SAQA 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: 

Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
62129  Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management 
ORIGINATOR
MANCOSA Pty (Ltd) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Level 6  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  SAQA 1141/23  2021-07-01  2024-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2025-06-30   2030-06-30  

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 Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) is an undergraduate qualification that provides an overview of management practice in a national and international context. The programme aims to develop conceptual understanding, synthesis and application of Management and management theory for learners wishing to progress in management careers.

The qualification is directed towards persons occupying or intending to occupy junior and middle management positions in private and business sector organisations and who are also aspiring towards senior management positions. It is directed primarily at school leavers to enable them to develop and improve their management skills. Such learners would not have had previous exposure to the theoretical underpinnings of Management and management.

Rationale:

The mission of the Management College of Southern Africa (MANCOSA) focuses on the provision of affordable, accessible and accredited management programmes. The Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) will provide access to higher education to persons wanting to make careers in the field of commerce and industry and will complement the existing accredited qualifications that MANCOSA offers.

The Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) degree is of special interest to the working professional in business and private organizations and those who wish to pursue a career in human resources management. The course work is designed to provide the student with an understanding and working application of the principles essential to the effective management of organizations, with specialization in the human resource function. The programme offers persons in employment the opportunity to improve their qualifications and become empowered in their quest to be human resource managers.

A secondary purpose is to provide a convenient and appropriate avenue into business management studies and eventual gainful employment for students coming straight out of school.

In addition, the programme will provide a route for students aspiring to study further on the established MANCOSA MBA programme.

MANCOSA is a distance education institution and its programmes are available to students internationally. Most of the existing intake is situated in the SADC region, where the learning programme could serve fruitfully to integrate and regularise the business management practices amongst the states in the region. The access to higher education could have a significant positive influence on the ability of young businessmen and women to become leaders in their fields and to make positive contributions to the economies of their countries.

Finally, the programme will address the issue of shortages of qualified personnel and contribute to the development of ethical practices and good governance in the private and business sectors.

The Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management):
  • Contributes to regional and national goals by facilitating capacity building and human resource development in management for social and economic development.
  • Promotes equity by providing affordable access to business management education to learners previously denied such opportunities.
  • Recognises and caters for the career and economic needs of learners who are in employment.
  • Provides learners with the opportunity to proceed on a course of study culminating in the attainment of a Masters Degree in Business Management.
  • Empower graduates with the skills and competencies necessary to function and grow in the private and business sectors.
  • Broadens the social base of learners in higher education by targeting mature learners with work experience. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • The learner is competent in the language of instruction of the programme.
  • The learner has obtained the general theoretical, practical, professional and academic knowledge and understanding at NQF Level 4.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification may be obtained in whole or in part through the recognition of prior learning.

    In the cases where prior learning is to be recognised for purposes of access to the qualification:
  • It is assumed that the learning derived from work or life experience will be a major element in the profiles of non-standard entrants primarily by means of an examination of their curriculum vitae (CV).
  • Such 'non-standard' candidates will be selected on the recommendation of a senior manager from their organisations/companies.
  • Where appropriate, interviews will also be conducted to assess the applicants. Some of the key criteria that will be used in evaluating 'non-standard' applicants include:
    > The applicants' motivation, maturity and realistic approach to their studies.
    > Job description, covering relevant area of work, giving examples of tasks carried out, possibly supplying references.
    > The nature and level of life/ work experience and prior study, and the learning which has resulted from such experience.
    > Details of in-company short courses, length, content of material covered, standard achieved.
    > The clarity of the applicant's educational goals and objectives.
    > The extent to which the applicant can provide evidence of the threshold skills and knowledge for the programme.

    Where prior learning is recognized for advanced standing, credit will be given for prior certificated learning in accordance with established practice at South African higher education institutions. The amount of 'specific' credit granted is dependent on the match between prior learning and award towards which the intended programme leads.

    Credits may only be accumulated for modules, which are prescribed within the structure of a named award.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Applicants will be admitted to this qualification on the basis of one of the following minimum benchmark qualifications:
  • A Senior Certificate or equivalent.
  • An appropriate Further Education and Training Certificate or equivalent.

    In addition to the above admission criteria, the following will also be considered:
  • Relevant experience in the business sector.
  • Employment experience.
  • A detailed motivational letter and CV.
  • Prior learning. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Level at which qualification is fixed:
  • NQF Level 6.

    Total Credits:
  • 360 Credits.

    Components-Fundamental (120 credits):
  • Communication (15 credits).
  • End User Computing (15 credits).
  • Business Mathematics (15 credits).
  • Business Law (15 credits).
  • Financial Accounting (15 credits).
  • Management Accounting (15 credits).
  • Business Statistics (15 credits).
  • Information Systems (15 credits).

