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 THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Certificate: Senior Management Development 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
67215  Certificate: Senior Management Development 
ORIGINATOR
University of Pretoria 
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 Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 7  Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L7  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2018-12-31 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2019-12-31   2022-12-31  

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:

This programme will allow senior managers earmarked for advancement to executive general management to apply and be deemed competent by demonstrating the appropriate knowledge, skills and values (KSV's). These will include the ability to integrate different management disciplines that are not the managers' core discipline to translate the organisation and business strategy into measurable outcomes within the private and or public sector.

Successful learners will demonstrate knowledge, skills and applied competence in the field of study of executive general management that provides opportunities for continued personal growth through lifelong learning, gainful economic activity and rewarding contributions to society. This programme will build the leadership and management expertise required in all sectors to deliver on sector targets underpinning economic development.

Rationale:

One of the important challenges South Africa faces as a developmental state is to establish a new cadre of public service leaders and managers, who are able to improve service delivery and ultimately build a better life for all. The Integrated Management Development Programme (IMDP), of which the SMDP is one facet, is a strategic intervention by the Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy (PALAMA) in collaboration with universities to support managers and leaders to develop the skills and knowledge that they require to meet the challenges of service delivery improvement, poverty alleviation and building the developmental state. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The qualification is aimed at senior level managers with a commensurate area of responsibility including managing a function of a business or an area of work that delivers on the strategy of an organisation. The learner must have direct impact on the achievement of the strategic objectives of the organisation and a large staff complement. Learners must be responsible for delivery on key performance dimensions with budgetary and resource allocation independence.

It will be expected that delegates have received a three-year post graduate qualification and have approximately ten years of work experience, six of which at management levels. For specialists, delegates on this programme must demonstrate the ability to apply management and leadership learnings back in the workplace as determined by the admissions panel.

Recognition of Prior Learning:

The qualification recognises formal and non-formal prior learning (incorporating experiential learning) and learners must complete a portfolio of assessments as governed by the Universities RPL policy.

Access to the Qualification:

This qualification can be accessed by managers in the public sector. 

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
Y 

QUALIFICATION RULES 
Activity:

Pre-programme preparation:
  • Selection process and essay writing/presentation.
  • Pre-reading and familiarisation with course material for block 1.
  • Pre-assessments (Personality and leadership).
  • Pre-assessments (online learning preparation).
  • Line manager performance discussion and Next Career Development Tool completion.
  • Programme orientation and group dynamics workshop.

    Total Credits Obtained; 100 hours (10 credits).

    Block 1:
  • Pre-reading and familiarisation with course material for block 2.
  • Class tuition (face to face).
  • Evening syndicate work.
  • Between block syndicate assignment completion.
  • Examination preparation.
  • Examination completion.
  • Scoping of Action learning project and group work.
  • Workplace application of principles.

    Total Credits Obtained; 200 hours (20 credits).

    Block 2:
  • Pre-reading and familiarisation with course material for block 3.
  • Class tuition (face to face).
  • Evening syndicate work.
  • Between block syndicate assignment completion.
  • Examination preparation.
  • Examination completion.
  • Research of Action learning project and group work and formulating research methodology.
  • Workplace application of principles.

    Total Credits Obtained; 200 hours (20 credits).

    Block 3:
  • Pre-reading and familiarisation with course material for block 4.
  • Class tuition (face to face).
  • Evening syndicate work.
  • Between block syndicate assignment completion.
  • Examination preparation.
  • Examination completion.
  • Scoping of Action learning project and group work.
  • Workplace application of principles.

    Total Credits Obtained; 200 hours (20 credits).

    Block 4:
  • Pre-reading and familiarisation with course material for block 3.
  • Class tuition (face to face).
  • Evening syndicate work.
  • Between block syndicate assignment completion.
  • Examination preparation.
  • Examination completion.
  • Scoping of Action learning project and group work.
  • Workplace application of principles.

    Total Credits Obtained; 200 hours (20 credits).

    Block 5:
  • Class tuition (face to face).
  • Evening syndicate work.
  • Between block syndicate assignment completion.
  • Examination preparation.
  • Examination completion.
  • Scoping of Action learning project and group work.
  • Workplace application of principles.

    Total Credits Obtained; 200 hours (20 credits).

    Post programme:
  • Preparation of final report and presentation for Action learning project.
  • Post programme follow-up using the Gibs Leap tool ©.
  • Programme reporting.

    Total Credits Obtained; 100 hours (10 credits).

    Total Credits for Programme; 1200 hours (120 credits). 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply strategic planning.

