SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
111679	Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
ORIGINATOR
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
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		Finance, Economics and Accounting
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
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2019-09-03	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 Accounting is to strengthen and deepen the knowledge of the learners as well as working professionals from other disciplines in Financial Accounting and Taxation. They will have knowledge of reflection and development by means of a systematic survey of current thinking, practice and research methods in accounting and taxation. Graduates will be able to demonstrate the ability to independently demonstrate, engage, analyse, design, implement, monitor, evaluate, assess and prescribe Accounting functions. The significance of this qualification is that it focuses the graduate on the theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, as well as the ability to relate knowledge to a range of contexts in order to undertake professional or highly-skilled work. The qualification will include conducting and reporting of a mini research project which will fulfil the work integrated learning requirement.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting will provide an opportunity for employed learners to gain more in-depth knowledge in the field of Accounting and Taxation. The business environment of today and more specifically the accounting and taxation environment require more than only technical skills but also other advanced vocational skills. Therefore, offering a Diploma in Accounting alone would not be sufficient to cater for these needs as the qualification focuses on producing accounting technicians.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting is better positioned to address further industrial needs and is designed to provide learners with the applied knowledge and skills in the areas of accounting and taxation to perform complex accounting and taxation roles as well as comprehensive theoretical knowledge. The advisory board clearly stated that, the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting aims at offering an intensive focused and applied specialised Financial Accounting and Taxation with emphasis on research in Accounting and Taxation that will assist the learners to be better positioned to perform, research and provide solutions to problems at a higher level of accounting professionals than just a mere technician. On the other hand, increased national, global competition and technological pressures have brought challenges within the accounting environment. The Department of Accounting has taken the initiative therefore to introduce the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting in order to address the needs as presented by these changes in the current national and global economic situation.

Rationale:
The Postgraduate Diploma prepares learners for careers in the accounting function of industry, finance, management consulting and with firms of professional accountants, as well as with other financial service employers. The Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting will also prepare learners for academic research opportunities in accounting and taxation. The Postgraduate Diploma is primarily designed for those who wish to pursue a career in Accounting and Taxation and looking for a qualification that will give them an integrated perspective on the most important tax and accounting issues in South Africa. This will enable them to become competent tax experts who are able to structure transactions in such a way that it is both tax efficient and tax compliant. Some learners may choose to utilise their Accounting knowledge in conjunction with their undergraduate qualification. The main types of accountants are professional accountants and tax consultants. Training as an accountant offers increasingly varied roles within organisations at the heart of business development.

Increasing complexity in the business and regulatory environment explains the high demand for enhanced knowledge in accounting and taxation for both business executives and professional accountants. By providing knowledge in accounting and taxation, this qualification serves to equip learners to meet the needs of society. In fact, accounting education is no longer something just for professional accountants; rather, it is an essential management tool for all business executives. Hence, the Postgraduate Diploma qualification can serve anyone in business who wants to strengthen his/her knowledge in accounting and related areas.

On completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting, learners can join accounting firms, banking and finance industries, both small and large corporate sector businesses and the academic community. The Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting is designed to provide a qualification that will meet the needs of the community and increasing demands from society for accounting and taxation executives and for the leaders of tomorrow. The Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting is for learners wishing to complete a postgraduate qualification to enable them to further their studies in a Master of Business Studies.

A Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting is a vocational qualification at Level 8 of the NQF with the minimum credits of 120 offered over a period of 1-year full time, preparing individuals for careers in the fields of Accounting and taxation and preparing them to be professional accountants and tax consultants.

Learners who have already proved their abilities with their Advanced Accounting Diploma and wish to continue on their career path to qualify as a professional accountants and tax consultants will be equipped by this qualification. The typical learner who will enrol for this qualification will be in possession of an appropriate Baccalaureus Technologiae or Postgraduate Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in the relevant field.

