SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Master of Commerce

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
118674	Master of Commerce
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Master's Degree	Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies		Finance, Economics and Accounting
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	180	Not Applicable	NQF Level 09	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0333/25	2025-07-10	2028-07-10
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-07-10		2032-07-10

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 primary purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with an opportunity to undertake independent and original primary research under supervision and contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level. During the process of undertaking the research project, learners are expected to gain experience in all aspects of the research process. During the research, learners will also develop a deep and current understanding of the theories, ideas, and practices in their area of specialisation. Upon completion of the qualification, learners are expected to undertake further independent research and contribute to the generation of new knowledge. As a master's qualification is the minimum qualification entry into academia, this qualification will facilitate the creation of a pipeline of new academics in several specialised areas of commerce.

The learning outcomes for this qualification have been purposefully designed to align with the NQF level 9 descriptors as defined in the higher education qualification sub-framework. The learning outcomes have been carefully worded to be generic for research in commerce broadly to accommodate different specialised fields of commerce such as economics, business management, entrepreneurship, human resource management just to name a few.

Upon successful completion of the qualification under the supervision of an experienced supervisor(s), the learner will be able to:

Undertake independent research in a specialised field of commerce that demonstrates independent thinking, originality, critical analysis, and advanced insight into the chosen field of research.

Demonstrate specialist knowledge and an ability to engage critically with current research in a field of specialization in commerce.

Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the boundaries, inter-connections, value, and knowledge creation systems of the chosen discipline/s, critically evaluate these and select an appropriate process to use for the research project.

Select, apply, and modify where necessary research methods including experimental design, data collection, data analysis and statistics to address a particular research question.

Draw appropriate conclusions and propose interventions at a policy or management level that would address the problem being researched, and fully discuss any possible negative consequences.

Act reflectively, ethically and with integrity and be accountable for their work, their actions, their decisions, and their learning.

Rationale:
Stakeholders within the field of commerce are varied and their needs include areas such as economics, business management, entrepreneurship, developing human resource management etc. The stakeholder needs are reflected in the vision of the country and set out in the national development plan and more recently in the economic reconstruction and recovery plan. In the South African context and considering the recent covid-19 crisis, commercial activities in many countries around the world were negatively impacted, often severely. Thus, the socio-economic challenges of the current times include reduced entrepreneurial activities, subdued business activities, high youth unemployment, high levels of poverty and inequality, lack of foreign direct investment, poor governance, political uncertainty and social unrest, misalignment of economic policies and subdued economic growth prospects.

The rationale of the qualification is to:

Create and provide a suitable postgraduate commercial qualification that provides upward mobility in the business and academic world.

Allow learners to participate in most spheres of the economy.

Allow learners with the qualification to further their studies at the doctoral level.

This qualification is designed to supply the industry with skilled graduates that have a deep practical understanding of research in commerce and the ability to play a role in the generation of new ideas and ways of thinking about economics and commerce broadly, thereby supporting the provincial growth and development strategy. It is envisaged that the resultant skills developed by the qualification will then be applied to develop the key commercial sectors to be better drivers of economic activity in South Africa.

The qualification is designed to equip would-be postgraduates with advanced research skills in areas of commerce such as economics, business management, entrepreneurship, human resources management, etc. necessary to address the complex socio-political and economic challenges of the time. The qualification will prepare candidates for senior administration-level and first-line management positions in the public, private and development sectors.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part or in whole through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal, and non-formal learning and work experience. The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment process involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement of knowledge and skills obtained through informal and non-formal learning. RPL is applied in terms of policy and criteria of the institution. The necessary documentary evidence will have to be provided and a formal RPL process will be followed. The institution will apply in this qualification the RPL for both access and credits in line with the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of RPL (Amended in March 2019).

RPL for Access:
Learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements of the required qualification may be considered for RPL. There are two options:

Advanced Standing, in which case the minimum entry requirements are waived by the admitting institution based on evidence of prior learning, work experience or any other relevant circumstances that may apply to an individual learner. No portfolio is required.
Or

Applicants may provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that the applicant has acquired sufficient relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies to be able to reasonably meet the expectations for learning demanded by the qualification for which they are seeking access.

In instances where RPL is applied for access, no credits will be awarded for any previous learning. However, the candidate may choose the option of being assessed for credit.

RPL for credits:
Learners who do meet the necessary entry requirements for admission to the qualification may be awarded some or all the credits towards the qualification. There are two possibilities:

Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from a module or some modules by providing sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that a level of competency, equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module or modules, has been achieved. Credits will be awarded for such modules.
Or

Learners may apply for RPL to be awarded all the credits required for the qualification. Sufficient evidence must be provided that demonstrates a level of competency equivalent to all the learning outcomes of the qualification.

