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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Facility Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
122351  Advanced Diploma in Facility Management 
ORIGINATOR
Academy for Facilities Management (Pty) Ltd (A4FM) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Advanced Diploma  Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Building Construction 
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  EXCO 0724/24  2024-06-04  2027-06-04 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-04   2031-06-04  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Advanced Diploma in Facility Management is to produce dynamic leaders with exceptional facility management skills. The qualification is unique in the educational context as it focuses on the entire scope of the management of maintenance /soft services /space planning which are essential for efficient and effective Facility Management in the corporate context.

The qualification is intended for learners who are:
  • Employed in the facility management field without a qualification and wish to advance in Facility Management (FM).
  • Employed in FM, with qualifications and wish to advance their knowledge of the field.
  • Have the existing qualifications in other fields and wish to change to FM.
    The qualification provides specialisation for learners who are new to the FM field by offering an intensive and focused qualification in FM. The qualification meets the requirements of a specific niche in the labour market for learners who wish to move into the economy sector which remains healthy despite the impact of the COVID-related lockdowns. It is anticipated the learner intake in the first year to increase over time as the qualification becomes known in the marketplace.

    The qualification is primarily vocational in nature and emphasises general principles together with practices and more specific procedures concerning the FM scope required by demand organisations and its application in the corporate context. It provides Facility Managers with a sound knowledge base and equips them with skills to undertake more specialised and intensive learning in the FM field. The qualification provides a holistic overview of the field and encompasses the best, tried and tested practices in the Facility Management context.

    Upon the completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Undertake independent research and present complex FM-related information reliably and effectively to all levels, including the top management level of the organisation.
  • Apply the integrated knowledge of management, systems, processes, and resources for a functional leadership role in any organisation.
  • Apply the strategic leadership of the FM function such as soft services; maintenance management; space planning and management in an organisational context across all sectors of the economy.
  • Examine the best practices, principles, models, and processes of integrated facility maintenance management applicable to the built environment.
  • Analyse the best practices, principles, models, and processes of integrated facility soft services management for any demand organisation.
  • Discuss the strategic facility management system as it applies to the organisation.

    Rationale:
    The South African Facility Management (SAFM) industry shows continued growth with a demand for well-qualified staff, amongst both Facility Management users and providers of all sectors - private as well as state-owned. The qualification gives priority to the needs of and the advancement of the SAFM industry.

    The Global FM market generated revenue of $1.5b in 2028 and Africa has the highest growth. The footprint of FM in the economy contributed 2.6% of the Gross National Product of the SA economy, employed 1,7% of the total workforce and recorded an industry growth rate of 7.7%. (Global FM Market Report 2017). An economy with systemic growth problems and a vibrant industry must be encouraged and supported with relevant education.

    With sensitivity to international standards and local requirements, the qualification intends to produce dynamic leaders with exceptional facility management skills. The qualification forms part of the holistic learning path in FM. Senior positions have historically been dominated by individuals with NQF Level 7 qualifications. The South African Facilities Management Association (SAFMA), highest professional designation is also set for people who have ten years of experience and an NQF Level 7 qualification or equivalent. This change indicates the need for a qualification which covers the entire field of FM, especially given that a higher qualification will also open doors to senior management positions in the industry. Learners will be able to articulate and aspire to more advanced levels of education.

    The qualification will also enhance access to senior positions in FM by allowing people with NQF Level 6 qualifications to shift to the FM field, which is a healthy industry despite the very unhealthy economy in which it functions.

    The learning path will provide FM qualifications that will break the stranglehold that related university qualifications still have on career advancement for FM professionals in the industry. The qualification will offer articulation for those with related lower-level qualifications to compete for management-level positions in the industry.

    The qualification is designed to meet the needs of employers and property owners, including the state by providing a theoretical, practical, and skills-orientated programme with sufficient and appropriate experiential learning. The qualification provides the academic development and mentorship of learners who are involved in the management of facility management. This qualification was developed in response to the workplace need for competent facilities managers with a holistic perspective on FM and who can work across all economic sectors. An online survey soliciting industry views showed overwhelming support for the qualification. SAFMA was also consulted and supported the qualification.

    Growth of the local Facility Management (FM) industry has consistently outperformed the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross National Product (GNP) figures over the last three decades. Regular pre-COVID industry research commissioned by SAFMA shows continued growth with a demand for well-qualified staff across all sectors of the economy. The qualification gives priority to the skills needed in the FM industry and the advancement thereof. The qualification incorporates international standards (ISO) and best

    practices as well as local requirements which will produce dynamic leaders with the necessary facility management knowledge and skills.

