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: 

Bachelor of Business Administration 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
120744  Bachelor of Business Administration 
ORIGINATOR
EDUVOS (Pty) Ltd (Previously Pearson Institute of Higher Education (Pty) Ltd) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Level 6  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

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 replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
48859  Bachelor of Business Administration  Level 6  NQF Level 07  480  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Business Administration is to offer learners the opportunity to improve their skills and knowledge and become empowered to function in the business environment. The qualification will provide knowledge and skills in general management, which will enable learners to realise their potential and assist in progression towards managerial roles within organisations. The qualification is structured in such a way that it provides individuals with a set of core management competencies, which are augmented through specific electives. Increasingly, education and skills are seen as the key to both their personal quality of life and the broader strengths of society. Criteria such as the relevance of knowledge and the applicability of skills are increasingly becoming important determinants of employability.

The qualification lies in its flexibility of subject choice, a curriculum that is relevant and ahead of trends, and teaching staff with both business and academic experience. The online blended approach ensures that learners complete their studies with essential work skills such as critical thinking, being innovative and adaptable to change, effective problem solving, working to deadlines, collaborating in team situations, and communicating effectively. The qualification is designed to cater for working learners who would like to have access to educational space.

Upon successful completion of the qualification, the qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Apply business management principles such as communication, human resources management, strategic, operational and project management in the business environment.
  • Integrate and apply knowledge and skills of business administration in fields related to business development, such as professional ethics, conflict handling and organisational diversity.
  • Discuss the economic environment that influences business managers.
  • Explain basic knowledge of financial management and accounting and its application in the business management environment.
  • Explore the knowledge and skills to lead and manage groups and teams in an organisational context.
  • Examine the nature and scope of the marketing and entrepreneurship environment in which business organisations operate.

    Rationale:
    The qualification will provide fundamentals in education within business, management and leadership concepts, principles, theories, and models, and prepare learners for a broad range of job opportunities. Globalisation has led companies into various areas of growth, knowledge and skills within the business environment can now be seen as highly significant, hence the need for this qualification. In the context of the high demand for managerial skills and knowledge of the systemic interrelatedness of organisational functions, this qualification directly addresses the management needs of the economy.

    This qualification has been developed for learners interested in gaining insight into business organisations and their functions, through an in-depth investigation of key general management functions and an interrogation of their management thereof. The intended outcome of this qualification is the development of general business managers who are equipped with the relevant management skills to perform their roles and responsibilities more effectively and to create career progression and entry opportunities for learners.

    This qualification aims to assist individuals who are new to the business environment as well as those who are currently employed at businesses to progress into general management. The qualification also contributes to the human resource development needs of the Southern African region. This is in line with catering for the needs of communities through a flexible, supported online learning qualification. The qualification meets a need as shown by requests from prospective learners and the industry.

    The Commerce Faculty has an Advisory Board, which comprises representatives from industry, professional bodies, and academic experts in order to ensure this qualification remains aligned with both academic best practice and industry and professional body requirements. The Advisory Board plays a strategic role to ensure relevance and responsiveness to market needs. Their insights drawn from current industry trends, employer expectations, and workforce development priorities were instrumental in shaping the structure, outcomes, and competencies embedded in this qualification. This collaborative approach ensures that the qualification aligns with both academic standards and the practical demands of the business environment. In addition, this qualification provides many articulation pathways assisting learners to advance to postgraduate studies. The qualification can be deemed beneficial to business communities within the public and private sectors. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable with regards to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access and credits for or towards the qualification.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • 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 formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

