SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Business Administration 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
62116  Bachelor of Business Administration 
ORIGINATOR
MANCOSA Pty (Ltd) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Level 6  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

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

This qualification 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 Business Administration is to equip learners with a comprehensive knowledge of business principles and practices. The qualification covers a variety of business-related topics. Learners will develop business skills such as analysis, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills. The graduate will have the ability to apply theory to real-world business challenges. The qualification is targeted at both matriculants and working professionals who desire distance education and a comprehensive business education. The qualification is also targeted at business owners and professionals seeking career advancement. A learner may seek to complete the qualification for a variety of reasons, including enhancing career prospects, developing skills for management roles, or starting their own business. The qualification benefits learners by giving them a competitive edge in the job market and increasing their earning potential. The qualification aligns with South Africa's National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 by addressing the critical need for skilled managers and entrepreneurs who can drive economic growth and job creation. By equipping graduates with business and leadership competencies, the qualification contributes to the NDP's vision of an inclusive and knowledge-driven economy.

The graduate will have knowledge of and understand business management principles, business functions, and the business environment. The graduate would have developed key skills such as problem-solving, analysis, strategic thinking, decision-making, innovative thinking, and critical thinking. The graduate in a management role is expected to deliver business strategies, operational efficiency, strategic leadership, and effective management. If a manager in a specialised field, such as finance, the graduate is responsible for managing budgets, analysing financial reports, and making financial decisions (Maddocks, 2025).

Learners pursuing the qualification will gain a comprehensive understanding of business functions, management principles, and strategic decision-making. They will develop critical business skills, including problem-solving, leadership, and effective communication, essential for managerial roles. The qualification ensures graduates can apply theoretical concepts to real-world business challenges, fostering strategic thinking and operational efficiency. This structured approach aligns with regulatory requirements by equipping learners with both academic knowledge and industry-relevant expertise. As a result, graduates are well-prepared to drive business success and contribute meaningfully to the economy. With the current skills needs and the scarcity of qualifications in business administration, this qualification aims to produce graduates who are in possession of specific graduate attributes. A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Demonstrate business knowledge, critical thinking, effective communication, and AI and data skills to analyse and apply concepts effectively in business environments.
  • Show ethical awareness, cultural understanding, community involvement, and commitment to sustainability to address social issues responsibly and support inclusive economic development.
  • Apply sustainable business practices and environmentally responsible decision-making in organisational management.
  • Display interpersonal skills, adaptability, innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership to thrive in diverse professional settings.
  • Incorporate governance principles and compliance standards in leadership and decision-making processes.

    Upon completion of the qualification graduates will be able to:
  • Collect, analyse, organise and evaluate information, to support effective business decision-making.
  • Identify, analyse, formulate, and serve the needs of individuals and society creatively and innovatively.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation, and by acknowledging their responsibilities to those in the local and broader community.
  • Demonstrate knowledge in the functional areas of business.
  • Apply management principles in a work-based context.

    Rationale:
    The qualification was developed to address the increasing need for versatile business professionals equipped with a strong foundation in various business disciplines, such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management (BusinessTech, 2023). Employers actively seek graduates with these skills, making the qualification a valuable one in the job market. Furthermore, the qualification prepares learners for leadership and managerial roles by fostering strategic decision-making and organisational behaviour skills, ensuring they are well-equipped to lead in diverse industries (University of Johannesburg, 2023). A 2023 report by Gradlinc highlights the challenges faced by graduates in South Africa and supports the argument for the necessity of comprehensive qualifications like the qualification to enhance employability. In an increasingly dynamic and globalised business environment, adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving are essential skills that graduates acquire, allowing them to navigate complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to business growth. The qualification is designed to produce well-rounded professionals who can thrive in South Africa's evolving economy.

    There is a definite need for this qualification based on workplace demand for skilled managers. This qualification is versatile and relevant to various industries, providing professionals who contribute to economic growth. Graduates will be equipped to fill leadership roles or start their own businesses. According to the World Economic Forum (2023), business skills are one of the critical shortages in South Africa. The demand for business and management skills in the workplace is high and is expected to continue growing in the future.

    This qualification is targeted at learners who intend to pursue careers in management and business administration. The qualification serves two primary market segments, being learners who complete matric and wish to seek employment while studying and current employees who wish to advance in their careers through further education. The qualification offers accessibility through its flexible online learning format, making it convenient for learners across different locations. The typical learner likely to be attracted to this qualification is someone interested in business, entrepreneurship, or management. They are expected to be ambitious, innovative, and self-motivated. According to Nexford University (2023), jobs and careers in business and management are among the most in-demand occupations in South Africa. Qualified graduates have diverse career opportunities and therefore can aspire towards the following positions:
  • Business Analyst.
  • Management Consultant.
  • Entrepreneur.
  • Business Manager.
  • Business Strategist.
  • Business Consultant.

