to explore where you can study in the field of engineering – Where Do GED Graduates Study?
Important
To avoid disappointment, always check the accreditation status of the institute at which you intend to enrol and also check that the course you study has the required accreditation status for the purpose you intend to use it. Contact the institution itself to request registration and accreditation information or contact SAQA – or both! As an example:
In 2024, the Department of Higher Education and Training cancelled the registration of four Educor institutions four institutes of higher education and training because they failed to submit proof of their financial viability to the department: the four institutions were City Varsity (Pty) Ltd, Damelin (Pty) Ltd, Icesa City Campus (Pty) Ltd and Lyceum College (Pty) Ltd.