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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 Business Management |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 96746 | Higher Certificate in Business Management | |||
| 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 | ||
| Higher Certificate | 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 05 | 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 replaces: |
| Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
| 62109 | Certificate: Business Management | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 120 | Complete |
| PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
| Purpose:
The Higher Certificate in Business Management qualification is designed to provide learners with foundational business knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to thrive in entry-level management roles or pursue further studies in business disciplines. The qualification equips learners with essential insights into key areas such as project management, marketing, financial literacy, and people management, preparing them for the operational needs of modern businesses. It is targeted at high school graduates, individuals seeking career progression, and those transitioning into the business field. By completing this qualification, learners will gain practical, job-ready skills that are directly applicable in the workplace, offering them the opportunity to handle day-to-day business operations effectively. Furthermore, this qualification serves as a stepping stone for further academic progression, including access to Bachelor's, Honours, Master's, and Doctorate-level qualifications in Business Administration. The qualification is highly attractive for learners who aspire to develop their careers in business, as it enhances employability, offers solid career pathways, and supports long-term professional growth. Upon successful completion of this qualification, learners will have a sound understanding of key business principles and will be able to apply management techniques in real-world contexts, communicate effectively in business environments, manage teams, and perform financial and marketing tasks. The qualification ensures learners gain both theoretical insights and practical competencies, aligning with core modules such as Introduction to Business Management, Fundamentals of Marketing, End User Computing, and Project Management. Graduates will be equipped to take on entry-level responsibilities, such as business administrator, junior manager, or project coordinator, and can apply their skills in a variety of sectors, including retail, finance, and general business management. The qualification also provides clear pathways for further study, offering opportunities for graduates to advance to higher qualifications. Ultimately, the qualification not only improves learners' employability but also positions them for long-term career advancement in the dynamic business environment. With the current skills need in business management, the qualification aims to produce graduates who are in possession of specific graduate attributes. The below qualification graduate attributes align to the institution's Graduate Attributes of communication skills, critical thinking, innovation and entrepreneurship, AI and data literacy, global leadership, interpersonal skills, foundation knowledge. With this in mind, the qualification's graduate attributes identified below demonstrate the competencies the student will possess upon completion of the modules and assessments within the qualification: The purpose of the qualification is encapsulated in the qualification's exit-level outcomes, which align to the South African Qualifications Authority National Qualifications Framework competencies for an NQF Level 5 qualification. Upon completion of the qualification graduates will be able to: Upon completion of the qualification, graduates can aspire to the following positions: Overall, the qualification is designed to provide learners with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to succeed in entry-level management roles and beyond. By equipping graduates with core competencies in areas such as project management, marketing, financial literacy, and people management, the qualification prepares learners to handle real-world business challenges effectively. Graduates will be well-positioned for career advancement, with the ability to contribute meaningfully to business operations across diverse sectors. With clear pathways for further academic progression, the qualification not only enhances employability but also empowers learners to pursue long-term career growth and professional development in the dynamic business environment. Rationale: This qualification has been carefully crafted to address the evolving demands of today's business landscape. As organisations grow in complexity, there is a significant need for foundational skills in management, marketing, finance, and people management to support effective decision-making and operational success. Research by Smit and Cronjé (2020) underscores that proficient management is a cornerstone of organisational achievement, especially in a fast-paced, tech-driven global economy. This qualification specifically addresses the increasing need for capable entry-level managers and business administrators in South Africa's dynamic economic environment. It aligns with national priorities outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP), which emphasises the development of entrepreneurial and managerial skills as essential for economic growth and job creation. Industry insights from the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) have further identified a shortage of qualified managers and administrators who are equipped to meet operational challenges in today's highly competitive business sector. By equipping learners with practical business skills, the qualification is uniquely positioned to fill this critical skills gap and support the country's broader economic objectives. To support the rationale behind the qualification, recent studies and reports highlight a shortage of qualified managers