It’s both scary and exciting to think that school is almost over and that it’s time to decide what to do with the next phase of your life. If you chose to continue studying, you will have to decide between the many degrees available. In this article we make it easier for you by explaining the differences – and similarities – between a BA degree and a BCom degree.
What is a BCom Degree?
As the name implies, a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree, focuses on the world of commerce. Simply put, it is a three-year full time broad-based business qualification that will help prepare you for working in the field of business, commerce and industry. A BCom is an appropriate undergraduate degree to take if you are hoping to work in financial management, economics or accounting.
What is the focus of a BCom degree?
If you choose to study the IIE Bachelor of Commerce degree at the IIE’s Varsity College you will be provided with a quality learning experience in the contemporary, dynamic and interesting field of business. You will be able to select a core discipline in one of the following:
- Strategic Management
- Marketing Management
- Financial Management
- Finance and Accounting
The IIE BCom Degree is designed to prepare you for the increasingly complex demands that you will face in the professional business environment. As a graduate you will be equipped to enter the business world with solid theoretical knowledge, supported by strong problem-solving, critical-thinking, decision-making and strategic skills. You will exit the degree with a highly marketable balance of knowledge, practical application, and skills.
At Varsity College the academic year runs from February to November, with modules delivered on a full-time basis. Lectures and tutorials are scheduled during the day from Monday to Friday.
You need to fulfill certain entrance criteria to be accepted into The IIE BCom programme. More detailed information regarding admission is available here.
What can I do with my BCom degree?
Nearly every sector in the world of work has space for the skills gained through a BCom. You may decide to continue your studies with an IIE Postgraduate degree in Management or go straight into the workspace. Some of the exciting business-related career opportunities, depending on your core focus, include:
- Financial management
- Accounts management
- Tax consultant
- Investment banking
- Marketing
- Marketing
What is a BA degree?
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree involves studying subjects that are known as liberal arts or humanities. These can include languages, social sciences, psychology and communication. A BA is a three-year, full-time degree that offers the opportunity to develop research, communication and creative skills, and to acquire the ability to problem solve and think critically. A BA does not necessarily prepare you for a particular job but gives you a set of skills that will stand you in good stead for a wide range of professions and occupations, as well as for further study.
What is the focus of a BA degree?
If you choose to study the IIE Bachelor of Arts degree, at the IIE’s Varsity College, you will be given the choice of two of the following three core disciplines, namely:
- English
- Psychology
- Communication Science
In your second year, you will be required to select two of the core disciplines which will become your focus in your third and final year of study. You will graduate with advanced written and spoken skills, conceptual and critical thinking skills, and general communication skills valued by employers and needed in all organisations.
This degree will open a range of career options that includes:
- Writing
- Editing
- Social media communication
- Journalism
- Research
Further study can also open the door to a future in education or psychology.
At the IIE’s Varsity College the academic year runs from February to November, with modules delivered on a full-time basis. Lectures and tutorials are scheduled during the day from Monday to Friday.
You need to fulfill certain entrance criteria to be accepted into The IIE BA programme. More detailed information regarding admission is available here.
How to choose between a BCOM and BA degree
Both are excellent qualifications to study that equip graduates for a variety of opportunities, both in the world of work and in future study options. The qualification you choose depends on your interests, your abilities, and your chosen career path. No matter which you choose, hard work and application will put you on a strong path towards your future goals.
At The IIE’s Varsity College we understand that no two students are the same, or learn the same. That’s why we make sure a student’s education is shaped around them; how they like to learn, what they are passionate about, what makes them tick, and what makes them thrive. Our Education by Design approach allows students to grow into their best, and creates a space where they can live, learn and play - their way. For more information on this, as well as The IIE BA and BCom programmes, enquire now here