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: 

Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
85028  Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management 
ORIGINATOR
Open Learning Group 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Procurement 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0733/25  2024-06-30  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 Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is to equip learners with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to manage supply chain operations effectively in a fast-paced, globalised economy. This qualification addresses South Africa's skills shortage in the logistics and supply chain sector by developing professionals who can contribute to efficient procurement, inventory control, transportation, and distribution processes.

Upon completion of this Diploma, graduates will be able to analyse, design, and optimise supply chain systems, ensuring cost-effective and sustainable logistics operations. They will gain critical problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning abilities, enabling them to contribute to business success and economic growth.

The qualification prepares learners for entry-level roles such as logistics coordinators, supply chain analysts, inventory controllers, and procurement officers, with opportunities for advancement into supervisory and managerial positions. Graduates will be competent in warehousing, freight forwarding, procurement strategies, and supply chain analytics, making them valuable assets across various industries, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and international trade.

The Diploma aligns with national and international logistics standards, providing learners with a structured career pathway that allows for further study at NQF Level 7 in related fields such as Business Administration, Transport Management, and Supply Chain Leadership. Ultimately, this qualification supports the growth of South Africa's logistics infrastructure, enhances trade efficiency, and promotes economic resilience by developing skilled supply chain professionals. Career progression opportunities exist in manufacturing, retail, healthcare, international trade, and transport sectors, where professionals can advance into supervisory and managerial roles.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to
  • Source relevant logistics and supply chain information, evaluate, select, and analyse appropriate information, and effectively communicate and disseminate this information.
  • Apply detailed logistics and supply chain knowledge, concepts, principles, and theories in context.
  • Apply relevant models, procedures, tools, and techniques that are available to a logistics and supply chain manager to establish effective and efficient solutions to problems
  • Apply sound financial management principles in a logistics and supply chain environment.
  • Utilise quantitative approaches in decision-making.
  • Fulfill the functions and roles that a logistics and supply chain manager is normally called upon to discharge as his/her duties.

    Rationale:
    The logistics and supply chain sector is critical to economic growth, ensuring the efficient movement of goods and services across industries. However, South Africa faces a shortage of skilled professionals, as highlighted by the National Scarce Skills List. Key roles such as supply and distribution managers, transport services managers, and logistics administrators remain in high demand, with vacancies exceeding 2,000 positions in various industries. Despite this demand, limited formal qualifications exist to equip professionals with the necessary skills.

    This Diploma addresses these gaps by providing a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in procurement, warehousing, transportation, and supply chain analytics. Industry feedback from stakeholders such as the Road Freight Association (RFA), South African Air Force (SAAF), and South African Express Parcel Association (SAEPA) confirms the need for structured training in logistics management. The qualification is designed to meet the needs of businesses that require skilled professionals to optimize supply chain processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

    The qualification caters to school leavers, working professionals, and career changers seeking entry-level roles such as logistics coordinators, supply chain analysts, inventory controllers, and procurement officers.

    The Diploma articulates both horizontally and vertically, allowing graduates to further their studies at NQF Level 7 in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or Transport Logistics. It also enables lifelong learning and career mobility, positioning graduates for global opportunities in an increasingly digital and interconnected logistics industry.

    This qualification benefits not only learners by enhancing employability and career growth but also society and the economy by ensuring efficient supply chain operations, reducing trade disruptions, and supporting industrial development. By addressing South Africa's logistics skills shortage, this diploma plays a key role in strengthening the nation's supply chain capabilities, boosting trade, and fostering economic resilience. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

    The institution applies RPL in accordance with national SAQA policies to provide alternative entry pathways and recognise prior learning from work experience and non-formal education.
  • Applicants 25 years or older with at least two years of relevant work experience may gain entry without meeting standard admission criteria.
  • RPL allows for module exemptions (up to 50% of a qualification) but does not award credits.

    Formal learning is recognised through Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT).

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC), NQF Level 4 without endorsement
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management Practice, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Logistics Management, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Supply Chain and Logistics Management, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5 and 6, totalling 360 credits.

    Year One:
    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Business Management 1, 20 Credits.
  • Economics 1, 20 Credits.
  • Logistics Business Communication, 20 Credits.
  • Logistics Management 1, 20 Credits.
  • Supply Chain Management 1, 20 Credits.
  • Transport Economics 1, 20 Credits.

    Year Two:
    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Work Integrated Learning 1, 20 Credits.
  • Business Management 2, 20 Credits.
  • Business Information Systems, 20 Credits.
  • Logistics Management 2, 20 Credits.
  • Transport Economics 2, 20 Credits.
  • Marketing 2, 20 Credits.

