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: 

Higher Certificate in Office Administration 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
73371  Higher Certificate in Office Administration 
ORIGINATOR
The Independent Institute of Education (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
Higher Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  133  Level 5  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This Higher Certificate: Office Administration is an entry level qualification which is vocational and industry orientated. It encapsulates introductory knowledge in the areas of general business administration within an office environment and will prepare the successful graduate for a position in the general business environment.

The cognitive and conceptual tools and practical techniques which are incorporated in this Higher Certificate: Office Administration will equip students to advance their qualifications in higher education and to provide them with the basic business management skills needed to be employed and to progress in business administration. In addition the inclusion of the module Experiential Learning provides the student with the basic practical knowledge which can be applied in the workplace.

The purpose of this Higher Certificate: Office Administration is to equip students with foundational knowledge and skills to either be employed in a small business or a large corporation. This qualification provides a broad introductory understanding of the establishment and management of a business, incorporating the following skills:
  • Administration and management support skills.
  • Communication skills.
  • The skills to be employed in a computerized environment.
  • Related vocational skills.

    This Higher Certificate: Office Administration having both a practical and a theoretical foundation, seeks to equip students to undertake administrative and management support functions in the increasingly computerized environment of a business office. The qualification provides a foundation for functioning in any business environment and provides essential skills that will complement a number of alternative career choices.

    Rationale:

    In designing the Higher Certificate: Office Administration at NQF Level 5, priority was given to the needs of the South African economy and the demand for qualified office administrators. This programme will benefit society as both the generic and specialisation components of the programme are required skills in business and are incorporated in the job titles as published in the "Scarce Skills List" published by the Department of Labour during 2007 and subsequently updated. This programme also takes into account the need for computer literacy in the South African Economy and the increasingly computerized environment that a business operates within, both in South Africa and globally.

    This programme has been developed to meet the NQF objectives as it offers the student knowledge and applied competence including the basic skills required for employment in a range of professional administrative positions in the business environment. This qualification also creates a pathway for successful candidates who did not initially meet the admission criteria for entry into diploma studies to continue with further studies at successive levels of the NQF. The programme development requires students to develop the ability to apply problem solving and decision making skills, collect and organize information for specified purposes, perform appropriate administrative tasks to support a given process, use appropriate office technology to complete tasks and work effectively in a team or within a group. The inclusion of interpersonal skills directly addresses the personal development of each student. The didactic approach of this programme is based on exposing the student to a practical approach to learning supported by a strong theoretical basis. This means that all assessments will focus on both the theoretical and practical evaluation of student's work.

    On completion of this programme, students will be employable as administrators in small and medium organisations, or in entry level positions in large organizations. As such they can be employed as:
  • Receptionists.
  • Secretaries.
  • General office administrators.
  • Managers' Personal Assistants.
  • Events coordinators/administrators.
  • Virtual Personal Assistants. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the student would have met the admission requirements and would thus be competent in the language of instruction (English) and the theoretical and practical knowledge and understanding accomplished at that Level.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    Students can achieve this qualification in part or in whole through the recognition of prior learning. The IIE RPL Policy (IIE010) and the IIE Academic Credit Policy (IIE004) guide this process whereby skills, knowledge and experience in respect of competence acquired through formal and non-formal learning are assessed.

    RPL for Formal Learning (Credit Recognition):

    Students may apply for credits or exemptions for subjects already passed in-house or at other recognized institutions.

    RPL for Informal and Non-Formal Learning:

    Skills, knowledge and experience in respect of competences acquired through informal and non-formal learning are also assessed in the RPL process.

    All RPL submissions are centralized at the National Offices of each division and sent to the IIE Registrar and the academic Head of Programme at the Central Office for evaluation.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Admission requirements for this programme are as follows:
  • National Senior Certificate with English with a rating of 2 (30-39%).
  • Senior Certificate completed prior to 2008.
  • Age of 23 at registration and three years appropriate work experience. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Fundamental learning (56 Credits):

    Subjects; NQF Level; Credits; Compulsory/Optional(C/O):
  • Business Communications (C); 5; 10;C.
  • Business Calculations; 5; 10; C.
  • End User Computing (A); 5; 20; C.
  • End User Computing (C); 5; 8; C.
  • Experiential learning; 5; 8; C.

    Core learning (77 Credits):

    Subjects; NQF Level; Credits; Compulsory/Optional(C/O):
  • Business Management (1 A); 5; 11; C.
  • Introduction to Public Relations; 5; 12; C.
  • Typing and Dicta-typing; 5; 10;C.
  • Office Administration (NEW); 5; 10; C.
  • Speedwriting (New); 5; 6; C.
  • Interpersonal Skills (NEW); 5; 10;C.
  • Information Management (NEW); 5; 10; C.
  • Introduction to Human Resources (NEW); 5; 8; C.

