SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
105704	Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management
ORIGINATOR
Vaal University of Technology
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Advanced Diploma	Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies		Generic Management
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 07	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2019-02-13	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 Advanced Diploma seeks to provide professional preparation for graduates or diplomats into the field of Retail Business Management. It is also intended to prepare learners for Postgraduate study through the deepening of knowledge and understanding of Retailing and Retail Operations theories and practices.

The Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management qualification is intended to empower learners to independently identify, assess and analyse retail management related issues, practices and challenges that confront organisations. Individual modules, in the proposed curriculum, were coherently planned and will assist learners in acquisition of discipline specific and industry relevant knowledge, theory, relevant skills (e.g. language and proficiency skills, mathematical, visual and presentation skills), insight, research competencies, ability to apply retail principles, practices and techniques. In addition, industry experts in the field of Retail will be used as guest lecturers in the program to further offer learners an understanding of the constructive strategic roles they need to play and operational functions they need to master in organisations as managers. The qualification is also intended to prepare learners for Postgraduate studies through the deepening and understanding of the retail theory, principles and practices.

Rationale:
The Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management is part of institution's revised Product Quality Management (PQM) aimed at preparing learners to gain detailed knowledge and insight into the role of retailing in today's competitive business environment. The qualification is also aimed at filling the gap resulting from the phasing out of Bachelor of Technology Degrees at Universities of Technology. The qualification provides horizontal and vertical articulation possibilities into related qualifications. The qualification is well aligned to industry needs and contributes to the socio-economic demands for South Africa. The majority of learners graduating from the National Diploma in Retail Business Management are the target for this qualification.

Industry's requests for learners pursuing Retailing and Retail Business Management have grown tremendously and thus there is a large demand for Postgraduate qualified individuals in the sector. Therefore, the department Marketing and Sport Management developed the Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management to fill the void in the sector. The qualification addresses the need within the sector and provides opportunity for learners to address the challenges in the sector. The department of Marketing and Sport Management encourage learners to pursue further studies to at least Advanced Diploma (Level 7) and or Postgraduate Diploma (Level 8) (Honours) level. Currently, learners complete their studies at a Diploma level in Retail Business Management and there is a need for progression (vertical articulation) into Postgraduate qualifications (Advanced Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma and relevant Master Degree). In addition, the qualification fulfils a need for a formal qualification that focuses on producing employable graduates in retail business management who can make an impact in society and address the needs of the retail market. After consultations with members of the Advisory committee, businesses in retailing, Universities of Technology (UoT's) and comprehensive universities offering related fields, it was agreed that the offering of the Advanced Diploma in Retailing is critical in order to fulfil the diverse needs within the sector. The qualification contributes to the national priorities of skills development and provides relevant competencies in the field of retailing that makes the qualification relevant and competitive.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institutional RPL policy will be applied to applicants who do not meet the minimum entry requirements, who possess international qualifications or who completed a Diploma/National Diploma at another institution.

The details of the Faculty RPL policy are as follows, presuming prior accredited learning has taken place:

Candidate applies for RPL against module, or part/full qualification at the relevant department (Head of Department-(HOD)).

An exemption form is completed for the RPL of modules or part/full qualification.

Credits are awarded for relevant, approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Only then may the prospective candidate continue with full registration.

The details of the Faculty RPL policy are as follows, presuming No prior accredited learning has taken place:

Candidate applies for RPL against module, or part/full qualification at the relevant department (Head of Department-(HOD)).

RPL officer is appointed from within subject heads (Subject experts) within the department.

The subject expert meets with the candidate to conduct pre-screening (evaluation) to ascertain viability of application based on programme requirements (Exit Level Outcomes and Assessment Criteria).

Candidate prepares evidence of work (portfolio of evidence) and/or any other relevant proof of evidence (practical work, assignments and or assessments). The evidence needs to be submitted to the RPL officer for RPL evaluation process.

Candidate pays an initial fee for RPL.

The candidate then completes a RPL form and submits it to RPL officer.

An assessor from within the department is then appointed.

Evidence submitted by the candidate is assessed by the assessor. However, additional evidence may be requested.

A moderator from the department's advisory board and from within the candidate's industry is appointed.

The moderator moderates the candidate's evidence.

The moderator reports on the assessor's judgment.

RPL outcome is presented to faculty board by RPL officer.

If the credit is not awarded, an appeals application to independently appointed moderator or Vaal University of Technology (VUT's) registrar can be done. The process of moderation will then resume.

