SAQA 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 Sustainable Development 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118458  Advanced Diploma in Sustainable Development 
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Advanced Diploma  Field 07 - Human and Social Studies  Environmental Relations 
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  2021-11-18  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 in Sustainable development is primarily aimed at empowering learners interested in starting their professional careers as social entrepreneurs in the sustainable development field. The purpose of the qualification is to prepare learners to establish social enterprises that will attract 'impact investors' or investors committed to 'responsible investing'. Learners will be actively involved in a qualification of applied learning within a working-and-living context of sustainable development, innovation and implementation.

Through the development of learner knowledge base, skill sets and values this qualification will equip learners:
  • For further study in related postgraduate qualifications, and/or
  • To start careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors, and/or
  • As social entrepreneurs equipped with the necessary skills to launch their own start-up enterprise.

    The qualification is designed to produce well-rounded, professional, engaged and enquiring learners.
    Learners will be able to demonstrate integrated knowledge of business and entrepreneurship within the context of sustainable development. The qualification develops learners' literacy in sustainable development, research methodologies, information and communication technologies (ICTs), business development and entrepreneurship.

    Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Evaluate theories of these fields
  • Apply key concepts and principles of each field
  • Explain how these fields relate to each other
  • Apply relevant research methods to develop business plans and strategies
  • Use technology effectively in communication strategies for enterprise development
  • Gather and interpret data relating to enterprise development
  • Communicate ideas and concepts clearly in occupational discourse

    The proposed qualification is designed to empower a new generation of responsible entrepreneurs that are focused on future social impact and ecological restoration. The qualification places a high value on creative problem solving, systems thinking, personal leadership development, critical reflection and collaboration.

    Qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Identify, evaluate and reflect on complex problems before developing evidenced-based solutions
  • Demonstrate self-directed learning through independent research and mentorship sessions
  • Facilitate group learning and collaborative problem-solving
  • Reflect critically on their own learning journey through structured journal activities

    Rationale:
    The South African National Government has implemented a wide range of sustainable development strategies since the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015 to achieve the inter-linked goals of poverty alleviation, inequality reduction, job creation, sustainable economic growth, while at the same time reducing negative environmental impacts. The Government has therefore adopted several policies, frameworks and reports that have the explicit aim of promoting a transition to sustainable development and more specifically a green economy, including the R1.1 billion Rand Green Fund to finance this transition (www.sagreenfund.org.za).

    The proposed qualification aims to address the gap between responsible impact investment opportunities and eligible projects by producing learners who know how to set up businesses that align with the principles of CRISA and/or the requirements of impact investors. Qualified learners will ensure that an increasing number of future investments align with the sustainability direction aimed by national and global policy commitments.

    Progress is being made to build institutionalised research capacity within South Africa to support policy and decision-makers in the field of sustainable development, for instance, the Centre for Complex Systems in Transition (CST) and Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) at Stellenbosch University). Most education and research happen at a postgraduate level, with the postgraduate qualifications in Sustainable Development and Environmental Management presented by the School of Public Leadership (SPL) at Stellenbosch University) leading the way nationally and on the African continent.

    The qualification offers an integrated and focused vocational pathway for the increasing number of learners interested in sustainable development. Poverty and accelerating environmental change created a demand for a qualification that has a very specific intellectual and pedagogic focus on preparing young people for professional careers in the sustainable development field.

    The proposed qualification builds on the undergraduate Diploma Sustainable Development by providing further opportunities for inter-and transdisciplinary study of sustainable development that draws on all the necessary individual disciplines within a context that exposes young people to the practical realities of sustainable development. This qualification provides graduates from the Diploma in Sustainable Development with the fourth year of study which, in turn, qualifies them to proceed with their studies at the postgraduate level, specifically the SPL's Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Development that has been running since 2003.

    The qualification addresses the gap between the commitments made by the business community to "responsible investing" embodied in the Code for Responsible Investing in South Africa (CRISA) or by "impact investing", and where the large bulk of investments end up in practice. This gap cannot be bridged by putting pressure on investors if the demand for viable 'responsible/impact investments' hardly exists. Therefore, the qualification will contribute to the supply of learners who understand sustainable development initiatives.

    The majority of applicants are first-generation students, who do not meet the admission requirements of Bachelor Degrees but satisfy the requirements for Diploma studies. The qualification promotes access to university education.

