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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
104504  Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management 
ORIGINATOR
Central University of Technology, Free State 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Public Administration 
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 0324/24  2024-07-01  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 purpose of the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management (NQF Level 8) is to develop highly skilled public officials and managers capable of advancing effective service delivery within the South African public sector. Through this qualification, learners gain advanced theoretical knowledge and applied competencies in public management systems, strategic planning, and institutional governance. This program primarily targets graduates of the Advanced Diploma in Public Management (or equivalent) and professionals currently employed in the public sector who seek to enhance their capacity for leadership and career advancement. Learners choose this qualification to align their professional practice with the National Development Plan 2030 and the Constitution, 1996, benefiting from a curriculum that transforms them into accountable, efficient, and ethical practitioners who can contribute meaningfully to the development of local communities and national government priorities.

Following an academic pathway within the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF), this 120-credit qualification provides a progression route from NQF Level 8 towards higher academic study, such as a Master's degree. Upon achievement, the learner will possess a deep conceptual understanding of public policy analysis, strategic human resource frameworks, and inter-governmental relations. They will be equipped to understand and resolve complex, practice-related problems through the application of advanced research methodologies and strategic management techniques. Within their professional environment, the learner will be responsible for leading directorates or units, managing public accountability mechanisms, and implementing sustainable financial and project management solutions. This ensures that the learner can independently navigate the complexities of the three spheres of government while upholding the principles of good governance and ethical leadership.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Formulate and implement strategic public administration plans that directly improve service delivery outcomes.
  • Critically evaluate and resolve public policy and financial risk management problems using evidence-based research.
  • Lead public institutions through the application of ethical, transformational, and servant leadership principles.
  • Manage human resources and labour relations within the complex legal frameworks of the public sector.
  • Execute structured research projects to address systemic challenges in public governance.
  • Oversee public accountability mechanisms and inter-governmental relations to ensure transparent and efficient institutional performance.

    Rationale
    Reasoning underpinning the identified need for the qualification
    The development of the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management was necessitated by the need to provide a structured, academically rigorous qualification pathway for graduates of the Diploma in Public Management and for practising public sector officials who require advanced competencies in public administration and management. Prior to the development of this qualification, no comparable NQF Level 8 Post graduate diploma specifically addressing the public management and administration field was registered and available at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT). The existing Diploma in Public Management (NQF Level 6) offered learners foundational knowledge but did not extend to the depth of analysis, strategic management competencies, research application, and governance required for senior-level public sector roles. This qualification was developed to address that identified gap by providing an intermediate qualification between the undergraduate diploma, Advanced Diploma and Postgraduate study, enabling learners to develop advanced applied competencies before progressing to the Master of Public Management.

    Sectoral needs and benefits of the qualification for society and the economy
    The South African public sector faces persistent challenges related to inefficient service delivery, inadequate governance, weak accountability mechanisms, and insufficient capacity in strategic human resource management. The need for well-qualified public sector professionals has been consistently identified through national government priorities, including the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030, which emphasises the importance of building a capable, ethical, and developmental state. The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) have identified public management capacity as a critical scarce skill necessary to improve governance and service delivery at national, provincial, and local government levels. The qualification addresses this sectoral need by producing graduates capable of managing public institutions more effectively and contributing to policy implementation, accountability, and intergovernmental coordination. The Central University of Technology, Free State, identified this need through engagement with the public sector community in the Free State province and through academic curriculum review processes. The qualification benefits society by contributing to a more capable and accountable public service, which is directly linked to improved social outcomes in health, education, infrastructure, and community development. Economically, qualified public administrators who can manage resources efficiently and implement policy effectively contribute to the realisation of national developmental goals and the responsible use of public funds.

    Typical learners and occupational areas of practice
    The typical learners for this qualification are graduates who have completed the Advanced Diploma in Public Management (NQF Level 7) or an equivalent qualification in a related field, and who wish to deepen their knowledge and advance their careers in the public sector. The qualification also attracts mid-career public sector professionals who are employed in government departments, municipalities, state-owned entities, or related public institutions and who seek to formalise and extend their professional knowledge at NQF Level 8. Qualifying learners are likely to pursue occupations and career pathways in the following areas: public administration and management at middle to senior management levels; policy analysis and implementation; public sector human resource management; intergovernmental relations and coordination; public finance and accountability management; and municipal and local government management. Qualifying learners may enter the workforce in roles such as public administration officers, policy analysts, human resource managers in the public sector, governance and compliance officers, municipal managers, and directors in national, provincial, or local government. The qualification supports a learning pathway that leads from the Advanced Diploma in Public Management (NQF Level 7) through to the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management (NQF Level 8) to the Master of Public Management (NQF Level 9) and ultimately to doctoral programmes in Public Management.

