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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Business Administration General 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
94871  Master of Business Administration General 
ORIGINATOR
MANCOSA 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
Master's Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

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 
The purpose of the Master of Business Administration qualification is to equip learners with comprehensive, advanced theoretical knowledge and applied skills in critical facets of business and management. This prestigious qualification fosters a strategic mindset, enabling learners to navigate the complexities of the 21st-century business landscape with agility and confidence. Learners will learn to operate effectively in a complex global environment, developing their ability to think critically and strategically about emerging market dynamics. The target learners are mid-career professionals seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities and advance their careers in business and industry or seeking advancement, and individuals transitioning into new fields . Completing the Master of Business Administration qualification bolsters their professional credibility and enhances their employability in competitive job markets. Additionally, the Master of Business Administration qualification provides learners with the tools to employ innovative leadership strategies, fostering personal and professional growth while preparing them to tackle contemporary business challenges. They will also develop critical analytical skills, enabling them to confidently assess and address business issues.

The qualification serves multiple essential purposes, primarily aimed at equipping learners with advanced managerial skills and knowledge necessary for navigating the complexities of modern business environments. It enhances strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and decision-making proficiency, enabling graduates to tackle real-world challenges effectively. The Master of Business Administration qualification focuses on theoretical concepts and emphasises practical applications, ensuring learners can integrate their learning into business scenarios. Learners enrolled this qualification will gain a comprehensive understanding of various business disciplines, including finance, marketing, operations, and human resources.

The target audience aspiring leaders, mid-career professionals. The qualification offers diverse academic and occupational pathways, catering to learners seeking to advance their careers in various fields such as Management Consultant, Senior Manager/ Analyst, Corporate Executive, and Entrepreneur. Graduates emerge with robust skills, knowledge, and competencies that prepare them for management, finance, marketing, and operations leadership roles. The qualification emphasises integrating theory and practice, encouraging learners to apply academic concepts to contextualise and solve contemporary business problems. By fostering a culture of mutual respect and cross-cultural understanding among a diverse cohort, the qualification prepares graduates to make a meaningful impact in the business sector and communities.

With the current skills need and the scarcity of qualifications in business administration, this qualification aims to produce graduates who are in possession of specific graduate attributes. such as critical thinking, problem solving proficiency, leadership potential, technological literacy, ethical principles, communication skills, adaptability to change and global perspectives.

Upon completion of the qualification graduates will be able to:
  • Analyse political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal forces in organisational contexts to determine capabilities and strategic positioning
  • Apply financial management tools to support evidence-based business decisions.
  • Evaluate organisational problems using strategic, critical and creative thinking to formulate viable solutions.
  • Develop entrepreneurial strategies to identify, create and sustain business opportunities.
  • Evaluate technological applications in business contexts to ensure ethical and sustainable practice.

    Rationale:
    The aim of this qualification is to produce leaders in emerging and dynamic business markets. The global business environment is rapidly changing due to technological advancements, globalisation, and transforming market demands. Therefore, organisations are seeking professionals equipped with a blend of analytical skills, leadership capabilities, and innovative thinking. The qualification is designed to address these needs by providing a comprehensive qualification design that prepares graduates for strategic roles in various industries. As organisations grow in complexity, the demand for skilled leaders who can navigate challenges and drive change has intensified.

    The qualification focuses on developing essential managerial competencies, such as decision-making, critical thinking, and effective communication. The qualification serves as a benchmark for aspiring leaders, enabling them to enhance their professional credibility. Employers increasingly report a skills gap in leadership, strategic thinking, and innovative problem-solving among graduates (World Economic Forum, 2020).
    The qualification is designed to equip learners with these competencies, enhancing their employability and readiness to contribute meaningfully to organisations. Besides acquiring a solid grounding in business sub-discipline areas, the qualification would equip graduates to explore the relationships between the business regulatory environment and businesses, as well as the concepts and practices behind creating successful public-private partnerships for social change.

