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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101529  Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management 
ORIGINATOR
The Independent Institute of Education (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
Higher Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Procurement 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

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 qualification focuses on logistics and supply chain management theories, principles and practices as well as basic finance, purchasing, customer relationship management, transport economics and operations support skills to provide the particular balance of skills identified as critical for successful further studies into the broader logistics and supply chain management field. In addition, graduates are well-prepared for entry-level positions in the business management field.

The qualification is designed to allow for foundational learning to take place through the exposure to, and application of, specialised and support learning areas in the theory and practice of logistics and supply chain management. The qualification introduces students to logistics and supply chain management, business management, operations management, purchasing management, financial management, academic scholar development, personal computing, customer relationship management, logistics management and transport economics as well as work integrated learning skills. The qualification is designed to facilitate and teach learners best practices of problem solving within the particular field of study as well as applying theory to real life scenarios which instils problem solving skills that are needed both going into industry as well as studying further. The qualification supports individual and collaborative learning to take place through the use of the online learning platform.

Rationale:
In line with the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) purpose and characteristics of a higher certificate, this qualification will provide candidates with a basic introductory knowledge, cognitive and applied tools and techniques through its combination of theory and practical skills. This Higher Certificate provides learners with solid vocational foundation for those wishing to work in junior positions in the logistics and supply chain environment, and in addition will prepare learners for further undergraduate studies in logistics and supply chain management. The qualification will provide a balance of theoretical, experiential and applied components to facilitate the enhancement of logistics and supply chain thinking and through the core modules, give graduates a basic logistics and supply chain management understanding to enter the industry.

There are limited opportunities for candidates without university exemption to formally study logistics and supply chain management in order to enter the profession, which is the demand that this Higher Certificate wishes to address. Graduates will gain a basic understanding of the contemporary logistics and supply chain environment and the basic principles and applications of management within this environment. The core focus is supported by essential business management, finance, customer management, transport and economics, and purchasing skills to prepare graduates that can be employed as fully functional employees in various logistics and supply chain positions.

Logistics and Supply Chain Management has become a crucial function within businesses, as most organisations make use of centralised or decentralised options in which warehousing, packaging, and movement of products has to take place within specific time frames in order to meet the demands of consumers and ensure consumer satisfaction. There has been an increase in the demand for experts in the field of Logistics and Supply Chain Management within the South African context.

The outcomes for this Higher Certificate will address this demand in producing not only entry level employees with the necessary knowledge and skills but also by ensuring opportunities for these graduates for further studies into programmes such as a Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Business Administration within the field of Logistics and Supply Chain Management as well as Business or Strategic Management.

Career opportunities for graduates of this higher certificate exist as:
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Administrators.
  • Logistics/transport controller.
  • Operations administrator.
  • Dispatcher.

    This qualification will prepare graduates to further their Logistics and Supply Chain Management studies at HEQSF Level 6 or 7, as this qualification will prepare graduates to obtain the relevant entry requirements into furthering their academic careers into a Diploma or Degree within a similar field of study. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL will be used to admit a cohort of learners who do not meet the admission requirements. RPL processes are qualification-specific in that the criteria against which evidence of prior learning must be provided are determined by the learning normally assumed to be in place for qualifications at the level concerned in the field concerned. Instruments are only designed when requests are made as they are expensive to design, implement and assess. The procedure is governed by the Credit Accumulation and Transfer, Recognition of Prior Learning and Qualification Completion Policy (IIE010).

    In addition to RPL a Credit Accumulation and Transfer mechanism exists for access and advance standing for formal learning from a recognised, registered and accredited institution on a registered and accredited qualification.

    If an applicant applies for an RPL admission, the learning assumed to be in place for the qualification is assessed against exit level outcomes equivalent to the formal learning required for admission. This would include an evaluation of the content as well as the applicant's cognitive and technical competence. Applicants prepare a portfolio against these stated requirements which is then assessed by a team of experts/academics in line with the policy.