    RPL for credits:
  • 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 formal, 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:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Administration, NQF Level 5. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6, and 7, totalling 360 credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 80 Credits:
  • Business Management 1A, 10 Credits.
  • Quantitative Techniques, 10 Credits.
  • Computer Skills, 10 Credits.
  • Business English, 10 Credits.
  • Business Management 1B, 10 Credits.
  • Business Law, 10 Credits.
  • Economics 1A, 10 Credits.
  • Economics 1B, 10 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 5, 40 Credits: (choose 4 Elective Modules.)
  • Public Relations 1, 10 Credits.
  • Human Resource Management 1, 10 Credits.
  • Marketing 1, 10 Credits.
  • Consumer Behaviour, 10 Credits.
  • Financial Accounting 1A, 10 Credits.
  • Financial Accounting 1B, 10 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 72 Credits:
  • Research Methodology, 12 Credits.
  • Human Resource Information System, 12 Credits.
  • Business Management 2A, 12 Credits.
  • Business Management 2B, 12 Credits.
  • Project Management, 12 Credits.
  • Data Analytics, 12 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 6, 48 Credits: (choose 4 Elective Modules.)
  • Human Resource Management 2A, Credits 12.
  • Human Resource Management 2B, 12 Credits.
  • Management Accounting 2A, 12 Credits.
  • Management Accounting 2B, 12 Credits.
  • Marketing 2A, 12 Credits.
  • Marketing 2B, 12 Credits.
  • Public Relations 2, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 72 Credits:
  • Business Management 3A, 12 Credits.
  • Business Management 3B, 12 Credits.
  • Business Ethics, 12 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 12 Credits.
  • Research Design, 6 Credits.
  • Research Literature Review, 6 Credits.
  • Research Data Collection and Analysis, 6 Credits.
  • Research Final Project, 6 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 7, 48 Credits: (choose 4 Elective Modules.)
  • Human Resource Management 3A, 12 Credits.
  • Human Resource Management 3B, 12 Credits.
  • Product and Promotion Management 3, 12 Credits.
  • Strategic Marketing, 12 Credits.
  • Public Relations 3, 12 Credits.
  • Financial Management 3A, 12 Credits.
  • Financial Management 3B, 12 Credits. 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Explain and apply business management principles such as communication, human resources management, strategic, operational and project management to the business environment.
    2. Integrate and apply knowledge and skills of business administration in fields related to business development, such as professional ethics, conflict handling and organisational diversity.
    3. Reflect on the economic environment that influences business managers.
    4. Apply knowledge of financial management and accounting and their application in the business management environment.
    5. Explore and demonstrate the knowledge and skills to lead and manage groups and teams in an organisational context.
    6. Examine the nature and scope of the marketing environment to understand entrepreneurship and the marketing environment in which organisations operate.
    7. Interpret professional and organisational cultures within a business environment, with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
    8. Demonstrate knowledge of current global trends in business strategies and communication technology. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Serve the needs of individuals and society creatively and innovatively by identifying and analysing the needs of the target population.
  • Describe components of a Human Resource Management system and examine the current human resource systems used within industry.
  • Evaluate the evolution of Human Resource Management and explore the history and development of the Human Resource Management function throughout the years.
  • Identify concepts and tools and explain strategic management.
  • Describe strategic elements and identify various levels of strategy.
  • Investigate the needs of potential customers by formulating economic strategies.
  • Contribute to the group output in tasks growing out of the business, commerce, and management fields by working effectively as a member of a team.
  • Explore group dynamics by observing behaviours and psychological processes within groups.
  • Conceptualise project management concepts and terminologies for better understanding.
  • Characterise project management constraints and their impact on project success.
  • Explore project management tools and techniques used in the project life cycle and explain how tasks can be completed efficiently and effectively.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain concepts of business ethics and their importance in the organisation.
  • Discuss the relationship between ethics and law and distinguish between legal, ethical, illegal, and/or unethical behaviour.
  • Explore distinctions between what is perceived as ethically right and wrong to make decisions on moral dilemmas and competing.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss the management of change where managers face new and unique challenges.
  • Apply the fundamentals of data-driven decision making.
  • Identify, analyse, and apply planning and decision aids using theory-driven methods.
  • Explain the organisational design and evaluate contemporary organisational designs.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor a business strategy using the strategic planning process.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Explain concepts to provide an in-depth understanding of financial management.
  • Analyse pro forma financial statements to explore how they are used in financial management.
  • Develop strategies in management to examine how elements of working capital are implemented.
  • Analyse pre-determined costs and management accounting systems to enable an understanding of the inherent nature and characteristics of each cost type.
  • Provide direct, indirect, fixed, and variable costs to be able to classify and distinguish the different management accounting fundamental concepts.
  • Explain various stock evaluation methods to be able to analyse and select the most suitable method that will support manufacturing cost structures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Explain the importance and role of leadership in organisations.
  • Discuss the theoretical foundations of leadership.
  • Explain the importance of people in management and organisations.
  • Discuss the principles of learning and the general assumptions underlying emotional intelligence.
  • Explain the principles and characteristics of groups and teams within organisations.
  • Discuss and apply the principles of motivation.
  • Discuss the different types of motivational theories.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Examine the concept of entrepreneurship and discuss the importance of entrepreneurship in the economy.
  • Discuss the qualities and characteristics of entrepreneurs to enable a discussion on them.
  • Develop business ideas and evaluate them.
  • Examine the viability of a business idea.
  • Assess the impact of environmental factors on the marketing of an organisation.
  • Examine and apply marketing research concepts to the business environment.
  • Examine market segmentation, targeting, and positioning and discuss how these factors assist organisations to be competitive in marketing their products or services.
  • Provide the elements and an example of a business plan to enable drawing up a business plan.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Explore and investigate organisational cultures and discuss management's role within an organisation.
  • Discuss contemporary issues related to organisational culture within the context of cultural theories.
  • Explore the nature and dynamics of diversity within an organisation.
  • Investigate and explore contemporary issues related to diversity for a better understanding of how to manage workforce diversity.
  • Discuss the influence and the power of businesses on various environments.
  • Construct ideas in the business environment and discuss their power to shape the business-government-society relationship.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Explore statistical measures and methods of calculating and ascertaining them extensively to provide a sound quantitative grounding for competence and understanding.
  • Critique principles, concepts, and techniques of data-gathering, classification, summarisation, interpretation, and presentation/communication to enhance understanding and appreciation of objective statistical practices.
  • Apply methods and techniques of data organisation and processing to real-life scenarios to promote understanding of the importance of producing unbiased, reliable research outcomes.
  • Identify concepts of International Trade and Investment and discuss the economics and politics of such Trade and Investment.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment in the qualification is designed to ensure that learners demonstrate the applied competence described in the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs) and Associated Assessment Criteria (AACs). Assessment is both formative and summative and is integrated across modules to provide a coherent measure of student achievement. The formative-to-summative assessment ratio will generally be 50-50% (with a maximum deviation of 10% on either side of the ratio).

    In the assessment strategy, knowledge and skills will be assessed through a variety of options available as self-assessment activities. Continuous Integrated Assessment conducted via self-assessment activities is available in Module Guides and on the Learning Management System (LMS). All Learners are given the opportunity to complete formative activities included at the end of each theme in their Module Guides. The Module Guides include a facilitation session following each activity. In the facilitation session, learners are guided to acquire the necessary knowledge, practical implementation, and necessary attitudes to achieve the set outcomes of each theme. Formative assessment is a range of formal and informal assessment procedures employed by lecturers during the learning process to modify teaching and learning activities with the purpose of improving student achievement.

    At NQF Level 5, foundational knowledge, academic literacy, quantitative reasoning, and introductory business concepts are assessed through quizzes, written assignments, and practical computer-based tasks. As the learner progresses to NQF Level 6, analytical thinking, research skills, and applied business strategies are assessed through case studies, data interpretation tasks, and project-based learning. At NQF Level 7, the assessment focus shifts toward higher-order competencies that reflect the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical application in complex business contexts. Strategic decision-making, ethical reasoning, and workplace readiness are assessed through integrated research projects, reflective portfolios, and experiential learning in Work Integrated Learning.

    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment in the BBA is continuous and developmental. It provides feedback to learners and supports the achievement of learning outcomes at both module and programme level. Formative tasks are aligned to module outcomes and prepare learners for summative assessments by emphasising experimentation, iteration, and applied practice. These include:
  • Module-based assignments and case studies (e.g., in Business Management 1A & 1B, Marketing 1, Human Resource Management 1) to develop conceptual understanding and practical application.
  • Class tests and online quizzes (e.g., in Quantitative Techniques, Economics 1A & 1B, Business Law) to monitor theoretical and technical knowledge.
  • Oral presentations and business simulations (e.g., in Project Management, Public Relations 2, Strategic Marketing) to evaluate communication, strategic reasoning, and leadership skills.
  • Workshops, peer assessments, and group projects (e.g., in Data Analytics, Human Resource In-formation Systems, Consumer Behaviour) to build collaboration, analytical thinking, and problem-solving.
  • Reflective journals and process documentation (e.g., in Work Integrated Learning, Business Eth-ics, Research Methodology) to encourage self-evaluation, ethical reasoning, and critical reflection

    Formative tasks are aligned to module outcomes and prepare learners for summative assessments by emphasising experimentation, iteration, and applied practice.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment evaluates integrated achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes and is conducted at key progression points. It includes:
  • Projects and strategic business portfolios (e.g., in Business Management 3A & 3B, Financial Management 3A & 3B, Product and Promotion Management 3) demonstrating conceptual, technical, and professional competence.
  • Written assignments and research reports (e.g., in Research Design, Research Literature Review, Research Final Project) assessing theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, and the ability to situate business practice within cultural, social, and ethical contexts.
  • Practical examinations and portfolio reviews (e.g., in Marketing 2A & 2B, Management Accounting 2A & 2B) where learners present and defend their business strategies and analyses to assessors and panels.
  • Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) logbooks demonstrating the application of business knowledge and skills in professional contexts, aligned with Work Integrated Learning and Business Ethics modules.
  • Final research project/dissertation that integrates business research, conceptual development, and advanced strategic planning, culminating in Research Data Collection and Analysis and Research Final Project. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification was compared with similar qualifications from Switzerland and the Netherlands.

    Country: Switzerland
    Institution: IFM Business School
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Business Administration (with specialisation in Management)
    Credits: 130 US credits, 184 ECTS
    Duration: Three years full-time and four years online learning

    Entry requirements:
  • High school diploma, Baccalaureate, A levels, Maturity or equivalent.

