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 Project Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97198  Higher Certificate in Project 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  Project 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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Higher Certificate in Project Management is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of project management principles and practices. This qualification equips learners with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully plan, execute, and control projects of varying complexity. By applying project management methodologies and tools, learners will be able to effectively manage project scope, time, cost, and quality. The qualification fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling learners to identify and address challenges, make informed decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. The qualification also develops leadership and communication skills, essential for effective collaboration and stakeholder management. This qualification is ideal for individuals aspiring to become project managers, project coordinators, or team members. It is also beneficial for professionals seeking to enhance their project management competencies. By completing the qualification, learners can improve their job performance, advance their careers, and contribute to organisational success.

Intense competition and fast-paced industrial evolution find organisations turning more and more to project management as being crucial for their competitive advantage (Magano, Silva and Silva, 2020). Bag, Gupta, and Kumar (2021) identified project management as one of the key resources for the industry. In response to these demands from industry and a global skills shortage of project managers, the qualification prepares learners to understand and use best practices to achieve project and, ultimately, organisational success within the quadruple constraints of scope, time, cost and quality. The holistic approach adopted seeks to integrate across the project life cycle and the project management knowledge areas, the people, processes, and technology (tools and techniques) to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage in an increasingly projected business landscape (Ekemezie and Digitemie, 2024). Graduates will enter the workforce with a competitive advantage and be prepared to face the challenges of dynamic project management environments.

Employers will benefit from employing graduates who possess a unique blend of values, attitudes and specialised project management knowledge, skills, tools and techniques which will enable these organisations to leverage the graduate's knowledge to projectise operations, optimise systems, processes and resource usage, thus improving overall organisational efficiency and sustainability. With a workforce capable of navigating projects of various complexities, organisations will experience enhanced risk, stakeholder, resource, quality and financial management.

With the current skills need and the scarcity of qualifications in project management, this qualification aims to produce graduates who are in possession of specific graduate attributes. These graduate attributes will equip learners with the necessary skills to excel in project management roles and contribute to the success of organisations. The below qualification graduate attributes align to the institution's Graduate Attributes of communication skills, personal growth objectives, innovation and creativity, critical thinking abilities, problem-solving proficiency, teamwork dynamics and adaptability to change. 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:
  • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving involves the ability to analyse complex problems, identify root causes, and develop innovative solutions
  • Communication Skills that enable effective written and verbal communication skills to interact with diverse stakeholders
  • Teamwork and Collaboration supporting the building of strong relationships with colleagues to work effectively in teams
  • Time Management and Organisational Skills that prioritise tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines
  • Adaptability and Flexibility that build resilience to adapt to change and to embrace new challenges
  • Ethical Conduct that requires adherence to professional ethics and integrity in project management

    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:
  • Practice the process of project management and its application in delivering successful projects
  • Evaluate a project to develop the scope of work, provide accurate cost estimates and to plan the various activities
  • Understand and use risk management analysis techniques that identify the factors that put a project at risk and to quantify the likely effect of risk on project timescales
  • Integrate project quality into the project life cycle
  • Employ basic financial management principles and basic accounting tools and techniques to ensure project success
  • Apply monitoring and evaluation tools and techniques to ensure successful project implementation

    Upon completion of the qualification, graduates can aspire to the following positions:
  • Project Administrator
  • Project Coordinator
  • Project Assistant

    Rationale:
    There is a significant shortage of qualified project managers in South Africa, and globally, across professions particularly at the entry-level (Engineering News, 2022). CHRO South Africa (2024) claims that the demand for skilled project management professionals is expected to rise sharply as a result of growing business confidence and potential new investments in South Africa. The Project Management Institute (2024) states that the global economy will need 25 million new project managers by 2030, making project management an in-demand career. As companies rapidly evolve, projects become more complex, increasing the need for skilled professionals to manage the project lifecycle and deliver meaningful results (Meredith and Mantal, 2020). With an increasing number of jobs requiring project management-oriented skills, this presents an opportunity for those early in their careers as well as those looking to level up their skillset (Project Management Institute, 2021).