    Year Three:
    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Supply Chain Management 2, 20 Credits.
  • Financial Management 2, 20 Credits.
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management Systems, 20 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning 2, 20 Credits.
  • Procurement Management, 20 Credits.
  • Logistics Management 3, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Evaluate relevant logistics and supply chain information and effectively disseminate this information.
    2. Apply detailed logistics and supply chain knowledge, concepts, principles and theories in context.
    3. Apply relevant models, procedures, tools and techniques r to establish effective and efficient solutions to problems
    4. Apply sound financial management principles in a logistics and supply chain environment.
    5. Utilise quantitative approaches in decision making.
    6. Fulfil the functions and roles that a logistics and supply chain manager is normally called upon to discharge as his/her duties. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Discuss the different contexts of communication, such as formal and interpersonal communications.
  • Explain the role of the audience in communication.
  • Utilise oral, written, and other types of communication effectively.
  • Highlight the specific context of the logistics and supply chain environment in which stakeholders need to communicate.
  • Illustrate how the different types of communication are integrated in the logistics environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain the importance of logistics as a source of competitive advantage.
  • Apply the principles of logistics management.
  • Evaluate the logistics performance of an organisation and recommend improvements.
  • Discuss the importance of strategic management for logistics.
  • Explain the forecasting process and define the various forecasting techniques and when to apply these techniques.
  • Select a suitable supply chain strategy for different products and services offered.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Understand how Business Information Systems impact the work environment.
  • Apply relevant Logistics Management Systems.
  • Apply the operational practices and procedures required within the logistics and supply chain environment.
  • Use a range of business and management tools and skills to contribute to the growth of the applicable business.
  • Identify and apply appropriate logistics and supply chain management models.
  • Assess the impact of logistics decisions on cost, time, customer satisfaction, and environmental considerations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Define the purpose and users of accounting.
  • Explain the theory of financial management.
  • Analyse financial statements.
  • Explain the concept of risk and return and identify sources of risk.
  • Explain the application of cost management accounting and financial management principles within the logistics and supply chain environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Describe statistical data in financial calculations and apply Excel as a data analysis tool.
  • Calculate various important financial ratios in a logistics environment.
  • Apply the theory and principles of the quantitative analysis of transport and logistics markets.
  • Apply Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and GPS systems to transportation and logistics planning.
  • Explain how Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) play a role in transport and logistics systems project design and performance assessment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Explain various theories of management and general management tasks.
  • Explain the purpose, structure, and responsibilities of the different functions of a typical enterprise, as well as the degree of integration with other functions.
  • Define the management process of planning, organising, leadership, and controlling within a given context.
  • Explain entrepreneurship and the different types of entrepreneurs.
  • Classify different enterprises within the economic system.
  • Explain the role of operations management in the organisation.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    Assessment is conducted in accordance with the Open Learning Group's Assessment Policy. The assessment strategy ensures that learners demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical application of knowledge in their respective fields.

    The assessment process includes both formative and summative assessments to evaluate the learner's applied competence:

    Formative Assessment:
  • Each module requires learners to complete two assignments, which contribute to continuous learning and provide evidence of job-related application of knowledge.
  • These assignments serve as a means of ongoing assessment, allowing learners to engage with real-world scenarios and apply theoretical concepts in a practical context.

    Summative Assessment:
  • Learners are required to complete a three-hour examination per module.
  • This serves as a comprehensive evaluation of the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the learning process.

    Work-Integrated Learning (WIL):
  • Practical learning components play a crucial role in assessing applied competence.
  • As part of WIL, learners are required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE), which documents their workplace-based learning experiences, tasks completed, and reflections on practical application.
  • The PoE serves as an assessment tool to ensure that learners successfully integrate academic knowledge with workplace practice.

    Supplementary examinations are available twice a year, in July and December, following specific rules, guidelines, and procedures. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification shares similarities with equivalent diplomas and associate degrees in other countries.

    Country: United Kingdom (UK):
    Institution: Institute of Supply Chain Management (IoSCM).
    Qualification Title: Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
    NQF Level: Level 5

    This qualification provides fundamental logistics and is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and procurement, and supply chain management knowledge comparable to the South African NQF Level 6 diploma.

    Country: United States (USA):
    Qualification Title: Associate Degree in Supply Chain Management

    The qualification is offered by community colleges and technical institutions, equates to a two-year tertiary-level qualification that prepares learners for logistics and supply chain operations.

    Similarities include coursework in inventory management, transportation, procurement, and supply chain technology.

    Country: Australia:
    Qualification Title: The Diploma of Logistics
    NQF Level: Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5)

    The qualification provides learners with skills in freight forwarding, transport management, and warehouse operations, like those covered under the South African NQF Level 6 diploma.

    European Union:
    Under the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), logistics and supply chain management diplomas at EQF Level 5 and Level 6 are offered, focusing on the movement of goods, procurement strategies, and supply chain optimisation.

    The qualification aligns with international standards set by professional bodies such as:
  • The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
  • The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
  • The International Federation of Purchasing and Supply Management (IFPSM)

    These bodies emphasize competencies in logistics planning, inventory control, procurement strategies, and digital supply chain management, critical components embedded in the qualification.

    Given the alignment with international qualifications, the Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (NQF Level 6) has the potential for articulation into Bachelor's degrees or advanced diplomas in other national and regional qualification frameworks. Graduates may seek credit transfers or recognition of prior learning (RPL) when pursuing further studies in logistics, supply chain management, or business administration abroad.

    By maintaining alignment with global standards, this qualification enhances the employability and mobility of graduates within international markets, supporting South Africa's participation in the global logistics and supply chain sector. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Certificate in Logistics Management, NQF Level 6
  • Diploma in Logistics, NQF Level 6
  • Diploma in Logistics Management, NQF Level 6
  • Diploma in Management with a focus on Logistics Management, NQF Level 6
  • Diploma in Marketing Management, NQF Level 6

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Logistics, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Administration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Transport and Logistics Management, NQF Level 7.

    Diagonal Articulation
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Logistics Practitioner, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    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 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. Open Learning Group 


    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.