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 Commerce 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
123101  Bachelor of Commerce 
ORIGINATOR
NewBridge Graduate Institute (Pty)Ltd - Bank Avenue (formerly Centurion Akademie (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  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0628/24  2024-11-21  2027-11-21 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-11-21   2033-11-21  

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 Bachelor of Commerce is to provide a solid, general business education for learners who will need to function effectively in a world created by significant and rapid economic, social, and technological change. The curriculum provides an exploration and application of theory and knowledge that may be applied to enhance conceptual and practical understanding to function effectively in a broad range of commercial settings and contexts. The qualification provides a strong foundation in key commercial disciplines of management, accounting/finance, economics, and business-focused legislation. The core advanced discipline in the qualification is management with an emphasis on change, volatility, transformation, and the range of business environments from small entrepreneurial contexts to "big business." Learners then elect a second area of focus of either Information, Communication and Technology for business or Business Law

On completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Apply knowledge of core business/commerce disciplines to decision-making in management.
  • Evaluate economic, social, technological, legislative and political change and their impact on business and economies and develop business strategies to manage change.
  • Apply concepts and principles of sustainable development and responsible environmental practice, sound governance, social justice and impact, ethics, and transformation in decision-making in a range of contexts.
  • Integrate understanding of commercial law and business technology with a strong understanding of management theory and application, conceptually and practically to improve the procedural and strategic functioning of businesses.
    5. Discuss procedures, processes, systems, decision making and strategy in the management of businesses of varying size and complexity.

    Rationale:
    The qualification will produce well-educated and skilled professionals. The qualification supports economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development, contributing positively to the country's overall prosperity.

    The qualification will provide learners with a well-rounded education in business that prepares them to thrive in a world characterised by significant economic, social, and technological changes. By offering a strong foundation in key business disciplines and the option to specialise, the qualification aims to produce graduates who are equipped to excel in various commercial roles and contexts.

    Typical learners pursuing a qualification are likely to have diverse backgrounds and aspirations while sharing characteristics of having completed school with a strong school leaving performance and being ambitious and motivated, business-oriented with analytical and problem-solving skills, adaptable and resilient whilst being ethical and responsible.

    Introducing the qualification would expand the institution's academic portfolio, adding a general undergraduate business qualification to its existing offerings. This diversification attracts a broader range of learners interested in pursuing careers in business and commerce. The qualification -emphasises practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge, which can help address the skills gap in the business sector. Graduates will meet the demands of the job market and contribute effectively to the workforce. The qualification aligns with the institution's mission of providing quality education and preparing learners for successful careers. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

    The institution supports the principle of RPL and recognises relevant prior learning and experience for learners who can demonstrate that they have achieved the required prior knowledge and skills for admission. The institution's RPL policy and procedures are contained in the Admissions Policy and are aligned with the statutory requirements set forth in the Policies on the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment in Higher Education, 2013 and the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning, 2019. The governing principles of RPL policy are informed by the need for equity, access, inclusivity, and redress of past discrimination about educational opportunities.

    RPL for access:
  • This provides an alternative access route to qualification for those who do not meet the formal entry requirements for admission.
  • Learners who wish to be accepted based on RPL will need to present a portfolio of evidence to the satisfaction of the relevant Head of School that their prior learning has resulted in the knowledge and skills considered necessary for entry to the qualification or exemption from the module or modules concerned.
  • RPL is not used for more than 10% of the entering cohort of any qualification.