    The qualification adopts the transformative pedagogy demonstrated in the undergraduate and postgraduate Diplomas in Sustainable Development. The qualification will be presented at the Sustainability Institute. The Lynedoch Eco Village, and the surrounding activities, provide a 'living laboratory' for sustainable development where learners will conduct experiential learning. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    This qualification may be achieved in part through Recognition of Prior Learning processes, which includes informal, formal learning and work experience. RPL will allow a learner to gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status. The learner needs to apply formally for RPL.

    RPL for access:
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applies to learners who do not meet the minimum admission requirements.
  • Stringent assessment criteria are applied to determine whether the applicant has developed the necessary competencies required to enter the qualification.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.
  • Advanced standing may be granted.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted for modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

    RPL for credit:
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Diploma in Sustainable Development, 360 Credits, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 07 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7,120 Credits:
  • Sustainability in the Digital Age, 30 Credits.
  • Business plans and strategies, 15 Credits.
  • Research approaches, 15 credits.
  • Entrepreneurship Incubator, 60 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate the ability to apply and evaluate the key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories of the sustainable development field; and detailed knowledge of areas of specialisation and how that knowledge relates to other fields, disciplines or practices.
    2. Attain the skills required to initiate a start-up enterprise by drawing on conceptual knowledge.
    3. Demonstrate the ability to select and apply a range of methods to resolve problems or introduce change within sustainable development practice.
    4. Demonstrate the ability to identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect on and address complex problems and apply evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments.
    5. Develop and communicate ideas and opinions in well-formed arguments, using appropriate academic, professional, or occupational discourse. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Evaluate and apply theories of the fields of sustainable development, research methodologies information and communication technologies (ICTs), business development and entrepreneurship.
  • Apply knowledge of basic principles, concepts and methods of environmental ethics.
  • Evaluate divergent interpretations of the relationship between information and communication technologies (ICTs) and sustainable development, with specific reference to 'responsible investing.
  • Examine and apply environmental issues, and the positions and perspectives of representative authors in environmental ethics.
  • Explain the role ICTs can play in creating more sustainable modes of production and consumption.
  • Assess the potential of cutting-edge ICTs that could in future become the norm (e.g. driverless cars, 3D printing).
  • Describe the policy context for entrepreneurship development and the dynamics of responsible/impact investing.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply relevant research methods to develop business plans and strategies.
  • Use technology effectively in communication strategies for enterprise development.
  • Gather and interpret data relating to enterprise development.
  • Communicate ideas and concepts clearly in occupational discourse.
  • Design and construct a website that can effectively handle multiple transactions with the general public.
  • Formulate a business plan for a start-up enterprise.
  • Formulate a detailed business plan for establishing an enterprise, including a budget, strategic implementation plan, marketing strategy, innovation framework and capacity building strategy.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify, evaluate and reflect on complex problems before developing evidenced-based solutions.
  • Display self-directed learning through independent research and mentorship.
  • Facilitate group learning and collaborative problem-solving.
  • Reflect critically on learning journey through structured journal activities
  • Apply relevant research methodologies and methods to their chosen project, including qualitative, quantitative and mixed-method approaches as well as transdisciplinary and participatory action research methodologies.
  • Gather, represent and interpret data relating to start-up enterprises accurately.
  • Conceptualise the structure and strategic goals of a business plan for an enterprise (either for-profit, social or 'knowledge commons' enterprise.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse the potential pitfalls of the proliferation of ICTs from a sustainable development perspective, with special reference to new 'digital divides'.
  • Apply business planning principles in a particular set of case studies.
  • Collate and analyse relevant information and data in order to compile a business plan.
  • Apply in practice the entrepreneurial values of innovation, risk, determination, relationship building and cooperation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Formulate an effective communication strategy using social media and other ICT platforms.
  • Present a multi-media business strategy.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the use of relevant business planning software.
  • Compile a rigorous literature review.
  • Present and promote a business plan using various media.
  • Act ethically and professionally, and the ability to justify those decisions and actions drawing on appropriate ethical values and approaches within a supported environment. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The proposed qualification has been compared to three international institutions. The focus of the comparison was mostly on the degree of similarity in the purpose and rationale.

    Country: United States of America
    Institution: Aquinas College
    Qualification Title: Bachelor in Sustainable Business
    Purpose:
    The qualification is interdisciplinary in nature, integrating science, business, and environmental studies. Sustainable business practices improve long-term profitability, the health of natural systems, and the human component of our world community. Upon completing the qualification, learners will be prepared for a career in private industry, non-profit organizations, government, or for graduate-level studies in sustainable business or a related discipline.

