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 Honours 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
124854  Bachelor of Commerce Honours 
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
Honours Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
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 0434/25  2025-08-21  2028-08-21 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-08-21   2032-08-21  

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 Honours is to equip learners with a holistic understanding of the multifaceted dynamics of business and commerce, thus creating graduates who can successfully navigate the complex interplay between internal and external factors that shape the business landscape and apply strategic leadership skills to assist organisations in achieving their long-term goals.

Within both the South African context and the broader global economy, there is a need for versatile and ethically conscious business leaders who possess a comprehensive understanding of business dynamics, economic principles, diversity promotion, ethical frameworks, and the ability to apply research methodologies to contribute towards the drive for data-driven decision-making in the corporate world. This qualification is intended for individuals already in junior and middle management who wish to expand their skills and expertise to enter strategic positions held by senior management, thus contributing to the achievement of long-term business goals at the local, national and international level.

The curriculum has been structured to ensure that skills in Financial Management, Information Systems Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing Management, Economics, Business Research, and Strategic Management provide a balanced approach for the development of well-rounded postgraduate professionals.

Rationale:
From an external perspective, the Bachelor of Commerce Honours degree has been designed in response to some of the key developmental areas identified in the South African National Development Plan - Vision for 2030, specifically the need to create ethical and socially responsible graduates who can lead organisations with integrity, thereby contributing to South Africa's pursuit of ethical corporate behaviour and sustainable development.

The South African socio-economic landscape is both diverse and constantly evolving due to a multitude of internal and external factors. Given the goal of sustainable development, whilst simultaneously attempting to rectify historical imbalances related to both academic and professional opportunities, the country requires leaders who can quickly formulate strategic plans, guide organisations towards long-term objectives, and navigate changing business terrains with agility and innovation. Future leaders need to have both theoretical knowledge and skills to navigate the emerging economy but have developed a holistic understanding and appreciation of diversity and inclusivity within South Africa's multicultural environment.

From an internal perspective, the rationale for adding this qualification to its profile was influenced by the institution's strategic decision to develop leaders and organisations not only from a managerial context but to awaken potential across all professions, sectors, disciplines, and organisations. This qualification complements and articulates vertically with the Bachelor of Commerce, and potentially with the Bachelor of Business Administration, whilst allowing opportunities for further studies towards the Master of Business Administration. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL refers to an assessment process to determine the potential of a learner to succeed at a particular level of a qualification based on prior informal or non-formal learning. This process is guided by institutional policies. The RPL assessment is based on the demonstration of abilities in respect of knowledge, competence, attitudes, and values at the NQF level that the learner wants to attempt. Upon a positive result of the assessment, learners may elect to apply for exemption from relevant modules.

RPL for access:
  • RPL is applied to applicants who do not meet the admission criteria for a qualification and access through RPL is based on an assessment of learners' prior informal and non-formal learning.
  • RPL access into this qualification will be applied to learners who discontinued their studies at this or other institutions.
  • The Institution also complies with the CHE principle that no more than 10% of a cohort of learners within the qualification are admitted through the RPL process.

    RPL for exemption from modules:
  • RPL may be used to grant access to a qualification/qualification from modules or courses of a particular qualification. This does not translate to credits being awarded to the modules or courses within the RPL process.
  • RPL assessment process will only apply to learners who discontinued their studies at either NQF Levels 5,6, and 7 in a cognate qualification and should it be determined that there is a 70% correlation in modular content between the completed modules and the applicable institution's modules.