and administrators who can meet South Africa's operational business demands. The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) (2022) emphasises a persistent skills mismatch across sectors, with a high demand for managerial and administrative skills in business-related fields. This gap underscores the need for targeted educational pathways like Higher Certificates, which offer practical and foundational skills that align with employer requirements in a digitally evolving and competitive market (The Department of Higher Education and Training, 2022). The qualification is designed to bridge this skills gap, serving as a pathway toward both advanced qualifications and entry-level roles such as junior management or business administration. Additionally, it aligns with the National Development Plan's vision for a capable and developmental state, contributing to a skilled and competent workforce that benefits both individuals and society. According to the findings of PricewaterhouseCoopers's (PwC) 26th Annual Global CEO Survey (2023) a staggering 45% of CEOs in Sub-Saharan Africa and 52% worldwide expressed concerns about the detrimental effects of inadequate skilled labour on their companies' profitability over the next decade. With this in mind, the curriculum is designed to align with this concern by equipping learners with the foundational skills and understanding of business management. The qualification is designed to ensure that learners gain both theoretical insights and practical competencies across core business disciplines. Through this qualification, learners will gain foundational business principles, quantitative skills for data-driven decisions, and critical financial management knowledge for organisational sustainability. Emphasising digital and technological competencies, the curriculum prepares learners to enhance productivity and streamline operations in today's digital workplace. Additionally, learners will develop skills in project planning, professional communication, and business law, enabling them to effectively manage resources and navigate business relationships. Finally, the qualification covers essential marketing concepts, equipping graduates to understand customer needs and competitive dynamics. As such, the qualification offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates essential knowledge and practical skills, equipping learners to thrive in diverse business environments and effectively contribute to organisational success and the national agenda. Learners will gain the competence needed to adhere to current regulations, processes, and procedures, especially those relevant to business management. This includes knowledge of legal frameworks and best practices in the field. From a work pathway perspective, this qualification offers the foundation for career progression within the business management field. Entry-level roles, such as business administrator or junior manager, can evolve into more senior positions like operations manager, business development manager, or financial manager as individuals gain experience and pursue further qualifications. The range of learners the qualification is directed at is school leavers, individuals seeking career shifts, and professionals looking to formalise their management skills, ensuring a broad appeal. Graduates of this qualification gain both theoretical and practical understanding and are better positioned to address challenges in businesses, thus driving productivity, fostering innovation, and creating new job opportunities. In addition, graduate attributes such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and self-management will be developed throughout the learning process. These competencies are aligned with SAQA NQF Level 5 descriptors, ensuring that graduates are equipped to manage information, collaborate effectively, and make ethical decisions in professional environments. The overall impact of this qualification extends beyond individual employability, contributing to organisational efficiency and broader economic growth. The qualification is tailored to meet specific demands in various sectors, including retail, finance, and general business management. Upon completion of the qualification, graduates can aspire to the following positions: The qualification is pitched at NQF Exit Level 5 with a total of 120 credits. The qualification articulates horizontally, vertically, and diagonally with a range of other qualifications offered by institutions both internationally and locally across the country. Upon completion of the Higher Certificate in Business Management qualification, learners can progress from a higher certificate to a national diploma, advanced certificate and/or a degree qualification. Ultimately, learners can thereafter progress to an honours and/or a postgraduate diploma to a master's degree and ultimately to a doctorate level qualification within the cognate field. Graduates of the qualification will be able to articulate into various existing qualifications including the Advanced Certificate in Management Studies, Bachelor of Business Administration and/or Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurship. The articulation results in propensity among learners to pursue further specialisation as a means to enhance their prospects for career advancement. In conclusion, the qualification equips graduates with essential business acumen, management skills, and technological competencies, enabling them to excel in entry-level roles across various sectors. This qualification supports individual career growth and aligns with the broader goals of economic development and workforce competency as envisioned by the National Development Plan. By offering a comprehensive foundation in business fundamentals, this qualification paves the way for both immediate employability and further academic advancement. |
| 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 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: Or Or |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.
Compulsory modules, Level 5, 105 Credits. Elective Modules, Level 5, 15 Credits. |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.