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

Bachelor of Commerce Honours, NQF Level 8.
Or

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Economics, NQF Level 8.
Or

Postgraduate Diploma in Commerce, NQF Level 8.
Or

Postgraduate Diploma in Economics, NQF Level 8.
Or

Cognate Postgraduate Diploma, NQF Level 8.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and/or elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9,180 Credits:

Full Dissertation, 180 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Undertake independent research in a specialised field of commerce that demonstrates independent thinking, originality, critical analysis, and advanced insight into the chosen field of research.
2. Demonstrate specialist knowledge and an ability to engage critically with current research in a field of specialization in commerce.
3. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the boundaries, inter-connections, value, and knowledge creation systems of the chosen discipline/s, and critically evaluate these and select an appropriate process to use for the research project.
4. Select, apply, and modify where necessary research methods including experimental design, data collection, data analysis and statistics to address a particular research question.
5. Draw appropriate conclusions and propose interventions at a policy or management level that would address the problem being researched, and fully discuss any possible negative consequences.
6. Act reflectively, ethically and with integrity and be accountable for their work, their actions, their decisions, and their learning.
7. Manage, collate, critically evaluate, and synthesise information from a range of sources relevant to a particular field of specialisation.
8. Communicate effectively and efficiently with both professional and lay audiences using appropriate language, academic discourse, and technology. Defend new ideas using logical argumentation that is supported by data and incorporate feedback into one oral and written presentation.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Decide and clearly describe the project question and scope.

Demonstrate the ability to draw information from a range of primary sources, and critically evaluate that information by conducting a comprehensive literature review.

Develop a comprehensive and achievable project plan that adheres to the required format.

Fully justify the chosen methods are appropriate.

Consider and address ethical issues.

Data or information is collected and analysed in accordance with the project proposal and plan.

Interpret and integrate data into the existing canon of knowledge.

Formulate recommendations supported by the data.

Prepare the thesis according to the prescribed format, written in appropriate academic language, and include no plagiarism. The reflective journal and meetings with the supervisor demonstrate the extent to which the learner was able to work independently, albeit under supervision.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Critically evaluate and discuss specialisation in detail current and contemporary concepts, theories, and methods around in the thesis.

Skillfully incorporate results in the thesis from the research project into the existing canon of knowledge.

Integrate and apply knowledge in the thesis from the major disciplines within the area of specialisation to sustain and support a discussion.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Demonstrate a full understanding of different research paradigms in the thesis.

Analyse the nature, strengths, and limitations of research paradigms adequately in the thesis.

Correctly justify and properly implement the research process or select paradigm for the project.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Fully justify research methods selected for the project.

Carefully apply research methods providing reliable results.

Discuss and account for potential weaknesses of the chosen methods in the analysis of the results.

Statistical analyses are appropriate and.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Uncertainty, incomplete data, and limited information in the decision making process.

Balance decisions and recommendations and fully support the results.

Highlight recommendations and conclusions, specifically any possible negative consequences and provide comprehensive mitigating measures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Reflect on social and ethical issues included in all recommendations and propose solutions to the identified problem.

Engage with feedback positively and use it constructively to improve work.

Ability to meet deadlines and submit all assignments in accordance with provided guidelines, because of the successful management of learning.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Use current references in the thesis and include the most recent publications.

Critically review and analyse existing knowledge in the field of study in the introduction and discussion chapters of the thesis.

Access, critically evaluate and include information from a wide range of sources in the thesis.

Manage contradictory information well, consider alternative viewpoints and reach a balanced conclusion.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
Oral communication:

Communicate results from the research project to both professional and community audiences using appropriate language and technology.

Clearly communicate complex concepts, ideas, and theories.

Clearly engage presentations and complete within the given time.
Written communication:

Use appropriate academic language in the thesis, present in the approved style and adhere to norms for scientific writing.

Use standard referencing styles accurately and consistently in the thesis.

Ability to include no plagiarism in the thesis.

Critically consider feedback and successfully incorporate it into the drafts of the thesis.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

This Masters qualification is comparable to other similar qualifications around the world with regards to outcomes and assessment criteria, degree of difficulty and notional learning time. The standard is assured, among other things, by a requirement for assessment by external examiners who hold a university academic position. The Master of Commerce qualification compares internationally with the following:

Country: Kenya
Institution: Strathmore University
Qualification Title: Master of Commerce

Comparison:
The institution offers a similar Master of Commerce qualification with specialisation in Accounting, Management Sciences, International Business Management, Finance, Strategic Management, and Marketing. In terms of comparability, the designator, Master of Commerce (MCom) is identical with the South African qualification. While the qualifiers/specialisations/streams for the South African qualification will be similar in some ways to that of Strathmore University particularly with respect to Accounting and Business Management, the proposed MCom qualification will in addition to the afore-mentioned consider other specialised commerce fields such as Economics, Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management, Financial Management, Finance etc.

Country: Uganda
Institution: Makerere University
Qualification Title: Master of Arts (MA)

Comparison:
The designator for Master's qualifications in commerce fields is a MA (Master of Arts) as opposed to an MCom. For instance, Makerere University offers an MA in Economics by coursework over two years. Similarly, at the University of Nairobi in Kenya, the equivalent master's qualifications in commerce fields carry the designator MA and the course duration is also two years.