    The qualification focuses on the following key functional areas:
  • Soft services management within the built environment like cleaning, catering and security, the most FM visceral services that directly impact building users.
  • Maintenance management of the built environment in the areas of civil, mechanical, and electrical maintenance, and while these services are mostly basement activities which may go unnoticed by the end-user, they are essential for a healthy and safe working environment.
  • Space planning and management of the built environment which incorporates the use and layout of the available space, the appropriate furnishings and fit-out, and space standards which sets the tone for the look-and-feel of work environments but more importantly has a significant impact on user productivity.

    Given that FM is the second highest operational expenditure item for most organisations (after HR) optimising these services is essential for efficient and effective management of the core business or demand organization. Excellence in managing these services contributes directly to staff engagement, productivity, and retention. The demand for Facility Managers who understand the impact of the full FM scope and its integrated management has never been higher, especially in a world of work that has been affected by the impact of COVID-related lockdowns and the resultant economic decline. More organisations are under pressure to optimise and professionalise FM. The operational FM costs amount to some 20% of the operational corporate expenditure of most organisations, which highlights the need for professional Facility Managers with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage the full scope of FM. Learners who complete this qualification may apply for professional registration from the SAFMA against their highest professional designation (Accredited Facilities Professional (AFP)) and enable them to compete for managerial FM positions in the corporate / enterprise context. 
    		•

    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 applicable 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 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.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from 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 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:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Advanced Certificate in Facility Maintenance Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Logistics Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Operations Management, Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Project Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Logistics Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Management Sciences, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Operations Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Occupational Diploma in Facilities Management, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory modules, Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Business Communication and Research, 10 Credits.
  • Facility Management Theory, 20 Credits.
  • Management for Facility Managers, 20 Credits.
  • FM Maintenance Management, 20 Credits.
  • FM Soft Services Management, 20 Credits.
  • FM Space Planning and Management, 20 Credits.
  • Capstone Project, 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate the ability to undertake independent research, and present complex FM-related information reliably and effectively to all levels, including the top management level of the organisation.
    2. Demonstrate the integrated knowledge of management, systems, processes, and resources for a functional leadership role in any demanding organisation.
    3. Demonstrate the integrated knowledge of the strategic leadership of the full FM function (soft services; maintenance management; space planning and management) in an organisational context across all sectors of the economy.
    4. Demonstrate an understanding of the best practices, principles, models, and processes of integrated facility maintenance management applicable to the built environment.
    5. Demonstrate an understanding of the best practices, principles, models, and processes of integrated facility soft services management for any demand organisation.
    6. Demonstrate an understanding of the strategic facility management system applied to an organisation.
    7. Demonstrate an understanding of the field and the ability to use FM terminology, concepts, and benefits appropriately in the work environment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Complete an integrated yet simulated audit of current organisational work-based FM practices as compared to Facility Management (FM) best practices and standards.
  • Facilitate a strategic FM framework for the Demand Organisation (DO) to ensure alignment with the corporate business plan.
  • Conduct practical and academic research to explain and document the policies, processes and systems required for the integrated management of comprehensive FM service delivery, including maintenance, soft services, and space planning.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Examine and document the resource requirements for effective and optimal FM service delivery to the DO and its users.
  • Apply the principles of management (such as planning, budgeting implementation and control) to the operations of the three core areas of FM service delivery (maintenance, soft services, and space planning).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Evaluate and apply good corporate governance and management principles, frameworks, and processes in a demand organisation.
  • Assess the demand organisation strategy and align the FM function with other core and support functions.
  • Analyse and evaluate the principles and practices regarding strategic management pertaining to the full FM function, in any demand organisation.
  • Explore the role of a manager in the integrated FM function, evaluate and apply the principles of self-management.
  • Evaluate and apply principles and practices regarding the relationship with peers and seniors and outline the strategy for building relationships and personal reputation in the organisation.
  • Apply the management of personnel principles to the integrated FM function (hard, soft and space services) in any demand organisation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Critique the maintenance strategy, policy, and procedures used in any demand organisation.
  • Apply the facility maintenance planning and procedures to develop a comprehensive framework for the demand organisation requirements, with an emphasis on the building inventory, condition assessment and maintenance operations including sourcing and service level agreements.
  • Analyse the statutory and standards framework for maintenance management for the demand organisation in the built environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Critique the facility soft services strategy, policy, and procedures for the demand organisation.
  • Apply the facility soft services planning and processes to develop a comprehensive framework for integrated delivery and resource requirements in the demand organisation, including sourcing and service level agreements.
  • Analyse the best practice, standards, and statutory framework for facility soft services management for the demand organisation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Critique the space planning strategy, policy, and procedures for any demand organisation.
  • Apply the space strategy, policy, layout plans and processes to develop a comprehensive framework for the implementation and resource requirements for the demand organisation with an emphasis on the space needs, inventory, and usage, including possible sourcing and service level agreements.
  • Analyse the space planning and management framework of the demand organisation by applying best practice principles, standards, and the statutory framework.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Apply the FM function to the statutory and standards framework for FM (Management System) used by the demand organisation.
  • Analyse the sourcing and service level agreements for optimal FM service delivery to the demand organisation.
  • Examine the integrated nature of FM strategy, policy and plans, processes, procedures, and systems at the corporate level of the demand organisation. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: Netherlands
    Institutions: Breda University of Applied Sciences
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of International Facility Management
    Duration: Four years full time

