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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
123626  Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing 
ORIGINATOR
Regenesys Management (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
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Finance, Economics and Accounting 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0729/25  2025-02-04  2028-02-04 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-02-04   2032-02-04  

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 Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing is to promote professional values, ethics, attitudes, and skillsets to produce professional leaders capable of successfully contributing to the internal auditing industry. The qualification will expose learners to contemporary developments in the field of internal auditing and will graduate with the ability to perform a variety of internal audit procedures, inclusive of risk-based internal auditing, risk management, presenting formal reports, and preparing engagements within various organisational contexts in South Africa.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Critically assess the dynamics and significant factors involved in establishing internal auditing activities at a managerial level, along with the primary responsibilities of the chief audit executive and the corporate board, in order to successfully implement and manage all aspects of the internal audit function.
  • Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the tools and techniques related to the planning, fieldwork and reporting mechanisms involved in the analysis of financial data and statements during an internal audit, to improve the overall efficiency of an organisation
  • Utilise appropriate assessment and management techniques to perform comprehensive audits of Information Systems and internal controls associated with supporting technology (database, security, maintenance, etc.), to identify potential risks and establish best practices.
  • Correctly explain and implement the various phases of a performance audit using suitable techniques to collect and document relevant evidence appropriate to meeting the audit's objectives; finally interpreting the results within the report to enhance organisational performance.

    The qualification offers vertical articulation for graduates with a Bachelor of Accounting Science, Bachelor of Commerce in Finance or similar Finance and Accounting-related qualifications. It is intended for professionals already in the financial industry, to enhance their skill sets by specialising in the field of Internal Auditing.

    Learners will develop the competencies required to successfully engage with organisations as either internal audit managers or ethical and capable consultants for the internal auditing profession. The qualification sets the foundation for furthering careers by undertaking the Chartered Accountant examinations. It also prepares graduates for further studies at a master's level.

    Rationale:
    Locally and internationally, it has been acknowledged that internal auditing is an essential governance and assurance function to ensure the successful operation of organisations in both the private and public sectors. Internal auditing is mandated by law for government entities. However, there is a shortage of qualified and competent auditors available to meet the demand, which can only be addressed by educating future auditing professionals.

    From an external perspective, it is essential that educational institutions deliver competent graduates to the market, who can assist in addressing the identified skill shortage and aid in ensuring the effective governance of organisations, which ultimately contributes to the performance of the economy. From an internal perspective, the design of the qualification was influenced by the institution's strategic decision to develop ethical and competent leaders across various sectors and disciplines, inclusive of the financial and auditing environment.

    This qualification is concerned with the inculcation of values around ethics, morality and responsible conduct in the world of work and society in general. The qualification will also aid professionals already employed in the finance and business environment to enhance their skills in terms of internal auditing, Information Technology (IT) governance and auditing, counteracting fraud, business strategy, performance management and risk management.

    The qualification was designed to enhance the employability of learners who have completed the Bachelor of Accounting Science (or similar financial qualification) or to assist professionals already employed in the finance and business environment to enhance their skills in terms of internal auditing. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution's RPL and Process applies recognition of prior learning in the scope of the SAQA RPL Policy and Criteria (As Amended 2019): to determine the criteria and methodology used to assess prior learning

    RPL for access
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be applied for by applicants who do not meet the admission criteria for any qualification. Recognition of prior learning access into this qualification will be applied to learners who discontinued their postgraduate diploma or honours degree studies at the institution or other institutions
  • 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.
  • Admission of applicants per qualification through an RPL route would not constitute more than 10 percent of the learner intake for the qualification.

