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: |
Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
117952 | Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
Rhodes University | ||||
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 | 2020-12-04 | 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 Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis is to develop within learners a comprehensive understanding of the purpose, role, methods and techniques applicable in effective business analysis, (business) process modelling, (business) engineering, management consulting and either software testing or project management for sustainable business performance. The knowledge and skills will form a crucial link in the development of effective business processes, management consulting and project management or software testing, thereby enhancing the competitiveness and organisational effectiveness, efficiency and economy of organisations in South Africa and the continent. Rationale: The justification for the qualification is consistent with the purpose and characteristics of an Advanced Diploma as outlined in the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (Council on Higher Education, 2013, p. 31). This qualification culminates from the work-readiness programme funded by FASSET, the Sector Education and Training Authority for the financial services industry, First National Bank and Standard Bank (2013). The intention is to provide a whole qualification that meets the need that has been so successfully addressed by the Certificate offers. This qualification will provide entry-level vocational and professional preparation for learners wishing to pursue a career in Business Analysis, which has been identified as a critical skill. The qualification will also provide a ladder of progression to the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analysis "through the deepening of their knowledge and understanding of theories, methodologies and practices in specific academic disciplines and fields, as well as the development of their ability to formulate, undertake and resolve more complex theoretical and practice-related problems and asks through the selection and use of appropriate methods and techniques". The qualification will contribute towards the development of the country and the economy through developing learners who are capable of applying critical and analytical thinking and innovation in business and industry. |
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience. The institution has a policy for admission of learners who do not have a Diploma or Degree, based on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The learner is required to produce a portfolio of evidence (POE) that aligns to the entry requirements. The POE much address each of the following: Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: Or Or |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.
Compulsory Modules, 80 Credits: Elective Modules, 40 Credits (Choose/Select one module): |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of business process modelling utilising the W5 approach (What, When, Where, Who, Which) to enable Business Improvement.
2. Apply business analysis methods through effective stakeholder engagement to achieve sustainable business practices. 3. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the role of the business consultant. 4. Present a range of recommended solutions demonstrating critical and reflexive understanding of business problems. 5. Provide impactful presentations through insightful feedback in an ethical manner. 6. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the fundamentals and concepts of testing including the psychology and ethics, software development models, test levels, targets and maintenance as well as the difference between static and dynamic testing. 7. Apply testing techniques, tool automation and strategic test management. 8. Demonstrate a detailed overview of the fundamentals and concepts of project management. 9. Apply project selection and strategy including Scope, Scheduling, Costs, Quality, Risk, Procurement, Stakeholder Management and Resource Management. Apply and evaluate AGILE and SCRUM methods. 10. Plan and integrate processes including Work Breakdown Structures, Network Diagrams, Gantt Charts, Product Backlogs and User Stories. |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10: Integrated Assessment: The institution uses both formative and summative assessment to create an opportunity for learners to demonstrate through a variety of procedures how they have grown as professionals. Summative assessment consists of on-line tests, written assignments for each module and a Capstone Project with supporting Portfolio of Evidence (PoE). A variety of assessment methods and tools may include, but are not limited to, any of the following: Written and computer-based examinations, Problem-solving assignments and exercises, Case studies and research projects, Practice in simulated contexts, Portfolios of evidence of workplace (WIL) experience, Practical projects resulting in the production of completed podcasts and videos and Practical assessment of specified skills. The policy stipulates that assessment should be open and transparent to learners and encourages the use of multiple forms of assessment. The institution has an external examining policy that formalises acceptable good practice. Benchmarking of the assessment of learning achievements is at the exit level of the qualification and is subject to external examination by appropriately qualified academics. Completed moderated results by the external examiners will be sent to the Head of Department (HOD) of the School who consults with lecturers if there are borderline cases or situations where learners could not sit for the examination due to ill health. The Head of School after finalisation of the results then forwards the mark sheets to the Registrar's office for processing. |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
Many academic institutions offer certificates and qualifications in business analysis, project management and Information Technology (IT) related disciplines.
The essence of this Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis and for international comparability, the following are closely comparable: Britain: The British Computer Society (BCS), The Chartered Institute for IT, offers an International Diploma in Business Analysis. This is selected as an example as it confirms the professional nature of being a Business Analyst and its international significance. This Diploma is designed for business and IT professionals who want to demonstrate they have a detailed understanding of business analysis best practice. Learners are required to pass four modules and sit for an oral examination. Core modules are Business Analysis Practice and Requirements Engineering (both must be passed). Knowledge-based modules are Business Analysis Foundation, Business Change, IS Project Management, Organisational Behaviour and Commercial Behaviour (one must be passed). Practitioner modules are Modelling Business Processes, Systems Modelling Techniques, Systems Development Essentials, Data Management Essentials and Benefits Management and Business Acceptance (one must be passed). Holders of the IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP®) are exempted from the Requirements Engineering and Knowledge-based module. Having achieved the International Diploma in Business Analysis and having five years of work experience, the Advanced International Diploma in Business Analysis can be undertaken. It aims to gain independent, industry-wide recognition as a senior business analyst by demonstrating experience, expertise and contribution to the BA profession. It is undertaken via skills professionalism, namely Analytical Skills (one chosen from Business Architecture, Advanced Requirements Engineering, Data Analysis and Agile Analysis), Business Skills (one chosen from Business Finance, Benefits Planning & Realisation) and People Skills (one chosen from Stakeholder Engagement, Team Leadership) as well as an additional module from either Analytical or Business Skills. Canada: McGill University's School of Continuing Studies offers Professional Development Certificates in Project Management and Business Analysis. It is noted that whenever a project is undertaken, there is a need for a business analyst to validate it and a project manager to lead it. Qualified professionals are in high demand in every industry, ensuring that you'll have the opportunity to advance your career and make an impact that matters. This example was chosen as it confirms the complementary relevance of Business Analysis and Project Management. Germany: The International Qualifications Board for Business Analysts (IQBBA) offers a Foundation level qualification suitable for business and system analysts. The prospective learners to enrol for the Certified Foundation Level Business Analyst (CFLBA) are Engineers, Product owners and Product managers. It is a globally recognised certification with accredited examination and training centres in numerous countries. The content comprises of Fundamentals of Business Analysis; Strategy Definition; Management of Business Analysis Process; Requirements Engineering in Business Analysis; and Solution Evaluation and Optimisation. This example was chosen to highlight its global presence as a required skill set and qualification. In conclusion, this qualification is comparable to the above international qualifications in terms of similar modules and content coverage in some modules. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation: Vertical Articulation: |
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. |