If the RPL is awarded, an exemption form is completed and the candidate may continue with full registration.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum requirements for admission into the Advanced Diploma are:

Diploma/National Diploma or equivalent qualification in Retail Business Management or related field, 360 Credits, NQF Level 6.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

Advanced Retail Business Management Module 1, 20 Credits.

Retail Logistics Management Module 1, 15 Credits.

Advanced Retail Operations Management Module 1, 16 Credits.

Research Methodology Module 1, 9 Credits.

Advanced Retail Business Management Module 2, 20 Credits.

Retail Logistics Management Module 2, 15 Credits.

Advanced Retail Operations Management Module 2, 16 Credits.

Research Methodology Module 2, 9 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Develop advanced competencies and demonstrate integrated knowledge of retail oriented strategies within retail business management, retail logistics management and retail operations management environment.
2. Demonstrate detailed knowledge on advanced practices and trends in the retail business management sector.
3. Show evidence of being able to apply the requisite steps in the research processes (Research methodology processes, application and practices.
4. Display competencies in ability to data collection, analysis and reporting, demonstrate applied competencies in the development of integrated.
5. Demonstrate applied competencies in the development of integrated retail branch management philosophy.
6. Apply and analyse the global logistics management theories, issues and best practices.
7. Identify initiatives, tactics and strategies suitable for enhancing supply chain management (retail logistics management) and performances.
8. Display a detailed appreciation to undertake advanced retail operations management decisions in a dynamic environment.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 1:

Understand the importance of retail oriented strategies and their implications on creation of sustainable advantage.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 2:

Formulate, implement and evaluate the wholesale and retail specific strategies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 3:

Focus on preparation of a research project proposal.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 4:

Display knowledge of various research designs and their implications on data collection and analysis.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 5:

Empower learners with high level retail operational knowledge, understanding and skills needed to manage retail operations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 6:

Focus on the latest trends and practices as well as macro and micro environmental factors that can impact in the management of logistics operations, global logistics operational systems, standard practices and ethics.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 7:

Understand an overview of supply chain management characteristics, problems and functioning.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Outcome 8:

Conduct an analysis of retail operation management.

Integrated Assessment:

Assessment of modules in the Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management will be in line with the assessment policy of the institution. Learning outcomes for all learning units and modules will be specified in the learner guide and will be used as the reference mark that must be satisfied in order for a candidate to obtain a pass mark.

Formative assessment will be conducted using class tests, group presentations and assignments. Assignments will usually take the form of case study analyses. Summative assessment will be in the form of a final examination at the end of each semester. Informal assessment will be in the form of peer assessments and feedback sessions. The opportunity of sitting for a supplementary examination is available to those who intend to rewrite the examination for any reason. Assessments will be designed to meet the standard of a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 qualifications. In each assessment, appropriate rubrics are designed and used to provide an authentic system of evaluating the candidates' work.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

In developing the Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management (Level 7: 120 Credits) reference was made to comparable international qualifications in other countries such as:

In Canada, the York University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). Despite title differences, both qualifications are similar and address the same Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs). Both qualifications incorporate theory as well as industry practical experience, however, the Advanced Retail Management qualification's WIL (Work Integrated Learning) does not involve work placement. The BBA places emphasis on applying and synthesising concepts and techniques from the various functional areas of accounting, finance, managerial economics, marketing, operations management, and organisational behaviour in the context of strategy making. Modules aim to develop the learners' ability to:

Identify and analyse critical threats and opportunities confronting an organisation,

Make recommendations for the development and use of the firm's resources, and

Most effectively utilise an organisation's capabilities to ensure its success.

At the University of Arizona (UA), in the United States of America, Bachelor of Science in Retail and Consumer Studies is offered. UA's qualifications have many modules and learners can choose certain electives, while this qualification has standard modules with no electives. Most of the content offered in this qualification's modules is designed as standalone modules whilst in the UA qualification, multiple modules may be covered. Also this qualification does not cover Retail Analytics in its content yet. Whereas research ethos is skewed towards Business Research at UA, whilst in this qualification is more academic based. The standard and Exit Level Outcomes are similar in both qualifications. The UA qualification prepares learners to manage retail strategy and operations within this fast-paced, in-demand field. Also provides learners with a solid foundation in consumer behaviour, management, merchandise buying and planning, marketing, branding and product development, human resources, operations, and digital retailing. Learners are guided through the interpretation of leading research and retailing best practices to give learners the expertise to make data-driven decisions and the confidence to inspire.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows for vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Advanced Diploma in Marketing, NQF Level 7.

Vertical Articulation:

Postgraduate Diploma in Retail Business Management, NQF Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing, NQF Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, NQF Level 8.

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.

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