    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 credits:
  • RPL for credits will only apply to learners who discontinued their studies at NQF 8 in a cognate qualification should it be determined that there is a 70 % correlation in modular content between the completed modules and the modules from the institution's modules.
  • Learners will be granted credit to a maximum of 60 credits of the qualification.
  • Credits are awarded based on the assessed evidence of the knowledge and skills acquired informally and non-formally.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Advanced Diploma in Internal Auditing, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Internal Auditing, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Management Sciences in Internal Auditing, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits:
  • Managing the Internal Audit Function, 20 Credits.
  • Internal Audit Services, 20 Credits.
  • Information Systems Auditing, 20 Credits.
  • Performance Auditing, 20 Credits.
  • Forensic Accounting, 20 Credits.
  • Risk Management, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1: Critically assess the dynamics and significant factors involved in establishing internal auditing activities at a managerial level, along with the primary responsibilities of the chief audit executive and the corporate board, to successfully implement and manage all aspects of the internal audit function.
    2: Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the tools and techniques related to the planning, fieldwork and reporting mechanisms involved in the analysis of financial data and statements during an internal audit, to improve the overall efficiency of an organisation
    3: Utilise appropriate assessment and management techniques to perform comprehensive audits of Information Systems and internal controls associated with supporting technology (database, security, maintenance, etc.), to identify potential risks and establish best practices.
    4: Correctly explain and implement the various phases of a performance audit using suitable techniques to collect and document relevant evidence appropriate to meeting the audit's objectives; finally interpreting the results within the report to enhance organisational performance.
    5: Demonstrate a solid comprehension of Forensic Accounting principles and systems (inclusive of relevant legislation and legal concepts) to accurately identify financial fraud or factors that may increase the likelihood of fraudulent activities, reporting effectively both verbally and in writing in a manner that would be admissible within legal proceedings.
    6: Utilise the integrated knowledge of corporate governance, enterprise risk management, and risk-based auditing to design and implement effective engagement plans, employing the use of appropriate risk assessment computer software, to enhance the operations of the organisation. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Comprehensively evaluate the responsibilities of the Chief Audit Executive (CAE) and the corporate board, as well as the competence of the CAE in establishing internal auditing activities for their organisations.
  • Analyse the implementation of internal auditing activities in unfamiliar scenarios, and their skills in employing critical reflection to address ethical issues related to internal auditing.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Comprehensively examine the tools and methods associated with planning and conducting fieldwork, along with implementing reporting mechanisms concerning the analysis of financial data and statements.
  • Use a variety of specialised skills and communication methods, appropriate to the field of internal auditing, to effectively communicate with a wide range of audiences.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss the principles and practices of information systems auditing and apply them in a variety of contexts related to information systems, information security, and data privacy.
  • Effectively recommend actions to address Information Technology risks, information security, and data privacy, coupled with the specialised skills to communicate with different levels of knowledge or expertise, also forms part of the competency to be displayed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Discuss the principles and practices of performance auditing along with the proficiency and apply relevant collection and analysis techniques to interpret and enhance organisational performance.
  • Conduct performance audits through a systematic process of reviewing and evaluating activities as an indicator of having achieved exit-level outcomes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply legislation and legal concepts pertinent to forensic accounting.
  • Discuss the principles and practices of forensic accounting.
  • Identify financial fraud or risk factors in an unfamiliar scenario.
  • Apply specialised skills in forensic accounting to address complex and challenging problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Discuss the principles and practices of corporate governance, enterprise risk management, and risk-based auditing and apply their knowledge in a variety of contexts.
  • Effectively appraise the methods used to assess the efficacy of risk identification and management.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    The assessment strategy broadly includes formative assessment and summative assessment. For purposes of the formative assessment segment learners are required to complete and submit two formal formative assessment tasks per module, i.e. objective test, e.g. multiple choice (weighted at 20%), and cognitive assessment, e.g. traditional assignment (weighted at 40%).

    Learners who receive less than 50% for their formative assessment may request a re-submission after improvements are made. Learners who do not achieve an average sub-minimum of 40% in the formative assessments may be given the opportunity to re-submit their assessment tasks after academic support and guidance are provided through the Academic Department.

    Learners who receive a mark of 39% and below are not eligible for the summative assessment, i.e. examination. Learners are therefore encouraged to request a re-submission and ensure submission of a greatly improved assessment. A re-submission is capped at 60% unless the Academic Committee is convinced that the reason for the re-submission is valid and compelling. The mark awarded after marking the re-submission will be the final recorded mark against the module, even if it is lower than the original mark.

    Upon achievement of a sub-minimum of 40% for each formative assessment, the learners will be allowed to proceed to the summative assessment (weighted at 40%). The summative assessment will itself also have a sub-minimum of 40%. The summative assessment carries a weight of 40 %. The final mark therefore is formed of the formative assessment carrying a weight of 60 % and the summative assessment carrying a weight of 40 %.

    A learner passes a module if a final average mark of at least 50% is achieved for the module, i.e. the final mark. This is subject to a sub-minimum of 40% being obtained for both the formative and summative assessments. A learner who does not achieve an average pass mark of 50% for the module after writing the exam may be granted the opportunity to improve and re-submit the assignment for which a mark of between 40-50% was achieved. Such a re-submission mark is capped at 60%.

    Those learners who obtained a final module mark of between 30% and 39% are not automatically allowed a second examination opportunity but may apply to the Academic Committee for special permission to write during the next examination session, providing written justification for the request. Weighting is 20 % for the digital assessment, 40 % for the individual assessment and the summative assessment weighs 40 %.