    Qualifying learners will be able to demonstrate the following competencies:
  • Demonstrate understanding of key concepts of sustainability science and pathways for addressing challenges at the interface of nature, society and business.
  • Demonstrate literacy in a variety of corporate sustainability strategies and will be able to apply the tools of ethical business management for sustainability.
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills.
  • Be effective communicators in public presentations.
  • Articulate the business case for sustainability to both internal and external stakeholders.
  • Identify and analyse current and changing business contexts - including economic, environmental and social linkages in local, regional, national and global communities.
  • Articulate how they can contribute to an organization or graduate program.
  • Demonstrate quantitative reasoning skills.
  • Identify key quantitative variables affecting an organizational decision, access relevant information and propose an appropriate response.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the role of markets and marketing in society and how they can be harnessed for sustainability.
  • Evaluate an organization's market situation and recommend appropriate marketing strategies.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the basic management functions of planning, organizing, leading and controlling and their use in integrating organizational resources to achieve success for sustainability.
  • Navigate the process of acquiring and efficiently allocating financial resources within an organization.
  • Generate, analyse and interpret financial information that will be useful in decision making and assessing performance.

    Qualification Structure:
    Learners must obtain a grade of C or higher in each required course to count toward a major or minor concentration in Sustainable Business. To complete Sustainable Business on a Major level, the requirements are as follows:
  • Sixty-nine (69) credit hours.

    Compulsory modules:
  • Principles of Accounting, Financial.
  • Principles of Accounting - Managerial.
  • Principles of Management.
  • Principles of Marketing.
  • Financial Management.
  • Ethical Application in Business.
  • Environmental Biology.
  • Introduction to Communication.
  • Spreadsheets.
  • Environmental Chemistry.
  • Introduction to Environmental Studies.
  • Advanced Environmental Studies.
  • Microeconomic Principles.
  • Elementary Statistics.
  • Physical Science.
  • Industrial Ecology.
  • Sustainable Business Management.
  • Building Social Capital.
  • Sustainable Business Innovations Lab.
  • Cases in Sustainable Business.
  • Internship.

    Elective Modules (Select any two):
  • Sustainable Energy Systems.
  • Environmental Regulatory Compliance.
  • Sustainable Business in Corporations.
  • Sustainable Business Metrics and Reporting.
  • Sustainable Food Systems.
  • Social Entrepreneurship.
  • Environmental Economics and Policy.
  • Special Topics in Sustainable Business.
  • International Perspectives in Sustainability. Business.
  • Environmental Politics and Policy.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: York University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor in Sustainable Environmental Management
    Purpose:
    This qualification addresses natural resource management and transitions to more sustainable systems through innovation and holistic strategies. It covers policy, social dynamics and economics with applied aspects of environmental science and technology. The qualification also includes practical learning through community engagement, educational work placements and place-based learning (Las Nubes Eco Campus in Costa Rica).

    Focus areas include:
  • Low-carbon energy transition
  • Environmental policy and governance
  • Ecological economics
  • Climate change science and mitigation
  • Urban ecology
  • Sustainable and just transitions
  • Community energy and planning wildlife conservation

    Modules include:
  • Foundations in Environmental Management
  • Sustainable Transitions
  • Energy Environment
  • Work Placement
  • Climate Change Mitigation
  • Ecosystems Services
  • Conservation Planning

    Comparison:
    In general, the proposed qualification compares favourably with the above-mentioned qualifications in that they share similar purpose and qualification structure. They all address the challenge of sustainable development and the challenges of new technologies. They also all have a focus on the implications for business practice and development.

    However, what is distinctive about the proposed qualification is the very specific focus on social entrepreneurship (i.e., not business in general) and the practical skills for initiating a start-up in the space created by the global and South African commitment to 'responsible/impact investing'. The practical orientation is what is unique about the proposed qualification.

    In addition, the proposed qualification is unique to other qualifications offered as it is a one-year qualification focused on building on previous knowledge and potentially other disciplines to enable a student the capability of becoming "sustainability business-minded". The majority of other institutions globally offers a focus either via short courses, or, as per the above-mentioned qualifications, as a focus on qualifications with a minimum duration of two to four years.

    The aforementioned qualifications were selected for comparison purposes as they are well-renowned in the field of Sustainability in addressing sustainable development challenges and the implications thereof in business development and practice, which is relevant for consideration in the entrepreneurship focus on sustainable development.

    Conclusion:
    The proposed qualification is comparable to the above-mentioned international qualifications in terms of similar purpose and topics covered in some modules. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Public Accountability, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Social Science in Environmental Studies, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Development, NQF Level 8
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Agriculture, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Institutional Agriculture Honours: Sustainable Ecological 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.
     
    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.