    The qualification benefits the business sector by encouraging entrepreneurship and developing skilled managers to lead organisations (Democracy Development Qualification, 2024). Graduates enhance efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness in businesses. For society, the graduates contribute by starting businesses and creating jobs. They are educated to be socially responsible in business, addressing social issues through ethical practices. The economy benefits from this qualification's graduates' innovative thinking and strategic decision-making, which contribute to business growth and national economic development. The qualification ensures that graduates are prepared to meet industry demands, positioning them as valuable contributors to South Africa's evolving business environment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable 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 advanced standing within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules, and credits for or towards the qualification.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

    RPL for 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:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • National Vocational Certificate (NVC), NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement.
    Or
  • Relevant NQF Level 5 qualifications. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory and/or elective modules at NQF Levels 5, 6, 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 105 Credits:
  • Introduction to Business Management, 15 Credits.
  • Microeconomic Essentials, 15 Credits.
  • Business Mathematics, 15 Credits.
  • Introduction to Functional Areas of Management, 15 Credits.
  • Macroeconomic Essentials, 15 Credits.
  • Business Communication, 15 Credits.
  • Financial Reporting and Analysis, 15 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 5, 15 Credits:
  • End User Computing, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Transformation in the Business Environment, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Organisational Leadership, 15 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Human Resource Management, 15 Credits.
  • Business and Society, 15 Credits.
  • Management Accounting, 15 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses, 15 Credits.
  • Marketing, 15 Credits.
  • Information Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Business Statistics, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Financial Planning and Control, 15 Credits.
  • Global Business and Strategy, 15 Credits.
  • Ethics and Conflict, 15 Credits.
  • Organisational Diversity, 15 Credits.
  • Project Management, 15 Credits.
  • Operations Management for Sustainability, 15 Credits.
  • Business Environment and Ethics, 15 Credits.
  • Strategic Management Practices, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Collect, analyse, organise and evaluate information to support effective business decision-making.
    2. Identify, analyse, formulate, and serve the needs of individuals and society creatively and innovatively.
    3. Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation, and by acknowledging their responsibilities to those in the local and broader community.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge in the functional areas of business.
    5. Apply management principles in a work-based context.
    6. Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation in often extensive pieces of sustained discourse. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply research design principles and knowledge to demonstrate understanding in collecting and analysing relevant business data to support evidence-based decisions.
  • Evaluate the data interpretation concepts and frameworks to demonstrate understanding of accuracy and reliability in the decision-making process.
  • Implement the analytical reasoning approaches to demonstrate proficiency in transforming complex information into actionable business insights for strategic application.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply consumer behaviour concepts and theories to demonstrate insight in analysing and assessing the needs of target populations for effective value creation.
  • Analyse the economic strategy frameworks to demonstrate proficiency in designing innovative solutions that meet stakeholder and market demands.
  • Integrate the entrepreneurial innovation knowledge to demonstrate competence in developing sustainable business initiatives that advance social and economic development.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Apply systems thinking concepts and knowledge to demonstrate insight in analysing interrelationships between business functions to identify dependencies, improve organisational synergy, and enhance overall strategic effectiveness.
  • Evaluate the sustainability frameworks to demonstrate understanding of the impact of interconnected economic, social, and environmental systems on business operations.
  • Apply the ethical reasoning models to demonstrate competence in assessing organisational decisions in relation to societal and environmental responsibilities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Apply strategic management principles to demonstrate insight in coordinating business functions for improved organisational performance.
  • Evaluate the financial management concepts to demonstrate competence in supporting sound budgeting, investment, and resource allocation decisions.
  • Implement the marketing and operations knowledge to demonstrate proficiency in ensuring effective alignment between customer needs and business processes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply the management theory and practice to demonstrate proficiency in performing planning, organising, leading, and controlling functions that drive organisational success.
  • Utilise the human resource management concepts to demonstrate insight in developing workforce capabilities and promoting optimal performance outcomes.
  • Integrate the ethical leadership frameworks to demonstrate competence in guiding responsible managerial conduct and strengthening organisational governance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Apply communication theory knowledge to demonstrate proficiency in structuring coherent and persuasive written and oral business presentations.
  • Utilise the data visualisation and reporting principles to demonstrate competence in communicating complex business information clearly and accurately.
  • Implement the organisational communication strategies to demonstrate insight in engaging stakeholders effectively and ensuring message alignment across channels.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The institution's Assessment Strategy aligns with the Council on Higher Education Accreditation Criteria (2012), the National Policy and Criteria for Designing and Implementing Assessment for NQF Qualifications and Part-Qualifications and Professional Designations in South Africa (SAQA, 2014).¿

    Integrated assessment at the institution requires careful consideration in implementing formative and summative assessment methods, which offer an inclusive and holistic view of learners' learning. Assessments are aligned with the pre-defined learning outcomes per module, culminating with the qualification exit level outcomes. Formative and summative assessments are diverse in nature, and these encompass knowledge check questions, case studies, and scenario-based questions. Formative assessments allow for regular feedback to learners, highlighting areas of success and improvement. Summative assessments evaluate learners' learning after a learner's learning journey. Imperative to integrated assessments is the provision of feedback not only to learners but also internally, whereby the results of assessments play a critical role in informing the development of future assessments, assessment practices and the continuous improvement of the qualification.