    Total Credits; 133. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate effective use of a personal computer and associated equipment and software packages:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > End User Computing A (ENUCF010).
    > End User Computing C (ENUC030).

    2. Apply the basic principles of business management in a business environment:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Business Management 1 A (BUMA121).

    3. Apply mathematical skills in a business environment:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Business Calculations (BUCAx111).

    4. Communicate effectively and professionally in a business environment:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Business Communications C (BUCO020).
    > Interpersonal Skills (New).

    5. Explain the role and function of the Internet in a business environment:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > End User Computing A.
    > End User Computing C.
    > Information Management (New).

    6. Explain the role and value of administration to support management functions in a business context:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Office Administration (New).

    7. Explain the importance of, role and function of public relations in a business to support the effective management of a business:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Introduction to PR(New).

    8. Explain the importance of, role and function of human resources relations in a business to support the effective management of a business:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Introduction to Human Resources (NEW).

    9. Apply typing and writing skills to record minutes and information accurately and fulfil general office administration requirements:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Typing and Dicta-typing (New).
    > Speedwriting (New).
    > Office Administration (New).

    10. Explain and use interpersonal skills to relate to others and build working relationships:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Interpersonal Skills (New).

    11. Explain the importance of Information and how it is managed in a business environment:
  • Modules in which this Outcome is to be achieved:
    > Information Management (New). 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The effective use of a personal computer and associated understanding of relevant software packages in a business environment is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Management functions and principles are accurately identified and applied in a business environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate the application of mathematical principles, concepts and skills in a business environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and professionally in a business environment.
  • The ability to communicate appropriately with internal and external stakeholders is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • The role and function of the internet is clearly explained and used when appropriate to source information.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The role and value of administration to support management functions in a business context is explained and demonstrated.
  • The role of different kinds of meetings, the relevant technology and the correct processes for recording meetings and related documents are explained and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • The importance, role and function of public relations in a business to support the effective management of a business is explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • The importance of, role and function of human resources in a business to support the effective management of a business is explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • A team's communication is adequately documented to meet administration needs.
  • Typing and writing skills are used to record minutes and information accurately and fulfil general office administration requirements.
  • The role of different kinds of meetings, the relevant technology and the correct processes for recording meetings and related documents are explained and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Interpersonal skills are explained and used to relate to others and build working relationships.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • The importance of Information and how it is managed in a business environment is explained.
  • Various methods of managing information and access to information are explained and evaluated in different business contexts.

    Integrated Assessment:

    The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd practices a system of integrated assessment in terms of which students are assessed using different methods and instruments allowing the illustration of applied competence across modules.

    Assessment of competence is done via a fair, valid, reliable and transparent system of integrated formative and summative assessment methodologies, tools and procedures.The integrated assessment practice assesses the integration of theory with practice as well as the transfer of skills during the experiential learning component. These techniques thus assess applied competence, demonstrated understanding and achievement of outcomes.

    Assessment Methods:

    Different assessment instruments for this programme.

    Instrument: Methods (Observation; Product evaluation; Questioning written/oral):
  • Portfolios: No; Yes; No.
  • Simulations: Yes; No; No.
  • Written examinations: No; No; Yes.
  • Practical examinations: No; Yes; Yes.
  • Oral examinations; No: No; Yes.
  • Assignments: No; Yes; Yes.
  • Classrooms presentations: Yes; No; No.
  • Participation in group discussions: Yes; No; No.
  • Mid-term tests: No; No; Yes.
  • Class tests: No; No; No.
  • Case studies: No; No; Yes.
  • Practical exercises/demonstrations: No; Yes; No.
  • Projects: No; No; No. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared with both local and International qualifications as detailed below.

    Local Providers:

    Name of Local Provider; Qualification Offered; Status:
  • Centurion Akademie; Diploma: Administration Management; Reregistered.
  • Intec; Diploma: Personal Assistant; Reregistered.
  • Committee Technikon Principals; National Certificate: Office Management; Reregistered.

    International Providers:

    Name of International Provider; Qualification Offered; Status:
  • Pitmans Training; Diploma Executive Presonal Assistant; Unknown.
  • Pitmans Training; Diploma Professional Secretary; Unknown.

    Local and International Counterparts:
  • In general this qualification compares well with its local and international counterparts; the only differences are the new NQF Level structures which make direct comparison difficult. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The IIE is committed to the principles of lifelong learning and opening access to higher education. A student who transfers from one to another programme within the IIE will be given credit at the discretion of the Senate for relevant modules successfully completed. This Higher Certificate: Office Administration would thus allow articulation with existing and new diplomas and the possibility of credit transfer in some cases within the Business Faculty.

