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: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management and Administration 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
96078  Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management and Administration 
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  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:
As a general management programme the purpose of the qualification is to:
  • Broaden students' knowledge about the different management disciplines in the business environment.
  • Enable working professionals to undertake development by means of a systematic survey of current thinking and practice and to learn via application in a working environment.
  • Equip learners with the ability to define and develop an enterprise's value proposition in an increasingly competitive and volatile environment.
  • Enable learners to use analytic skills to deal with business problems, but always within the particular social system that they operate.

    Furthermore the qualification will enable learners to will strengthen their ability to manage in a complex society and business environment by building knowledge of functional areas and develop analytical skills, to integrate environmental, societal and governance (ESG) principles in their decision-making.

    The curriculum contributes toward the intended outcomes by providing learners with a thorough understanding of management theory and practice.

    Rationale:
    This qualification is a necessity for the institution to continue delivering its flagship Master of Business Administration (MBA) qualification due to changes in the regulatory environment. However, it is also an opportunity for the institution to extent the scope of management education to learners that will not necessarily be admitted to, or have a desire for, the MBA qualification.

    The qualification will address the need to produce learners for employment at general management and higher levels. The successful completion of the qualification will allow learners to exhibit contextual understanding of the general business areas and allow learners admission to the MBA programme.

    There are many employment opportunities in the private and public sectors for learners as the qualification helps learners to acquire business "know-how" when moving up to supervisory or managerial positions. They are also a good training routes when these learners switch to functional areas like human resource, marketing, etc. The qualification will be post-experience in nature, problem-centred and practical-oriented without compromising on academic rigour. It is also a popular alternative to a Master's qualification as the it can provide a more focused curriculum thus reducing the commitment in terms of cost and time for the students. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    According to the institution's policy framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and the provisions defined in the National Standards Bodies Regulations (No 18787 of 28 March 1998, issued in terms of the SAQA Act 58 of 1995) a limited number of non-degree learners may join the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management and Administration.

    Stringent assessment criteria are applied to determine whether the applicant has developed the necessary competencies required to enter the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management and Administration.

    In addition to the normal application process, RPL applications will also be assessed on:
  • Work experience: A minimum of eight years of full-time work experience, of which at least three years should have been at management level.
  • Curriculum Vitae: An extensive CV that includes which growth and learning over time is shown in the responsibilities associated with successive jobs.
  • At least two references: Confidential reports from two referees are required on the candidate's work and management experience.
  • Interview: A professional interview with a panel of academics to adjudicate the candidate's ability to cope with the learning programme.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum admission requirements include:
  • A 3 year Bachelors' Degree or Advanced Diploma at NQF Level 7, or higher. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of 16 compulsory modules at NQF Level 8 totalling 120 Credits, with 4 elective modules to choose from.

    Compulsory Modules, 96 Credits:
  • Digital Quotient, 8 Credits.
  • Economics for Managers, 8 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 8 Credits.
  • Human Capital Management, 8 Credits.
  • Innovation Management, 8 Credits.
  • Managerial statistics, 8 Credits.
  • Managerial Accounting, 8 Credits.
  • Information Systems Principles, 8 Credits.
  • Marketing Management, 8 Credits.
  • Principles of Operations, 8 Credits.
  • Sustainable Enterprise, 8 Credits.
  • Systems Methods, 8 Credits.