    Components-Core (210 credits):
  • Business Management 1A (15 credits).
  • Business Management 1B (15 credits).
  • Business Management 2A (15 credits).
  • Business Management 2B (15 credits).
  • Business Management 3A (15 credits).
  • Business Management 3B (15 credits).
  • Economics 1A (15 credits).
  • Economics 1B (15 credits).
  • Human Resource Management 2A (15 credits).
  • Human Resource Management 2B (15 credits).
  • Human Resource Management 3A (15 credits).
  • Human Resource Management 3B (15 credits).
  • Human Resource Management 3C (15 credits).
  • Human Resource Management 3D (15 credits).
  • Project (30 credits).

    Learning Components; Number of credits allocated; NQF Level:
  • Fundamental; 120 Credits; NQF Level 6.
  • Core; 240 Credits; NQF Level 6.
  • Elective ; 0.

    Total = 360 Credits.

    An award of the Management College of Southern Africa (MANCOSA) will be conferred when the following conditions are satisfied:
  • The candidate was an enrolled and registered student of or at the College at the time of his or her assessment for an award and was not in debt to the College.
  • Details of the candidate's full name, date of birth, sex, programme and award have been registered by the College.
  • It has been confirmed that the candidate has completed a programme of study approved by the Examinations Board as leading to the award being recommended.
  • The award has been recommended by a Board of Examiners convened, constituted and acting under regulations approved by the Academic Board and including members approved as external examiners for the programme.
  • The recommendation of the award has been signed by the Chair of the Board of Examiners and by the Examinations Officer, confirming that the assessments have been carried out in accordance with the College's requirements. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    9.1 Overall Exit-Level-Outcomes:

    A learner attaining the Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) will be able to:
  • Apply fundamental management principles in a work-based context.
  • Utilise technology to communicate effectively.
  • Conduct basic research.
  • Manage information in a business management context.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of economic principles.
  • Display skills in written communication, planning, budgeting, decision-making, and collaboration.
  • Display in-depth knowledge of human resource management.

    Specific Outcomes (for each Module):

    1. Module Title: Business Management 1A.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of the module the learner will be able to:
  • Define Management.
  • Trace the evolution of management theories.
  • Outline the challenges confronting managers.
  • Describe the management environment.
  • Describe the functions of managers.
  • Differentiate between the different functions of management.

    2. Module Title: Business Management 1B.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of the module the learner will be able to:
  • Conceptualise the skills managers must acquire in their roles.
  • Analyse the four primary management tasks.
  • Explain the interaction between the four primary management tasks.
  • Describe decision-making as a supportive management task.
  • Analyse leading as a management task with the focus on motivation and communication.

    3. Module Title: Business Management 2A.
    Credit Points:15.

    At the end of the module the learner will be able to:
  • Describe the nature and scope of marketing.
  • Identify environmental factors that impact on the marketing of the organisation.
  • Clarify the factors that influence consumer behaviour.
  • Determine target markets and undertake market segmentation for particular products and services.
  • Explain the elements of the marketing mix.

    4. Module Title: Business Management 2B.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of the module the learner will be able to:
  • Describe the nature and scope of operations management.
  • Assess the requirements for making decisions related to each part of the operations function.
  • Explain how effective operations strategies are developed.
  • Discuss how managers can improve quality.
  • Explain the concept of supply chain management.
  • Describe the importance of distribution channels.

    5. Module Title: Business Management 3A.
    Credit Points: 20.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain concepts in financial management.
  • Apply budgeting principles in the financial management of a business.
  • Forecast the financial requirements of a business.
  • Distinguish between the different forms of financing available to a business.
  • Discuss the importance of working capital management.
  • Display knowledge of Cost-Volume-Profit analysis.
  • Apply ratio analysis in determining the viability of a business.

    6. Module Title: Business Management 3B.
    Credit Points: 20.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain the importance of strategic management.
  • Describe the steps in the strategic management process.
  • Differentiate between corporate, business and functional level strategies.
  • Describe the five competitive forces.
  • Discuss the various competitive strategies.

    7. Module Title: Economics 1A.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain the economic problem of scarcity.
  • Discuss the goals and instruments of a market economy.
  • Analyse the forces of supply and demand.
  • Identify and explain the role of the various economic subjects in the economy.
  • Interpret price elasticity of demand, income elasticity and cross-price elasticity.
  • Explain the concept of a rational consumer.
  • Apply the important production concepts.
  • Apply the important cost concepts.
  • Analyse and identify the economic dynamics of the various market structures.
  • Recognise the limitations of markets.
  • Explain how government's influence improves on market allocations.