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the Bachelor of Business Administration qualification is to prepare a path for aspiring managers. The qualification provides the essential skills needed for effective company management and lays a strong foundation for a successful career. Learners will gain in-depth knowledge of business structures, functions, operations, and environments, preparing them to manage financial resources, human resources, and technologies effectively.

    Specialising in management will build expertise in corporate finance, business strategies, and modern, sustainable leadership. The curriculum equips learners to manage projects, develop strategies, solve complex problems, and make key decisions that drive organisational success. Learners can further customise the specialisation with electives tailored to career goals and interests.

    This specialisation prepares graduates for managerial roles across a range of industries and companies, from consumer goods to consulting and from small enterprises to multinational corporations.

    Qualification Structure:
    The curriculum contains 37 compulsory modules and 4 elective modules for specialisation.
    Compulsory Modules:
  • Management.
  • People Management and Organisation.
  • Corporate Finance.
  • Negotiation for Business.
  • Problem Solving
  • Business Strategy.

    Specialisation: Elective Modules:
  • Leading Innovation and Change.
  • AI in Business Operations.
  • International Business.
  • Mastering Financial Markets.
  • Entrepreneurship and Business Development.
  • Luxury Business Management.
  • International Marketing.

    Similarities:
  • The IFM Business School (IFM-BS) and the South African qualifications are offered over three years full-time.
  • Both qualifications accept applicants who have completed a high school qualification or equivalent.
    The IFM-BS and the SA qualifications prepare learners for managerial roles across a wide range of industries and companies.
  • Both qualifications follow a hybrid-learning model with the flexibility of their innovative digital platform.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules.

    Difference:
  • The IFM-BS qualification has 130 US credits (184 ECTS), whereas the SA qualification has a minimum of 360 credits.

    Country: Netherlands
    Institution: NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Business Administration
    Credits: 240 ECTS
    Duration: Four years full-time

    Entry requirements:
  • A diploma that is at least equivalent to an NLQF 4/EQF 4 level (Dutch/ European Qualifications Framework) and comparable to the required Dutch diploma.

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the Bachelor of Business Administration is to prepare learners to be managers and leaders within an organisation. Learners can expect a very hands-on approach with workshops and practical challenges, giving a true experience of the business world as they research and analyse problems and processes and turn ideas into solid advice

    The qualification develops skills in identifying those areas that function well in an organisation and the areas in which difficulties and bottlenecks lie. Learners will be encouraged to nurture analytical insights and conceptual thinking to be able to create innovative and sustainable solutions to adapt, change or improve processes.

    Qualification Structure:
    Year 1:
  • Operations Management.
  • Strategic Management.
  • Information Management.
  • Organisational Behaviour.
  • Professional Mastery.
  • Finance & Management.
  • Change Management.
  • Innovation Management.

    Year 2:
  • Process Optimisation.
  • Operations Management.
  • Professional Mastery.
  • English Business Communication.
  • Data Management.
  • Information Management.
  • Behavioural Change.
  • Organisational Behaviour.
  • Strategic Advice.
  • Strategic Management.

    Year 3:
    Semester 1: Minor subject (study abroad)
  • During the minor, learners focus on a specific subject or expand their knowledge by taking an additional subject. This allows Learners to truly take charge of their education by 'customising' their course.
  • Next Gen Leadership.
  • Change and Innovation.
  • Mindful Leadership.
  • The Art of Ethical Leadership.

    Semester 2: Internship
  • Putting knowledge into practice in an internationally oriented organisation. Learners will carry out a research project that will prepare them for their graduation period.

    Year 4:
    Semester 1: Future-Ready Business
  • With the emphasis being placed on People-Planet-Profit-Purpose, learners examine the future of companies and organisations and the field of business administration.

    Semester 2: Graduation project
  • Learners complete a graduation project to show that they are business professional in the making.

    Similarities:
  • The NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences (NHL-SUAS) and the South African (SA) qualifications accept applicants who completed the Level 4 qualification or equivalent.
  • Both qualifications will prepare learners to be managers and leaders within an organisation.
  • Both qualifications combine numerous disciplines in communication, finance, economics, and business management.

    Differences:
  • The NHL-SUAS qualification has 240 ECTS, whereas the SA qualification has a minimum of 360 credits.
  • The NHL-SUAS qualification is offered over four years full-time, although it has a shorter three-year track which is compared to the SA qualification. 

  • ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides the following articulation options:
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Business Administration in Project and Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Occupational Diploma: Financial Administration Manager, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Business Administration Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Advanced Occupational Certificate: Human Resource Management Officer, NQF Level 7. 

  • MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A. 

    NOTES 
    N/A. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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.
     
    1. EDUVOS (Pty) Ltd (Previously Pearson Institute of Higher Education (Pty) Ltd) 



    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.