    Elective Modules (Choose electives to the amount of 24 Credits), 24 Credits:
  • Future Studies (Elective), 8 Credits.
  • Manager as Coach (Elective), 8 Credits.
  • Project Management (Elective), 16 Credits.
  • Risk Management (Elective), 8 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply futures thinking to a societal issue in a developing country context.
    2. Provide information for management decision making such as planning, organising, leading and control.
    3. An understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation, and by acknowledging responsibility to those in the local and broader business community. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Good and bad work in futures studies is distinguished.
  • Key concepts of futures studies to business and societal issues are applied.
  • Causal layered analysis to reveal the scope and nature of futures-related problems and issues is applied.
  • Trend and megatrend analysis are used to measure the future and expectations.
  • Scenarios are used to scope the future.
  • Futures studies in the field of strategic management are considered.
  • Futures studies are applied to effect change and transformation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Knowledge and comprehension of the systemic interrelationship between an organisation and the environmental, social and economic conditions in its operational context is demonstrated.
  • The most relevant concepts that inform the meaning of sustainable development in application to an organisational context is analysed.
  • The importance of social legitimacy and stakeholder engagement critically reviewed and analysed for the development of a sustainable organisation.
  • The position of an organisation in terms of its exposure to environmental and social risks and opportunities is evaluated and the ability to apply appropriate models for engagement with it is demonstrated.
  • The principles, processes and practices of intra-organisational collaboration and integration for sustainable development are applied and the effectiveness thereof in organisational settings is examined.
  • The importance of accountability systems and reporting mechanisms is evaluated to monitor organisational performance for sustainable development and examples are assessed and critiqued thereof in organisational contexts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Knowledge and comprehension of the need for an integrative worldview given the complexity inherent in society at large and business in particular is demonstrated.
  • A critical understanding of the systems thinking philosophy is developed.
  • Social systems methodology to analyse and understand business- and management-related issues are applied.
  • The ability to use systems thinking to integrate different business and management fields into an integrated whole is developed.
  • The links between subjects such as strategic management, financial management, marketing management, etc are identified.
  • Systems thinking to define problems and design solutions is applied.
  • Systems thinking to foster and facilitate organizational development initiatives are critically reviewed and analysed.
  • Systems dynamics (causal loop diagrams) to develop an understanding of the dynamics underlying systemic problems are applied.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Learners will be assessed on a flexible assessment basis. In order to provide a level of consistency in the assessments of the various modules assessments will be standardised, where possible.
    The following is a description of the number and types of formative and summative assessments. The standardised assessments will be as follows for each module:
  • Formative assessment: Learners will be required to complete online tests on the LMS to test the comprehension of the theory for each module prior to attending contact sessions. It is envisaged that this will not contribute more than 20% of the total grade for a module.
  • Summative assessment: Requires the practical application of the module content to a case study, will be administered after students have completed their contact time. These assessments will be written at the current exams centres in Southern Africa used by Telematic Services of the University.
  • The final assessment (of application and experiential learning): Each module will be an individual assignment within the student's own working environment to practice, test and reflect on the theory via experiential learning. The assignment will require recognition of completion by a representative of the organisation, but will be graded by the lecturer of the module. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The international comparability studies for the Postgraduate Diploma (Business Management and Administration) were conducted on similar international qualifications to enhance quality and international standing of this qualification. It has proven to compare very well with similar qualifications offered at the leading professional bodies and universities such as the University of Northampton in the United Kingdom, Massey and Otago University in New Zealand and the Singapore Institute of Management in Singapore.

    Graduate Diploma in Business Administration - Singapore Institute of Management (SIM): Singapore:
    The Graduate Diploma in Business Administration were offered to forward-looking executives and managers who desired to upgrade their knowledge and skills and make a mark in establishing the success of management and productivity in Singapore and beyond.

    The purpose of the Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (GDBA) is to:
  • Provide professionals with an overview of the business enterprise and its entrepreneurial functions.
  • Develop basic expertise in strategic thinking, critical organisational analysis, understanding organisational dynamics, operations management and decision making, people, marketing and knowledge management, and promoting change.

    On completion of the GDBA, graduates will typically be able to:
  • Demonstrate foundational competencies in key functional areas of business enterprise.
  • Demonstrate understanding of strategic thinking.
  • Demonstrate an enterprising, forward-looking and professional outlook.
  • Appreciate the process of developing accounting information for managerial control and decision-making.
  • Apply good human relations and human capital management practices.
  • Develop a global and regional mindset.
  • Apply core thinking skills in real-life decision-making problems.

    Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Business and Management Top Up - University Of Northampton - (United Kingdom):
    The qualification is specifically designed for holders of Higher National Diplomas (HND) qualifications (or similar UK and international qualifications). The award allows such learners to gain a full Honours Degree in one year. The qualification covers key aspects of business and management practice and theory and emphasises the development of individual and group skills. Learners can follow a range of pathways to meet their individual interests and career aspirations including marketing, finance, human resources and general business.

    The qualification provides coverage of the key aspects of business and management practice and theory and aims to produce learners with enquiring minds. The qualification emphasises the development of individual and group skills and learners find that they have the knowledge and skills required for starting careers in business/management or going on to Postgraduate study.

    Learners can follow a range of pathways in constructing their programme of study depending upon their previous course, individual interests and career aspirations.

    Postgraduate Diploma inn Business and Administration (PGDipBusAdmin) - Massey University (New Zealand):
    The Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Administration provides advanced education in specialist business areas. It consists of taught papers, though a project in an area of interest may be included. Learners can enhance their first Degree by adding a Postgraduate qualification in business.

    Learners taking PGDipBusAdmin have the opportunity to design an academic programme along the lines of their individual needs and interests. It is possible, for example, to have either a general course of study or a concentration in a selected area of interest.

    Those intending to progress into a Masters programme after completing the PGDipBusAdmin should discuss their programme with a Student Advisor to ensure compatibility and coherence.

    Learners have an option of doing the Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Administration (Management), with management as a speciality provides advanced education in a specialist business area.

    Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PGDipBusAdmin) - University Of Otago (New Zealand):
    The Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration is a part-time executive education qualification for experienced managers, professionals and administrators. It is designed to allow busy professionals to learn and improve their business knowledge and skills in a dynamic, relevant and challenging environment, and yet without the major commitment required for the Master of Business Administration Degree.

    Conclusion:
    The results of the comparability studies conducted reveal that this qualification compares favourably with some of the international business management and administration qualifications. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification is designed to articulate within and across the sub-frameworks of the NQF.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Management, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Commerce in Business Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Business Management and Administration, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Business Administration in Environmental Business Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Business Administration in International Business Management, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    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. Stellenbosch University 


    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.