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All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: |
Postgraduate Diploma in Business Intelligence |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
121382 | Postgraduate Diploma in Business Intelligence | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
Regent Business School (Pty) Ltd t/a Regent Business School | ||||
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
CHE - Council on Higher Education | HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
Postgraduate Diploma | Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies | Finance, Economics and Accounting | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 120 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 08 | Regular-Provider-ELOAC |
REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
Registered | EXCO 1221/24 | 2024-01-30 | 2027-01-30 | |
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
2028-01-30 | 2031-01-30 |
In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise. |
This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. |
PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
Purpose:
The purpose of the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Intelligence is to assist executives, managers, and other operational personnel to make better, effective and efficient business decisions. Business intelligence enables companies to cut costs, identify new business opportunities, and identify inefficient business processes. Business intelligence can help companies make better decisions by showing present and historical data within their business context. Analysts can leverage Business Intelligence (BI) to provide performance and competitor benchmarks to make the organisation run smoother and more efficiently. Analysts can also easily spot market trends to increase sales or revenue. This qualification is designed to equip learners to navigate complex business scenarios exposed to disruption caused by volatile global influences such as health crises, climate change, and fluctuating global markets to mention a few. It has become increasingly important for business managers to drive business decisions based on data generated by advanced internal systems to provide rational and calculated cost-effective solutions to not only remain competitive but also survive and sustain business growth given severe challenges. Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to: Rationale: The rationale for offering this qualification in South Africa is due to the increased demand for professionals to analyse and interpret data for business. The institution is regarded as one of the fastest growing sectors in industry and involves the collection, integration, analysis and presentation of data to enable organisations to make strategic decisions, (Allemann, 2023). Therefore, industry and Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMEs) require professionals who are equipped with diverse skill sets such as data analytics, data engineering and business intelligence developers. In considering the expansion of academic programmes, the institution finds a compelling rationale for the introduction of this qualification. In South Africa, most new SMEs do not grow. There is a failure rate of 75%, which makes it among the highest in the world (Chimucheka, 2013; Olawale & Garwe, 2010). SMEs are catalysts for the future economy and serve as a means for innovation of new products and socio-economic development (Boonsiritomachai, et al., 2014; Adeniran & Johnston, 2014). Therefore, there is a great need to accelerate their growth, information flow and competitiveness. Watson & Wixom (2007) regard SMEs as the spine of the world's economy since they constitute more than 95% of all global enterprises. Previously, Business Intelligence (BI) solutions and tools were aimed solely at large organisations, whilst inaccessible and insufficient for SMEs (Grabova, et al., 2010). As such, SMEs possessed fewer alternative BI solutions (Guarda, et al., 2013). However, in today's highly competitive business environment, SMEs now have their own tailor-fitted solutions. Unfortunately, they are still not making use of these tailored solutions to improve their socio-economic performance (Campbell, 2014). The potential of business intelligence to aid SMEs towards improving and transforming data management whilst also increasing profitability, competitive advantage and creating improved business processes is substantial (Guarda, et al., 2013; Kumari, 2013; Lloyd, 2011). For SMEs to grow, turnover and create an even greater competitive advantage against their challengers; it is essential that they utilise business intelligence tools in their data processing to inform their strategic planning and decision-making processes. (Ponelis & Britz, 2011). This initiative is grounded in several key factors and industry dynamics that underscore the relevance and significance of such a programme. The trajectory of careers in business intelligence is experiencing a notable upswing, projections indicate a 15% employment growth for computer and information research scientists from 2019 to 2029, well above the average for other occupations. This signifies a substantial demand for BI expertise, a demand that the Institution can meet with a dedicated qualification. Industry insights from industry leaders, such as Paul Newman, the operational director of Page Group South Africa, emphasise the critical role of technology trends like Cloud Computing, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in driving the need for BI and analytics professionals, (Allemann, 2023). By aligning the curriculum with these trends, qualifying learners are well-prepared to meet industry demands. A substantial skills gap, particularly in digital proficiency, exists in emerging economies like Africa. The African Development Bank's research underscores this challenge, revealing a dearth of digital skills among the workforce in the region. The qualification can contribute significantly by bridging this gap through targeted education and training. There is an evident disparity between the skills currently possessed by the workforce and the skills in demand. Science and technology skills are particularly sought after, but there is a shortage of qualified professionals in these fields. Furthermore, in today's fast-paced business landscape, data-driven decision-making is the norm, and business leaders require dependable analytics to inform their choices. This presents a unique opportunity for BI professionals, and the introduction of a dedicated programme can supply the industry with a pool of skilled professionals capable of meeting this demand. The skills gap in digital proficiency in developing economies is pivotal to realising the full potential of the digital economy, the specialised qualification will equip learners with the necessary skills. In summary, the introduction of a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Intelligence is not only timely but also strategically aligned with industry demand and the imperatives of bridging the skills gap. This programme will empower graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in the burgeoning field of business intelligence, meet industry requirements and contribute to the growth and innovation of the digital economy, particularly in emerging economies. |
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy applicable to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL for access: RPL for exemption of modules: RPL for credit: Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: Or And |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.
Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 8, 120 Credits: |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
Exit Level Outcomes
1. Demonstrate the ability to use a range of business intelligence skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems in the digital environment. 2. Construct business intelligence strategies to facilitate leadership in the digital environment. 3. Examine the value of business intelligence, execute business intelligence strategies and engage in solutions to manage big data. 4. Effectively communicate complex data findings through data visualization techniques, ensuring that information is accessible and actionable for various stakeholders. 5. Develop contemporary risk management approaches for the 21st Century. 6. Execute strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, enabling them to address complex business challenges by leveraging data and BI solutions. 7. Conduct business research applicable to the context of the digital business environment. |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7: INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT The assessments will centre on: Assessment methods measure the extent to which the student has achieved competence in the different areas of study. Formative Assessment These assessment methods may include: Formative assessment implies assessment supportive of learning, non-judgemental and focused on providing constructive feedback or criticism to the learner. It takes place during the learning process and informs the planning of future learning activities. Summative Assessment Summative assessment implies assessment to be mainly concerned with summing up the learning process and therefore usually takes place at the end of the relevant learning process. Integrated assessment is used extensively across the qualification, particularly in case studies. Self-and formative assessment takes place through case studies, and assignments, including the writing of proposals and financial plans. Summative assessments are integrated into the learning in that they take place at the end of each of the constituent modules of the qualification. |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
Country: Australia
Institution: University of Adelaide (UA) Qualification title: Graduate Diploma in Business Intelligence Duration: One year full-time. Entry requirements Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to: Qualification Structure Elective Modules > Intermediate Econometrics. Qualification progression Similarities Country: New Zealand Institution: University of Auckland (UA) Qualification title: Postgraduate Certificate in Business Analytics Qualification type: Postgraduate Credits: 60 Similarities: Difference: University of Auckland (UA) offers the qualification with 60 credits, while the South African (SA), offers the qualification with 120 credits. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
Horizontal Articulation:
Vertical Articulation: Diagonal Articulation: Diagonal articulation options are not available. |
MODERATION OPTIONS |
N/A |
NOTES |
N/A |
LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
NONE |
PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here. |
1. | Regent Business School (Pty) Ltd t/a Regent Business School |
All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |