SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Advanced Diploma in General Management

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
118281	Advanced Diploma in General Management
ORIGINATOR
University of Pretoria
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
Registered		SAQA 011/21	2021-07-14	2024-07-14
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2025-07-14		2028-07-14

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 in General Management will equip learners with the ability to integrate different management disciplines that are not the managers' core disciplines to translate the organisation and business strategy into measurable outcomes within the private or public sector. The qualification seeks to enhance the leadership, general management, and entrepreneurial capabilities of learners and executives by creating and disseminating knowledge and best practices through scholarship, practitioner-focused research, innovative qualification design, and efficient and effective qualification delivery.

Qualifying learners will be able to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and applied competence in the field of general management that provides opportunities for continued personal growth through lifelong learning, gainful economic activity, and rewarding contributions to society.

By combining theory and practice the qualification aims to help learners to apply sound concepts to practical opportunities and challenges, and to support them in their careers towards becoming leaders who can transform organisations and the country.

Rationale:
Through extensive engagement with corporate South Africa, the institution has gained insight into the development needs of the leadership and management disciplines. This qualification is a focused and specialised qualification at an NQF 7, which speaks to the need for greater senior management competencies in South Africa and Africa.

The qualification is suitable for continuing professional development through the inculcation of a deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice theory, and methodology in management development. The qualification also provides vertical articulation onto an NQF level 8 qualification such as the Postgraduate Diploma in General Management and the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration.

The addition of this qualification will strengthen the institution's portfolio of offerings and specifically assist in reinforcing the company-specific offering, which is a key contribution to addressing the current shortage of suitably skilled and qualified business leaders and senior managers in South Africa and Africa.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Given the historical legacy of South Africa, it is necessary to acknowledge prior learning as a valid entry criterion into the Advanced Diploma in General Management. The learners of this type are rated similarly to other learners, for their work experience and other factors including academic history, length of time in a management position, and overall impression.

The institution's RPL policy can be used for:

Granting learners advanced standing, i.e. granting admission to the qualification to those learners who do not meet the admission requirements; and/or

Granting credits for learning acquired elsewhere through formal, informal, and non-formal learning acquired during the completion of other qualifications and through workplace learning and practice. The awarding of such credits is subject to the current rules and policies of the Council on Higher Education.

In terms of the institute's RPL policy, learners may be admitted without the minimum NQF Level 6 requirement if they can demonstrate, through a portfolio of evidence, that they have sufficient business and management experience. RPL applications together with the portfolios of evidence are assessed within the academic unit/department to confirm the ability of the applicant to successfully undertake the qualification.

Learners who apply to be admitted through RPL follow a rigorous quality assurance process. Once learners have been provisionally accepted, learners are reviewed by the Senate Admissions Committee for final approval which is chaired by the Registrar.

The qualification has been designed as an integrative which uses an application-based project to integrate the learnings from the qualification and therefore exemptions for modules will be carefully reviewed.

Learners who wish to obtain an exemption from modules may make an application for exemption during the admission process. The learner will be required to submit copies of the statement of results together with the detailed module outlines which will be evaluated by a member of the faculty who is a subject matter expert on the module. Provided the below criteria are met, the exemption will be granted.

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

Diploma in General Management, NQF Level 6.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualification Framework Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 84 Credits:

The Business Environment, 11 credits

Strategic Leadership and Management, 11 credits

Operational Effectiveness, 10 credits

Business Strategy, 11 credits

Strategic Marketing, 10 credits

Strategic Financial Management, 11 credits

Action Learning Project, 20 credits

Elective Modules, 36 Credits (Choose/Select four modules):