    Formative Assessment:
  • Formative Assessment 1 (Knowledge Check Quiz 1).
  • Formative Assessment 2 (Knowledge Check Quiz 2).
  • Formative Assessment 2 (Case Study/Scenario).

    Summative Assessment:
  • Summative Assessment.

    To pass a module, the following requirements must be met:¿
  • The compulsory completion of ALL assessment activities.
  • To pass a module, a sub-minimum of 50% is required in each form of assessment, and a final combined mark of 50% is required.
  • Learners are required to attempt formative assessments 1 and 2 and achieve a combined average of at least 50% before writing their Online Summative Assessment. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification is comparable to the following international qualifications:

    Country: United States of America
    Institution name: International American University
    Qualification title: Bachelor of Business Administration

    Purpose:
    The Bachelor of Business Administration qualification aims to develop learners' intellectual ability through an appropriate blending of business and general education. The qualification assists the learner in understanding and developing the unique leadership qualities required to be successful in business functions, an organisational unit, or an enterprise. The qualification provides learners with a solid business foundation in the field. An emphasis is on critical thinking, decision-making, and Christian ethical behaviour. The qualification is designed to provide learners with opportunities to explore business administration, meet educational goals, and enhance their career opportunities.

    Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate effective writing skills.
  • Demonstrate effective oral presentation skills.
  • Demonstrate advanced elements of critical thinking to analyse issues, solve problems, and make business decisions.
  • Integrate learning in the areas of general education, accounting, economics, management, and technology and apply them to business strategy and policy.
  • Evaluate an ethical dilemma and make an appropriate recommendation to address it based on Christian ethics.

    Content/modules:
  • Accounting Principles.
  • Business Ethics.
  • Business Finance.
  • Human Resources Management.
  • Introduction to Statistics.
  • Macroeconomics.
  • Microeconomics.
  • Marketing Principles.

    Similarities:
  • Both the SA qualification and the USA qualification share a common objective of equipping learners with essential business knowledge, leadership capabilities, and critical thinking skills. These qualifications provide a solid foundation in fundamental business disciplines, including management, finance, marketing, and economics, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the corporate world.
  • Both the SA qualification and the USA qualification place emphasis on leadership and decision-making. Both curricula are designed to develop learners' ability to make strategic business decisions while considering ethical implications. Ethical considerations are central to both qualifications, ensuring that graduates approach business challenges with integrity and responsibility.

    Differences:
  • The SA qualification is offered via distance learning (online), and the USA qualification can be completed through classroom-hybrid and/or online instructional methodologies.
  • The SA qualification incorporates sustainability, digital transformation, and interdisciplinary applications, reflecting a modern and globally relevant approach to business education, whilst the USA qualification places a strong emphasis on Christian ethical behaviour, integrating ethical decision-making into its curriculum. This distinction highlights the differing educational philosophies of the two institutions, with the SA qualification focusing on contemporary business challenges and the USA qualification embedding moral considerations into business practice. Another key difference lies in the structure of the curriculum.

    Country: England
    Institution name: University of Essex
    Qualification title: Bachelor of Business Administration

    Purpose:
    The Bachelor of Business Administration is a broad business and management degree that provides comprehensive knowledge of the main functional areas of an organisation. It covers a wide range of subjects and develops practical managerial skills, preparing graduates for successful careers in various aspects of business.

    Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Understand theories, policies and practices of business creation and growth.
  • Understand enterprise development in economically diverse contexts.
  • Understand economic principles and theories of the firm.
  • Understand accounting concepts, the context in which accounting is situated and its function in organisation management.

    Content:
  • Business Strategy.
  • Business Creation and Growth.
  • Organisational Behaviour and Management.
  • Supply Chain Management.
  • Marketing and Marketing Communications.
  • Accounting and Finance.
  • Managing Innovation.

    Similarities:
  • Both the SA qualification and the England qualification aim to develop learners' understanding of business and management principles, equipping them with the necessary skills to succeed in diverse business environments.
  • Both qualifications cover essential business areas such as management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, ensuring that graduates possess a well-rounded business education.
  • Both qualifications emphasise analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical business contexts.

    Differences:
  • The SA qualification places a strong emphasis on self-management, particularly catering to distance-learning learners, while the England qualification follows a more structured, on-campus or blended learning model, which does not offer the same level of flexibility as the SA distance learning approach.
  • The SA qualification integrates digital transformation, sustainability, and project management, reflecting contemporary business trends, whereas the England qualification focuses more on international business, supply chain management, and business growth strategies.

    Conclusion:
    The SA qualification aligns with global standards, sharing key similarities with qualifications from institutions such as International American University and the University of Essex. Each institution emphasises core business competencies, leadership, and problem-solving, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic business world. However, the SA qualification distinguishes itself through its flexible distance-learning model and a strong focus on management for sustainability. Unlike some international qualifications that offer specialisations, the SA qualification provides a comprehensive and versatile foundation in business administration. This makes it an attractive option for learners seeking a well-rounded and accessible business education. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides the following articulation options:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Occupational Diploma: Business Banker, NQF Level 7.

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

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Advanced Occupational Certificate: Human Resource Management Officer, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    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. MANCOSA 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.