    8. Module Title: Economics 1B.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain the basic principles of macroeconomics.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of competing macroeconomic theories.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of macroeconomic variables and the measurement of such variables.
  • Explain the basic relationships between different macroeconomic variables.
  • Recognise the relationships between national income, unemployment, budget, deficit, money supply, interest rate, inflation rate, exchange rate and trade
    deficit.
  • Construct a simple macroeconomic model based on aggregate demand and aggregate supply.
  • Outline the implications of international trade and capital movements for macroeconomic aggregates in a small open economy.

    9. Module Title: Human Resource Management 2A.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Define the sphere of responsibility of human resource management.
  • Evaluate the development of human resource management.
  • Explain the relationship between a human resource strategy and business strategy.
  • Describe the components of an HRM system.
  • Identify the challenges/issues facing human resources.

    10. Module Title: Human Resource Management 2B.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Define strategic human resource planning.
  • Explain the human resources planning process.
  • Discuss job analysis.
  • Identify methods of recruiting staff.
  • Describe the recruitment and selection processes.
  • Describe decision strategies for selection.
  • Explain the impact of legal concerns on recruitment and selection.

    11. Module Title: Business Mathematics.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Apply basic numeracy skills.
  • Explain and apply the concept of a function.
  • Solve linear equations and inequalities.
  • Determine the time value of money.
  • Calculate simple index numbers and perform transformations.
  • Explain how to collect and present data.
  • Calculate basic measures of dispersion.

    12. Module Title: End User Computing.
    Credit Points: 20.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Discuss the different types of end user computing systems and their levels of support.
  • Describe common features of personal productivity tools.
  • Explain how applications can be integrated to work together.
  • Describe the features and functions of word processing programmes and desktop publishing.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work on electronic spreadsheets.
  • Explain how personal information is used by managers to organize daily activities.
  • Use graphic and presentation software.
  • Use the internet to conduct basic research.

    13. Module Title: Financial Accounting.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Prepare journal entries (subsidiary journals); post the entries to the ledger.
  • Prepare a trail balance and correct the trial balance where necessary.
  • Prepare the financial statements of a sole trader.
  • Identify, explain, calculate, record, present and disclose receivables, payables, inventories, cash and property, plant and equipment.
  • Prepare a reconciliation of debtors and creditors accounts.
  • Prepare a statement of receipts and payments and financial statements of a non-trading enterprise.
  • Prepare a bank reconciliation statement.
  • Classify and interpret financial data for a business.

    14. Module Title: Management Accounting.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain the need for pre-determined costs and management accounting systems.
  • Distinguish between direct and indirect costs and fixed and variable costs.
  • Calculate the value of stock using different valuation methods.
  • Explain Absorption Costing.
  • Explain Marginal Costing and Breakeven Analysis.
  • Determine the optimal costing methods (Absorption Costing vs Marginal Costing).
  • Explain the principles of effective budgeting.
  • Implement Cost control using Standard Costing methods.
  • Use techniques of Investment Appraisal.

    15. Module Title: Business Communication.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Write paragraphs and essays on selected topics.
  • Transcode texts from the spoken to the written mode.
  • Explain a selection of idiomatic expressions.
  • Explain the relationship between generalisations and specifics in a text.
  • Write business communications in a variety of forms.
  • Describe the effects of culture on the communication process.
  • Analyse the requirements for an intended audience.
  • Describe the way the written or spoken communication responds to the specific needs of the audience.
  • Explain the critical elements that shape communication situations.

    16. Module Title: Information Systems.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain the operational, managerial and strategic roles of information systems.
  • Explain the basic information system concepts.
  • Display knowledge of the concepts, developments, and managerial implications involved in computer hardware, software, database management and telecommunications technologies.
  • Describe how information technology is used in modern information systems to support the end user collaboration, enterprise operations, managerial decision making, and strategic advantage.
  • Utilise IS systems to make decisions.

    17. Module Title: Human Resource Management 3A.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Define performance management.
  • Explain the objectives of performance management.
  • Evaluate the performance appraisal process.
  • Provide examples of rater errors.
  • Explain the importance of the feedback process.
  • Describe the link between performance management and the other HRM functions.

    18. Module Title: Business Statistics.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain why quantitative techniques are important to a manager.
  • Perform statistical analyses to extract additional information from business data.
  • Manipulate gathered data through various statistical methods.
  • Prepare and interpret reports expressed in statistical terms.
  • Assess validity of statistical findings.