    Entry Requirements:
    To be admitted to this qualification, learners need a have a diploma with an appropriate profile, or an equivalent of these Dutch diplomas. Learners can also be admitted with a level-4 mbo diploma.

    Purpose:
    This qualification is the key to a career in facilities management. The focus is on creating a pleasant and sustainable work environment. As a facilities manager learners make sure that the people within a company can work together effectively and efficiently while keeping them happy and healthy. Learners play a vital role in retaining and attracting talent by creating an inspiring and sustainable work environment.

    After studying International Facility Management, learners will be equipped to enter a variety of facilities management jobs, at home or abroad. Career examples are innovation manager, work environment advisor or event manager. Possible employers: multinationals, hotels, hospitals, airports, catering businesses. After earning the qualification, learners have the option of attending a master's degree at BUas or another university.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification comprises the special three- and the regular four-year qualification which can be found mainly in the first year of study. The three-year qualification starts with modules from the second year of the regular qualification. For both the regular four-year qualification and the special three-year qualification a minimum of 60 ECTS credits need to be completed during the first year of study. Changing from one track to the other during study will not be possible. The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Knowing the Fundamentals of Facility Operations comparable to Facility Management Theory and Management for Facility Managers.
  • Understanding the Facility Management Industry comparable to Facility Management Theory and Management for Facility Managers.
  • Developing People and Organisations comparable to Management for Facility Managers.
  • Managing Business Performance and Innovation comparable to Management for Facility Managers.
  • Exploring the International Facility Industry.
  • Specialisation: Attractions and Theme Parks Management comparable to FM Space Planning and Management.
  • Strategic Business Management and Marketing comparable to Management for Facility Managers.
  • Bachelor's thesis comparable to Capstone Project.

    Similarities:
  • The Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUAS) and the South African (SA) qualifications require learners who completed the Diploma in the relevant field.
  • Both qualifications develop a combination of knowledge, characteristics, attitudes, and skills required by a professional facilities manager.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory modules.
  • The BUAS and the SA qualifications culminate into the research project/thesis.

    Differences:
  • The BUAS qualification is offered over four years of full-time study whereas the SA qualification is offered over one year of full-time study.
  • The BUAS qualification has an option of completing the qualification in three years whereas the SA qualification has only one year option to complete.
  • The BUAS qualification articulates into the Master's degree while the SA qualification into the Honours degree.

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: Massey University
    Qualification Title: Graduate Diploma in Facilities Management
    NQF Level: NZQF Level 7
    Duration: 1 Year Full-time

    Entry requirements:
    Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree, or equivalent, and have completed at least two years of relevant professional experience.

    Purpose:
    The qualification is aimed at professionals working in facilities management who hold a non-FM-related tertiary qualification such as engineering, commerce, or science. It provides an educational route for FM professionals to progress into more senior leadership roles in the industry. The structure and content of the qualification are designed to build on existing knowledge of the operational maintenance and management of built facilities. It ranges across the many and varied core skills required by facilities managers.

    Learners will gain the skills and knowledge to organise, control and coordinate the strategic and operational management of built facilities, environment, and support services. The qualification covers four main knowledge areas: legal, management, technical and professional. It reflects the many and varied core competencies FM professionals need.