    This Higher Certificate allows articulation with the Diploma in Business Management, the Diploma in Business Management and Entrepreneurship, the Diploma in Marketing Management, and the Diploma in Public Relations. The development of further qualifications such as an Advanced Certificate will improve articulation opportunities from this Higher Certificate.

    Beyond The IIE, in terms of the NQF, this qualification should articulate with other qualifications in the relevant fields of professional administration and office management. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Appointment of Moderators and Process:

    To date moderators that meet the requirements (see below) are approved by the Senior Head of Programme subject to confirmation by the Director (Academic Head). The Senior Head of Programme holds the position equivalent to a Head of School in a public provider. As of 2009 a list of moderators, their institutional affiliation and qualifications will also be considered by both the relevant Faculty Board and Senate on a semester basis. Appointment is thus not at the sole discretion of any one person but is against the criteria and guidelines and with the "verification" of the Director and now, of the Faculty Board and Senate.

    For ease of reference the process is as follows:
  • The lecturers, Heads of Programme and other members of the team identify appropriately qualified moderators. The criteria for this identification is that they are either currently (or have recently) been lecturers at a registered higher education institution; that they carry a qualification one level higher than the one being moderated and that they are subject matter experts (by virtue of their qualification and own educational experience) in the module being moderated.
  • The identified people are approached and asked if they would be willing to be considered as moderators and a CV is requested.
  • The qualifications and experience are verified and the available moderators are presented to the Senior Head of Programme.
  • The Senior Head of Programme consults with the Heads of Programme in the faculty and decisions are made in regard to whom to finally approach.
  • The moderator is sent a pro forma contract as well as an indication of the kind of report s/he would be required to complete on the moderation.
  • If the contract is accepted the moderator is provided with the relevant academic material and then with the scripts to be moderated.
  • The pool of moderators is refreshed by the same process each semester and no moderator is used for more than three consecutive years on the same module.
  • As of 2009 the list (name, institutional affiliation and qualifications) of each moderator will be presented to the relevant Faculty Board and then in a consolidated form to the Senate.

    External Moderators' Reports and Criteria for Appointment:

    External moderators are required to submit formal reports using the given standard report template. External moderators are asked to report on the following:
  • The consistency and fairness of assessment.
  • The assessment process.
  • The overall standard of work.
  • The standard of work in relation to other courses of the same nature.

    Before this report is submitted to the relevant academic team for decisions on action, the national averages for the module and each set of campuses is included (internal examiner and moderator) so that variances can be managed whether or not they have been identified by the moderator.

    External moderators' reports are forwarded to the respective Heads of Programme (HOP) and National Heads of Department and shared with the lecturers concerned. If marking problems are identified a development process and support for the lecturer is initiated.

    In addition, the HOP ensures that all pertinent feedback is taken into account for the following year's programme and curriculum.

    In relation to the group of student's whose work has been externally examined/moderated the moderator's assessment can result in anything from the whole country being remarked to remarking on one site to the adjustment of marks or no action as required-the Assessment Policy spells out the conditions for such decisions. As of 2010 the actions that arise from internal and external moderation reports will be the same. The practices are based on standard public provider practices.

    Criteria for the appointment of external moderators include:
  • For courses at the exit level, someone not employed by the IIE.
  • A relevant qualification one level higher than the exit level of the qualification being moderated and competency in assessment.
  • For practical subjects, relevant and extensive industry/educational experience in the specific field of study.
  • For theoretical subjects, relevant educational experience and a qualification higher than the level which they are moderating.
  • Being drawn from a range of backgrounds and institutions.
  • Approval by the relevant Head of Programme subject to confirmation by the Director.

    Internal Moderation:

    The role of internal moderation is to ensure that assessments are conducted appropriately and fairly and are a valid indication of a student's performance. It is also a key element of Quality Management across all IIE campuses. Lecturers who are involved in the assessment of learning outcomes need to be able to account for all levels of assessment including assignments, examinations, portfolios etc. Moderation of assessment is formalised within the institution on both an internal and external level through the IIE Quality Management System as per IIE Policies IIE001 and IIE009.

    Feedback on internal moderation is provided to respective lecturers and academic staff across the campuses through a moderation report. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Criteria for the Registration of Moderators and Assessors:

    No ETQA registration is required for moderators or assessors of programmes accredited by the HEQC. Assessors and moderators hold a qualification at least one Level higher than the qualification being assessed or moderated. Moderators are also required to have more than two years teaching experience. Assessors with less than two years experience have their assessment work moderated by a peer.

    Assessment Appeals:

    A system of appeal and remarking is provided based either on the report of an internal or external moderator or at the request of the student. The Assessment Policy details this appeal process. 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 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. The Independent Institute of Education (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.