Learners will be provided with a qualification which will enable them to progress to supervisory positions at a later stage in their careers. The learners will be trained in preparing financial reports and tax returns and evaluating financial risk for companies. The Postgraduate Diploma will alleviate the shortage of accounting professionals nationally and internationally. Research by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) indicated that there is a shortage of professionals in accounting and many vacancies need to be filled at this level. Research by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) estimates that South Africa's accounting and auditing sector needs over 22000 qualified accountants at various levels in order to bridge the existing skills shortage in the profession at various levels. The levels denote accounting professionals from entry level to just below Chartered Accountant level. There is therefore the need to present both Advanced and Postgraduate accounting qualification that will enable graduates to attain the chartered accountant level in the future.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Access to this qualification can also be through Recognition of Prior Learning. Learners who do not meet the entry requirements may gain admission through Recognition of Prior Learning. In all cases, recognition will be considered under the conditions of the institution's policies and approval as per institutional policy, credits towards this qualification may be obtained by means of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Admission where the applicant does not meet the stated requirements but wishes to be admitted to this qualification on the basis of RPL the applicant will be required to furnish evidence of exceptional experience, depth and scope before his/her application is considered. The admission process and procedures is outlined in the institution's RPL policy.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Bachelor of Commerce in Taxation, NQF Level 7;

Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting: Taxation, NQF Level 7;

Advanced Diploma in Accounting, NQF Level 7;

Advanced Diploma in Taxation, NQF Level 7.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits:

Financial Reporting V, 24 Credits;

Taxation IV, 24 Credits;

Professional Standards and Ethics, 24 Credits;

Business Communication, 24 Credits;

Research Project, 24 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Select, apply and engage Generally Accepted Accounting Practice [GAAP] (primarily International Financial Reporting Standards [IFRS]) to prepare and analyse individual or group financial statements).
2. Select, apply and engage relevant Income Tax Act, the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Act, the Estate Duty Act and South African Revenue Service (SARS') Practice Notes to prepare, calculate and provide advice to individuals, companies and estates.
3. Identify, address, implement and apply professional standards and ethics issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical value systems relevant for accounting and taxation practitioner.
4. Identify, address, implement and apply business communication issues based on critical reflection to convey ideas and insights relevant for accounting and taxation practitioner.
5. Implement and apply theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques to solve problems in the field of accounting and taxation.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Principles of financial reporting are assessed, analysed and implemented in Accounting field.

Individual and group financial statements that comply with IFRS are accurately prepared from a given business scenario.

Individual and group financial statements are analysed for compliance with IFRS.

Individual and group financial statements are interpreted for decision-making.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Principles of taxation are assessed, analysed and implemented in taxation field.

Taxable income calculations are prepared, validated and justified with the corresponding tax liability for a company, trust or individual.

Estate duty liability are prepared, validated and justified for an individual's.

Accurate and useful tax advice supported by valid and well-reasoned analysis is provided according to the taxpayer's needs.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical value systems are identified and addressed for accounting and taxation purposes.

Knowledge of the ethics implied by corporate governance principles is professionally, ethically, implemented and applied towards clients, employees and the world at large at all times.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

The knowledge of scientific writing and expected ethical behaviour is evaluated, analysed, applied and recommended for ethical action and behaviour in Accounting and taxation field.

Knowledge of business communication is applied and used to generate, evaluate and interpret information in the field of Accounting and taxation.

The ramifications of economic and business decisions are explained in a language accessible to the general public and various stakeholders in the business community.

Professional or occupational ideas and texts presented and communicated to a range of audiences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Complex and abstract problems drawing from systematical range of specialised skills identified, analysed and addressed in accounting and taxation environment.

The research methodologies for concrete and abstract problems encountered by accounting and tax practitioners are formulated and applied in the field of accounting.

Creative responses to problems and issues are gathered, synthesised, evaluated, managed and processed in specialised financial accounting and taxation areas.

Creative insights, rigorous interpretations and solutions to problems and issues are identified, presented and communicated to appropriate accounting and taxation audience.

