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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Business Accounting 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
87366  Diploma in Business Accounting 
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
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Finance, Economics and Accounting 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  361  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  SAQA 1141/23  2021-07-01  2024-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2025-06-30   2030-06-30  

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 Diploma: Business Accounting will prepare learners to take up positions specifically in financial accounting and cost accounting environments. This focus is firmly supported by the provision of key skills sets identified as critical for this discipline, to ensure a well-balanced qualification. The learner will be able to assess business accounting requirements, apply accounting skills to produce a set of books for a business and use appropriate control systems to support the accounting function in a business.

The Diploma: Business Accounting, in developing accounting skills, includes the specific knowledge elements identified by industry, to provide the full spectrum of knowledge and skills for the successful management of the accounting aspects of an organisation. The practical component in the qualification will help prepare learners to take up positions in industry without much additional training.

The programme will contribute to the achievement of the intended outcomes by introducing learners to the fundamental components of the discipline and then progressing to the more complex elements in the field over the duration of the qualification, to ensure progression and to facilitate the learning process.

Modules such as Business Management, Business Mathematics and Entrepreneurship aim to assist the learner in the achievement of a comprehensive understanding and mastery of business practices in the context of diverse and variable internal and external factors in the business environment. As such, it provides a balanced business perspective to inform the key disciplines. The Management, Economics, Ethics, Corporate Governance and Business Law modules provide the background against which the accounting function is carried out in modern businesses.

Rationale:

The Diploma: Business Accounting has been designed to provide South Africa with learners who have the competence in both the theory and practice of accounting necessary in all organisations, businesses, non profit entities and the public sector.

This qualification is aimed at satisfying the growing demand for offering in-depth study in the accounting field. Research has demonstrated a demand for theoretical and practical training in accounting practice with a view to managing financial tasks and functions competently within small enterprises, or at a relatively junior level in larger ones.

Thus, this qualification provides the required financial accounting skills, knowledge and applications that modern businesses and entities demand from employees entering this specialised field. The specific selection of modules in this programme aims to prepare the learner to fill a position in any modern business and the provision of skills in this area contributes directly to national development goals.

This Diploma further aims to provide a formal qualification to learners who wish to pursue a career in accounting, specifically cost and management accounting. In this way, the Diploma attempts to address the national skills shortage identified in this area. Learners will be equipped to proceed into positions such as:
  • Management Accountant.
  • Financial Analyst.
  • Financial Controller.
  • Accounting Officer.
  • Operations Officer.
  • Cost Accountant.
  • General Manager: Finance.
  • Municipal Finance Manager.
  • NGO Administrator.
  • NGO Finance Manager. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the learner is competent in the:
  • Language of instruction (English) at NQF Level 4.
  • Theoretical and practical knowledge and understanding accomplished at NQF Level 4.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    Learners can achieve this qualification in part or wholly through Recognition of Prior Learning. This Recognition of Prior Learning may grant learners:
  • Access to the qualification for those who do not meet the minimum requirements for admission.
  • Credits towards the modules/subjects contained in this qualification.
  • Credits towards the achievement of the qualification as a whole.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Admission requirements for this qualification are:
  • A National Senior Certificate with a "D" (rating of 2) in English (as the language of teaching and learning or first additional language).
  • A Senior Certificate (issued prior to 2008) with an E in English (as the language of teaching and learning or first additional language).
  • A National Certificate (Vocational) with English (as the language of teaching and learning or first additional language). 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Learners need to obtain a total of 361 credits from 24 compulsory modules which are spread across NQF Levels 5, 6 and 7.

    Modules at NQF Level 5:
  • Business Communication, 10 Credits.
  • Business Calculations, 10 Credits.
  • Accounting 1A, 15 Credits.
  • Introduction to Personal Computing, 5 Credits.
  • Business Management 1A, 11 Credits.
  • Accounting 1B, 15 Credits.
  • Business Mathematics A, 18 Credits.
  • Business Management 1B, 11 Credits.
  • Business Mathematics B, 18 Credits.

    Total credits for NQF Level 5: 113.

    Modules at NQF Level 6:
  • Computer Based Accounting, 10 Credits.
  • Economics A, 18 Credits.
  • Management Accounting A, 18 Credits.
  • Taxation A, 10 Credits.
  • Economics B, 18 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Module - Year 2, 15 Credits.
  • Management Accounting B, 18 Credits.
  • Advanced Spreadsheet Projects, 8 Credits.
  • Taxation B, 10 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 18 Credits.

    Total credits for NQF Level 6: 143.

    Modules at NQF Level 7:
  • Financial Accounting A, 20 Credits.
  • Ethics, Corporate Governance and Business Law A, 20 Credits.
  • Financial Accounting B, 20 Credits.
  • Ethics, Corporate Governance and Business Law B, 20 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Module, Year 3, 25 Credits.

    Total credits for NQF Level 7: 105. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Explain and apply basic management theories, concepts, principles and techniques to the business operation.

    2. Apply sound accounting theory and practice relevant to the accounting function in a business.

    3. Apply acquired accounting and business finance knowledge and competencies to support the economic well-being of a business.

    4. Apply National Tax Regulations to corporate and individual income tax processes and procedures to enhance tax compliance.

