The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) regularly updates the National List of Occupations in High Demand (OIHD) to identify careers that are crucial for South Africa’s economic growth and skills development.
These occupations are in short supply, meaning that qualified professionals in these fields have better job prospects, higher earning potential, and greater career stability.
This guide will help you understand the most in-demand careers, the qualifications needed, and where you can study to get the right skills.
What is the National Skills List?
The National Skills List is a government-approved guide that highlights occupations facing a shortage of skilled professionals. The list is used to:
- Help students and job seekers choose careers with strong demand.
- Guide education and training institutions to offer relevant qualifications.
- Assist businesses and government agencies in workforce planning.
- Inform immigration policies by identifying critical skills gaps.
This list is reviewed regularly and updated based on job market trends, technological advancements, and economic needs.
Top Careers in High Demand
South Africa’s economy is shifting towards technology, finance, engineering, and healthcare, creating urgent demand for skilled workers. Below are some of the top fields with high-demand careers:
1. Management & Administration
Key roles:
- General Manager Public Service (NQF Level 8)
- Finance Manager (NQF Level 8)
- Human Resource Manager (NQF Level 7)
- Programme or Project Manager (NQF Level 7)
- Quality Systems Manager (NQF Level 7)
Why it’s in demand: Businesses need skilled managers to keep operations running smoothly, handle finances, and manage employees. With more companies growing, there is a bigger demand for people who can lead teams and make important decisions.
Where to study:
- MANCOSA and REGENT Business School offer affordable business degrees online.
- Regenesys Business School provides MBA and leadership training.
- Milpark Education specializes in finance, banking, and accounting programs.
2. Information Technology (IT) & Digital Careers
Key roles:
- Chief Information Officer (NQF Level 7)
- Data Scientist (NQF Level 7)
- Software Developer (NQF Level 6)
- Cybersecurity Specialist (NQF Level 6)
- Web Developer (NQF Level 6)
Why it’s in demand: With more businesses moving online, companies need IT experts to develop software, protect data, and manage digital systems.
Where to study:
- HyperionDev offers coding bootcamps that fast-track your IT career.
- CTU Training Solutions provides IT certifications and networking courses.
- IIE-Vega offers digital marketing and e-commerce programs to help businesses grow online.
3. Engineering & Technical Fields
Key roles:
- Civil Engineer (NQF Level 7)
- Mechanical Engineer (NQF Level 8)
- Electrical Engineer (NQF Level 8)
- Mining Engineer (NQF Level 8)
- Industrial Engineer (NQF Level 7)
Why it’s in demand: South Africa has a shortage of engineers, and many industries rely on them to build roads, fix machines, and develop new technology. With more construction and manufacturing projects, skilled engineers are in high demand.
Where to study:
- STADIO offers engineering diplomas and technical training programs.
- Damelin and Lyceum College have part-time courses in construction and project management.
- University of Johannesburg (UJ) Online has strong engineering programs recognized by employers.
4. Finance & Accounting
Key roles:
- General Accountant (NQF Level 7)
- Financial Accountant (NQF Level 7)
- Tax Professional (NQF Level 7)
- Internal Auditor (NQF Level 7)
- Actuary (NQF Level 7)
Why it’s in demand: Financial experts help businesses manage budgets, investments, and risk assessment. Banks, investment firms, and corporations need finance professionals who can navigate complex regulations and optimize financial performance.
Where to study:
- Milpark Education is known for its finance and banking courses.
- Boston City Campus offers accounting degrees that prepare students for SAICA and CIMA exams.
- Varsity College provides business and finance degrees with flexible study options.
5. Healthcare & Medical Professions
Key roles:
- General Medical Practitioner (NQF Level 8)
- Registered Nurse (Critical Care) (NQF Level 7)
- Pharmacist (NQF Level 7)
- Physiotherapist (NQF Level 7)
- Medical Scientist (NQF Level 9)
Why it’s in demand: There aren’t enough doctors, nurses, and medical workers to help patients and run hospitals efficiently. Healthcare professionals will always be needed to provide medical care and save lives.
Where to study:
- Netcare Education provides training for nurses and healthcare workers.
- Health and Fitness Professionals Academy (HFPA) offers courses in sports science and physiotherapy.
- Eduvos has a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences for students interested in medical fields.
6. Logistics & Supply Chain Management
Key roles:
- Supply and Distribution Manager (NQF Level 7)
- Logistics Manager (NQF Level 7)
- Road Transport Manager (NQF Level 8)
- Warehouse Manager (NQF Level 6)
- Fleet Manager (NQF Level 6)
Why it’s in demand: More and more businesses are moving toward selling products online and shipping good. Logistics professionals are needed to manage warehouses, transport goods, and track deliveries.
Where to study:
- Regent Business School has a specialized Supply Chain Management degree.
- Damelin offers logistics and warehouse management courses.
- Milpark Education provides online supply chain and procurement training.
How to Qualify for High-Demand Careers
If you want to enter one of these in-demand fields, here’s how you can prepare:
1. Get the Right Qualification
Most careers on the National Skills List require a degree, diploma, or certificate from an accredited institution. Make sure your qualification is recognized by SAQA and the DHET.
For example:
- Engineering: Requires a Bachelor’s or Honours Degree (NQF Level 7-8).
- IT & Cybersecurity: A diploma (NQF Level 6) can help you start, but a degree improves job prospects.
- Healthcare: Medicine requires an NQF Level 8+ qualification, while nursing can start at NQF Level 7.
2. Gain Practical Experience
Employers value workplace experience. Internships, apprenticeships, and learnerships can help you get hands-on training and increase employability.
For instance, companies like Eskom, Sasol, and Standard Bank offer structured internships for engineering, IT, and finance graduates.
3. Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Many industries evolve rapidly, especially technology and digital marketing. Continuous learning through short courses and certifications helps professionals stay relevant. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer flexible training in data science, business management, and logistics.
How do I Benefit from this list?
Careers on the National Skills List offer:
- Higher job security – Companies actively recruit professionals in these fields.
- Better salaries – Skilled professionals earn competitive salaries.
- Global opportunities – Many of these qualifications are recognized worldwide.
If you’re unsure about which career path will lead you to employment, choosing an occupation from the DHET National Skills List can give you a strong advantage in the job market.