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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Public Administration 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97227  Bachelor of Public Administration 
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
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  Not Applicable  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 Administration Degree will enable learners in the public sector to develop in-depth, advanced discipline-specific skills and applied competence that will provide them with opportunities for personal intellectual growth, more purposeful employment and the ability to make a meaningful contribution to society. The qualifying learner will be able to do the following:
  • Translate learned theory into practical realities.
  • Identify public administration and development management challenges of the 21st century and contribute towards solving identified challenges.
  • Promote ethical and professional standards in the work environment.
  • Display objectivity in the management of public affairs.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the political, social and economics environments in which public administration and management are practiced.
  • Consult effectively and efficiently with all stakeholders in the public sector environment.
  • Evaluate public management related information.
  • Communicate public management related issues.

    Rationale:
    The Bachelor of Administration qualification is offered in response to the continued demand for a public sector professional qualification. The qualification enables learners with sufficient and relevant work experience and appropriate qualifications to further develop their functional and reflective competencies in management and administration, especially as it pertains to the public sector. The qualification aims to develop an integrated conceptual understanding, synthesis and critical application of specialised qualitative and quantitative issues in management in the public sphere. The qualification provides for the acquisition and refinement of research and decision-making skills.

    The Bachelor of Administration Degree is designed to provide Southern Africa with skilled persons in the public sector management and administration field in order to ensure that the leadership base of innovative and knowledge-based administrative and management activities are strengthened and diversified. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    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 learners will be selected on the recommendation of a senior manager from their organisation/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 and 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 of the programme.

    Where prior learning is recognised 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. Credits may only be accumulated for modules, which are prescribed within the structure of the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entrance requirements for admission to the Bachelor of Administration qualification is as follows:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Degree studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate with endorsement.
    Or
  • Any other NQF Level 4 qualification or equivalent. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at NQF Level 5, 6 and 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Levels 5, 120 Credits.
  • Public Administration 101, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government 101, 15 Credits.
  • Microeconomics, 15 Credits.
  • Information and Communication Technology, 15 Credits.
  • Public Administration 102, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government 102, 15 Credits.
  • Macroeconomics, 15 Credits.
  • Disaster Management, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 6, 120 Credits.
  • Public Sector Accounting 102, 15 Credits.
  • Public Administration 201, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government 201, 15 Credits.
  • Ethics in the Public Sector, 15 Credits.
  • Public Administration 202, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government 202, 15 Credits.
  • Public Sector Supply Chain management, 15 Credits.
  • Political Science, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 7, 120 Credits.
  • Public Law, 15 Credits.
  • Labour Law, 15 Credits.
  • Public Administration 301, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government 301, 15 Credits.
  • Research in the Public Sector, 15 Credits.
  • Public Sector Budgeting, 15 Credits.
  • Public Administration 302, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government 302, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Translate learned theory into practical realities.
    2. Identify public administration and development management challenges of the 21st century and contribute towards solving identified challenges.
    3. Promote ethical and professional standards in the work environment.
    4. Display objectivity in the management of public affairs.
    5. Demonstrate understanding of the political, social and economics environments in which public administration and management are practiced.
    6. Consult effectively and efficiently with all stakeholders in the public sector environment.
    7. Evaluate public management related information.
    8. Communicate public management related issues. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Well-developed learning skills to promote life-long learning are demonstrated.
  • Basic theories in public administration to the practice of public administration and management are identified and applied.
  • Current demand and challenges that confront the context of public management and apply theory learnt to the work environment are understood.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that public management related problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation is demonstrated.
  • Technology is utilised to solve work-based problems.
  • An ability to propose solutions to complex problems is demonstrated.
  • The ability to solve management and commercial problems is demonstrated in a systematic, critical and creative way.
  • Research skills are displayed in solving work related problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Ethical ICT processes are committed to.
  • The roles and functions of the categories of functionaries in public administration are determined.
  • Knowledge of ethics and values of the profession are demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • A specialised understanding of how to manage resources and processes is demonstrated in a business context.
  • The processes and systems for transaction processing, information storage and report generation within the public sector framework are explained and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • An in-depth understanding of socio-economic challenges in Southern Africa is demonstrated in an ethical and responsible manner.
  • Management and research skills are displayed in a management science or related discipline.
  • The extension of knowledge is contributed towards in management sciences through projects and seminar presentations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Roles and functions of the categories of functionaries in public administration are determined.
  • Understanding of the roles and functions of external stakeholders is explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • An understanding of the public management functions is demonstrated.
  • Public management skills are developed.
  • Public management applications are demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Responsibility towards the environment is demonstrated.
  • Public management related knowledge and practical skills to address theoretical and practical management problems are applied.
  • Ideas and interests are articulated and promoted through effective communication in oral and written modes.
  • Appropriate technology is utilised in various communication modes.
  • Knowledge acquired in a research-based project is communicated.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The assessments will centre around the following:
  • The extent to which the learner has grasped the concepts.
  • The application of 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 the competence in the different areas of study. These assessment methods include:
  • Case studies.
  • Report writing.
  • Interpretative and analytical problem solving.
  • Work based assignments. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    International comparison for the Bachelor of Administration at NQF Level 7 was conducted against international qualifications from the institutions known to have world-renowned reputations for the provision of public administration and management qualifications such as: School of Government and Policy: University of Canberra in Australia, Ashford University in United States of America and REGIS University in the United Kingdom.

