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Empowering young people to make informed career choices
Malawi
Career library

List and description of careers in Malawi and abroad.

The following list and description of careers existing in Malawi and abroad will give learners and the general public ideas about future possibilities and help them prepare by matching interests, abilities, skills and qualifications with the requirements of specific careers.

13 career categories 203 career descriptions Malawi + abroad pathways and examples
Career planning tip

As you explore these careers, consider how your interests, abilities and skills align with each profession. Entry requirements should always be confirmed with the relevant institution or professional body.

24 careers in this category

OTHER PROFESSIONAL CAREERS

Additional professional pathways across research, sport, science, services and specialist fields.

01 ArchivistThis is an information profession who assesses, collects, organises, preserves, maintains control over, and provides acces...

This is an information profession who assesses, collects, organises, preserves, maintains control over, and provides access to records and archives determined to have long term value. People friendly, logical, computer literate and research skills are needed for Archivists. Formal education is needed in other jurisdictions. They work in national archives, universities, museums, and large organizations preserving historical records and making them accessible for research.

02 ClergyAre some formal leaders within certain religion. The role of clergy varies within certain region but it includes presiding...

Are some formal leaders within certain religion. The role of clergy varies within certain region but it includes presiding over specific rituals and teaching their religion's doctrines and practices. Some of the terms used for individual clergy are cleric, clergyman, clergywoman, clergyperson and churchman. Compassionate, caring, emotionally stable, introspective, self-aware, good interpersonal skills, tolerant, law-abiding citizens are among the qualities of a good clergy. In other religions, formal education is a requirement.

03 CoachesA coach is a person involved in the direction, instruction and training of the operations of a sports team or of individua...

A coach is a person involved in the direction, instruction and training of the operations of a sports team or of individual sports people. A Coach may also be a teacher. Caring about people, high personal standards and ambitions, high level of self-knowledge, emotional intelligence, focus on detail, good communication abilities, creativity, continuous learner of themselves and experience are some of the qualities of a good coach. Formal education is not usually a requirement but adds value to the career.

  • Sports Coach
  • Life Coach
  • Executive Coach
  • Athletic Trainer
04 CorrespondentsA Correspondent or sometimes called "On the scene reporter" is a journalist or commentator for magazines, or more speaking...

A Correspondent or sometimes called "On the scene reporter" is a journalist or commentator for magazines, or more speaking an agent who contributes reports to newspaper, or a radio or television news, or another type of company from a remote, often distant location. Unlike a reporter, he includes some of his/her perspectives on the news. Knowledge base, ability to process new information, ethical compass, command of the language, interviewing finesse, mastery of multitasking, appreciation of all roles and acute sense of timing are some of the required skills in this profession. Journalism or communication qualifications are essential here.

05 Court ReporterThey create word for word transcriptions at trials, depositions and other legal proceedings. Some court reporters provide ...

They create word for word transcriptions at trials, depositions and other legal proceedings. Some court reporters provide captioning for television, and real time translation for deaf or hard hearing people at public events, at business meetings or in classrooms. Most of these work in courts and for government. Post-secondary qualification in communication and typing plus court or legal experience matters. Good listening skills are also important.

06 CuratorsHe is a manager or overseer usually at a cultural heritage institution like a museum, gallery, library or archive. He is r...

He is a manager or overseer usually at a cultural heritage institution like a museum, gallery, library or archive. He is responsible in the collection and interpretation of the materials in these places. He may conduct instructional, research, or public service activities for the institution. Good curators focus on goals, have empathy, careful, cautious, selective, editorialize, provide attribution, understand what is timely and trending. Qualification in Arts and humanities plus experience in similar career categories are essential.

07 DirectorsThese manage different industries and the types of directors vary from one industry to another. For instance, film directo...

These manage different industries and the types of directors vary from one industry to another. For instance, film director is a person who directs the making of a film. He generally controls the film's artistic and dramatic aspects, and visualises the script while guiding the technical crew and actors in the fulfilment of that vision. Strategic thinking, understanding the external environment, knowing when to intervene and general management skills are essential skills required in this career.

08 Instructional Co-ordinatorsThese oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop instruction material, coordinate its implementation ...

These oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop instruction material, coordinate its implementation with teachers and principals and assess its effectiveness. They work in schools and education support services. These usually need a post graduate qualification with a wide teaching experience.

09 Interpreters and TranslatorsThey convert information from one language into another language. Interpreters work in spoken or sign language while Trans...

They convert information from one language into another language. Interpreters work in spoken or sign language while Translators work in written language. Interpreters work in schools, hospitals, courtrooms and conference centres. Many translators work from homes and both work full time during business hours. Although a formal qualification may be needed, a native-level fluency in local language and English would do.

10 Judges and MagistratesThese preside over court proceedings. They hear all witnesses and any other evidence presented by the parties of the case,...

These preside over court proceedings. They hear all witnesses and any other evidence presented by the parties of the case, assesses the credibility and arguments of the parties, and then issues a ruling on the matter at hand based on his or her interpretation of the law and his or her own personal judgment. The powers, functions, appointment, discipline and training of judges varies according to jurisdictions. And in other jurisdiction, Judges work with a jury. In Malawi, a law degree is a minimum requirement for Judges plus ten years' experience. A legal training would allow someone to become a lay-magistrate while a law degree is a minimum entry requirement for Resident magistrates. University of Malawi particularly Chancellor College and other institutions in Malawi offer law programs.

11 LawyersA Lawyer is a person who practices law as a barrister, judge, attorney, counsellor or solicitor. Working as a Lawyer invol...

A Lawyer is a person who practices law as a barrister, judge, attorney, counsellor or solicitor. Working as a Lawyer involves the practical application of abstract legal theories and knowledge to solve specific individualized problems, or to advance the interests of those who hire lawyers to perform legal services. The role of lawyers varies across legal jurisdictions. Good analytical skills, creativity, research skills, interpersonal skills, logical thinking, perseverance, public speaking skills, reading comprehension skills and writing skills are some of the desired skills for this profession. In Malawi, Chancellor College under the University of Malawi plus other institutions train lawyers. To study law at Chancellor College, an undergraduate student need to have studied any course for one year at any college of the University of Malawi and got a good credit at the end of their study. Postgraduates are also admitted. However, both undergo interviews before selection into the law school. The study period for law is four years excluding the initial first year mentioned which if added makes it five years. It's even required that those who studied somewhere else apart from Chancellor College should write bar examinations before being admitted to practice in the Country. However, one year experience whilst under supervision by a legal personnel, allow a Chancellor College graduate to get unconditional admission to the bar.

12 Legal Assistants and ParalegalsThese do a lot of work to support Lawyers, including maintaining and organizing files, conducting legal research and draft...

These do a lot of work to support Lawyers, including maintaining and organizing files, conducting legal research and drafting documents. They are found in many organizations particularly in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. Most of these have law diplomas or certificate. Those with a law degree but with little experience or that they have not been admitted to the bar can also suit in this career.

13 Library TechnicianHe or she is also called Library Assistant. He is a skilled library and information professional trained to perform the da...

He or she is also called Library Assistant. He is a skilled library and information professional trained to perform the day to day functions of a library, and assist librarians in the acquisition, preparation and organization of information. They also help readers in the use of library catalogues, databases and indexes to locate books. They compile records, sort books and other media. Unlike the Librarian, they carry practical tasks in the library and require a lesser academic qualification than the Librarian; usually a diploma or certificate in Library matters. Good communication, organizational, interpersonal skills and a keen eye for detail are some of the required skills for this career. Mzuzu University is amongst tertiary institutions in Malawi that offer training for this career.

14 Market ResearcherThey collect and analyse data and information that is valuable to their clients who are made up of organizations, business...

They collect and analyse data and information that is valuable to their clients who are made up of organizations, businesses and government departments. The information they provide, help their clients to make informed political, social and economic decisions. They may be employed by a company or marketing agencies to carryout numerous research projects for different companies and industries. Research skills, writing and presentation skills are needed. Formal education in economics, social science, business etc. is also a must in this career.

15 News AnalystHe or she is sometimes called Newscaster, or News Anchor, or Broadcast news Analyst. He or she examines analyses and inter...