    This strategy aligns with the broad sub-minimum approach and is seen to be part of the renewal of the Regenesys assessment approach as part of its plans to mitigate risks posed by the impact of external factors on learner success. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: Australia
    Institution: Institute of Internal Auditors
    Qualification Title: Graduate Certificate in Internal Auditing
    NQF Level: AQF Level 8
    Credits: 120 credit hours
    Entry requirements
  • Bachelor's degree
    Or
  • Relevant work experience

    Purpose:
    The Graduate Certificate in Internal Auditing is designed to provide fundamental knowledge and skills in the field of internal auditing and related areas. It is relevant across the corporate, government and not-for-profit sectors and is designed for learners aiming to build or advance their careers in internal audit, governance, and risk management. Graduates will attain the highest standard of internal auditing qualification and will be eligible to seek professional membership with the Institute of Internal Auditors.

    The qualification prepares graduates to view the business comprehensively while integrating key technical aspects of internal auditing. With a strong emphasis on strategic thinking, broader business competencies, and professionalism, it fosters a pathway to executive careers and ensures graduates are knowledgeable about the Institute of Internal Auditors' global body of knowledge and professional standards.'

    The qualification is relevant across the corporate, government and not-for-profit sectors.

    Modules:
  • Risk Based Auditing comparable to Risk Management
  • Legal and Regulatory Environment
  • Organisational Systems and Processes
  • Professional in Practice

    Similarities:
  • The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and the South African (SA) qualifications are registered at AQF/SA NQF Level 8.
  • Both qualifications consist of 120 credits.
  • The IIA and SA qualifications require applicants who completed a bachelor's degree in Internal Auditing or a related field.
  • Both qualifications are designed for learners who are already employed in this field and wish to expand their knowledge of the field.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory modules.
  • Learners completing the IIA and SA qualifications are eligible for professional membership with the Institute of Internal Auditors.

    Difference:
  • The IIA qualification is delivered through distance learning methods whereas the SA qualification is. offered through contact mode.

    Country: United States of America
    Institution: University of New Orleans
    Qualification Title: Internal Auditing Program
    Entry Requirements:
  • Hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
    Or
  • Hold an active Internal Audit Practitioner designation
    Or
  • Possess five years of internal audit experience

    Purpose:
    The purpose of this Internal Audit Manual is to document the policies, methods, approaches and general rules applied by the Government to promote and maintain integrity and accountability in its financial system. The qualification is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) which is recognised by the Council for Higher Education (CHEA) in the United States of America. (SACSCOC) is the body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states. SACSCOC is an institutional accreditor that employs an accountable and transparent peer review process which assures educational quality and integrity, fosters continuous self-improvement, and promotes learner success.

    Upon completing the qualification, learners can write The Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®) examination, a prestigious designation authored, administered, and accredited by the IIA. The CIA certification is globally recognized and provides a range of benefits.

    Learning Outcomes:
  • Demonstrate current knowledge of The IIA's International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and apply it effectively.
  • Conduct audit engagements in accordance with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.
  • Possess a deep understanding of organizational governance and apply tools and techniques to evaluate risks and controls.
  • Utilize business, IT, and management acumen effectively within internal auditing.

    Similarities:
  • The University of New Orleans (UNW) and the South African (SA) qualifications
    prepare learners for careers in various areas of professional accounting and serve as a foundation for more advanced studies such as the master's degree.
  • Both qualifications are intended for learners already employed in accounting positions to advance in their careers.
  • The UNW and SA qualifications are endorsed by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). The IIA is an esteemed international professional association, renowned for its leadership in internal audit certification, education, research, and technological guidance.
  • The UNW qualification offers a comprehensive curriculum comparable to the SA qualification, including Internal Auditing, Fraud Examination and Auditing and Advanced Accounting Information Systems.
  • Upon completing the UNW qualification, learners can write The Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®) examination similar to the CA exams in the SA qualification.

    Regarding accreditation, the CIA® designation is aligned with The IIA's International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF), which organizes authoritative guidance for internal auditors.

    Difference:
  • The UNW qualification has 33 credits whereas the SA qualification has 120 credits. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Information Systems Auditing, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Finance and Accounting, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Investigative and Forensic Accounting, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Internal Auditing, NQF level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Internal Auditing, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Business Studies in Auditing, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Computer Auditing, NQF Level 9.

    Diagonal Articulation
  • Occupational Certificate: Internal Auditor; NQF level 7
  • Occupational Certificate: Internal Auditor (ICT Internal Auditor), NQF Level 7
  • Occupational Certificate: Internal Audit Manager (Internal Audit Quality Assurer), NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Regenesys Management (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.