    Bachelor of Public Administration - School of Government and Policy: University of Canberra - Australia.
    This qualification combines management studies with a specialisation in public sector management that will equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills for employment in managerial roles in the ACT or Commonwealth Government public service or associated public sector agencies. The Bachelor of Administration consists of compulsory modules as well as electives modules.

    Learning Outcomes of the Qualification:
    Upon completion of this qualification learners will display the following competencies:
  • Have acquired a broad understanding of theory and practice in management.
  • Possess specialised knowledge in an area of public administration such as governance, national development, civil society relationships, or security.
  • Have developed advanced skills in aspects of management such as accounting, human resources management, business analysis or communications, and develop skills and knowledge within the practice of public administration.
  • Recognise specific problem solving contexts and be able to apply analytical and creative skills and demonstrating communications skills for sharing ideas.
  • Creative and responsible in their application of their acquired knowledge and skills as they respond to changing management practice.

    Abilities Acquired on the qualification:
  • Analysis and inquiry: ability to gather information, analyse and evaluate information and situations in a systematic, creative and insightful way.
  • Communication: ability to present knowledge, ideas and opinions effectively and communicate within and across professional and cultural boundaries.
  • Working independently and with others: ability to plan own work, be self-directed, use interpersonal skills and attitudes to work collaboratively.
  • Problem solving: ability to apply problem-solving processes in novel situations; identify, analyse problems then formulate solutions, implement solutions.
  • Professionalism and social responsibility: in particular the capacity and intention to use professional knowledge and skills ethically and responsibly, for the benefit of others and the environment.

    Bachelor of Administration in Public Administration - Ashford University - United State of America.
    The purpose of the Ashford University's Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration qualification is based on developing effective leadership and communication skills and applying those skills to public policy, government, or non-profit organisations. The qualification further prepares learners for entry into careers in the public sector, either in a non-profit organisation, or at federal, state, or local government. The coursework includes topics in urban management, budgeting and finance, political science and intergovernmental issues, and public policy development.

    This Degree's curriculum also provides learners with a breadth of complimentary studies in the social sciences. This qualification is part of the school's Forbes School of Business, and online business learners have access to a variety of unique resources and online events, such as webinars that feature business experts from Forbes. Applicants to Ashford's Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration qualification should have a high school qualification and should be at least 22 years old.

    Module Outline for the Qualification.
    General Education Requirements:
    Learners must complete modules in the general education.

    Introductory Module Requirements:
  • Personal Dimensions of Education.
  • Adult Development and Life Assessment.

