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 Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
94574  Higher Certificate in Office Management 
ORIGINATOR
Helderberg College 
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  Office Administration 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  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:
The purpose of the qualification is to prepare learners for positions such as office secretaries, office managers, office administrators, and related careers. It is designed to equip learners with competencies at NQF Level 5 in the areas of secretarial practice, office management, business administration, information technology, basic accounting, economics, human resources management, supervision, communication, writing, and public relations. It provides training for both first-time job seekers and for experienced employees who do not have a qualification but wish to advance in their careers.

The qualification has the required knowledge mix of theory and knowledge of procedure appropriate for the discipline. The competencies that will be developed include work based skills which will be facilitated through work integrated learning. This qualification is pitched at the entry level of studies in the field of business. Learners will be exposed to knowledge of the business environment and will be empowered with the ability to perform basic office management skills essential to effective office administration. They will be able to demonstrate practical skills in computer applications.

Rationale:
The business community requires workers who are technically-skilled in performing office administrative tasks, who are able to plan, expedite, and facilitate the production and management of correspondence and records, and who are able to assist in financial operations. All organisations require competent personnel who facilitate an efficient office administration systems. This qualification will equip learners with these competencies.

The qualification will ensure that learners are empowered to develop efficient work habits and service skills based on integrity, respect, and love. Considering these values, learners will become responsible citizens which will contribute positively to the economy and society. An attitude of service is encouraged which will have a positive effect in any work environment. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
All admissions through RPL must be in accordance with the principles laid down by the institution's RPL Policy.

RPL is applied for learners who do not have formal academic achievement to gain access to a particular qualification, but with proven expertise and competency will be considered. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior qualification of study concerned.

Entry Requirements:
Access to this qualification is open to learners with either of the following:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC).
    Or
  • Senior Certificate.
    Or
  • National Certificate (vocational) NC(V) at NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 140 Credits.
    Modules:
  • Business Computing IA, 12 Credits.
  • Communication IA, 12 Credits.
  • Basic Accounting, 8 Credits.
  • Business Administration IA, 12 Credits.
  • Office Management IA, 12 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning IA, 8 Credits.
  • Business Administration IB, 12 Credits.
  • Business Computing IB, 12 Credits.
  • Office Management IB, 12 Credits.
  • Communication IB, 12 Credits.
  • Introduction to Public Relations, 12 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 8 Credits.
  • Values, Character and Personal Enrichment, 4 Credits.
  • HIV/AIDs in the Workplace, 4 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Carry out basic accounting from journal entries up to trial balance using acquired knowledge of accounting concepts and framework.
    2. Apply knowledge of the functions of human resources management and the employment equity plan.
    3. Demonstrate the ability to perform office administrative and office managerial duties in office systems, procedures and records management.
    4. Demonstrate skill in keyboarding, computer application (MS Office) and ability to use communication technology to expedite office work.
    5. Demonstrate an understanding that the basis of all management decision-making is the access to and the use of operational and strategic information.
    6. Apply basic theory and practices in marketing relevant to the business sector.
    7. Apply basic knowledge of accounting procedures from journal entries up to trial balances. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The differences between financial accounting and cost and management accounting are explained.
  • The effect of various transactions on the basic accounting equation of sole proprietorship and of both a service organisation and retail organisation are described.
  • Principal qualitative characteristics of accounting are identified according to the conceptual framework.
  • Major steps involved in the accounting cycle are explained.
  • Pre-adjustment and post-adjustment trial balance is prepared.
  • Applications of internal control principles to cash receipts and cash disbursements are explained.
  • Knowledge of basic background information of VAT and how to calculate it is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The importance of human resources management to business is explained.
  • Core human resources management responsibilities such as selection, training and retention of employees are discussed.
  • Skills, knowledge and abilities needed for a supervisory role are outlined.
  • The impact of changing technology, business conditions and educational preparation are discussed.
  • Elements of a contract are explained.
  • Duties and rights of an employee and employer are explained.
  • The provisions of Basic Conditions of Employment, Labour Relations Act, Employment Equity Act and Occupational Health and Safety Act are described.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Relevant legislation that affects records management is discussed.
  • Office management that includes electronic file or subject file management is applied.
  • The need for geographic records management is explained.
  • Business luncheons and events are planned and managed.
  • Appropriate responses in handling conflict are described.
  • Meetings are arranged, agendas are prepared and minutes are taken.
  • The importance of an organised workstation is explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Complex business communications from brief notes and limited directions are produced with a high standard of presentation.
  • The use of a PC with an audio transcription machine is synchronised to produce correspondence ready for signature and posting.
  • Following the guidelines on wireless technology emails are managed and communicated effectively.
  • Understanding of what influences interpersonal communication is demonstrated.
  • News releases, public service announcements and other promotional materials are written.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Knowledge of varied roles that office personnel play in business is demonstrated.
  • Work-procedures are established and thought patterns that will promote efficient, productive and life-patterns are developed.
  • Working environments that are sensitive to cultural, linguistic, gender and other differences are created.
  • Conflict situations are resolved in the work place in an ethical and sensitive way.
  • Administrative duties are performed timeously and effectively.
  • Own action in ways that show knowledge and understanding of office administration are evaluated and adjusted where necessary.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The role or the place of the customer in marketing is identified.
  • Consumer and business decision-making process is described.
  • Various types of wholesale distributors are described.
  • Trends in retailing are discussed.
  • Elements in the supply chain are enumerated.
  • Pricing objectives are explained.
  • Public relations concepts and public relations in relation to marketing, advertising, the promotional mix and communication are explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • An understanding of the accrual basis of accounting is demonstrated.
  • The ability to deal with the valuation of assets is demonstrated.
  • Financial statements of a sole trader in acceptable form are prepared.
  • An understanding of control accounts is demonstrated.
  • Accounts of non-profit organisations are prepared.
  • Financial statements from incomplete records are prepared.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The quality of the assessment is vital in order to provide credible certification and recognition of achievement. The institution makes every effort to ensure credibility in assessment through the application of clear and rigorous procedures and practices. Assessment methods are both formative and summative.