    Consultations conducted in developing the qualification
    The development of the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management was undertaken in consultation with relevant stakeholders in the public sector and higher education. The qualification was developed by academic staff in the Department of Government Management at CUT in collaboration with practitioners and management representatives from public sector institutions in the Free State province, including representatives from provincial government departments and local government structures. These consultations confirmed the need for a postgraduate qualification that bridges the gap between the undergraduate diploma, advanced diploma and postgraduate study, and that directly addresses the competency needs of the public sector in the region. The qualification was also developed in alignment with the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) policy requirements as regulated by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and in accordance with SAQA's national qualifications framework guidelines. The qualification does not fall under the jurisdiction of a statutory professional body; however, its development reflects the requirements of the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) and the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for qualifications at this level and in this field. The curriculum and structure of the qualification were reviewed and endorsed internally by the CUT Faculty of Management Sciences and Senate prior to registration submission.

    Learning pathways within which the qualification resides
    The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management is situated within a coherent learning and career pathway in the field of public management and administration. It serves as an intermediate qualification between the Advanced Diploma in Public Management (NQF Level 7) and the Master of Public Management (NQF Level 9). Learners who have completed the Advanced Diploma in Public Management are well positioned to progress directly into this qualification, as it builds on the foundational knowledge and skills acquired at NQF Level 6 and NQF Level 7 and extends these to more complex, analytical, and applied competencies at NQF Level 8. Upon successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma, qualifying learners may progress to the Master of Public Management (NQF Level 9) and, thereafter, to Doctoral programmes in Public Management (NQF Level 10) and other related doctoral programmes. This qualification also provides a work pathway for learners who enter or return to employment in the public sector at middle to senior management levels, as it equips them with the strategic, analytical, and research competencies required for effective performance at those levels. The learning pathway is therefore both academic and professional in orientation, supporting vertical progression within the HEQSF and career advancement within the public sector. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
    The institutional policy provides for transparent, fair, valid and reliable mechanisms through which prior formal, informal and non-formal learning may be recognised for purposes of access, advanced standing, module exemption and/or credit recognition, subject to institutional rules and approved assessment processes. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission into this qualification, as well as advancement within the qualification. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules and credits for or towards the qualification.

    RPL for access
    Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission into this programme may be considered for admission through RPL.

    To be considered for admission into the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

    Selection of such students will be conducted on an individual basis in accordance with the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy of the university. A functional system for RPL is in place at the CUT. Candidates are required to complete a RPL application document. Accompanying the RPL application must be certified copies of all previous qualifications and a comprehensive portfolio of evidence, reflecting on extensive work learning. The portfollio of evidence will then be evaluated by the Faculty of Management Sciences' RPL Committee for assessment. The Faculty's RPL Committee assesses the candidate's portfolio thoroughly against the relevant learning outcomes.

    RPL for advanced standing
    An applicant who has already achieved some of the competencies expected for admission to, or progression within the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management may be allowed admission despite lacking the conventional qualification pathway. In such an instance, the applicant's prior learning, knowledge, skills, and professional experience will be assessed to determine whether they are equivalent to the learning outcomes normally required for admission to the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management. This learning may have been acquired through formal studies, workplace experience, professional development, community engagement, short courses, research, or other forms of non-formal and informal learning.

    RPL for module exemption
    RPL for module exemption may be granted in accordance with the institution's approved RPL policy and the requirements of the South African Qualifications Authority. Applicants may be exempted from specific modules where prior formal, non-formal and/or informal learning has been assessed and found to be equivalent to the learning outcomes and associated level descriptors of those modules at the appropriate NQF Level.

    Evidence of prior learning must be submitted in the form of a structured portfolio of evidence. Assessment may include the evaluation of documentary evidence, challenge assessments, structured interviews, and other appropriate methods to ensure that the evidence is valid, reliable, authentic and sufficient.