Compulsory modules, Level 5, 105 Credits. Elective Modules, Level 5, 15 Credits. |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: Integrated Assessment: The isntitution's Assessment Strategy aligns with the Council on Higher Education Accreditation Criteria (2012), the National Policy and Criteria for Designing and Implementing Assessment for NQF Qualifications and Part-Qualifications and Professional Designations in South Africa (SAQA, 2014). 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 student learning after a student's learning journey. Imperative to integrated assessments is the provision of feedback not only to 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. Assessments at different NQF Levels: The institution has recognised a change in its learner profile and more significantly in the learning needs of learners, nationally and internationally. Correspondingly, there have been several advancements in education technology that better support student success. In pursuit of global relevance and enhanced learner success, the institution has taken the decision to participate in this global trend and will initiate the natural progression from distance to online for its qualifications to this end, the institution has undertaken a review of its Assessment Strategy. The Assessment Strategy is outlined within the institution's Assessment Policy. As such, the following is provided as rationale for the assessments at NQF level 5: Qualifications pitched at NQF level 5 are usually one year in duration, and one would assume better throughput rates in qualifications of shorter duration. Internal research undertaken at the institution has evidenced, however, that the higher certificate qualifications have similar and, in some cases, lower throughput rates than those of the degree qualifications. This can be attributed to the entry profile of learners on the NQF level 5 qualifications, the majority of whom are school leavers who did not qualify for degree endorsement. This suggests that these learners require additional support to ensure a reasonable opportunity at success. The institution has therefore introduced a range of knowledge checks and reflective exercises into the NQF level 5 assessments. The core purpose is for the student to develop and demonstrate an understanding of key concepts, terms, and theories. These knowledge checks grant learners additional opportunities to be assessed and get feedback for continuous improvement and therefore carry a 40% weighting each - ultimately enhancing the learning experience and supporting a philosophy of life-long learning. Exams are stressful and often regurgitation exercises that do not contribute to the philosophy of lifelong learning. As such, the institution has elected to introduce a project component as the summative assessment for the Higher Certificate Qualifications which contributes 60% of the final assessment weighting that will allow learners to synthesise their experiences and knowledge and apply these to practical scenarios. Assessment Type, Method, and Description: The assessment method for each module on this qualification is by: Formative Assessments - These are online assessments. These assessments are in the form of multiple-choice questions, true/false or a combination of both. The knowledge check quiz assesses your understanding of key concepts and theories and is designed to stimulate active and self-managed learning. Summative Assessment - This assessment is in the form of a project and requires calculations and/or application to relevant theory. A project requires you to produce an authentic piece of work that is sophisticated/challenging. The project is related to real-world contemporary situations, whereby you can develop higher order thinking. The project will generally assess content knowledge and additional skills such as creativity, collaboration, problem solving and innovation. Formative Assessment: Summative Assessment: The final mark is calculated as follows: How to Pass a Module: |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| Country: United Kingdom.
Name of Institution: Arden University. Name of qualification: CertHE Business Management. Purpose of Qualification: This CertHE will provide learners with knowledge of the fundamentals of business alongside how modern organisations work. During their studies, learners will gain a wider understanding of business functions and develop practical skills in business management and leadership. The modules will provide learners with in-depth knowledge of business functions, operations, and cutting-edge technologies in a range of exciting industries, helping them become informed in modern business theory and practice. Bringing together digital technology, innovative thinking, industry expertise, and personal discovery, learners will learn to apply theory to real-world business within a dynamic global context. Learning Outcomes: Content: Similarities: Differences: Country: Kenya. Name of Institution: Zetech University. Name of qualification: Certificate in Business Management. Purpose of Qualification: This qualification will offer skills on how to effectively and efficiently manage business activities. Emphasis will be on the importance of business management and operational skills. The qualification will further serve as a foundation for learners who wish to venture into business management and entrepreneurship as well as those who want to pursue high levels in business studies. Learning Outcomes: Content: Similarities: The South African (SA) Higher Certificate in Business Management qualification and the Kenya Certificate in Business Management share several key similarities. Differences: There are, however, several distinctions between the SA Higher Certificate in Business Management qualification and the Kenya Certificate in Business Management qualification. |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| Horizontal Articulation:
Vertical Articulation: Bachelor of Business Administration, NQF Level 7. Diagonal Articulation: |
| MODERATION OPTIONS |
| N/A |
| NOTES |
| N/A |
| LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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. |