For more than a decade, Moonstone Business School of Excellence (MBSE) has been helping students to build careers in financial services through flexible online learning.
On Friday, 26 June, the institution will celebrate another milestone when it hosts its first in-person graduation ceremony in Stellenbosch.
It’s an occasion that means different things to different people. For the graduates, it is a chance to celebrate years of hard work, perseverance, and professional growth alongside their classmates, lecturers, family, and friends. For MBSE, it is an opportunity to recognise those achievements together for the first time in a formal graduation ceremony.
The ceremony also comes at a busy time for the institution. Applications for Semester 2 close on 29 June, while academic teams use the short break between semesters to update course material, refine learning resources, and prepare systems for the second half of the year.
More than a ceremony
After more than a decade of delivering accredited online qualifications, MBSE’s graduates will, for the first time, come together to celebrate their achievements in person.
Over the years, hundreds of students have completed their studies through the institution’s online learning environment, many while balancing demanding careers and family responsibilities.
It’s also something prospective students have been asking about.
According to Monique Brummer, MBSE’s operations manager, prospective students frequently enquire whether MBSE hosts graduation ceremonies. For many, celebrating their achievement alongside fellow graduates forms an important part of the higher education experience.
This week’s ceremony gives graduates an opportunity to celebrate their achievements together in person alongside the lecturers who guided and supported them throughout their studies.
Attention turns to Semester 2
While preparations continue for the graduation ceremony, MBSE is also looking ahead to Semester 2.
Applications for Semester 2 close on 29 June, giving prospective students one final opportunity to enrol for the second semester of the 2026 academic year.
Unlike many traditional higher education institutions that only admit students once a year, MBSE offers two intakes annually, allowing students greater flexibility in planning their studies and careers.
That flexibility extends beyond application dates.
Students can choose to study either full-time or part-time across MBSE’s qualifications, making it possible to pursue further education while balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Designed for different stages of a student’s journey
MBSE was founded with a clear purpose: to make quality higher education more accessible for professionals working in the financial services industry.
That remains a core part of the institution’s identity today.
Many students choose MBSE because they want to further their qualifications without putting their careers on hold.
Students benefit from regular live online sessions, lecturer support during office hours, and on-demand explainer content, creating a structured learning environment that combines flexibility with ongoing academic support.
As Brummer explains: “We offer as much flexibility as possible while still providing a strong support structure.”
While working professionals continue to make up a significant portion of MBSE’s student community, the institution has also broadened its reach.
The introduction of the Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Management (NQF 7) last year has attracted a new generation of students, including recent school leavers looking for an accredited online degree that provides a strong foundation for careers in commerce and financial services.
Whether students are taking their first step after matric or building on years of industry experience, MBSE’s approach remains the same: providing flexible study pathways supported by practical, career-focused learning.
Study pathways that grow with your career
MBSE’s qualifications are designed to support students at different stages of their academic and professional development. Some are ideal for those entering the financial services industry, while others help experienced professionals to deepen their expertise or work towards recognised professional designations.
Those entering the short-term insurance industry can pursue the Higher Certificate in Short-term Insurance (NQF 5), while aspiring financial advisers often begin with the Higher Certificate in Wealth Management (NQF 5), both recognised by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority for FAIS Fit and Proper purposes.
Students looking to deepen their expertise can continue with the Advanced Certificate in Financial Planning (NQF 6), while those pursuing specialist careers in governance and regulation can enrol for the Occupational Certificate: Compliance Officer (NQF 6).
For financial planners working towards the internationally recognised Certified Financial Planner® designation, MBSE’s Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning (NQF 8) provides the academic foundation required by the Financial Planning Institute.
The institution has also broadened its offering with the introduction of its online Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Management (NQF 7), giving students an undergraduate pathway that aligns with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants framework while providing a comprehensive grounding in financial management and ethical business practice.
Rather than offering stand-alone qualifications, MBSE has developed programmes that support long-term career progression across the financial services industry.
Preparing for the next semester
While graduates prepare for the ceremony, the academic team is already focused on the months ahead.
The short break between semesters provides an opportunity to review study material, update learning resources, and refine systems and processes before Semester 2 begins.
Like the graduation ceremony itself, much of this work happens behind the scenes, but it forms part of MBSE’s ongoing investment in improving the student experience.
On Friday evening, graduates will walk across the stage to celebrate what they have achieved. By Monday, MBSE hopes to welcome the next group of students who will one day share that moment.
Visit www.mbse.ac.za for more information or contact MBSE at help@mbse.ac.za.