    Module exemption through RPL may contribute to advanced standing within the qualification by enabling the learner to progress without completing exempted modules; however, such exemption does not automatically result in the awarding of credits unless this is explicitly granted in line with institutional policy.

    RPL for credit
    RPL for credit may be granted in accordance with the institution's approved RPL policy and the requirements of the South African Qualifications Authority. Applicants may be awarded credits towards the qualification where prior formal, non-formal and/or informal learning has been assessed and verified as comparable in terms of content, depth and complexity to the relevant components of the qualification at the appropriate NQF Level.
    Assessment is conducted through a rigorous and transparent process, which may include the submission and evaluation of a structured portfolio of evidence, as well as challenge assessments, structured interviews, or other appropriate assessment methods.
    Credits may be granted where the learner can provide evidence of equivalent learning outcomes achieved through previous formal study or extensive relevant workplace experience. Credits awarded through RPL contribute to the accumulation of credits required for the qualification and may result in advanced standing, allowing the learner to enter the qualification at an appropriate point in accordance with institutional policy and applicable regulatory requirements. The awarding of credits is subject to moderation and academic verification to ensure comparability of standard. In line with the institutional RPL policy, credits granted may not exceed 50 % of the total credits for the qualification.


    Entry requirements:
  • An appropriate Advanced Diploma in Public Management, NQF Level 7.
    OR
  • A relevant bachelor's degree at NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules at NQF Level 8, totaling 120 credits.

    Compulsory modules at NQF Level 8, totalling 96 credits:
  • Strategic Public Management, 24 Credits.
  • Public Monitoring and Evaluation Management, 24 Credits.
  • Research Methodology, 24 Credits.
  • Good Governance and Leadership, 24 Credits.

    Elective modules at NQF Level 8, totalling 24 credits:
    Choose ONE of the following electives:
  • Public Financial Management, 24 Credits.
  • Project Management, 24 Credits.
  • Public Policy Management, 24 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    .Demonstrate extensive and advanced understanding of strategic public management and the ability to critically analyse labour and employment relations theory.
    2.Evaluate various monitoring and evaluation methods, tools and techniques in a public sector department to generate valid conclusions and recommendations.
    3.Evaluate and apply the principles of transformational, ethical and servant leadership to find selected solutions for good governance problems through logical reasoning and the application of principles and standards in the context of the public sector.
    4.Engage in lifelong learning, by applying various research philosophies, approaches, designs and methods to resolve a research problem.
    5.Evaluate the public policy making process to resolve a public policy problem.
    6.Evaluate financial risk management processes to find sustainable solutions for public financial management and supply chain management related problems in the public sector.
    7.Evaluate the various project management planning processes, tools and techniques to find sustainable solutions for public project failures. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse and apply the statutory, regulatory and legislative frameworks governing strategic public management across the three spheres of government in relation to public sector governance and service delivery.
  • Evaluate and apply the processes and principles for the formulation of governance and strategic
  • Analyse and apply statutory, regulatory and labour relations principles to promote fair labour practices and sound employment relations within the public sector.
  • Evaluate and apply appropriate labour negotiation processes, mechanisms and procedures relevant to public sector employment contexts.
  • Identify, evaluate and apply appropriate conflict management mechanisms and procedures to address workplace conflict within a public sector environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Critically evaluate monitoring and evaluation methods, tools and techniques used within the public sector and determine their suitability for improving governance, accountability and service delivery.
  • Analyse and apply Government-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation policies and frameworks within provincial and municipal contexts to identify challenges and propose appropriate interventions to improve performance and service delivery.
  • Apply appropriate monitoring and evaluation tools, techniques and processes to assess the implementation and performance of a public sector project or programme.
  • Develop a monitoring and evaluation report for a public sector department, unit or programme that generates evidence-based findings and valid recommendations to address service delivery challenges.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Critically evaluate and apply the principles and attributes of transformational, servant and ethical leadership to address governance and organisational challenges and improve performance within a public sector department or municipality.
  • Analyse and apply the principles of good governance and corporate governance within a public sector context to strengthen accountability, ethical conduct and effective governance in a government department or municipality.
  • Develop and justify an action plan to lead and manage organisational change through the application of transformational, servant and ethical leadership principles to address governance failures and improve service delivery within a public sector department or municipality.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Critically evaluate and apply appropriate research paradigms, philosophies and approaches in relation to a selected research problem within a public sector or management context.
  • Analyse, evaluate and apply appropriate research designs and methodologies to address a defined research problem, question, objective and/or hypothesis.
  • Critically evaluate and apply appropriate quantitative and qualitative sampling methods and techniques in relation to the nature and scope of a research study.
  • Apply appropriate quantitative and qualitative data collection methods and techniques to generate valid and reliable data for a research investigation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Critically evaluate public policy-making processes, including agenda setting, policy design, decision-making and policy implementation, within a public sector context.
  • Apply policy analysis tools and techniques to identify, analyse and propose solutions to public policy implementation challenges in the public sector.
  • Evaluate public policy using structured policy analysis processes to develop evidence-based