    Major Module Requirements:
  • Management for Organisations.
  • Leadership for Organisations.
  • The American Constitution.
  • Environmental Policies.
  • Principles of Macroeconomics PHI 445: Personal and Organisational Ethics.
  • Principles of Public Administration.
  • Finance for Public Administrators.
  • Budgeting for Public Administrators.
  • Intergovernmental Relations and Issues.
  • Urban Management.
  • Administrative Law.
  • Personnel Management.
  • Public Policy Formation.

    Electives:
    Learners must complete modules with an elective component.

    REGIS University - Bachelor in Public Administration - United Kingdom:
    Regis University's Bachelor of Science in Public Administration Degree is designed to provide learners with the essential knowledge and skills to become innovative leaders who can effectively evaluate, plan and implement public sector programs. Furthermore, it teaches learners that public service is not simply performing a process, but that an outstanding government leader is one who knows the process and has the skills to deliver service in the face of greater public demands and diminishing resources.

    Learners will advance the concept of "the public good" learn to analyse the strengths and weaknesses of public policies, consider the interests of stakeholders and influence those who make public policy happen. Learners will also learn the value and necessity of building public/private partnerships as the creative way to deliver public service.

    Job opportunities and benefits on the qualification:
  • Qualified to pursue a position in city/county management.
  • Policy analysis.
  • Budget consulting and analysis.
  • Human resource management.
  • Occupational safety coordination.
  • Lobbying, information specialisation or grant writing.
  • Think critically and analytically about the development and implementation of public policy issues.
  • Better understanding of the political dynamics in your own community and to be a more effective public official by understanding how to achieve goals through collaboration and consensus-building.

    Qualification Requirements:
    The qualification consists of the following modules:
  • Core studies requirements.
  • Foundational courses.
  • Upper division requirements.
  • Minor (optional).
  • General electives (if minor is selected or not will differ in credits).

    Module Outline for the Qualification:
    General Core Requirements:
  • Oral Communication Skills.
  • English Composition.
  • Advanced Oral or Written Communication.
  • Literature/Humanities.
  • Literature/Humanities.
  • Literature/Humanities Elective.
  • Global Issues.
  • Social Sciences.
  • Mathematics.
  • Natural Sciences.
  • Philosophy.
  • Religious Studies.

    Foundational Courses:
  • Business Systems in a Sustainable Society.
  • Global Business Issues.
  • Management Essentials.
  • Principles of Macroeconomics 320.
  • Principles of Microeconomics 330.
  • Introduction to Statistics.
  • Government Role in Society.
  • Public Policy.

    Advance Major Requirements:
  • Management of Human Resources.
  • Organisational Behaviour.
  • Project Management.
  • Managing Technology for Business Strategies.
  • Business Research.
  • Senior Capstone.
  • Public Finance.
  • Community Influences on Governments.
  • Topics in Public Management.
  • Ethics in Government.

    Optional Minor:
    General Electives:
  • If a minor is completed.
  • If a minor is not completed.

    The Bachelor of Administration enables learners to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge, to further develop their intellectual capacity in management and administration and to contribute to a meaningful service delivery to the public service.

    Conclusion:
    In conclusion it is clear from the comparison conducted that there are no countries which offer Bachelor of Administration qualification similar to the current one. However, in these countries comparison was done with qualifications in public administration and management having the same focus with the current qualification. The current qualification compares well with the said qualifications in terms of the purpose statement since all of them seek to develop an in-depth, advanced knowledge and skills and competence that will provide learners with opportunities for personal intellectual growth in management and administration in the public sector. In addition learners will acquire skills to become innovative leaders, who can effectively evaluate, plan and implement public sector programs. In addition, modular similarities such as communication, organisational ethics, principles of public administration, microeconomics, budget in public administration, public law, and community influence in government in these qualifications were found. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates vertically and horizontally as follows:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Public Administration, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Governance and Public Administration, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Administration Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Administration Honours in Public Administration, NQF Level 8.
  • Advanced Diploma in Business Management and Administration, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    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.