    RPL for credits:
  • RPL will not normally be used to grant credit for formal modules but may be used to award exemption from formal modules presented in a qualification.
  • Exemption cannot be awarded for more than 25% of the credit value of a qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, 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
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at NQF Levels 5, 6, and 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Accounting 1A, 15 Credits.
  • Financial Management, 15 Credits.
  • Business Management 1A, 15 Credits.
  • Business Management 1B, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Business 1A: Introduction to Technology for Business, 15 Credits.
  • Economics 1A, 15 Credits.
  • Economics 1B, 15 Credits.
  • Commercial Legislation, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 90 Credits
  • Business Management 2A: Entrepreneurship, 15 Credits.
  • Business Management 2B: Operations Management,15 Credits.
  • Ethics, Governance and Transformation,15 Credits.
  • Quantitative Skills for Commerce, 15 Credits.
  • Research Methodology for Commerce, 15 Credits.
  • Interactive Marketing, 15 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 6, 30 Credits (Select two modules)
  • Digital Business 2A: Applying Technology in Business, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Business 2B: Data Analytics, 15 Credits.
  • Law: Business and Enterprise Structures, 15 Credits.
  • Law: Labour and Industrial Relations, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 60 Credits
  • Business Management 3A, 15 Credits.
  • Business Management 3B, 15 Credits.
  • Research Practice, 15 Credits.
  • Risk Management, 15 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level, 60 Credits (Select any four modules)
  • Digital Business 3A: Technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Business 3B: Information Knowledge Management, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Taxation, 15 Credits.
  • Digital and Cyber Security and Cyber Law, 15 Credits.
  • Law: Methods of Payment, 15 Credits.
  • Law: Intellectual Property, 15 Credits.
  • Law: Tax, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply knowledge of core business/commerce disciplines to decision-making in management.
    2. Demonstrate the ability to evaluate economic, social, technological, legislative and political change and their impact on business and economies and develop business strategies to manage change.
    3. Apply concepts and principles of sustainable development and responsible environmental practice, sound governance, social justice and impact, ethics, and transformation in decision-making in a range of contexts.
    4. Integrate understanding of commercial law and business technology with a strong understanding of management theory and application, conceptually and practically to improve the procedural and strategic functioning of businesses.
    5. Demonstrate mastery in one or more areas of importance in contemporary commerce to procedures, processes, systems, decision making and strategy in the management of businesses of varying size and complexity. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Clearly explain key concepts, principles, and theories in the core disciplines of commerce, including management, accounting, and economics.
  • Effectively apply knowledge to practical scenarios in business and commerce-related situations.
  • Communicate effectively using written and verbal communication skills, especially in the context of business reports, presentations, and interpersonal communication.
  • Analyse business data, financial statements, and economic trends, and make informed decisions based on the analysis.
  • Use knowledge and skills to effectively adapt to the changing business environments, adjusting to new challenges and opportunities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Effectively analyse and interpret global economic conditions, such as international trade patterns, exchange rates, economic integration, and global economic interdependencies.
  • Evaluate fundamental economic concepts, including supply and demand, market structures, inflation, fiscal and monetary policies, trade, and economic indicators appropriately.
  • Analyse how economic changes can impact various societal aspects, including income distribution, poverty levels, access to education and healthcare, and employment opportunities.
  • Correctly explain how political decisions and policies can influence economic outcomes their ability to respond to political changes and their potential effects on the economy.
  • Evaluate possible scenarios for identified problems to recommend informed strategies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss the concepts and principles of sustainable development, including environmental, economic, and social dimensions, and their interrelationships within various contexts.
  • Apply responsible environmental practices by assessing potential environmental impacts, proposing mitigation measures, and integrating environmentally friendly strategies into decision-making processes appropriately.
  • Integrate sound governance principles and practices into decision-making, ensure transparency, and accountability, and adhere to relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Evaluate ethical dilemmas, make morally sound choices, and justify decisions based on ethical principles and values.
  • Apply a transformational approach to decision-making, promote inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment, and identify opportunities for positive societal change and transformation.
  • Analyse a range of business and commercial opportunities, and assess potential benefits, risks, and implications for sustainability, ethics, and societal well-being.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Correctly explain the relevant laws and regulations that impact commerce and commercial systems, such as contract law, data protection regulations, consumer protection laws, and tax regulations.
  • Effectively discuss current and emerging technologies relevant to commerce and business processes, and how these technologies influence commercial systems.
  • Analyse different procedural circumstances, e.g., supply chain management, sales processes, and financial reporting and identify how changes in legislation and technology can impact these procedures.
  • Critique the potential risks and benefits of incorporating changes in legislation and/or technology in commercial systems.
  • Conduct research and identify relevant laws, regulations, and technological advancements that could affect commerce and commercial systems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply key concepts related to procedures, processes and systems in the areas of specialisation.
  • Develop a comprehensive strategic plan based on knowledge of areas of specialisation.
  • Propose innovative solutions and ideas to create new business opportunities or improve existing processes.
  • Explain relevant regulations, legislation, and governance frameworks that impact businesses in the specific industry or context.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    As per the institution's Assessment Policy, assessment has two purposes in a learning journey:
  • Summative which is the structured process in which evidence of learning is gathered and evaluated against the outcomes, criteria, and standards in learning programmes.
  • Formative which is the process in which information is gathered along the path to the outcomes so that gaps in learning and understanding can be addressed and progress can be measured.