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Critically evaluate financial risk management processes used within a public sector department or municipality to identify, assess and proactively mitigate potential financial risks.
  • Analyse and evaluate financial management and supply chain management principles, processes and standards within a public sector governance context.
  • Evaluate financial management and supply chain management systems in the public sector and assess associated risks that may impact financial sustainability, efficiency and compliance.
  • Develop a financial risk management plan by applying structured risk management processes to identify, assess and propose mitigation strategies for financial and supply chain management risks within a public department or municipality.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Critically evaluate project management and planning processes, steps, tools and techniques used in developmental and public sector projects.
  • Analyse the roles and contributions of stakeholders in a developmental project within a local community context to identify and address community development challenges.
  • Develop a comprehensive project management plan to address a identified developmental problem by applying appropriate project management principles, skills and techniques, including the allocation of responsibilities, resources and defined timeframes.

    Integrated assessment
    Integrated assessment in the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management is designed to evaluate the learner's ability to integrate theoretical understanding with practical application in the public sector context. The overall assessment strategy ensures that learners demonstrate applied competence, problem solving ability and technical proficiency consistent with the NQF Level 8 descriptors.

    The assessment design ensures that learners are assessed across a variety of modes that mirror the competencies required in the public sector environment, including written theoretical analysis, applied problem-solving, policy analysis, strategic planning, and research. Integrated assessment combines formative and summative approaches to provide a holistic evaluation of learning. All assessments measure knowledge, skills and values in an applied and contextualised manner, ensuring readiness for employment or further learning.

    Formative assessments are conducted continuously throughout the learning period, while summative assessments are conducted at the end of each module or learning period to confirm that exit-level competencies have been achieved.

    The integrated assessment approach across this qualification includes the following components: formative assessment activities such as tests, assignments, case studies, group activities, and PowerPoint presentations; summative assessment in the form of formal written examinations conducted at the end of each semester; a Portfolio of Evidence (POE) for the Research Methodology module, which requires learners to complete a range of research-related activities and a mini-research project; and the formulation and presentation of applied tasks such as strategic management plans, policy analysis reports, and intergovernmental relations reports. This combination of assessment types ensures that learners' applied competence is demonstrated across the full range of Exit Level Outcomes. The ratio for formative and summative assessment is 50:50.

    Formative assessment
    Formative assessment is continuous and developmental in nature. It provides feedback to guide learners toward achieving competence and may include:
  • Class tests, quizzes and written assignments, and research projects.
  • Peer and group activities promoting teamwork and problem solving.
  • Portfolio of evidence.
    Formative assessment in the Post graduate Diploma in Public Management is designed to support and enhance the learning process by providing ongoing feedback to learners on their academic progress and competence development. Formative assessment is developmental in nature and does not on its own lead to the awarding of credits or certification; however, it plays an essential role in preparing learners for summative assessment and in identifying areas requiring further development.

    Formative assessment methods employed across modules include: written assignments requiring critical analysis and application of theoretical frameworks to public sector scenarios; in-class tests assessing knowledge and understanding of key concepts and legislative frameworks; case study analyses requiring learners to apply public management principles to real-world public sector challenges; group activities and collaborative assignments designed to develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving competencies; and oral presentations through which learners demonstrate their ability to communicate complex information in a structured and coherent manner. Formative assessment results are recorded and count towards promotion and progression marks as applicable, in accordance with CUT's academic policies.

    Summative assessment
    Summative assessment is used to determine the learner's final level of achievement in each instructional offering. It includes end of semester examinations for theoretical modules.