Country: India
Institution: Mahatma Gandhi University
Qualification Title: Master of Commerce

Comparison:
The institution offers a comparable MCom qualification by course work for four semesters with each semester being three months long. Three streams (or specialisations) are offered namely Finance and Taxation, Marketing and International Business, and Management and Information Technology.

Country: New Zealand
Institution: University of Auckland
Qualification Title: Master of Commerce

Comparison:
The qualification is comparable to the South African qualification and offered for 12 - 15 months combining coursework and a research component in the form of a short dissertation or a more substantial research portfolio. Commerce subjects available in this master's qualification include Accounting, Economics, Finance, Marketing, Operations and Supply Chain Management and Commercial law.
Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand offers an identical MCom qualification and specialisations with extra subjects namely Information Systems, International Business, Management, and Human Resource Management and Employment Relations.

Similarities:
The South African qualification is similar to the qualification offered by the above country in terms of the following:
Qualification purpose: Learners will develop advanced skills to critically analyse information, synthesise knowledge, and communicate research findings effectively for a variety of career settings. The Master Degree may be undertaken in a project or thesis mode.
Qualification outcomes: Learners will be able to pursue an academic career in a university or be employed in senior leadership and management positions in government, non-government organisations and corporations. As a researcher, the learners' mastery of the discipline is evidenced through a substantial and rigorous research project and other contributions to their field of specific interest can make a real difference to society. This qualification relies heavily on research skills development at the Honours level. The University of Auckland puts more emphasis on intensive research training in all modes at the Master's level, which in all likelihood equips learners for the task at hand.

Country: Australia
Institution: University of Queensland
Qualification Title: Master of Commerce

Comparison:
The qualification offers specialisation in three fields of study namely Applied Finance, Information Systems, and Professional Accounting. The MCom qualification can be completed in either 1.5 or two years on a full-time or part-time equivalent.

Similarities:
The South African qualification is similar to the qualification offered by the above country in terms of the following:
As a Master's by research learner, one will undertake a supervised research project that culminates in the submission of a thesis for examination.
Learning Outcomes:

Competence in the design and conduct of a research project that incorporates methodological skills appropriate to the discipline and a body of knowledge that includes the understanding of recent developments in one or more disciplines.

Provide a critical appraisal of relevant literature and available research and understand the relationship of the investigations undertaken to the wider field of, and to draw out the contribution to knowledge made by these investigations.

Knowledge and understanding of the methodological techniques used in the research and any shortcomings associated with this technique.

Demonstrate the ability to communicate in a clear, concise, and authoritative manner appropriate to the field of research.
The two institutions are quite similar, except the University of Queensland refers to the outcome as a thesis while this prefers dissertation.

Country: Australia
Institution: University of Sydney
Qualification Title: Master of Commerce

Similarities:
Qualification purpose:
The qualification develops the skills to conduct high-quality research into business, management, organisations, and related areas. It provides a vital foundation for careers in conducting, evaluating, and commissioning research within academic settings and for consultancies, development agencies and policy-making institutions.
Qualification outcomes:
This Master's prepares learners for undertaking a Doctorate at other leading universities in the world. Its multi-faceted approach equips graduates from a wide range of subject areas to undertake advanced research to the highest standards within business and management studies, as well as other social science disciplines. The emphasis is on producing researchers who are reflective and aware of the assumptions, strengths, and limitations of their research; who are highly skilled in a multitude of management/organisational research techniques; and who are readily able to apply this knowledge in new and diverse domains.
Qualification structure:
Learners are provided eight specialisations to study one specialisation of their choice in areas of Accounting, Economics, Finance, Marketing, Data Analytics for Business, Digital Business, Global Logistics, and Strategy, Innovation & Management.

Country: Tanzania
Institution: University of Dar es Salaam
Qualification Title: Master of Arts (MA)

Comparison:
The MA qualification is offered instead of a Master of Commerce. However, specialisations for the MA qualification includes among others Economics, Applied Economics, and Statistics. Two modes of delivery are offered, course work and dissertation and thesis with a duration of 18 and 24 months respectively.

Notwithstanding dissimilarities in the qualification designator or hosting faculties, most universities and qualifications reviewed offer a Master's degree qualification either by course work including a mini-dissertation or by substantial research. The research option is identical in structure to the South African qualification. Again, while the range of specialisations offered by these institutions is informed by their location and context, there are major similarities with the South African qualification.

Conclusion:
Best practices have been identified from leading international institutions, ensuring that the curriculum and content are relevant and addresses the needs of both industry and prospective learners. The South African qualification is comparable to the above international qualifications in terms of content, purpose, rationale and learning outcomes.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation:

Master of Administration, NQF Level 9.

Master of Business Science, NQF Level 9.

Vertical Articulation:

Doctor of Administration, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Commerce, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Philosophy in Commerce and Administration, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Commerce in Business Management, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Commerce in Economics, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Commerce in Accounting, NQF Level 10.

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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