    Assessment therefore meets both purposes generally and the strategy adopted in each qualification is aligned to the purpose of the qualification specifically within the overall set of principles contained in the Assessment Policy.

    Learning is not only knowledge acquisition but also a process of developing the ability to apply this knowledge to solve problems. Credible assessment ensures that learners can demonstrate both knowledge and its application and recognises diversity in the people being assessed and thus accommodates different styles and strategies for managing and demonstrating learning. Therefore, assessment is both formative and summative and learners are given multiple opportunities throughout the course of a module and qualification to improve their mastery and succeed using a range of strategies. Moreover, qualifications are career-focused, assessments are both theoretical and practical and the application of knowledge to appropriate levels of real-world contexts is integrated into the assessment strategy of each qualification.

    The institution's Assessment Policy is based on four main principles: fairness and transparency; development and progression; reasonableness; and constructive alignment. These principles operate together to ensure, amongst other things, that assessments: are explicit and clear; are representative of diverse learner achievement; are recorded and stored in a way that ensures their integrity and security; provide learners with multiple opportunities to demonstrate their competency and rectify poor performance; ensure that learners receive actionable, constructive feedback; and are appropriate for the type, level, and outcomes of a qualification. Most importantly, the Assessment Policy and its governing principles ensure that the assessment strategy of each qualification is aligned with the qualification's outcomes and is suitable for the blended mode of provisioning.

    Learners can demonstrate their learning, competency and capabilities through the following variety of assessment activities, both formative and summative: assignments, tests, Integrated Curriculum Engagement (ICE) tasks, Portfolios of Evidence (PoE), and exams. The range of assessments included in the qualification favours different skills represented across the qualification and within each module. Per our commitment to the principle of constructive alignment, as detailed in the Assessment Policy, there is coherence between the qualification module outcomes, and assessments.

    The Assessment Policy stipulates that assessment must be developmental and progressive which means that assessment practices and processes assure the equivalence of learning outcomes for all learners, regardless of their location. Moreover, per the principle of reasonableness, the number of assessments in a module is determined by its credit value, which indicates the notional hours and thus time available for assessment. This ensures a reasonable workload for learners.

    The standard breakdown for a final mark for a module is as follows:
  • Integrate Curriculum Engagement (ICE) tasks constitute 10% of the final mark.
  • Formative assessments constitute 40% of the final mark.
  • Summative assessments constitute 50% of the final mark.
  • Work Integrated Learning modules usually involve learners completing a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) that contributes 100% to their final module mark. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification is comparable to similar qualifications offered in Australia and New Zealand, which have similar Higher Education Frameworks to South Africa.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: University of New South Wales
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Commerce
    NQF Level: AQF Level 7
    Credits: 144 Credits
    Duration: 3 Year(s) full time
    Entry requirements
    Entry to this degree is based on the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) or an equivalent rank derived from the following:
  • Australian interstate Year 12 qualifications (e.g., OP rank)
  • New Zealand NCEA Level 3
  • Equivalent overseas qualifications e.g., International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, GCE A-Levels
  • Post-secondary or tertiary qualifications
  • An alternative entry qualification

    Purpose:
    The Bachelor of Commerce is a highly valued business qualification offering learners a career-focused education for long-term success. Learners are empowered to become adaptive thinkers and drive purposeful change to thrive in a fast-changing world.

    A unique feature of the qualification is the Integrated First Year, where learners learn about business management and the broader environment in which an organisation operates, with a strong focus on developing professional skills and capabilities.

    The qualification is designed in collaboration with industry and alumni and guides learners to develop a personalised roadmap to get the full benefit of the curricular and co-curricular opportunities offered in the qualification. Learners graduate with their personal digital Graduate Portfolio, showcasing their academic, technical and practical career-ready skills and capabilities for a fulfilling career.

    Learning Outcomes:
    On completion of the qualification, successful learners will be able to:
  • Make informed and effective selection and application of knowledge in a discipline or profession, in the contexts of local and global business.
  • Define and address business problems, and propose effective evidence-based solutions, through the application of rigorous analysis and critical thinking.
  • Harness, manage and communicate business information effectively using multiple forms of communication across different channels.
  • Interact and collaborate effectively with others to achieve a common business purpose or fulfil a common business project and reflect critically on the process and the outcomes.
  • Develop and be committed to responsible business thinking and approaches, which are underpinned by ethical professional practice and sustainability considerations.
  • Be aware of business systems in the wider world and actively committed to recognise and respect the cultural norms, beliefs and values of others, and will apply this knowledge to interact, communicate and work effectively in diverse environments.
  • Develop the capacity to take initiative, encourage forward thinking and bring about innovation, while effectively influencing others to achieve desired results.