    The institution implements specific quality assurance processes for any learner who apply to enter the qualification or qualification via the RPL process -this includes processes linked to RPL applications, assessment and reporting, while ensuring that administrative and support systems are in place throughout each process. During the assessment of the RPL application, the institution ensures that the standard of the qualification is maintained by implementing an assessment process that is appropriate to the modules and exit level outcomes of the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Advanced Diploma in Financial Management, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Commerce, NQF Level 7. Or
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Economic Sciences, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Economics, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Management, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    N 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8, totalling 125 credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits
  • Advanced Financial Management, 15 Credits.
  • Advanced Human Resource Management, 15 Credits.
  • Economics, 15 Credits.
  • Strategic Management, 15 Credits.
  • Advanced Information Systems Management, 15 Credits.
  • Advanced Marketing Management, 15 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Business Research, 30 Credits.
  • Intermediate Personal Mastery, 5 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Effectively engage with relevant financial management theories and decision-making processes to provide accurate comments on the influence of international investments on local economies, as well as to conduct various financial activities, inclusive of risk analysis, financial planning, and mergers and acquisitions assessment.
    2. Interpret relevant labour relations and human resource management laws and regulations, integrating these into Human Resource Management operational strategies, inclusive of selection, recruitment and performance management operational plans.
    3. Analyse and evaluate economic concepts and policies, considering factors such as fiscal and monetary policies and their potential impact on business, to effectively forecast economic trends to help organisations make informed decisions and strategies.
    4. Conduct strategic analysis of organisations from a resource-based perspective, to manage processes and plans that will contribute towards the creation and maintenance of a competitive advantage in diverse markets.
    5. Critically evaluate the impact of information systems management on business enterprises, assessing the influence of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence on both information systems management and business organisations.
    6. Engage in critical analysis of strategic marketing plans, comparing strategies and market needs analysis of different approaches, and how these influence strategic relationships that contribute towards business success.
    7. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of research methodology and concepts to effectively design research studies, analyse data and communicate research findings to a variety of stakeholders to contribute towards data-informed decision-making. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Prepare and present a detailed analysis, based on a case study, of the risks and returns associated with financial management.
  • Offer a thorough interpretation of the required rate of return and the cost of capital for a business organisation to ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
  • Prepare a summary that concisely explains each of the steps associated with financial planning, highlighting the way this extends the control of the organisation.
  • Offer a detailed comparison of the financial differences between company mergers and acquisitions, commenting on the benefits and pitfalls for all relevant stakeholders.
  • Present a comprehensive and well-rounded explanation of the connection between international investments and international treasury, focusing specifically on how these influence local economies and, by extension, local businesses.
  • Prepare a comprehensive explanation of Capital Structure theory and include relevant examples where necessary.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Present a comprehensive explanation and interpretation of how personnel and organisational policy influence human resource dynamics and flows, focusing on the way these policies influence the flow of the entire organisation.
  • Provide a thorough comparison of labour relations and human resources law and regulations, distinguishing clearly how these are implemented and related.
  • Present an analytical comparison of three different motivation and compensation systems within an organisation, commenting on the effectiveness of each.
  • Offer a detailed personal analysis of the connection between the steps of recruitment and selection to career management for employees, both for internal promotional and external hiring.
  • Present a comprehensive explanation and justification for the selection criteria with should be used when organisations intend to offer training qualifications to solve employee performance problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Present a comprehensive analysis of the connection between labour and goods markets, including citations of the relevant theories.
  • Prepare a well-rounded essay providing one's interpretation of the connections between demand and supply, inferring how this influences consumer theory.
  • Present a detailed outline of both economics and behavioural economics, including the theories related to each.
  • Provide an exhaustive table, categorising and explaining the theories related to information economics and behavioural economics.
  • Prepare a comprehensive comparison of exogenous and endogenous economic variables, focusing on how each influences the economy on both a domestic and global level.
  • Prepare and present a personal interpretation of the applications of theories related to macro- and micro-economics, debating the merits of each.
  • Investigate the influence of a singular event in the microeconomy of an organisation and interpret the effect thereof on the macroeconomy of the country based on a provided case study.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Prepare and present a comprehensive analysis and interpretation of "strategy" and "organisational strategy" as these relate to business organisations and their operations.
  • Present a personal interpretation of how an organisation's competitive position is based on its resources and the ability to manage these; apply relevant theory and examples to substantiate the interpretation.
  • Offer a detailed comparison of two different businesses, as laid out in case studies, evaluating how these businesses compete and operate in international markets, and propose a strategy for organisations to compete in these markets better.
  • Prepare a comparative essay focusing on the way sustainable growth is related to the ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities of an organisation.
  • Present a thorough analysis of how corporate culture and ethical leadership drive good strategy implementation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Provide a detailed comparison of the current theories related to information systems, commenting on the merits and oversights of each in practice.
  • Provide a comprehensive depiction of the differences between daily enterprise systems practice and information security as these work together in a business environment.
  • Prepare a comprehensive written report explaining the influence of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, inferring how these may potentially change business organisations.
  • Offer a personal interpretation on what the impact of artificial intelligence practices and advancements may be on information security systems, providing examples to substantiate the interpretation.
  • Conduct a comprehensive analysis of the information systems management that impacts business enterprises by protecting their intellectual property.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Provide a detailed comparison and analysis of marketing plans, commenting on the logical (or illogical) development to describe the likely success thereof.
  • Engage in a comprehensive analysis of a case study business where the marketing plan has been unsuccessful and suggest a possible solution.
  • Offer a detailed interpretation of the purpose and need for a market needs analysis, commenting on how the process is carried out, and the impact it may have on the business in the provided case study.
  • Present a detailed comparison of how two different competitive strategies have influenced the growth of an organisation in a provided case study scenario.
  • Engage in a thorough analysis of a set of business relationships, explaining how each of the relationships influences each other and potentially leads to business success.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Present interpretation of the implementation process utilised in basic research uses the correct terminology to describe each of the concepts involved.
  • Prepare a research plan based on the research process, explain each of the required steps for success, based on the research conducted.
  • Present a literature review based on a research topic of choice or recommended by the lecturer, including all the articles used in an alphabetical bibliography.
  • Conduct research into four different research methodologies used when conducting research into the chosen topic, presenting findings in a report and explain which method will be used to conduct research.
  • Conduct research into four different data collection techniques and tools used when conducting research into the chosen topic, presenting findings in a report, and explaining which method was used to conduct research.
  • Prepare a questionnaire, or other lecturer-approved sampling strategy, and utilise this tool for data collection, remaining cognisant of the POPI Act.
  • Prepare a PowerPoint presentation which depicts the research outcomes of a data set which previously collected and analysed using Excel.
  • Using all the necessary data tools and analytics, interpret the findings of a research study undertaken.
  • Present research report, including all the required elements such as a literature review and data analysis.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT:
    Assessment practices must be fair, transparent, valid and reliable and should ensure that the learner is not disadvantaged in any way. Integrated assessment provides the opportunity for learners to demonstrate that they can integrate concepts, actions and ideas achieved across a range of unit standards and contexts. Integrated assessment must evaluate the quality of competence attained by the learner.