    19. Module Title: Human Resource Management 3B.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Identify the major purposes of training and development.
  • Explain how to conduct a training needs assessment.
  • Identify different training and development techniques.
  • Explain the importance of relevant legislation.
  • Describe the link between training and development and the other HRM functions.

    20. Module Title: Human Resource Management 3C.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Define the concept of employee or labour relations.
  • Explain the tripartite relationship in employee relations.
  • Display knowledge of relevant labour legislation.
  • Describe the collective bargaining process.
  • Describe the link between employee relations and the other HRM functions.

    21. Module Title: Human Resource Management 3D.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Explain the link between compensation, motivation and performance.
  • Define job evaluation.
  • Describe various compensation systems.
  • Describe employee assistance programmes.
  • Explain how domestic and international HRM differ.

    22. Module Title: Business Law.
    Credit Points: 15.

    At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • Describe the legal framework within which businesses operate.
  • Explain the requirements associated with the formulation of a contract.
  • Outline the rights of parties associated with sale agreements.
  • Outline the rights of parties associated with lease agreements.
  • List the salient details of the laws associated with employment.
  • Identify the essential elements of any contract of insurance.

    23. Module Title: Project.
    Credit Points: 30.

    At end of this module the learner will be able to:
  • To perform a sustained exercise in research in the field of human resource management.
  • Demonstrate competency in research methodology.
  • To write a research report.
  • To draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations arising out of the research. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level-Outcome 9.1:
  • Business Management theory and principles are applied in a work-based context.
  • Basic research is conducted.
  • Appropriate technology is utilised in various communication modes.
  • Financial data is organised and evaluated.
  • Information is managed utilising appropriate technology.
  • Business Sector environments are analysed.
  • Human Resource Management theory and principles are applied in a work-based context.

    Assessment is carried out by:
  • The use of work based assignments to test the application of principles in the organisation.
  • The use of technology in the submission of assignments and access to learning resources.
  • The use of basic research methods in all assignments.
  • A project report.
  • Written examinations.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Assessment centres around:
  • The extent to which the learner has grasped the basic concepts which form the base of management education.
  • The application of Business and Human Resource Management theory to a practical context.
  • The methods of research used.
  • A balance between theory and practice and its relevance to the level of the qualification.
  • The use of appropriate technology to ensure effective communication of ideas.

    Assessment methods measure the extent to which the learner has achieved competence in the different areas of study delivered through course modules.

    These assessment methods include:
  • Case studies.
  • Report writing.
  • Interpretative and analytical problem solving in the written examination.
  • Work based assignments.
  • Self assessment activities in the course material. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    MANCOSA was established in the post 1994 period with the view of addressing the critical shortage of access to management education in South Africa. Between 1995 and 2000 MANC0SA was engaged in providing Private Higher Education to South Africans in association with its former partner the Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College a College of the University of Brunel, in the United Kingdom.

    The Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College is listed as an accredited state recognised institution in the United Kingdom. During this 5-year period MANCOSA successfully delivered tuition and academic and administrative support to over 860 students enrolled on the Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College programmes.

    The outcomes and assessment criteria, the degree of complexity and the notional learning time of this qualification have been benchmarked against MANCOSA'S former international partner, the Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College and best national and international practice. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
  • This qualification builds on Certificate and Diploma programmes from related and other sectors of the economy, relevant experience and prior learning.
  • The Bachelor of Commerce: Human Resource Management Programme provides articulation with the MANCOSA MBA degree.
  • The Bachelor of Commerce: Human Resource Management Programme will also provide articulation with Postgraduate Programmes at other Higher education institutions.
  • The expertise acquired doing this qualification in full or in part can be measured against requirements of other qualifications at MANCOSA or other institutions to obtain credits for specific modules. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    External examiners and moderators are appointed to validate the students' examination and final assessments. The Examinations Board is the final decision making body that is responsible for the awarding of the qualification. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    To qualify as an assessor an individual must:
  • Generally have a Higher Education qualification at least one level higher than the course being assessed.
  • Be appropriately qualified and experienced as assessors.
  • Generally the tutor is responsible for that particular module.
  • Be in the possession of qualifications that are relevant to the programme.

    The following criteria are used for appointing external examiners and moderators:
  • Their experience of examining this programme or its equivalent.
  • Their independence from MANCOSA and from the programmes team.
  • Their expertise in the subject area.
  • Their scholastic contribution to the field.

    External examiners and moderators are required to have a qualification at least 1 Level higher than the programme being assessed. They are also required to have at least 2 years experience lecturing in this programme or its equivalent. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    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. MANCOSA Pty (Ltd) 


    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.