    Formative assessment component comprises monthly mini-reports based on an evaluation of how well the learner has been able to apply the academic content. Assessment during the year will consist of a combination of assignments (including activities such as essays, concept maps, paragraph questions, closed tests, multiple choice questions, portfolios, self-assessment tasks in the study guides or calculations) to be submitted to and assessed by the lecturers. Assessments will be external and externally moderated.

    Summative assessments are in the form of proctored examinations, or equivalent assessment. Summative assessment also tests the learner's ability to manage and integrate a large body of knowledge to achieve the stated outcomes of a full course. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The focus of the qualification is to prepare learners for positions such as office managers, office secretaries, office administrators, and related careers. It is designed to equip learners with competencies at NQF Level 5 in the areas of office management, secretarial practice, business administration, information technology, basic accounting, economics human resources management, supervision, communication, writing, and public relations.

    The modules in the area of computing, basic accounting, office administration, public relations and communication compare with similar modules at the entry level of the Degree and Diploma qualifications offered at the following institutions, and in some cases Certificates and Diplomas compare favourably:
  • The Institute of Technology Carlow in Ireland offers a Higher Certificate in Business in Office Management. This qualification aims to provide learners with fundamental business knowledge combined with high level office administrative skills suitable for meeting the needs of organisations in the industrial, banking, service and public sectors.
  • The Institute of Computer Science at Valley View University in Ghana offers the following qualifications at similar level:
    > Existing Basic Certificate and Professional Course.
    > Basic Courses in Computer Studies.
    > Computer Software Applications.
  • In Indonesia the ASMI Tarakanita Jakarta offers the following qualification that can be compared with this qualification:
    > Offers qualifications in Office Administration.
    > IBM ASMI offers a qualification in Office Administration.

    Conclusion:
    The qualification indicated compares favourably with the ones indicated in terms of the similar modules. Some of these qualifications differ in terms of duration as some of them are completed in two years through part-time studies, the focus is still similar. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    It is envisaged that the qualification articulate with others within the sub-framework.

    Horizontal Articulation possibilities:
  • Higher Certificate in Office Administration.
  • Higher Certificate in Business Studies.

    Vertical Articulation possibilities:
  • Diploma in Office Administration.
  • Advanced Certificate in Business Administration. 
    		•

    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 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. Helderberg College 


    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.