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: 

Master of Commerce 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
104525  Master of Commerce 
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
Master's Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Finance, Economics and Accounting 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-09-12  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 primary purpose of the qualification is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level. The Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) of the National Qualifications Framework (2013) notes that "the Masters in research requires a candidate to undertake research at the most advanced academic levels culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a dissertation" (p.32). The qualification will develop students for an academic career by undertaking a focused research in their chosen field.

The defining characteristic of the qualification is that the candidate is required to demonstrate high-level research capability and to make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of a discipline or field. The work must be of a quality to satisfy peer review and merit publication. The qualification may be earned through pure discipline-based or multidisciplinary research or applied research. Graduates should be able to supervise and evaluate the research of others in the area of specialisation concerned.

Furthermore the qualification is intended to provide graduates with necessary knowledge, competencies and skills in order to understand and further develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles, philosophies and methodologies of business management.

Graduates must be able to reflect critically on theory and its application They must be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, design and critically appraise research, make sound judgements using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences, demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks with a theoretical underpinning and continue to advance their knowledge, understanding and skills. Furthermore the qualification will equip students with the required skills, knowledge and the intellectual capacity to develop strategic plans in an organisation to act as a specialist in any one of the functions in business management.

Rationale:
This qualification allows for articulation from the Master's Degree from which students have graduated in the past 20 years. The qualification has focused on developing the necessary academic and research capacity, infrastructure, institutional policy and systems in order to ensure it is ready to offer the qualification. It is common knowledge that both public and private research-oriented organisations require individuals on an on-going basis who possess the qualifications with specific research expertise in business and management. This should contribute to greater sustainability on the development front in terms of growth and poverty elimination.

This qualification supports the goals of the National Development Plan 2030 and will contribute to the achievement of national higher education and economic goals of South Africa and the region. This qualification strongly focuses on further enhancing and developing research skills and learner research proficiencies. The overall outcome of this qualification is to contribute to the graduates professional as well as personal development and learning. This qualification aims to develop graduates with specialist knowledge; a further rationale is to prepare graduates with specialist knowledge in pursuit to Doctoral Degrees. 

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 a cognitive ability assessment. 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 qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
  • A relevant Honour's Degree.
    Or
  • A relevant Postgraduate Diploma at Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification comprises of compulsory module at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules Level 9, 180 Credits:
  • Dissertation, 180 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Integrate and contextualise comprehensive and systematic knowledge of one or more disciplines or fields, with depth, specialisation and up-to date, benchmarked knowledge.
    2. Think epistemologically and relate theory into practice via an informed and critical understanding of the theory and research methodology of one or more disciplines or fields, and an understanding of how these relate to research problems in their specific arena of employment.
    3. Select and apply research methods effectively, and undertake a research project in the area of business and management.
    4. Deal with complex problems using the intellectual, research and technological resources and tools provided by a discipline or profession and thereby possibly contributing novus and unique elements to the greater body of scientific knowledge.
    5. Effectively retrieve and process information, and engage critically with current research and scholarship in an area of specialisation.
    6. Present and communicate academic or professional work effectively, using the full resources of an academic discourse appropriately. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse and evaluate the viability of the research.
  • Discuss the key issues and challenges within the business environment.
  • Conduct independent research.
  • Analyse old and existing knowledge.
  • Fundamental and specialist knowledge is applied by conceptualising the business and management environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify a research problem that is suitable
  • Master all research skills by application.
  • Discover and attain new knowledge.
  • Master a body of knowledge in the specified area.
  • Concepts, ideas and theories are communicated with the aid of research instruments and the ability to conceptualise various research techniques and methodologies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify and select an appropriate research methodology.
  • Utilise qualitative and quantitative methodology to analyse data.
  • Implement the empirical within the research.
  • Systematically apply the research knowledge and its resultant impact on business and management.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Use empirical data to interrogate theoretical knowledge.
  • Formulate relevant conclusion based on the results analysed.
  • Interrogate with complex issues from a research perspective by addressing the challenges and devising methods to overcome various concerns in business and management.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Conduct current and relevant research.
  • Utilise current resources, textbooks, journals and information.
  • Explore and evaluate the various sources of information.
  • Use library and other resources effectively to suit the needs to the research.
  • Effectively process and retrieve information and engage critically with an academic diaspora through scholarly contribution to academic literature through publications in refereed journals in the chosen field.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Publish journal articles.
  • Present research in research colloquiums and seminars.
  • Communicate academic information effectively.
  • Communicate academic or professional work effectively to a wider body of audience through academic discourse using research seminars, symposiums and research colloquiums.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The Assessment methods measure the extent to which the student has achieved competence in the chosen areas of study delivered through workshops/research seminars/advanced research writing workshops etc. These assessment methods include:
  • Seminars in the chosen area of expertise.
  • Dissertation.
  • Scholarly contribution to academic literature through publications in refereed journals in the chosen field.
  • Research plan/proposal presentation.
  • Research progress report. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    India: Master of Commerce in Business Management offered by Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey (SNDT) Women's University Women's University

    Purpose of Qualification:
    The SNDT Women's University's Master of Commerce in Business Management is an ideal platform to develop essential skills required to pursue a career as a business executive. Fast emerging as a desirable alternative to the Master of Business Administration degree, it is gaining popularity as it is largely without the hassle of the multiple qualifying Management Aptitude Tests.