    The assessment strategies used must ensure that all Specific Outcomes, Essential Embedded Knowledge and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of the Specific Outcomes.
    The learner who has provided the required evidence for all the exit-level outcomes of the qualification will be assessed as competent and awarded the qualification. This will ensure that learning and competence are not achieved only by the building blocks of the unit standards but also the integration and application of the fundamental, core and elective building blocks to a particular context, i.e. the exit level outcomes.

    Formative Assessments:
  • Learners are required to complete and submit two formal formative assessment tasks per module, constituting 50% of the module mark. Learners who do not achieve an average of 40% for their formative assessments may be allowed to resubmit their assessment tasks after academic support and guidance through the Academic Committee.

    Summative Assessments:
  • Upon achievement of a sub-minimum of 40% for each formative assessment, learners will be allowed to proceed to the summative assessment, which constitutes 50% of the module mark. The summative assessment will also have a minimum of 40%. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The institution's Bachelor of Commerce Honours compares very well with the Bachelor of Commerce Honours degree offered by the:

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: Victoria University of Wellington Qualification Title: Bachelor of Commerce Honours NQF Level: NZQF Level 8
    Credits: 120
    Duration: One year Full-time
    Entry Requirements: Bachelor of Commerce.

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the Bachelor Honours Degree is to qualify individuals who apply a body of knowledge in a specific context to undertake professional work, and as a pathway for research and further learning.

    The outcomes of qualification indicate that learners will have:
  • Engage in self-directed learning and advanced study
  • Demonstrate intellectual independence, analytic rigour, and the ability to understand and evaluate new knowledge and ideas
  • Identify topics for original research, plan and conduct research, analyse results, and
  • Communicate the findings to the satisfaction of subject experts.

    The university is accredited by the AQA New Zealand, and the last audit report was released on 28 March 2023. The qualification is also registered on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority

    Modules:
  • Accounting
  • Economics,
  • Finance
  • Human Resource Management.

    Similarities:
  • The Victoria University of Wellington (VUM) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered in one year full-time.
  • The VUM and SA qualifications are registered at NZQF/SA NQF Level 8 with 120 credits.
  • Both qualifications require applicants who have completed the Bachelor of Commerce.
  • The purpose of the VUM and SA qualifications is to equip learners with a holistic understanding of the multifaceted dynamics of business and commerce
  • At the end of the VUM and SA qualifications pathway, learners can apply to continue studies to gain a Master of Commerce

    Country: Australia
    Institution: Monash University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Credits: 144 points
    Duration: One year full-time
    Entry Requirements: Australian bachelor's degree or equivalent

    Purpose:
    This qualification consists of a combination of coursework and research. In the coursework component, learners will develop advanced theoretical and/or technical knowledge of their discipline and appropriate research methodologies. In the research component, learners will plan and execute a research project under the individual guidance of an academic supervisor.

    Monash University is registered with TEQSA with provider ID PRV12140. The university is registered until 18 February 2027. The university also appears on the CRICOS database with code 00008C and the qualification CRICOS code: 083903G.

    Honours graduates have special expertise valued by employers and a competitive advantage in the job market. The honours year also prepares learners to undertake higher degrees by research, including the Master of Philosophy.

    Modules:
  • Accounting
  • Actuarial studies
  • Business analytics comparable to Fundamentals of Business Research
  • Econometrics
  • Economics comparable to Economics
  • Finance comparable to Advanced Financial Management
  • Management comparable to Strategic Management
  • Marketing comparable to Advanced Marketing Management

    Similarities:
  • The Monash University (MU) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered in a one-year full-time study.
  • Both qualifications require applicants who have completed the Bachelor of Commerce or equivalent
  • The MU and SA qualifications consist of coursework and research.
  • Both qualifications articulate vertically to a master's degree in a cognate field.
  • The MU and SA qualifications share similar modules.

    Differences:
  • The MU qualification consists of 144 credit points, whereas the SA qualification consists of 125 credits. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification has the following articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Communication Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Econometrics, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Economics, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Commerce, NQF Level 9
  • Master of Commerce in Applied Risk Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Asset Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Business Administration, NQF Level 9.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Management Accountant, NQF Level 8.
  • Occupational Certificate: Audit Manager, 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.