Integrated Assessment:
The overall assessment strategy of the Department of Accounting is that of integrated assessment which is evident in the approach to the assessment of applied competence. Applied competence is understood as the learners' ability to integrate concepts, ideas and actions in authentic, real-life contexts; the assessment of which is broken down to the assessment of foundational, practical and reflexive competence where:

Foundational competence is the demonstrated understanding of what the learner does and why (s) he does it.

Practical competence is the demonstrated ability to perform a set of tasks and actions in authentic contexts.

Reflexive competence is the demonstrated ability to integrate learner's performances with their understanding so that they are able to adapt to changed circumstances and explain the reason behind these adaptations.

Integrated Assessment further implies a planned combination of formative and summative assessment strategies with varying ratios, depending on the level (year) of study. Formative assessment implies being supportive to learning, non-judgmental and focused on providing constructive feedback or criticism to the learner, takes place during the learning process and informs planning of future learning activities: Summative assessment implies assessment that is mainly concerned with summing up the learning process and therefore usually takes place at the end of the relevant learning process.

The institution has an appropriate assessment policy and procedures for all modes of delivery in all its qualifications and therefore the Department of Accounting's assessment strategy for Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting will be aligned to the overall qualification design as well as to the institutional policy on assessment.

For the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting, the internal assessment of the learning achievements is conducted by academic staff responsible for teaching of modules. The process is conducted in the following: for semester modules, 1 project, 1 case study, 2 assignments, 2 tests and 1 examination at the end of the semester. For year module, 1 project, 2 case studies, 3 assignments, 4 tests and 1 examination at the end of the year.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

This qualification is comparable to the outcomes, notional hours and level of difficulty to the following qualifications:

Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting and Finance offered by the University of Kingston in the United Kingdom.
This qualification offers a rigorous and challenging programme of study. It provides learners with a well-integrated knowledge of financial accounting, management accounting, taxation and auditing. Modules of the qualification will provide the learner with a mix of practical 'know how" as well as a theoretical underpinning. Explanation of the principles for constructing the key financial statements will enable learners to produce financial statements from transaction records using double entry principles. Learners will learn how to conduct an appraisal of an organisation's financial statements. Enabling learners to understand and prepare management information to support the decision-making in an organisation. Will also familiarise learners with important issues in empirical accounting research.

Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting is offered by the University of Newcastle.
This qualification is aimed at developing an understanding of financial reporting, taxation of income, the principles of vat and company law; the qualification will develop an understanding of business and financial strategy and decision-making; develop an understanding of the impact of international accounting standards on financial reporting. The qualification consists of seven postgraduate businesses namely fundamentals of financial accounting, personal and business taxation, auditing theory and practice, law for accounting practice, business strategy, business information and finance and personal and professional skills.

Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting offered by the Melbourne Institute of Technology in Australia.
This qualification aims to provide learners the ability to demonstrate coherent knowledge of the accounting discipline, possess the technical knowledge, competency and skill, be capable of independent learning, exercise critical thinking and problem solving, be ethically aware and possess appropriate professional skills and be able to communicate accounting and other financial information orally and in writing to a variety of information recipients. The qualification consists of eight postgraduate business units namely, foundations of accounting, economics, financial accounting, management accounting, Information Technology (IT) and accounting systems, business finance and business and company law.

Graduate Diploma in Accounting is offered at the Victoria University Melbourne in Australia.
This qualification is aimed for people who desire a specialist accounting qualification. On successful completion of the qualification, learners will be able to: review theoretical approaches and analyse their application to achieve effective accounting practice, critically apply cross disciplinary knowledge in creative decision-making, demonstrate independent judgement in a range of technical or management functions in response to future business challenges, effectively communicate complex knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences. The qualification consists of eight postgraduate business units of managerial accounting, accounting systems and processes, business and company law, business economics, business finance, financial and corporate accounting, professional auditing and issues in contemporary accounting.

Conclusion:
The qualification (Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting) reflects a great deal of similarity with the modules from international universities mentioned. This implies that Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting is internationally comparable.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Accounting, NQF Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:

Master of Commerce in Accounting Degree, NQF Level 9.

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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