    2. Apply problem solving skills.

    3. Explore advanced thinking and learning strategies.

    4. Apply advanced research skills.

    5. Communicate effectively.

    6. Exercise leadership skills.

    7. Develop a macro vision/strategy execution.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    Critical cross field outcomes will include those specified in the learning outcomes for approved modules in the certificate and as appropriate to the learner`s field of practice.
  • Demonstrate an ability to apply both strategic thinking and strategic management by being able to scenario plan with a long term perspective and make judgments to develop strategic direction for an organisation by reconciling paradoxes in the external and internal environments of the organisation (strategic planning skills).
  • Demonstrate the ability to: apply theoretical principles of problem identification and solve/reconcile plans of action within the strategic and operational realm of the learner's level of responsibility; advanced analytical interpretation of a wide range of data in the business field and reflecting on the applications made. (Problem solving skills).
  • Explore advanced thinking and learning skills to acquire the different multidisciplinary capabilities of a senior manager effectively; reflect on the learning strategies and adjust behaviour and that of the senior manager's reports accordingly. (Explore learning strategies).
  • Plan and exercise advanced research skills in the fields of marketing, finance, strategy, operations management and leadership with the ability to synthesise the information that optimally delivers on the business strategy (collection and categorization of ideas and information & Research skills).
  • Communicate effectively (orally in a business format or in writing clear and concise reporting) with the different stakeholders in the field of business by applying the theoretical principles of communication and reflect on the application made. (Communication skills).
  • Demonstrate appropriate strategic technology tools by applying the relevant theory effectively in the business environment (Advanced analytical techniques, corporate governance reporting, value engineering and innovation); reflect on their own ability. (Technological literacy).
  • Acquire appropriate leadership skills to supplement developed management skills including self knowledge; personal mastery, managing change and setting strategic objectives and reflecting on the application and success thereof to adapt behaviour. (Exercising leadership skills).
  • Explain the inter-relatedness of management and business on a basic level to develop a theoretical and practical macro vision of business management. (Development of a macro vision/ strategy execution).
  • Effectively and responsibly manage resources and opportunities in the business field and show awareness for the macro-environment. (Intrepreneurship, sustainability, governance, accountability and environmental awareness).
  • Practice acceptable social sensitivity and awareness in relationships with others (meeting obligations to others) and work effectively in a multi-functional team or organisation (offering and supporting of initiatives) by implementing the relevant theory and reflecting on the implementation thereof. (Teamwork and motivation skills).
  • Promote responsible citizenship through their approach towards a holistic application of professional values and the inculcation of an appropriate corporate culture in the management of a business and by considering issues of sustainability (promoting citizenship and promotion of sustainability in business skills).
  • Lead acceptable social, cultural and aesthetic sensitivity towards people of different business communities and the role players in the business filed by applying the appropriate theoretical principles and reflect on the application made. (Cultural and Aesthetic sensitivity).

    The learner will be able to analyse and apply the basic principles relevant to theories related to the following:
  • Strategic thinking and leading strategy.
  • Global economics and international business.
  • Executive and board leadership.
  • Transformation and change management.
  • Strategic financial management.
  • Strategic marketing management.
  • Governance, ethics and reporting principles.
  • Operations and supply chain management.
  • Innovation, technology and knowledge management.
  • Global Strategic simulation and application project. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply strategic thinking and strategic management principles.
  • A scenario plan is developed to provide strategic direction for an organisation by reconciling paradoxes in the external and internal environments of the organisation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Theoretical principles of problem identification and systems thinking are applied.
  • Advanced analytical data in the business field is interpreted.
  • Applications and solutions are critically reflected.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The different multidisciplinary capabilities of a senior manager is understood and applied in the work context.
  • Learning strategies are analysed and applied in the work context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Knowledge from the fields of marketing, finance, strategy, operations management and leadership are planned and executed.
  • Information that optimally delivers on the business strategy is synthesized.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • The appropriate theoretical principles of communication are understood and applied.
  • Communication is done effectively in an oral manner in a business format.
  • Written communication reflects clear and concise reporting with the different role players in the departmental domain.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Appropriate leadership skills are acquired to supplement developed management skills.
  • Change in the organisational context is managed effectively.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • The inter-relatedness of management and business is explained.
  • A theoretical and practical macro vision of business management is developed within the work context.

    Integrated Assessment:
  • Competence is achieved, through continuous assessment by demonstrating the ability to achieve the outcome of the qualification. Written individual assignments.
  • Written group assignments by means of assignments and class discussions.
  • Practical projects by means of assignments and class discussions.
  • The interpretation of relevant case studies, and portfolios.
  • Standardised marking and feedback on assignments and projects.
  • Open book examinations.
  • To be verified by Internal Verifiers and the Universities internal accreditation committee to ensure valid, credible, true and fair results. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Eastern and Southern African Management Institute offers a Senior Management Development Programme similar to this one, although it is only 2 weeks long.

    The Salford University in the UK offers a Senior Management Development Programme with the following Modules: Introduction to leadership, Strategic planning, Determining Priorities and Managing Time, Managing and Developing Effective Teams, Managing People through Change, Managing Conflict and Negotiation, and Understanding and Managing Performance.

    The Civil Service College of Singapore offers a similar management development programme ranging from:
  • Leaders In Administration Programme (LAP).
  • Senior Management Programme (SMP).
  • Governance and Leadership Programme (GLP).
  • Foundation Course (FC).
  • Executive Development Course (EDC). 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Vertical:

    The programme with the discretion of the accreditation committee of the University It is recognised and may provide credits to two credits onto a Masters Degree in Business Administration if the delegate completed an individual assignment and examination for the relevant modules and achieved an overall mark (average of 65%) for the two assessments. Having the credits does not allow automatic entry on the Masters programme and delegates must still go through the application process.

    Horizontal:

    The programme allows access to the Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration and similar NQF level 7 qualifications presented at business Schools. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    A system of external peer review and evaluation of departments including evaluation of the standards and assessment practices per Department.

    Qualifications:
  • The minimum academic and workplace experience requirements at a level above the level of moderation.
  • Appropriate professional criteria will be drafted in the case of workplace assessment.

    Mentorship:
  • All junior and new members of staff are mentored by senior members as they work together in teams. All assessment done by external assessors is quality controlled by internal staff.
  • Any moderation criteria as determined by the ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    A doctoral degree or a minimum of a Masters Degree in the relevant functional area of knowledge with a number of peer-reviewed articles in this area of business.

    Career experience required:

    Ten years appropriate industry or academic experience and a recognised industry expert in the functional field of study.

    Other criteria:

    Academic and business consulting experience is a recommendation and or membership of the professions accrediting body (in for example accounting, marketing finance and similar organisations). 

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

    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. University of Pretoria 


    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.