    5. Explain internal auditing processes and procedures of a business.

    6. Demonstrate a critical awareness of ethical issues relating to business decision-making and practice.

    7. Use information systems in business to facilitate the efficiency of business processes and management.

    8. Describe and apply the legislation which governs accounting practices in a business environment.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification aims to address all the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Explain the nature, role and characteristics of a business.
  • Explain and implement various functions within a business.
  • Perform key managerial actions competently within an accounting environment.
  • Effect strategic changes to managerial practices by utilising and analysing the theoretical basis for managerial actions.
  • Communicate information effectively and professionally in a business environment, using professional business communication discourse and formats.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Utilise and implement the relevant components and elements of basic accounting concepts.
  • Carry out the fundamental principles of business calculations and mathematics in an accounting context.
  • Apply the principles of the mathematics of finance and financial ratios to different business contexts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Analyse and interpret financial statements for a business enterprise.
  • Implement appropriate financial accounting processes to complete the accounting cycle in a business enterprise.
  • Explain Financial Accounting with respect to the Regulatory Framework and its application to financial reporting.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Explain the structure and operation of the system of taxation in South Africa.
  • Explain and apply various taxation regulations relevant to individuals and businesses.
  • Calculate and assess various taxes payable by individuals, organisations and companies.
  • Implement compliance with income tax processes and procedures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Define the purpose, authority and responsibility of internal audit activity.
  • Explain governance principles and financial control frameworks in a business context.
  • Describe monitoring procedures to achieve financial/audit compliance in a business enterprise.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Describe how business ethics can be applied in an organisation.
  • Describe the relevant professional bodies, associations and regulatory authorities governing ethics for business enterprises.
  • Evaluate different perspectives that can be used to resolve ethical dilemmas in a business context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Produce and analyse spread sheets for financial processes, reporting and analyses.
  • Produce a full set of financial records, year-end reports and reconciliations for a business.
  • Use accounting software to perform accounting transactions for record keeping and reporting purposes.
  • Use a personal computer and relevant software packages in a business environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Describe the relevant legislation governing accounting practices in the South African financial environment.
  • Apply the concepts and principles of commercial law in a business environment to ensure legal compliance.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Continual formative assessment is required so that learners are given feedback on their progress in the achievement of learning outcomes.

    The scheme of work includes assignments based on the learning material and learners are given feedback.

    The process is continuous and focuses on smaller sections of the work and limited numbers of outcomes.

    Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification. Such judgement must include integrated assessments which test the learner's ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, skills and attitudes that are represented by the Exit-Level Outcomes as a whole.

    Examinations, projects, laboratory reports or equivalent assessment such as a portfolio of evidence assess a representative selection of the outcomes practised and assessed in the formative stage.

    Summative assessment also tests the learner's ability to manage and integrate a large body of knowledge to achieve the stated outcomes of a module.

    Integrated assessments must be designed to achieve:
  • An integration of the achievement of exit-level outcomes in a way which demonstrates that the purpose of the qualification as a whole has been achieved.
  • The evaluation of learner performance which can provide evidence of applied competence.
  • Criterion-referenced assessment which is clearly explained to, and understood by, the learners and which can be applied in the recognition of prior learning. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Accounting is a universal skill and is practiced in all countries. Those countries that follow the same Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP) as South Africa have been chosen for this comparability study.

    Diplomas in Accounting are offered by a number of Institutions in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. A number of providers offer it as a part time or distance learning programme, but the focus of this comparability was primarily with the full time, contact offerings.

    Research revealed that of the majority of Diplomas on offer, the intended outcomes are very focused on the accounting aspects and often do not extend to management and governance skills as does this Diploma. Further, the practical aspect was not on offer in any other Diplomas' researched.

    The selected institutions and qualifications were:

    New Zealand: Eastern Institute of Technology, Hawke's Bay:

    Qualification: Diploma in Applied Business.

    Modules:
  • Accounting Principles.
  • Accounting Practices.
  • Financial Accounting.
  • Management Accounting.
  • Taxation.
  • Organisation and Management.
  • Business Communication.
  • Operations Management.
  • Applied Management.
  • Small Business Management.
  • Leadership.
  • Human Resource Management.
  • Employment Relations.
  • Marketing.
  • Buyer Behaviour.
  • Business Computing.
  • Introduction to Commercial Law.

    Endorsements in:
  • Accounting (Level 5).
  • Office Administration (Level 5).
  • Operations Management (Level 5 or Level 6).
  • Human Resources Management (Level 5 or Level 6).
  • Marketing (Level 5 or Level 6).

    Australia: TAFE New South Wales, Sydney:

    Qualification: Accounting Diploma (Nationally Recognised Training).

    Modules:
    TAFE NSW is a college that offers both full-time and part-time courses throughout Australia. The Diploma in Accounting is offered in many different formats. The 3-year Diploma at the Sydney Institute covers mainly accounting and financial subjects and is comparable to this Diploma in Business Accounting although it does not cover some of the Commerce and Ethical subjects that the South African one does.

    United Kingdom: Institute of Commercial Management (ICM):
    Qualification: Diploma in Accounting and Finance.

    Modules:
  • Bookkeeping and Finance (Bookkeeping).
  • Business Management and Administration.
  • Economics for Business.
  • Interpreting and Analysing Information (Numeracy and Statistics).
  • The ICM Certificate in Accounting and Finance is awarded on completion of all Part 1 Accounting in Decision Making (Accounting II):
    > Introduction to Business Law (Business Law).
    > Computer Appreciation and Applications.
    > Cost and Management Accounting (Cost Accounting.

    Conclusion:
    All three qualifications compare favourably with this qualification with specific reference to the modules in each. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:

    This qualification articulates horizontally with the National Certificate: Business Accounting, Level 6.

    Vertical articulation:

    This qualification articulates vertically with the Bachelor of Business Administration: Accounting, Level 7. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • The IIE ensures the quality of its qualifications through a stringent process of internal and external control as set out in The IIE Assessment Policy. The role of internal moderation is to ensure that assessments are conducted appropriately and fairly and are a valid indication of a learner's performance.
  • Feedback on internal moderation is provided to respective lecturers and academic staff across the campuses through a moderation report.
  • External Examiners/External Moderators will be appointed to examine the exit level subjects of a qualification. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors and moderators should 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. 

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