    Summative assessment in the Post Graduate Diploma in Public Management is conducted at the end of each module or learning period to determine the extent to which learners have achieved the Exit Level Outcomes and applied competencies required for the qualification. Summative assessment is formal in nature, and the results thereof determine the learner's academic achievement and eligibility to receive credits and to proceed to the next level of study.

    The primary summative assessment instrument across most modules in this qualification is a formal written examination conducted at the end of each semester. These examinations are designed to assess learners' ability to apply theoretical knowledge, analyse complex public sector scenarios, and demonstrate critical thinking at NQF Level 8. For the Research Methodology module, the summative assessment takes the form of a Portfolio of Evidence (POE) comprising research-related activities and a culminating mini-research project and report, which assesses the learner's ability to independently conduct and present applied research in the public management field. All summative assessments are subject to internal and external moderation processes in accordance with CHE requirements and CUT's quality assurance framework, ensuring reliability, validity, and fairness in the assessment of learner competence.

    Practical application is reinforced through structured Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) activities, laboratory sessions, and project-based modules. Learners engage with real-world problems, applying classroom theory to industrial or simulated contexts. WIL outcomes are assessed through industry reports, supervisor evaluations, reflective journals, and oral presentations. These components are moderated to ensure authenticity and equivalence of assessment standards. However, there is no Work-integrated learning component attached to the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management offered at CUT. Upon successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management learners who are not employed in the public sector may apply for Internship programmes (period of one to two years) within the South African Public Sector to gain work integrated learning.

    Integration of learning:
    Integrated assessment focus on the learner's ability to combine knowledge about participative strategic public management, public monitoring and evaluation, good governance and leadership, research methodology, and any one of the elective modules, public policy, public financial management or project management. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    International postgraduate qualifications in public management and public administration are designed to develop advanced knowledge and competencies required by professionals and managers operating in complex public-sector environments. The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management offered by the Central University of Technology (CUT) compares favourably with international qualifications in public administration and public management. The qualification was compared with programmes associated with the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom and the Institute of Public Administration (IPA), accredited by the National University of Ireland (NUI), in Ireland. The comparison demonstrates similarities in areas such as public-sector management, strategy, governance, leadership, financial management and the development of competencies required by public officials and managers.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: University of Nottingham
    Qualification Title: Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Public Administration pathway
    Credits: 120 credits at the taught postgraduate stage
    Duration: 2 years part-time.

    Entry Requirements
  • Applicants to the current Master of Public Administration are normally required to hold an appropriate undergraduate degree, with the University specifying a UK 2:1 or 2:2 degree depending on the applicant's circumstances. The qualification is relevant to graduates as well as individuals seeking to develop careers in public-sector organisations.

    Purpose/Rationale
    The programme is intended to develop the knowledge and practical competencies required for leadership and management within public-sector organisations. It develops competencies relating to leadership and management, financial and strategic planning, service delivery, influencing and negotiation. Students also examine contemporary global public-sector issues and apply their learning to real-life public-sector cases.

    This purpose compares favourably with the CUT Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management, which prepares graduates for public-sector positions in areas such as general management, financial management, human resource management, project management and governmental relations.

    Qualification Structure
    Modules:
  • Leading and Managing People in Public Sector Organisations.
  • Administration and Governance: From Concepts to Practice.
  • Strategic and Financial Planning in the Public Sector.
  • Public-sector leadership and management.
  • Governance.

    Similarities:
  • Both qualifications are postgraduate qualifications directed towards the development of advanced knowledge and competencies applicable to public-sector management and administration.
  • Both qualifications develop knowledge and competencies related to leadership, governance, strategic management and public-sector management.
  • Both qualifications address financial management and strategic planning within the public sector.
  • Both qualifications address public policy and the management or administration of public-sector organisations.
  • Both qualifications are appropriate for individuals seeking to develop or advance their careers in government, public administration and related organisations.
  • Both qualifications combine theoretical knowledge with its application to practical public-sector management challenges.

    Differences:
  • The CUT qualification is specifically positioned as a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management at NQF Level 8, whereas Nottingham currently offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) as its principal current programme in the field.
  • CUT's qualification is specifically situated within the South African public management environment, whereas Nottingham places greater emphasis on international and global public-policy and public-administration issues.
  • The CUT qualification can be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time.
  • The current Nottingham MPA consists of 120 credits of taught core and optional modules followed by a 60-credit dissertation, distinguishing the full Master's structure from CUT's Postgraduate Diploma.

