Careers in IT You Can Start Without a Formal Degree

Careers in IT You Can Start Without a Formal Qualification Passing matric is often described as the gateway to the future. For many young people, however, it feels more like standing at a crossroads with no clear signs. University may not be an option, finances may be tight, and the pressure to “choose the right path” can feel overwhelming. Add to that the widespread belief that IT careers require a formal degree, and it’s easy to feel stuck before you’ve even begun. The reality is far more hopeful. Many careers in IT do not require a formal qualification. What they require instead are practical skills, basic knowledge of how systems and processes work, and a willingness to learn. The IT industry values problem-solving, logical thinking, and clear communication just as much as certificates. This makes it one of the most accessible career spaces for young people starting out, and for professionals looking to change direction. IT is not only about writing code. At its core, IT is about helping organisations work better using systems. It’s about understanding problems, improving processes, and enabling people to do their jobs more efficiently. If you can think critically, explain ideas clearly, and learn new tools, there is space for you in IT. One of the most accessible roles in this space is Business Analysis. A Business Analyst works between the business and the technical teams, helping define what a system should do and why. This role does not require you to build software. Instead, it requires you to understand business needs, document processes, and translate those needs into clear requirements. Many people transition into Business Analysis from administration, customer service, operations, finance, HR, and even call centres. If you already analyse problems, write procedures, train people, or improve workflows, you are closer to a Business Analyst role than you may realise. Another common entry point into IT is Software Testing or Quality Assurance. Testers ensure that systems work as expected before they are released to users. This role suits people who are detail-oriented, structured, and curious about how things work. Many testers start with no formal IT background and learn through short courses and hands-on experience. Over time, testers often move into Business Analysis, Development, or Product roles. Project-related roles are also accessible without a formal qualification. Many people start as Project Administrators or Project Coordinators, supporting project managers by tracking tasks, updating schedules, preparing reports, and communicating with stakeholders. These roles suit organised people who enjoy structure and coordination. With experience, many project coordinators grow into Project Managers or Business Analysts. For those who enjoy working with numbers and patterns, entry-level Data Analytics can be another pathway into IT. At this level, the work focuses on cleaning data, creating reports, and explaining what the data means rather than complex mathematics. Many data analysts begin their careers as clerks, administrators, or finance assistants before learning tools like Excel, Power BI, or basic SQL. Agile roles such as Scrum Master or Agile Team Support are also more accessible than many people think. These roles focus on helping teams collaborate effectively rather than building systems. They are well suited to people with strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and facilitation ability. Individuals transitioning from HR, training, coaching, or team leadership often find this path a natural fit. Systems Support or Application Support is another underrated but powerful starting point. Support roles expose you to real systems used in real organisations. You learn how users interact with technology, where things go wrong, and how systems fit into business processes. Many experienced Business Analysts, Developers, and Architects began their careers in support roles. What all these roles have in common is that they prioritise skills and understanding over formal qualifications. Employers want people who can learn, think logically, communicate clearly, and adapt to change. Short, practical training programmes and real-world exposure often matter more than years of theory, especially at entry level. If you have just passed matric and feel uncertain about your next step, know that you are not behind. You are simply at the beginning. Instead of asking which degree you should study, ask yourself what problems you enjoy solving and whether you prefer working with people, data, or systems. Start by building foundational skills and confidence. Progress happens one step at a time. If you are already working and considering a transition into Business Analysis or IT, take a closer look at the work you are already doing. Many people unknowingly perform aspects of Business Analysis in their current roles. With the right structure, language, and exposure, a transition into IT becomes far more achievable than it first appears. The idea that IT is reserved for people with degrees and long academic paths is outdated. The industry is built on practical competence, curiosity, and continuous learning. Your starting point does not determine your destination. What matters most is your willingness to take the next step and invest in building skills that move you forward. And that next step does not have to be as big as you think.