    The qualification can lead to professional recognition and accreditation in industry and governing bodies, including the Australian Human Resources Institute, Australian Securities and Investment Commission, CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, ACCA, Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) and Institute of Public Accountants.

    Learners complete up to two majors, selecting from a comprehensive and industry-advised suite, including Accounting, Business Analytics, Economics, Finance, FinTech, HR, Information Systems, International Business, Marketing and Taxation, many fulfilling professional accreditation requirements.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification consists of 24 modules.
  • Commerce Integrated First Year modules.
  • One Commerce major.
  • Free electives or second Commerce major.
  • General education courses (choose from other faculties)
  • Mandatory Work Integrated Learning: Complete at least one module credit with a work-integrated learning focus such as an internship or business practicum.
  • Final Year Synthesis: Synthesise learning by applying and integrating the knowledge and skills gained throughout the qualification.
  • Graduate Portfolio.

    Similarities:
  • The University of New South Wales (UNSW) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over three years of full-time study.
  • Both qualifications require applicants who completed the Year 12 qualifications or equivalent.
  • The UNSW and the SA qualifications are registered at level 7 on the AQF/SANQF.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules.
  • The UNSW and the SA qualifications progress to Honour's degree.

    Difference:
  • The UNSW has a weighting of 144 credit points while the SA qualification is weighted 360 credits

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: University of Auckland
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Commerce
    Credits: 360 Credit Points
    Duration: 3 years Full-time
    Entry Requirements:
  • University Entrance (UE) standard.
    Purpose:
    The Bachelor of Commerce is a flexible business qualification and offers learners strong communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

    Jobs related to this qualification
  • Accountant/Financial adviser.
  • Business analyst.
  • Corporate, investment or merchant banker.
  • Operations manager.
  • Policy analyst or adviser.
  • Sales or marketing manager.
  • Entrepreneur/Business owner.
  • Web applications developer.

    Qualification structure
    The qualification consists of an integrated set of compulsory and elective modules,

    Year 1, 120 points
    Compulsory Modules:
  • Waipapa Taumata Rau, 15 pts
  • Understanding Business, 15 pts comparable to Business Management.
  • Accounting for Decision Making, 15 pts comparable to Accounting.
  • Economics, Markets and Law, 15 pts comparable to Economics, Interactive Marketing, Law: Business and Enterprise Structure s, Law: Labour and Industrial Relations and Law: Tax,
  • Digital Systems, 15 pts comparable to Digital Business: Applying Technology in Business and Digital Business: Data Analytics.
  • Managing Sustainable Growth, 15 pts comparable to Ethics, Governance and Transformation
  • Statistics for Commerce, 15 pts comparable to Quantitative Skills for Commerce
  • Major or Elective Modules, 15 pts

    Year 2, 120 points
  • Business Consulting, 15 pts comparable to Business Management
  • 2x Major 1 Module, 15 pts
  • 2x Major 2 Modules, 15 pts
  • 3x Major or Elective Modules, 15 pts

    Year 3, 120 points:
  • Capstone Module, 15 pts comparable to Research Practice and Research Methodology for Commerce
  • 3x Major 1 Module, 15 pts
  • 3x Major 2 Modules, 15 pts
  • General Education Module, 15 pts

    Similarities:
  • The University of Auckland (UA) and the South African (SA) qualifications take three years of full-time study.
  • The UA and SA qualifications consist of 360 credits.
  • Both qualifications will equip learners with detailed knowledge and skills in the chosen subject areas as well as general thinking and research competencies in Commerce.
  • The minimum requirement for entry into UA qualification is a school-leaving certificate similar to the South African National Senior Certificate.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Information and Technology Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Information Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Law, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Management, Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Corporate Law, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Labour Law, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Law, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Leadership, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management and Administration, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Process Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Business, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Futures Thinking, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy and African Studies, NQF Level 8.

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

    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. NewBridge Graduate Institute (Pty)Ltd - Bank Avenue (formerly Centurion Akademie (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.