    Learning Outcomes:
    At the end of the programme the student should have developed essential skills to pursue a career in business analysis or in the capacity of Business Management Executive.

    Similarities and Differences
    In order to pursue the SNDT Women's University's Master of Commerce, candidates need a minimum eligibility of a pass (minimum 45%) in the undergraduate degree with a background in Commerce, with most colleges accepting only Bachelor of Commerce degrees. On the other hand, the MANCOSA MCom requires the student to hold a commerce related Honours' degree or a Postgraduate Diploma (NQF level 8) relevant to the intended field of study.
    The SNDT Women's University's Master of Commerce features several electives and requires project work that help facilitate necessary industrial experience, all of which contribute to the credits earned in the duration of the course while the MANCOSA MCom develops students for an academic / industry career by undertaking a focused research in their chosen field.

    Kenya, Master of Commerce offered by Strathmore University

    Purpose of Qualification:
    The Strathmore University's Master of Commerce is a programme designed for those who wish to advance academically and professionally in business science, with specialisations in Strategic Management Accounting, Sustainability Accounting, Finance, Marketing, International Business Management, Management Science and Strategic Management. The overall aim of the Master of Commerce programme is to produce business scientists who are capable of handling dynamic business environment and transform their organisations.

    Learning Outcomes:
    At the end of the Strathmore University's Master of Commerce programme the student should be ready to work, not only in the academic field but also to manage organisations in diverse operations. The programme equips candidates with critical skills which are required in the workplace.

    Similarities and Differences
    Entry into the Strathmore University's Master of Commerce degree requires students to be holders of first class (or GPA of 3.45-4) or Upper Second Class (or GPA of 2.85 -3.44) degrees in Commerce or Business Studies from recognised universities and holders of lower second class degrees in Commerce or Business Studies or at least 2.5 GPA plus Postgraduate Diplomas or Certificates in relevant fields of study, or with at least two years working experience in a business or research environment while the MANCOSA MCom requires the student to hold a commerce related Honours' degree or a Postgraduate Diploma (NQF level 8) relevant to the intended field of study. The Strathmore University's Master of Commerce degree is a two-year research degree comprising a dissertation while the MANCOSA MCom (180 credits) is a one-year research degree at an NQF level 9. The Strathmore University's Master of Commerce requires students to sit for and pass the Graduate Entrance Exam (GEE) while the MANCOSA MCom does not require the students to write an assessment as a requirement.

    New Zealand: Master of Commerce Degree offered by the University of Auckland

    Purpose of Qualification:
    The University of Auckland's Master of Commerce enables students with a first degree in the same discipline to pursue a specialised qualification that seeks to prepare the students for specialist positions in the public and private sector.

    Learning Outcomes:
    At the end of the MCom (120-point) degree programme the student is expected to be able to do research in the field chosen (specialisation area) and also to hold specialist positions in the public and private sector.

    Similarities and Differences
    Entry into the University of Auckland's Master of Commerce degree (120 point) is that student should have completed a one year of postgraduate study, following an undergraduate degree, in a field relevant to your chosen specialisation at a recognised university. This is also the same with the MANCOSA MCom that requires the student to hold a commerce related Honours' degree or a Postgraduate Diploma (NQF level 8) relevant to the intended field of study.
    Both programmes are one-year research degree programmes. The University of Auckland's Master of Commerce degree (120 points) must be completed on a full-time basis within 12 months or on a part time basis within 24 months whereas the MANCOSA MCom (180 credits) must be completed in 12 months in distance learning mode.

    The University of Auckland's Master of Commerce degree (120 points) is a one-year research degree comprising a 120 points, supervised dissertation while the MANCOSA Master of Commerce (I80 credits) is a one-year research degree at an NQF level 9. The University of Auckland's Master of Commerce (120 - point) degree comprises a 120-point thesis supervised dissertation while the MANCOSA Master of Commerce comprises 180 credits dissertation. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for vertical and horizontal articulation with the following:
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • A similar qualification at the appropriate Master of Business Administration, Level 9.
  • Master of Public Administration, Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Commerce at Level 10.
  • Doctor of Business Administration. 
    		•

    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. 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.