    The qualification further responds to the growing complexities in the business environment. Key stakeholders, including executives from major corporations, small and medium enterprises, and educational institutions, have highlighted the necessity for advanced managerial skills and strategic leadership capabilities to drive organisational success in a competitive landscape. The qualification aims to address several specific needs within various sectors. In the business sector, many organisations require qualified professionals who can lead teams, innovate processes, and implement effective strategies. The qualification is designed to focus on developing these essential skills, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern businesses. Additionally, industry-specific bodies have identified a scarcity of skilled leaders capable of handling contemporary business challenges (Graduate Management Admission Council, 2022). These bodies have emphasised the importance of a Master of Business Administration qualification in creating a pipeline of qualified candidates for leadership roles, thus helping to bridge the gap in effective management.

    The qualification is poised to benefit society and the economy significantly. By equipping graduates with critical leadership and management skills, the Master of Business Administration qualification will enhance employability, particularly among youth and underrepresented groups, contributing to a more inclusive workforce. Moreover, graduates will be better positioned to drive innovation and improve organisational productivity, which, in turn, contributes to economic growth and enhances the overall competitiveness of the national economy.

    Upon completion of the qualification, graduates can aspire towards the following positions:
  • Management Consultant
  • Senior Manager/ Analyst
  • Corporate Executive
  • Entrepreneur

    The qualification provides clear learning and career pathways, enabling graduates to articulate horizontally, vertically, or diagonally into related fields including management, marketing and human resource management and can articulate into MANCOSA's Doctor of Business Administration qualification. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution recognises the important role that the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) plays in ensuring equitable access and participation in Higher Education. In this process, non-formal and/or informal learning are measured, evaluated, and checked for equivalence or parity with the formal qualification entry requirements. The RPL assessment process will focus on ways of evaluating a person's knowledge and skills acquired through lifelong learning experiences (formal, non-formal and informal) against a set of pre-determined criteria.

    RPL Process
    Learners are required to submit an RPL application, and the MANCOSA RPL committee shall meet and provide outcomes regarding all RPL applications that are presented before the committee for decisions and recommendations regarding entry into the qualifications which prospective RPL candidates have applied for. The decisions are communicated by the committee to the relevant stakeholders in the enrolment department. The RPL process focuses on establishing whether the learner has acquired competence in the following areas:
  • Basic theoretical knowledge
  • Practical competence
  • Reflective competence
  • Applied competence

    RPL for access
    Assesses whether a candidate's prior experience and learning meet the entry requirements for a qualification, enabling them to be accepted into the qualification. In contrast, RPL for credits and/or exemptions evaluates if this prior learning can be counted towards specific modules within the qualification, potentially shortening the duration or reducing the coursework required. Essentially, RPL for admission determines eligibility for entry, while RPL for credits and exemptions grants academic credit or module exemptions based on previous learning.

    All RPL applications are subject to evaluation by the RPL committee. No more than 10% of a cohort will be admitted into the qualification based on RPL. It is assumed that the learning derived from work or life experience will be a major element in the profiles of non-standard entrants primarily by means of a portfolio of evidence. Where appropriate, interviews will also be conducted to assess applicants for selection purposes

