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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Human Resources Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118129  Higher Certificate in Human Resources Management 
ORIGINATOR
ICESA City Campus - Durban 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Human Resources 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-03-25  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 Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management is to provide entry into the field of commerce and Human Resource management by catering for entry-level or school leavers as an initial foray into any industry in a commerce-related role. This is done by providing a formal learning intervention through a higher certificate qualification. The qualification will form the foundation of knowledge for learners entering any commerce related field across a variety of industries, through a blend of theoretical and practical learning. The overall aim of the qualification is to prepare learners with the fundamental skills required to become a Human Resource professional in the future.

The primary purpose of the qualification is to produce individuals capable of contributing positively to their employers' objectives. The qualification applies to learners across a variety of industries. Furthermore, the purpose of the qualification is encapsulated in the following four pillars:
  • Equipping learners with foundational business principles.
  • Developing fundamental management competencies.
  • Exposing learners to the complexities of the current world of work.
  • Understanding the interconnectedness of the current world of work.

    The qualification targets the skills gap present in the South African economy by producing work-ready, skilled and knowledgeable graduates, ready to contribute to society.

    Rationale:
    The qualification is intended to provide learners with the necessary skills, competencies and knowledge to pursue a career within the commercial context across industries. There is a constant and increasing demand for skilled entry-level professionals within a range of industry.

    The underlying rationale for the qualification is to equip learners with a foundational and working knowledge of management within a commercial context for them the positively contribute to their profession. To contribute in such a manner that learners create sustainable and lasting value for their organisations.

    The qualification will also act as the initial academic entry point for learners to pursue further higher education courses within the commerce and management fields. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution subscribes to the principles of lifelong learning and the role that the Recognition of Prior Learning plays in the promotion of lifelong learning, professional growth and career advancement. In applying the above, the institution supports the principles of lifelong learning as it brings with it access to learning and the mobility between institutions of learning and qualifications at the various levels of the NQF.

    Persons who are not holders of the traditional qualifications required for entry-level study in higher education must be assessed for competencies relevant to the learning outcomes of the prescribed National Senior Certificate appropriate to the different endorsements levels of Higher Certificate, Diploma and Degree, respectively.

    The fundamental underlying principle of the Recognition of Prior Learning at the institution is the granting exemption for modules for which it is determined a learner meets the exit criteria. In this regard, the institution recognises all forms of informal and non-formal learning to admission into its qualification.

    When applying for RPL which involves exemptions towards modules, the institution subscribes to the following principles:
  • Learning occurs in all kinds of situations - formal, informal, and non-formal.
  • Measurement of the learning takes place against learning outcomes required for a specific qualification.
  • Credits are awarded for such learning if it meets the requirements of the qualification.

    The fundamental aim in this aspect of recognition of prior learning is to identify which composite parts will make up the credits needed for the attainment of an outcome, and the system should be able to capture and transcribe such credits.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Business Communication, 15 Credits.
  • Information Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Accounting, 15 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 15 Credits.
  • Statistics, 15 Credits.
  • Human Resource Management, 15 Credits.
  • Industrial and Employment Relations, 15 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively using written, oral and visual presentations.
    2. Analyse and assist in the development of commercial based plans within an organisation that yield tangible value-based results.
    3. Understand various functions within a commercial context.
    4. Understand sound financial and human resources management concepts, principles and methodologies to decision making within a commercial context.
    5. Understand the functions, roles and responsibilities that a manager is required to perform.
    6. Contribute as part of a team to enhance the teams and functional area effectiveness within a commercial context.
    7. Understand the principles of financial management, business information systems and economics to manage risk through decision-making frameworks.
    8. Contribute towards continuous improvement and innovation within a commercial context. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Create various types of business-related documents using numerous tools.
  • Gather data from research and compile meaningful reports for decision-making purposes.
  • Report and communicate various functions within a commercial enterprise.
  • Communicate both written and spoken work effectively.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply financial management principles and decision-making frameworks ethically to manage operational risks.
  • Evaluate the general management functions of an entry to middle manager.
  • Identify project priorities by considering a range of options to make the operational decision.
  • Evaluate the on-going business administration plans to assess their effectiveness.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify project priorities by considering a range of options to make an operational decision.
  • Evaluate the on-going business administration plans to assess their effectiveness.
  • Apply business management concepts, principles and methodologies to decision making within a commercial context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Apply human resources management concepts, principles and methodologies to decision making within a commercial context.
  • Apply human resources management principles and decision making frameworks to manage operational risks.
  • Understand fundamental financial and business management principles.
  • Apply financial management principles and decision-making frameworks ethically to manage operational risks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Understand key opportunities and challenges that are present daily for managers.
  • Analyse the effectiveness of a process and procedure.
  • Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the management functions from the day to the day management perspective.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Communicate both written and spoken work effectively.
  • Apply innovative and/or continuous improvement projects are applied according to generally accepted theory and practice.
  • Use tools and techniques effectively to manage processes within a commercial context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Apply business management concepts, principles and methodologies to decision making within a commercial context.
  • Apply business management principles and decision making frameworks to manage operational risks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Apply business information system principles and decision making frameworks to manage operational risks.
  • Apply innovative and continuous improvement projects according to generally accepted theory and practice.
  • Use tools and techniques to manage processes within a commercial context effectively.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated assessment is used continuously throughout the qualification through assignments, case studies, group work, individual online assessments and presentations. Formative assessments ensure the learner has continuous and timely feedback on their performance. Summative assessments ensure learners achieve each modules outcomes. Integrated Assessment will be applied extensively across the modules of learning to ensure the integrated achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes.

    The Formative assessments are made up of assignments and test. These count 50% toward the final mark.

    Summative Assessment refers to the examination that could be made up of a variety of assessment methods. This examination counts 50% towards the final mark.

    The moderation policy ensures that learners who are being assessed are assessed in a consistent, accurate and well-designed manner. It ensures that all assessors who assess a particular outcome or qualification are using comparable assessment methods and are making similar and consistent judgments about learners' performance. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The following international qualifications were found to be comparable with this qualification:

    Country: Canada
    Institution: McGill University, Montreal
    Qualification Title: Certificate in Human Resources Management
    The Certificate in Human Resources Management provides an introduction to the disciplines and basic practices of human resources management. Also, the qualification presents an overview of the specialised functions and some of the current and future issues in the area of personnel. It prepares learners for the job market and to write the CHRP exam.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: Ryerson University, Toronto
    Qualification Title: Certificate in Human Resources Management
    Human Resources (HR) professionals are an integral component of aligning business strategy with people strategy. By ensuring the proper programs and systems exist for organisations to have the right people in the right jobs and motivated to perform above expectations, HR professionals have their work cut out for them. To provide this role not only takes drive/results orientation but a very high degree of technical knowledge. The qualification provides a foundation for every HR professional, delivering a comprehensive education in current HR management techniques and issues. The qualification suitable for HR professionals who want to expand their knowledge or update skills, and those seeking employment in the HR field

    Country: Australia
    Institution: Australian HR Institute, Melbourne
    Qualification Title: The BSB41015 Certificate IV in Human Resources
    The qualification reflects the latest changes in HR and people management and takes a practical approach to a range of topics drawing both from comprehensive case studies and participants' work examples. AHRI's accredited BSB41015 Certificate IV in Human Resources is recognised within the Australian Qualifications Framework and is accepted as a qualification by all employers Australia wide. 

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Business Management, Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Marketing Management, Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Human Resources Management, Level 6.
  • Diploma in Business Administration, Level 6. 
    		•

    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.