Leading Change, 9 credits

Human Resource Strategy, 9 credits

Organisational Behaviour, 9 credits

Innovation, 9 credits

Information Technology, 9 credits

Governance and Ethics, 9 credits

Project Management, 9 credits

Entrepreneurship, 9 credits

Business Simulation, 9 credits

Sustainability, 9 credits

Strategic Sales, 9 credits

Customer-centricity, 9 credits

Personal Mastery, 9 credits

Project Finance, 9 credits

Transformation, 9 credits

Global Sectoral Trends, 9 credits

Decision Making, 9 credits

Women in Leadership, 9 credits

Economics, 9 credits

Organisational Risk, 9 credits

Enterprise and Supplier Development, 9 credits

Entrepreneurial Policy and Regulatory Environment, 9 credits

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Understand the core knowledge and skills in general management required of a manager at this level.
2. Identify and apply appropriate problem-solving techniques for effective business management.
3. Apply research skills to access, process, and manage information.
4. Communicate effectively at the required level in general management.
5. Understand the leadership role.
6. Explore thinking and learning strategies.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Analyse and apply learning strategies appropriate to the foundational manager level in the work context.

Evaluate own performance and the performance of others, and take appropriate action where necessary.

Take responsibility for own learning within a structured learning process, and promote the learning of others.

Develop personal awareness and self-directed effectiveness through reflection and through actively engaging the assistance of a mentor or coach.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Apply the principles of problem-solving at the foundational management level.

Interpret and evaluate a range of data to identify defined, routine and new problems in a familiar context.

Evaluate these problems and apply solutions using relevant evidence and procedures appropriate to business management.

Monitor and evaluate the chosen solution, and understand the consequences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Gather information from a range of sources, and organise the information according to the task.

Analyse, organise and evaluate information using basic processes.

Translate information into applied general management practice.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Understand and apply the appropriate theoretical principles of written and oral business communication at the foundational management level.

Communicate information reliably, accurately, and coherently.

Select the appropriate medium and convention for the context, audience, and purpose of the communication.

Understand conventions around intellectual property, copyright and plagiarism, and the associated implications.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Explain the differences between managing and leading.

Be accountable for own actions.

Respect and work effectively with others.

Take supervisory responsibility for others in a defined context, and oversee the responsible use of resources, where appropriate.

Follow prescribed organisational and professional ethical codes of conduct, values, and practices and seek guidance where necessary.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Analyse and apply learning strategies appropriate to the foundational manager level in the work context.

Evaluate own performance and the performance of others, and take appropriate action where necessary.

Take responsibility for own learning within a structured learning process, and promote the learning of others.

Develop personal awareness and self-directed effectiveness through reflection and through actively engaging the assistance of a mentor or coach.

Integrated Assessment:
Assessment of this qualification will be done in an integrated manner using a combination of formative and summative assessment tools and techniques. Assessment of assignments and tasks to be carried out in the workplace and supervised by workplace mentors will constitute part of the overall assessment of the learner.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

International comparison was conducted with the following international institutions offering the same or similar types of qualification:
Country: Canada
Institution: Thompson Rivers University
Qualification Title: Advanced Diploma in Management
Duration: online (self-paced)

The Advanced Diploma in Management provides practical exposure to the business and management skills required in today's workplace. It is designed for learners that have a post-secondary diploma (not necessarily in a business or management field) or equivalent and a minimum of two years of relevant work experience. This qualification emphasises leadership and critical cross-field outcomes such as communication skills are integrated into the qualification.

Learners are required to complete 45 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.00 (C grade) in all modules: Financial Management; Management Accounting; Commercial Law; Open Thinking; Open Communication - Effective Communication Skills; Leadership; Strategic Human Resource Management; Contemporary Leadership; Business Ethics and Society; E-Commerce; Decision Analysis; Project Management; New Venture Creation; Effective Leadership.

Comparison of the Qualification:
This qualification is similar in terms of the modules and competencies that the learner will develop. The work experience/learning pathway is similar as applicants with the appropriate prior tertiary studies that satisfy the academic requirements of the qualification may be granted entry to the course as well as the recognition of experiential learning through RPL (PLAR) assessment to gain entrance into the qualification

Differences: The work experience/employment pathway for this qualification differs in that it only requires a minimum of two years' work experience.

Country: Australia
Institution: Pacific College of Technology
Qualification Title: Advanced Diploma in Leadership and Management
Duration: 12 months
The Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management enables the learner to pursue a career in senior management and prepares learners to work in roles with senior or managerial responsibilities. This qualification reflects the role of individuals who apply specialised knowledge and skills, together with experience in leadership and management, across a range of enterprise and industry contexts. Individuals at this level use initiative and judgement to plan and implement a range of leadership and management functions, with accountability for personal and team outcomes within broad parameters.

The Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management involves the completion of 12 units of competency, comprising 4 core units and 8 elective units which include the following: Manage finances; Lead and manage organisational change; Provide leadership across the organisation; Develop and implement a business plan; Manage innovation and continuous improvement; Develop and implement strategic plans; Monitor corporate governance activities; Manage People Performance; Develop a marketing plan; Manage risk and Develop workplace policy and procedures for sustainability.

The delivery of the qualification combines theory-based tutorial and practical sessions involving small groups, individual and team activities, and demonstrations using a simulated work environment.

Comparison of the Qualification:
This qualification is similar in terms of the modules and competencies that the learner will develop, as well as similarities in the course structure (core and elective units), learning, and assessment methodologies integrated into the design. Further similarities exist with the work experience/learning pathway allowing applicants with the appropriate prior tertiary studies that satisfy the academic requirements of the course may be granted entry to the course as well as the recognition of experiential learning through RPL to gain entrance onto the qualification.
Differences: The qualification is offered on a full-time basis where face-to-face learning and teaching are compulsory.

Country: United Kingdom
Institution: Learning Resource Network (LRN)
Qualification Title: Diploma in Business Management
Duration: 6-12 months
The Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management has been designed to develop management skills and knowledge. This qualification is intended for directors and senior or middle managers of both private and public sector organisations who wish to obtain a post-graduate level qualification and will enhance career prospects.
The Diploma in Business Management consists of the following five courses: Business strategy, planning and management; Financial resources and performance management; Leadership, change, and people management; Corporate strategy, governance, and ethics; and Research methodology and its marketing application.

Comparison of the Qualification:
Similarities: This qualification is similar in terms of the aims, modules, and competencies that the learner will develop. The work experience/learning pathway is similar as applicants with the appropriate prior tertiary studies that satisfy the academic requirements of the course may be granted entry to the course. Further similarities exist in the learning methodologies applied (mixture of recorded and live lectures coupled with essential reading texts and exercises).

Differences: The design incorporates five compulsory core courses, with no elective options available to learners. Each learner is assigned a personal tutor and can be contacted for any queries. A different assessment methodology approach has been applied - each of the five courses is assessed through the submission of a 3,500-word written assignment.

Country: Australia (Sydney)
Institution: Blueprint Management College
Qualification Title: Extended Diploma in Management and Leadership
Duration: 15 months
The post-graduate senior management qualification is suitable for practising senior managers who have the ability and authority to translate organisational strategy into operational performance. The qualification requires managers to build on their strategic management and leadership skills and to focus on the requirements of implementing the organisation's strategy.

The Extended Diploma in Management and Leadership consists of six mandatory core courses, one of which is a management project. The remaining core courses include enhancing your leadership skills; Performance management; Understanding and using financial information; developing financial proposals; Decision making; and the Strategic Planning process. Learners can select option (elective) courses that are aligned to their specific job roles. Seven option (elective) courses exist which learners may select from - courses selected need to total a minimum of 18 credits.

Comparison of the Qualification:
Similarities exist in the work experience/employment pathway with learners wishing to join this qualification must already have substantial management knowledge gained either through extensive previous, middle, or operational management experience. Further similarities exist in the course structure of core and elective courses.
Differences: A previous management qualification at Level 5 is desirable but not essential.

Conclusion:
The Advanced Diplomas have been developed to reflect the changing management needs in today's competitive global marketplace. These qualifications provide learners with advanced business knowledge, skills, and competence required for business operations to not only strengthen their effectiveness in their current roles but also to prepare them for future leadership opportunities and growth.

The qualifications are intended for persons who have a fundamental understanding of business concepts and aimed at management skills development directed at practical managerial knowledge.

Considering the different qualifications, it becomes apparent that the South African qualification is similar, and comparable, to international qualifications offered around the world.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Advanced Diploma in Business Management, NQF Level 7.

Advanced Diploma in Management, NQF Level 7.

Vertical Articulation:

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Management, 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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