    Country: Ireland
    Institution: Institute of Public Administration (IPA)
    Accrediting Institution: National University of Ireland (NUI)
    Qualification Title: Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management
    NFQ Level: Level 9
    Duration: 1 year, part-time
    Delivery: Blended Learning

    Entry Requirements
    The qualification is particularly suitable for people working in different areas of the public sector, including central government departments, local authorities and public agencies. It is designed for professionals who wish to acquire or strengthen their knowledge of public management and support their career development in the public service.

    Purpose/Rationale
    The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management provides students with a solid grounding in subjects central to contemporary public management. It is intended particularly for public servants and managers who require advanced understanding of the principles and practices underpinning effective management within the public sector.

    The qualification combines academic principles with practical application and develops students' knowledge in areas such as economics, human resource management, organisational structure and strategy, financial management, organisational change and the influence of European Union institutions and policies on Ireland.

    Qualification Structure
    Modules
    The qualification comprises six modules, with three modules completed in each semester. The curriculum covers key areas including:
  • Economics.
  • Human Resource Management.
  • Organisational Structure and Strategy.
  • Public Sector Financial Management.
    Organisational Change.
  • European Union institutions and policies relevant to Ireland.

    Similarities:
  • The IPA/NUI and CUT qualifications are postgraduate qualifications designed to develop advanced competencies relevant to public management and the public service.
  • Both qualifications develop knowledge and competencies in strategic management and public-sector management.
  • Both qualifications address public-sector financial management, demonstrating strong comparability in an important professional competency area.
  • Both qualifications are appropriate for public officials and managers seeking career development and greater managerial responsibility within the public sector.
  • Both combine academic knowledge with the practical application of management principles in public-sector settings.
  • Both provide opportunities for further postgraduate study. The Irish Postgraduate Diploma forms the first year of the IPA's suite of MA programmes, while the CUT qualification is positioned at NQF Level 8 and provides postgraduate preparation relevant to further advanced study.

    Differences:
  • The IPA/NUI qualification is positioned at Irish NFQ Level 9, whereas the CUT qualification is positioned at South African NQF Level 8. The numerical level should therefore not be interpreted as indicating direct equivalence because the two countries use different national qualifications frameworks.
  • The IPA/NUI qualification is a one-year part-time programme, whereas CUT offers its qualification over one year full-time or two years part-time.
  • IPA uses a blended-learning approach, combining online learning with selected in-person sessions at the IPA campus in Dublin.
  • The Irish programme is specifically contextualised within the Irish public service and includes consideration of European Union institutions and policies, whereas the CUT qualification is contextualised within the South African public-management environment.
  • The CUT curriculum explicitly includes Good Governance and Leadership, Public Monitoring and Evaluation Management, and a Research Methodology and Research Project module, while the current Irish programme places explicit emphasis on economics, human resource management, organisational structure and strategy, organisational change and the EU context.

    Summary of International Comparability
    The international comparison demonstrates that the Central University of Technology Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management compares favourably with international postgraduate programmes in public management and public administration. The qualifications share a common emphasis on developing advanced competencies for public-sector management, particularly in strategic management, leadership, governance, financial management and effective administration.

    The international qualifications differ primarily in their national contexts, qualification structures and modes of delivery. Nottingham has a strong international public-administration orientation, while the IPA/NUI qualification is closely connected to the Irish public service and European institutional environment. CUT is specifically designed within the South African higher-education and public-management context and contains modules in Strategic Public Management, Public Monitoring and Evaluation Management, Good Governance and Leadership, Research Methodology and Research Project, together with electives in Public Policy, Public Financial Management or Project Management.

    Overall, the comparison indicates that the CUT Postgraduate Diploma incorporates internationally recognisable areas of learning in contemporary public management while maintaining a strong South African orientation. Its combination of strategic public management, governance and leadership, monitoring and evaluation, research and elective specialisation provides a coherent postgraduate curriculum that compares appropriately with international programmes while responding to the particular needs of the South African public sector. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for horizontal, vertical, and diagonal articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal articulation
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Public Administration, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation
  • Master of Public Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Management Sciences, NQF Level 9.

    Diagonal Articulation
  • Occupational Certificate: Public Service Administrator, NQF Level 5.
  • Occupational Certificate: Project Manager, NQF 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.
     
    NONE 


    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.