    Entry Requirements
  • Bachelor of Administration Honours, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Administration Honours in Human Resource Management, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Administration Honours in Industrial Psychology, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    N 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 135 Credits:
  • Human Resource Development, 15 Credits.
  • Strategic Marketing Management, 15 Credits.
  • Strategies in Operations Management, 15 Credits.
  • Information and Knowledge Management, 15 Credits.
  • Corporate Strategy, 15 15 Credits.
  • Financial Management, 15 Credits.
  • Managerial Economics, 15 Credits.
  • Research and Quantitative Methods, 15 Credits.
  • Dissertation, 45 15 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 9, 105 Credits (Select three modules):
  • Supply Chain Management, 15 Credits.
  • Change Management, 15 Credits.
  • Healthcare Management, 15 Credits.
  • Leadership, 15 Credits.
  • Environmental Management, 15 Credits.
  • Strategic Project Management, 15 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Analyse political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal forces in organisational contexts to determine capabilities and strategic positioning.
    2. Apply financial management tools to support evidence-based business decisions.
    3. Evaluate organisational problems using strategic, critical and creative thinking to formulate viable solutions.
    4. Develop entrepreneurial strategies to identify, create and sustain business opportunities.
    5. Evaluate technological applications in business contexts to ensure ethical and sustainable practice. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse environmental forces within political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal contexts to understand the implications for long-term organisational sustainability.
  • Evaluate organisational resources and capabilities against opportunities and threats to demonstrate alignment with strategic priorities.
  • Synthesise the strategic implications of internal and external factors to understand positioning and competitive advantage within dynamic markets.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Interpret financial data from multiple sources to understand how insights support strategic decision-making.
  • Apply financial management tools such as ratio analysis, budgeting and investment appraisal to understand performance across organisational functions.
  • Apply financial management principles such as risk assessment, return analysis and stakeholder evaluation to justify decisions that strengthen organisational value creation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Apply strategic frameworks and models to diagnose complex organisational challenges in diverse environments.
  • Evaluate risk and feasibility dimensions to understand recommended solutions in terms of practicality, sustainability and alignment with organisational objectives.
  • Analyse organisational problems using structured methods to identify inefficiencies and develop evidence-based alternatives to improve organisational performance and competitiveness.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse entrepreneurial opportunities through market research, innovation trends and stakeholder needs to understand the potential for value creation.
  • Examine entrepreneurial strategies and approaches to demonstrate an understanding of how opportunities are transformed into commercially viable ventures that contribute to organisational and economic development.
  • Assess entrepreneurial risks to demonstrate an understanding of adaptability, resilience and strategies for sustainable growth in competitive markets.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Evaluate technology applications in terms of efficiency, innovation and competitiveness to understand their contribution to organisational goals.
  • Integrate ethical and sustainability considerations to demonstrate an understanding of responsible and accountable practices in the selection and implementation of technology.
  • Analyse the impacts of technology adoption to demonstrate an understanding of employee well-being, environmental responsibility and organisational sustainability, promoting ethical business conduct.

    Integrated Assessment
    Integrated assessment requires careful consideration in implementing formative and summative assessment methods, which offer an inclusive and holistic view of Learners learning. Assessments are aligned with the pre-defined learning outcomes per module culminating with the qualification exit level outcomes. Formative and summative assessments are diverse in nature, and these encompass knowledge check questions, case studies, and scenario-based questions. Formative assessments allow for regular feedback to Learners, highlighting areas of success and improvement. Summative assessments evaluate Learners learning after a Learners learning journey. Imperative to integrated assessments is the provisioning of feedback to not only Learners but also internally, whereby the results of assessments play a critical role in informing the development of future assessments, assessment practices and the continuous improvement of the qualification.

    The assessment method for each module is:
    Formative Assessments - these are online assessments. These assessments are in the form of multiple choice, true/false or a combination of both.
    Summative Assessment - This assessment is in the form of a project and requires calculations and/or application to relevant theory.
    Dissertation Module externally assessed, the final mark is calculated as follows: ¿¿
    Dissertation - 100%
    The pass mark for dissertation is listed at 50%
    Formative Assessment: counts 50% and Summative Assessment 50% towards the final mark.
    To pass a module a sub-minimum of 50% is required in each form of assessment and a final combined mark of 50% is required and a final combined mark of 50% is required.
    Learners are required to attempt formative assessments 1 and 2 and achieve a combined average of at least 50% before writing their Online Summative Assessment.
    The pass mark for dissertation is listed at 50%. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United Kingdom
    Name of Institution: London Business School (LBS)
    Name of Qualification: Master of Business Administration (MBA)

    Purpose of Qualification: The Master of Business Administration qualification at the London Business School is designed to develop exceptional leaders with a global perspective, emphasising strategic thinking and innovation in business.

