How the Requirements for Diploma Studies Have Changed
Have you ever given much thought to the significance of a 21st-century somatology or other tertiary education diploma? A diploma in somatology serves to signify that you have met or exceeded the required standards of knowledge and training that officially certifies you as a somatology graduate, someone who is qualified to practice as a professional somatologist.
The science and study of somatology has advanced immensely, as have most other specialities and their respective fields of study. A couple of generations ago, high school and post-matric tertiary studies, as well as the institutes at which they were undertaken, were considerably less specialised and less diversified in South Africa.
Likewise, the registered documents that indicated their various highest qualification levels varied. School leavers received certificates that indicated whether they had sat for and passed university entrance exams, as well as the respective symbols that indicated the range within which their final examination marks appeared.
Students who obtained a qualification at a technical college received a trade test certificate and possibly a diploma upon graduation, while university graduates were awarded a degree, issued by their alma mater and/or the official body that governed their speciality.
Erstwhile High School Streaming
Upon entering most high schools, scholars were categorised into three sectors, or streams, as they were known in English speaking schools. The category in which each pupil was placed depended on their performance in primary school, reports, academic results, and information contained in their transfer documents.
A-Stream pupils were deemed to have the best results and highest potential to qualify for and succeed at tertiary studies, post school. B-Stream scholars were expected to matriculate, but their curricula and examination standards were slightly less complex than those of the A-Stream youngsters.
Many C-Stream children left school after Standard 8 (Grade 11), since they were more practically and less academically inclined. Thereafter, they either sought employment or went on to study towards a trade at a technical college and/or complete an apprenticeship to learn the trade of their choice.
Modern Education and Training
Secondary school pupils are no longer placed in classes that signify their potential to undertake tertiary studies. Instead, matriculants are allocated points, based on their recent academic results. Tertiary education institutions’ enrolment policies determine the number of points (Admission Points Score or APS) that are required for each diploma or degree course.
At Isa Carstens Academy, a leading South African school of somatology, we require our somatology diploma students to have a National Senior Certificate, plus an endorsement from the Matriculation Board that certifies eligibility for diploma study at a recognised tertiary facility like Isa Carstens Academy. An APS in excess of 24 points is recommended.
Contact us to find more about our application process.