The benefits of studying the Bachelor of Science Degree in Counselling by Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) Graduands in Bulawayo and Matebelel and North regions

The study sought to establish the benefits of studying the BSCC(ZOU) degree by graduands in the Bulawayo and Matebeleland North Regions. A population of fifty graduands was used. A descriptive survey design was employed in conducting the study while a structured questionnaire and face-to-face interviews and observations were used in data collection. The collected data were presented on tables, bar charts and a pie-chart and analysed using percentages, descriptions and a Likert Scale analysis.

Findings included that, graduands used the BSCC degree in their work but did not get monetary benefits. Graduands got new jobs, promotions, salary advancements or part-time jobs. The BSCC(ZOU) degree enhanced most graduands’ careers while others benefitted personally. The degree was recognized in graduands’ societies/communities and also as an entry qualification for post-graduate programmes by universities and also enabled graduations to join professional bodies. Other Orgainsations recognized the BSCC(ZOU) degree. The cost of studying the BSCC degree programme was equivalent to the benefits for most graduands. Recommendations were that ZOU authorities should take measures to ensure that the BSCC degree was recognized, those who used the BSCC(ZOU) degree in their work should get salary advancements and promotions and that those who wished to do the degree should go ahead as benefits were eminent.