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Business & Finance

Human Resources Practitioner

You hire, develop and look after the people inside an organisation.

Starting salary
R14 000 – R25 000
Job demand
Steady demand
Key subjects
Business Studies, English
Steady demand

What do they do?

You hire, develop and look after the people inside an organisation.

A day in the life

You interview candidates, run training, handle workplace issues and support staff wellbeing.

Skills you need

  • People skills
  • Fairness
  • Organisation
  • Confidentiality

School subjects that help

  • Business Studies
  • English
  • Life Orientation

How long does it take?

3 main steps after school, usually 1–3 years of study, or longer at university.

Study path

  1. 1High school
  2. 2HR degree or diploma
  3. 3HR officer
  4. 4HR manager

Ways in: University degree · University of Technology · TVET College · Professional certification. University is not the only route.

Where can I study?

  • University of South Africa
  • University of Johannesburg
  • North-West University
  • Tshwane University of Technology
  • Durban University of Technology
  • TVET Colleges nationwide

Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.

What can I earn?

Entry level

R14 000 – R25 000

per month (estimate)

Mid career

R30 000 – R55 000

per month (estimate)

Experienced / senior

R60 000 – R120 000+

per month (estimate)

Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.

How to start preparing now

  • • Help organise school teams and events
  • • Practise fair conflict resolution
  • • Learn about labour rights

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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.