    Recognition is awarded for:
  • Learning, and not for experience per se.
  • Learning that is on the level of the specific level descriptors of the qualification/ unit standard.
    And
  • Learning that is in line with applied competence and has a balance between theory and practical application appropriate to the subject or unit standard.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Senior Certificate with appropriate subjects.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate granting access to Higher Certificate Studies and with appropriate subjects.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) at Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate Studies and with appropriate subjects. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 5 totalling 130 Credits.
  • Business Management 1A, 11 Credits.
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management 1A, 18 Credits.
  • Customer Relationship Management, 10 Credits.
  • Financial Management for Non-Financial Managers, 10 Credits.
  • Introduction to Academic and Digital Literacy, 12 Credits.
  • Introduction to Personal Computing, 5 Credits.
  • Logistics Management, 18 Credits.
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management 1B, 18 Credits.
  • Operations Management, 10 Credits.
  • Transport Economics, 10 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 8 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate a broad theoretical knowledge and understanding of the holistic view of logistics and supply chain components within the logistics and supply chain management environment.
    2. Demonstrate a broad theoretical knowledge of the business management principles.
    3. Demonstrate the ability to apply basic financial skills and knowledge in the completion of financial record.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the role, value and function of effective operations and quality management in the business context.
    5. Demonstrate the abilities to analyse the supply and demand function of transportation within the South African context.
    6. Demonstrate an understanding of the purchasing function within the logistics and supply chain management function and applying the theories and processes within the business environment.
    7. Demonstrate an understanding of the scholarly skills and abilities in academia together with the usage of technology devices. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the logistical and supply chain management concepts, principles and practices within a national and global logistics and supply chain management environment.
  • Analyse and apply the logistics and supply chain management functions, processes and principles to the logistics and supply chain environment.
  • Evaluate the importance of operational, purchasing, inventory, packaging and transportation management components within the logistic and supply chain management environment.
  • Reflect on the importance of managing stakeholder engagement on a social, ethical and legal basis within the logistics and supply chain management environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of management in the context of business.
  • Evaluate the impact of the business environments on business and management.
  • Apply management competencies required to manage a business.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the different sources of income available to an organisation.
  • Identify the various source documents used in a business environment.
  • Accurately record financial transactions in a trial balance.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of internal control measures as they should apply to an organisation.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the internal Audit procedures within an organisation.
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of accounting principles in order to complete the bank reconciliation statement.
  • Apply knowledge of the Petty Cash system in order to complete the petty cash records in the books of accounts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts and principles of operational and quality management in a logistics and supply chain management environment.
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply planning, organising, leading and controlling of processes of operations, quality and production management to ensure inputs transform to the required outputs within the business entity.
  • Demonstrate the ability to integrate and adapt operational and quality management practices to meet business requirements within the operations of the business entity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts and principles of Transport Economics.
  • Apply the demand and supply of transportation within the context of South Africa.
  • Discuss the pricing and investment strategies that should be considered in transport.
  • Describe the transportation policies within government that has to be adhered to.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the importance of the purchasing function within logistics and supply chain management.
  • Evaluate and apply the various processes and types of purchases implemented within the logistics and supply chain management environment.
  • Analyse purchasing services and policies influencing the efficiency of the supply chain management practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Demonstrate the overall technical editing and writing skills needed within academic writing such as language proficiency, referencing and formatting of documentation.
  • Demonstrate the ability in utilising a personal computer and relevant programmes to complete academic work as required within the tertiary environment.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative Assessment:
    Learning and assessment are integrated. Continual formative assessment is required so that learners are given feedback on their progress in the achievement of learning outcomes. The scheme of work includes assignments, real-world briefs, tests and an integrated programme portfolio based on the learning material and students are given feedback. The process is continuous and focuses on smaller sections of the work and limited numbers of outcomes.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification. Such judgement must include integrated assessments which test the learner's ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, skills and attitudes that are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes as a whole. Examinations, projects, reports or equivalent assessments, such as a portfolio of evidence, assess a representative selection of the outcomes practised and assessed. Summative assessment also tests the learner's ability to manage and integrate a large body of knowledge to achieve the stated outcomes of a module.

    Integrated assessments will be designed to achieve:
  • An integration of the achievement of exit level outcomes in a way which demonstrates that the purpose of the qualification as a whole has been achieved.
  • The evaluation of learner performance which can provide evidence of applied competence.
  • Criterion-referenced assessment which is clearly explained to, and understood by, the students and which can be applied in the recognition of prior learning. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Both Higher Education Institutions and professional bodies across the world offer qualifications in Logistics Management, Supply Chain Management or a combination of the two, at various levels. While it can be argued that the standard and approach to education in these fields vary across countries, there appears to be little difference in focus and approach of qualifications tailored towards the development of junior practitioners operating within the broader logistics and supply chain environment. The design of the Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is based on the design of the similar programmes at international levels. The Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is designed against the backdrop of knowledge of competency components of international qualifications in this field, to provide graduates with competitive advantage in the country and to operate proficiently in the increasingly globalised environment.

    The Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management compares well with international qualifications such as the Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the University of Sydney, International Certificate in Logistics and Transport offered by The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, and a Certificate in Supply Chain Management at the Institute of Supply Chain Management. The design on this qualification is in line with those international qualifications mentioned above in that core elements of logistics and supply chain management are being offered to students. The qualification added a work integrated learning component to emphasise the practical application of the content being taught, which is not the case in the international qualifications. This qualification is different in comparison with similar programmes as the students are exposed to academic development skills which is taught and could be used further in the work environment. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification offers vertical systemic articulation with qualifications offered at other institutions provided the learner meets the minimum admission requirements.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Logistics or Supply Chain Management.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Logistics or Supply Chain Management.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Anappropriate Higher Certificate, Level 5. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    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. The Independent Institute of Education (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.