He or she is sometimes called Newscaster, or News Anchor, or Broadcast news Analyst. He or she examines analyses and interprets broadcast news received from various sources. They write commentaries, columns or scripts. They also develop perspectives about news subjects through research, interviews, observations and experience. Good communication and writing skills, critical thinking and analytical skills, computer literacy, cooperation, integrity are some of the required attributes for this profession. Journalism and Communication qualification are required. The University of Malawi, Malawi Institute of Journalism are among the tertiary institution that offer training for this career in the country.

16 Operations Research AnalystThey use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations to investigate complex issues, identify and so...

They use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations to investigate complex issues, identify and solve problems and make better decisions. Research skills are essential with a minimum of a degree but with a high preference of those with master's degree or PhD.

17 Probations Officer / Parole OfficersThey play a role in the justice system by supervising offenders released from incarceration or sentenced for non-custodial...

They play a role in the justice system by supervising offenders released from incarceration or sentenced for non-custodial sanctions such as community service. Depending on jurisdictions, these may also present reports on offenders and making sentencing recommendations to court of law. Legal knowledge plus experience of a justice system is necessary.

18 Real Estate Agent / Sales AgentHe or she is a person who acts as intermediary between sellers and buyers of real estate or real property and attempts to ...

He or she is a person who acts as intermediary between sellers and buyers of real estate or real property and attempts to find sellers who wish to sell and buyers who wish to buy. They advise clients on prices, mortgages, market conditions and other related information. They also compare properties to determine a competitive market price. Local knowledge, organized with attention to detail, connections and representation, tenacity, aggressive yet polite, flair and good grooming, knowledge of technology, honesty and hardworking are some of the desired qualities of good Real Estate Agent or Sales Agent.

19 Reporter / JournalistThough not technically the same, they collects, write or distribute news or other current information. Reporter is a type ...

Though not technically the same, they collects, write or distribute news or other current information. Reporter is a type of journalist who researches, writes and reports on information to present on sources, conduct interviews and make reports. Reporters work in newsroom and outside to witness events or interview people and cover some events. Having information about current affairs, good writer, good translator, deep study of language and literature, deep analysis, positive thinking, curiosity, good memory, integrity, industrious, observant, accurate and empathetic are some of the required attributes for this career. The University of Malawi, Malawi Institute of Journalism and other tertiary institutions train these professionals in Malawi.

20 Retail SalespersonSells merchandise, such as furniture, motor vehicles, appliances or apparel to consumers. Good interpersonal and communica...

Sells merchandise, such as furniture, motor vehicles, appliances or apparel to consumers. Good interpersonal and communication skills are necessary. Simple mathematical knowledge is necessary without being specific to qualifications.

21 Sales RepresentativeSales goods and services to industry, business and professional establishments, as well as to wholesale and retail outlets...

Sales goods and services to industry, business and professional establishments, as well as to wholesale and retail outlets. They negotiate on prices, prepare contracts and records, plan and work towards meeting sale targets and budgets and use e-technology to do business. Their specialisations vary according to the products they represent such as chemical sale representative, motor vehicle sale representative etc. Enjoying working with people, friendly in a confident manner, ability to work without constant supervision, good personal, presentation and communication skills are essential in this career.

22 Social ScientistsThese study social science which is a major category of academic disciplines, concerned with society and the relationships...

These study social science which is a major category of academic disciplines, concerned with society and the relationships among individuals within a society. They conduct research in this field for the improvement of societal lives. University of Malawi, Chancellor College and other institutions train in this career.

  • Sociologist
  • Anthropologist
  • Political Scientist
  • Economist
23 StatisticianThis is a person who works with theoretical and applied statistics. They usually work in offices on a white-collar-job. Ma...

This is a person who works with theoretical and applied statistics. They usually work in offices on a white-collar-job. Master's degree is a minimum requirement for this profession in most countries. Strong analytical and technical skills, communication skills, flexibility, problem solving skills, pro-activeness, and persistence are among the required skills for this profession.

24 VeterinarianThey care for the health of animals and work to improve public health. They diagnose, treat and research medical condition...

They care for the health of animals and work to improve public health. They diagnose, treat and research medical conditions and diseases for pets, livestock and other animals. Although most of these work in private clinics and hospitals, others work in farms and schools. Formal education at a recognized institution is required. Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) formerly known as Bunda College of Agriculture plus other public institutions offer training towards this career in Malawi.