Business & Finance
Entrepreneur
You spot a problem, build a business around solving it, and create jobs.
- Starting salary
- Varies, often little at first
- Job demand
- Growing fast
- Key subjects
- Business Studies, Accounting
What do they do?
You spot a problem, build a business around solving it, and create jobs.
A day in the life
You find customers, manage money, build the product, market it and solve problems all day long.
Skills you need
- Resilience
- Selling
- Money management
- Creativity
- Leadership
School subjects that help
- Business Studies
- Accounting
- Mathematics
- English
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 1–3 years of study, or longer at university.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2Start small while studying or working
- 3Grow the business
- 4Employ others
Ways in: Entrepreneurship · University degree · TVET College · Work-based training. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- University of Cape Town
- University of Johannesburg
- University of South Africa
- Tshwane University of Technology
- TVET Colleges nationwide
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
Varies, often little at first
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R20 000 – R80 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
Unlimited, but never guaranteed
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Sell something small at school (with permission)
- • Learn basic bookkeeping
- • Find a mentor who runs a business
Try this career
Find one problem at your school and design a small business that solves it.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.