    Learning Outcomes:
  • Develop a deep understanding of complex business environments.
  • Cultivate leadership skills and a collaborative mindset.
  • Analyse and respond to global business challenges.
  • Innovate and drive change within organisations.

    Content:
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Strategy
  • Leadership
  • Data analytics
  • Global business trends
  • Practical applications through projects and international study opportunities.

    Similarities:
  • The MANCOSA qualification and the LBS qualification include similar entry requirements as both qualifications require potential learners to possess substantial work experience.
  • Both the MANCOSA and the LBS qualification include modules focusing on strategic marketing management, financial management and operations management.

    Differences:
  • The LBS qualification offers a more intensive, in-person learning experience with global immersion opportunities, while MANCOSA offers the Master of Business Administration qualification via a distance mode supported by online learning.
  • Furthermore, the LBS qualification is offered across 21 months, whereas the MANCOSA Master of Business Administration qualification is offered across 18 months.

    Country: Australia
    Name of Institution: University of Sydney (US)
    Name of Qualification: Master of Business Administration (MBA)

    Purpose of Qualification: The University of Sydney's Master of Business Administration offers a deep understanding of finance, marketing and strategy, and the learner will learn how to lead teams in a digital world, harness big data, leverage the power of creativity and explore the nature of complex systems. The MBA is focused on three key areas: Personal and interpersonal skills development, business knowledge and skills development, and building future enterprises.

    Learning Outcomes:
  • Develop the personal and interpersonal skills required to effectively manage and lead
  • Learn to build personal resilience in a complex world
  • Acquire core business knowledge and skills
  • Understand business resilience and sustainability
  • Examine the sustainability of an existing business
  • Master the art of building and leading future enterprises
  • Develop the skills to deliver customer-centric products and services

    Content:
  • Leadership Practice and Development
  • Critical Analysis and Thought Leadership
  • Creativity, Innovation and Business
  • Innovation in Strategic Marketing
  • Financial Management
  • Leading in a Digital World

    Similarities:
  • The MANCOSA qualification and the US qualification share several key similarities.
  • Both qualifications require prospective learners to have relevant work experience as part of their entry requirements, demonstrating the importance of managerial capabilities before enrolment.
  • In terms of curriculum, both qualifications include a focus on Strategic Marketing, Financial Management, and Leadership Development, preparing learners to take on leadership roles within various industries.
  • Additionally, both qualifications are designed with an 18-month duration, providing a comprehensive learning experience across core business disciplines.

    Differences:
  • The US qualification offers a face-to-face, in-person learning experience, where learners benefit from hands-on interaction, live collaboration, and participation in campus activities. It places a strong emphasis on leadership development, creativity, and innovation, preparing learners to navigate complex, real-world business environments. In contrast, MANCOSA's Master of Business Administration qualification is offered via distance learning, providing a more flexible approach for professionals who may need to balance work and study. > Additionally, the US qualification includes a significant focus on digital leadership and building future enterprises, while MANCOSA's qualification offers a broader business foundation with a focus on flexible learning.

    Conclusion:
    To conclude, the Master of Business Administration qualification offered at MANCOSA demonstrates favourable comparability with international qualifications within Business Administration. MANCOSA's Master of Business Administration qualification has been compared to three international institutions, evaluating aspects including learning outcomes, content as well as admission requirements. The comparison revealed both similarities and differences, however, MANCOSA's Master of Business Administration qualification remained favourable in alignment with the similarities and differences. Notably, the Master of Business Administration qualification is distinctively tailored to the needs of South Africa, reflecting its appropriateness for the specific requirements of the country. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Business Administration General, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Administration in Public Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Business Administration, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Administration in Public Administration, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Administration, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Administration in Municipal Administration, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Business Administration, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Administration in Public Management, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal Articulation:
    No diagonal articulation is possible at this stage. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    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. MANCOSA 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.