Studying at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) provides an excellent foundation to kickstart your career while also equipping you with critical knowledge. However, in today’s competitive job market, a qualification alone may not guarantee your dream job. Employers are increasingly seeking candidates who bring practical experience, diverse skills, and a proactive attitude to their organisations.

Covered in this article

Pursue Internships
Leverage TUT’s Online Learning Flexibility
Join Professional Networks and Industry Groups
Improve Your Digital and Technological Skills
Conclusion
FAQs

Taking strategic steps while studying through TUT’s online platform can significantly boost your employability. Here are four powerful ways you can enhance your job prospects and stand out in the competitive professional world.

1. Pursue Internships 

Gaining practical experience while studying is one of the most effective ways to prepare yourself for employment. This ensures that students gain valuable industry experience as part of their academic journey.

Internship opportunities allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, helping you develop practical skills that employers value. These placements also give you a clearer understanding of what a career in your field entails and help you build industry-specific skills.

For instance, if you’re studying a course in IT or business management, participating in an internship could place you in a company where you learn the day-to-day functions of your role. Additionally, consider reaching out to companies directly or attending career fairs to meet potential employers.

Why is this important?

Internships bridge the gap between academic learning and professional application, giving you a competitive edge in job applications. Employers appreciate candidates with hands-on experience, and many organisations hire their interns as full-time employees post-graduation.

2. Leverage TUT’s Online Learning Flexibility

One of the great advantages of TUT’s online learning platform is the flexibility it offers. If you’re pursuing an online programme, you can structure your study time to accommodate full-time work in your field of interest. This not only helps you earn an income, but also allows you to build a CV packed with relevant experience by the time you graduate.

If you’re studying in fields like digital marketing, web development, or graphic design, freelancing can be a highly viable option. You can use platforms such as Fiverr or Upwork to find clients, all while continuing your studies. Balancing work and study may seem challenging, but it demonstrates to future employers that you are disciplined, hardworking, and capable of multitasking. 

Why is this important?

Online learning flexibility while working full time allows you build essential skills such as time management, communication, and problem-solving. These experiences show employers that you can manage responsibilities effectively, making you a more attractive candidate.

3. Join Professional Networks and Industry Groups

Networking is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of career development. By building a strong professional network, you can gain insights into industry trends, discover job opportunities, and get career advice from professionals with more experience.

TUT encourages students to take part in industry-related events, webinars, and conferences - many of which are offered through their online learning platform. These events provide excellent opportunities to meet professionals, connect with potential mentors, and learn about current developments in your field. Joining a professional organisation, whether related to your studies or future career, can also open doors to valuable contacts and industry-specific resources.

Online platforms such as LinkedIn are essential for building and maintaining a professional presence. Regularly updating your LinkedIn profile and engaging in industry discussions will keep you on the radar of recruiters and industry professionals. You can also join LinkedIn groups related to your field of study to network with professionals globally.

Why is this important?

Networking is not just about finding job leads - it’s about learning, building relationships, and being visible in your industry. The connections you make now can evolve into professional relationships that lead to job opportunities, mentorships, or collaborations in the future.

4. Improve Your Digital and Technological Skills

As the workplace becomes increasingly digital, employers seek candidates who can navigate the tech world with ease. Beyond basic digital literacy, students are expected to have more advanced skills, depending on their field of study. TUT’s online learning programmes can help you enhance these skills, as digital tools and platforms are integral to its courses.

No matter your field, it’s worth improving your proficiency in tools like Microsoft Office, Google Suite, or even more specialised software relevant to your career, such as Adobe Creative Suite for designers or coding languages for IT professionals. If you’re interested in project management, learning to use tools such as Asana, Trello, or Jira can be a major advantage.

In addition to TUT’s curriculum, consider taking free or affordable courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning. Learning how to code, create websites, or manage social media are all valuable skills that can enhance your employability. As many industries move towards automation and data-driven decisions, understanding how to work with data analysis tools like Excel or Power BI can also boost your CV.

Why is this important?

Employers increasingly seek candidates with robust digital skills, especially as businesses continue to adapt to technological advancements. Demonstrating a high level of digital competency can give you an edge in the job market and prepare you for the demands of a modern workplace.

Conclusion

Enhancing your job prospects while studying is about being proactive and taking advantage of the opportunities available at TUT. From networking and internships to developing digital skills, each step you take now will put you in a stronger position when it comes time to enter the workforce. Stay committed, continue to develop your skills, and make use of the resources provided by TUT to make the most of your academic journey.

FAQs

1. How can I find internships while studying at TUT?

You can start by contacting TUT’s Career Centre and the WIL office within your department. They offer various resources and connections to companies offering internships. You can also explore online platforms like LinkedIn or job sites such as PNet, Careers24, and Indeed to search for internships in your field.

2. What part-time jobs are suitable for students studying at TUT?

Consider jobs that allow flexibility, such as freelance work, tutoring, or roles within your field, like digital marketing or IT support. Jobs like administrative assistants or research assistants also provide relevant experience while allowing you to continue your studies. Though, it is good to keep in mind that TUT Online's programmes have been designed to accommodate students who work full time. 

3. What digital skills are most in demand by employers today?

Proficiency in productivity tools like Microsoft Office and Google Suite is essential. Additionally, skills in data analysis, digital marketing, coding, and web development are highly sought after. Mastering specific software relevant to your field (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud for designers or SQL for data analysts) will further enhance your employability.

4. How can I start networking while still studying?

Attend industry-related webinars, workshops, and networking events organised by TUT or professional bodies in your field. Set up a LinkedIn profile and connect with professionals and peers in your industry. Engaging with professionals and participating in industry-related discussions on LinkedIn can also help you build a solid network.

5. How can TUT’s Career Centre help me secure a job?

TUT’s Career Centre offers a variety of services, including job listings, CV workshops, mock interviews, and career counselling. They can also connect you with internships and graduate programmes, offering guidance on how to navigate the job market successfully.