    The qualification will help to progress careers by providing opportunities for promotion within existing roles or enabling transition to new roles. Graduates will have the knowledge to take on roles that require operational and managerial skills for managing buildings and facilities in public and private organisations as in-house facilities managers or external facilities management consultants. On completion, learners may consider the Postgraduate Diploma in Construction in Facilities Management or the Master of Construction in Facilities Management.

    Qualification structure:

    The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules:
    Compulsory Modules:
  • Finance Fundamentals comparable to Facility Management Theory
  • Strategic Management and Governance comparable to Management for Facility Managers
  • Construction Technology and Services II.
  • Construction Contracts and Legal Principles comparable to Management for Facility Managers
  • Facilities Management for Construction Managers comparable to Management for Facility Managers
  • Managing Risk and Operational Sustainability comparable to Management for Facility Managers
  • Digital Evolution of Facilities Management comparable to FM Space Planning and Management
  • Facilities and Asset Maintenance comparable to FM Maintenance Management

    Similarities:
  • The Massey University (MU) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over one year of full-time study.
  • Both qualifications are registered at Level 7 of SA NQF /NZQF.
  • The MU and SA qualifications share similar purpose and rationale.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory modules.
  • Both qualifications articulate to Postgraduate Diploma and/or Honours Degree in a cognate field.

    Differences:
  • The MU qualification requires learners who completed a bachelor's degree whereas the SA qualification requires learners who completed a Diploma in the related field.
  • The MU qualification does not include a research component while the SA qualification includes research modules.
  • The MU qualification focuses on maintenance management and not on space planning or soft services while the SA qualification covers the full spectrum of FM and therefore will adequately prepare the graduates to assume a leadership role for the FM function in the organisation.
  • The MU qualification can articulate to a Master's degree in a cognate field whereas the SA qualification articulates to an Honours degree and/or Postgraduate Diploma and not a Master's degree.

    Country: Singapore
    Institution: BMC International College
    Qualification Title: Advanced Diploma in Facilities Management
    Duration: 12 Months Full-Time

    Minimum Entry Requirements
  • Minimum of 3 'A' Level subject passes or equivalent, in General Paper and two Science subjects,
    Or
  • International Higher Secondary Level Qualification passes in English, Mathematics and Science,
    Or
  • Learners who have studied a Diploma with BMC International College
    or
  • A diploma from other private Institutes in Singapore will be eligible for exemption of a minimum of 2 to a maximum of 8 modules.

    Purpose:
    The qualification is designed for technical aspirants who wishe to pursue their career, or those who are working in the building and facility management industry. This qualification would help to enhance the candidates technical knowledge and practical skills to work in the growing demand field of facilities management. The qualification would also cover various concepts in building automation and how building automation can be used in facility management.

    Qualification structure:

    The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules:

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Engineering Mathematics.
  • Principles and needs of Facilities management comparable to Facility Management Theory.
  • CAD and Simulation
  • Fundamentals of Electrical and Mechanical.
  • Facility Management Principles comparable to Facility Management Theory.
  • Green and Sustainable Building Technology FM Space Planning and Management.
  • Building Automation Technology.
  • Risk Management and Business Continuity comparable to Management for Facility Managers.
  • Workplace Safety.
  • Building Management Systems FM Space Planning and Management.
  • Energy Management and Audit.
  • Project comparable to Capstone Project.

    Assessment:
    All module assessments are examination and assignment based. Learners are given assignment questions and must write an examination at the end of each module.

    Assessment of learners' work will be carried out by a range of methods including essay examination, work assessment or assignment. Learners' work will be measured against the specified learning outcomes and assessment criteria of each unit. Mark schemes are provided for each unit and grading criteria are to assist assessors in allocating marks.

    Similarities:
  • The BMC International College (BMCIC) and the South African (SA) qualifications take one year full-time study.
  • Both qualifications require learners who hold a Diploma in the relevant field.
  • The purpose of BMC and SA qualifications is to equip learners with the fundamental knowledge and skills required in the facility management field to maintain and establish facilities in an efficient, productive, and functional way.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory modules.
  • Assessment in both qualifications is based on formative and summative assessment. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts in Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Business in Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Hospitality Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Public Administration in Human Resource Management, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Logistics Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Management Services, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Management Practice, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing and Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Operations Management, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation:
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    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.
     
    1. Academy for Facilities Management (Pty) Ltd (A4FM) 


    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.