LLB vs Diploma vs HC vs Bcom... What's the Difference?
Ever wondered what the difference between a degree, diploma, Bcom and higher certificate in law was? Well, it all comes down to what you want to do!
Higher Certificate in Law
This course takes 1 year to complete, and you will exit at a NQF 5 level
This course is considered a bridging course. If your APS score on your Matric is too low for a diploma or degree qualification, you would take this higher certificate course in order to increase your APS score and allow you to enter a diploma or degree course.
- Allows you to qualify for diploma/degree courses (in law)
- Can work as an assistant in a law firm/office
- Cannot be an attorney/advocate with this qualification
Diploma in Law
This qualification takes 3 years to complete, and you will exit at a NQF 6 level
This course is designed to equip you to provide primary legal service to the public and to be able to support legal professionals.
With this qualification you can be a:
- Paralegal
- Legal assistant
- Legal secretary
- You cannot be an attorney/advocate with this qualification.
Bachelor of Commerce in Law (BCom)
This qualification takes 3 years to complete, and you will exit at a NQF 7 level
This qualification is focused on business, but with a foundational knowledge of law. You will learn all about the business world as well as the basic legal concepts that are applicable to business. This qualification suits people who want to work in business but also want to understand the legal aspects involved in the corporate world.
With this qualification you can be a:
- Compliance officer
- Legal advisor
- Business consultant
- You cannot be an attorney/advocate with this qualification.
Degree in Law (LLB)
This qualification takes 4 years to complete, and you will exit at a NQF 8 level
This is the qualification to take if you are wanting to become a legal practitioner (attorney/advocate). You will learn about all aspects of the law and it will prepare you to start your legal career.
With this qualification you can be a:
- Legal advisor
- Legal assistant
- Legal researcher
- Legal journalist
- Legal lecturer/academic
- Can become an attorney/advocate.