    The qualification aims to address this skills gap by providing a pathway for individuals to enter the project management profession. The institution's qualification ensures that graduates are equipped with the practical knowledge, skills, tools and techniques required to excel in today's dynamic project management landscape. The curriculum is carefully designed to cover all ten knowledge areas of the PMBOK across the phases of the project life cycle, providing a comprehensive understanding of project management principles and practices. A practical approach to learning is emphasised, incorporating real-world case studies and hands-on exercises to prepare learners for the challenges of project management.

    One of the most significant advantages of project management is its versatility and wide-ranging applicability. The skills acquired in a Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification are highly transferable across a wide range of industries, making them valuable in any professional setting. Whether it's in technology, healthcare, construction, finance, or the creative sector, project managers play an essential role in ensuring that objectives are met efficiently and within scope (Barcaui and Monat, 2023). Regardless of the industry, the core principles of project management, such as planning, organisation, communication, risk management, and leadership, remain consistent (ProjectManagement.com, 2024). This adaptability allows professionals to seamlessly transition between different industries, making project management a portable and sought-after skill set. Moreover, the ability to streamline processes, optimise resources, and drive projects to successful completion is an asset that benefits organisations in any sector.

    In South Africa, and globally, the demand for project management qualifications, is on the rise (Project Management Institute. 2024). By equipping individuals with a solid foundation in project management techniques and methodologies, this qualification empowers professionals to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and contribute to sustainable development thereby benefiting society (Turner, 2020). The results are better resource management, enhanced efficiency, and successful project outcomes that meet essential societal demands, such as infrastructure improvements, healthcare progress, and environmental sustainability efforts, all of which contribute to an improved quality of life for the broader community (Turner, 2020). The benefits to the economy are seen in qualified project managers better managing resources and risks to adapt to changing economic conditions, promoting resilience in the face of challenges and ensuring that projects are completed successfully, thus contributing to a more robust economy (Kerzner, 2022). This overall economic growth can be measured in increased productivity, cost savings, timely delivery of goods and services and in job creation (Kerzner, 2022). Furthermore, a workforce with strong project management skills can make a region more attractive to potential investors, boosting economic activity. As an increasingly sought-after qualification in the country's growing and diversifying economy where businesses are expanding and new ventures are emerging, there is a greater need for professionals who can manage projects effectively, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and according to the specified quality standards. Moreover, with South Africa's strategic focus on infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation, skilled project managers are crucial to driving these initiatives forward. The qualification not only enhances employability but also provides a stepping stone for career advancement, making it a valuable asset for individuals looking to contribute to the success of projects across the various sectors.

    The qualification is aligned to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5, and is designed to attract a diverse range of learners with a keen interest in project management and a desire to develop the skills necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. Typical learners may include recent high school graduates, individuals looking to change careers, or professionals seeking to enhance their project management capabilities. This qualification is not only relevant for those working in the traditional fields of IT, engineering, construction, finance, or human resources, but also in a wide range of other sectors (Locatelli, 2023). Additional sectors where the qualification can be beneficial include government, non-profit organisations, education, healthcare, event management, and marketing and sales. In essence, project management skills are transferable and applicable to a wide range of industries and sectors. The qualification provides individuals with specialist foundational knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to excel in various project-based roles.

    Upon completion of the Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification, qualifying learners can pursue various work or career paths, including:
  • Project Administrator: Supporting project operations by maintaining documentation, updating schedules and coordinating communication to ensure smooth project flow
  • Project Coordinator: Facilitates alignment of project activities by coordinating tasks, tracking progress and ensuring effective communication between team members and project stakeholders.
  • Project Assistant: Provides hands-on support with basic project tasks such as tracking progress, preparing reports and assisting team members in daily activities.

    Additionally, the qualification can serve as an articulation pathway for further studies, such as a degree and a postgraduate degree in project management or a related field. Pitched at NQF Level 5, with a total of 120 credits, the qualification articulates horizontally, vertically, and diagonally with a range of qualifications offered by institutions both internationally and locally across the country. The institution's graduates of the qualification will be able to articulate into the institution's Bachelor of Commerce in Project Management qualification, and thereafter to the Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management qualification. The qualification fosters a desire among learners to pursue advanced studies to enhance their project management career advancement opportunities. 
    		•

    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 is 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 institution 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 for which prospective RPL candidates have applied. The decisions are communicated by the committee to the relevant stakeholders in the Enrolment Department. The RPL process focuses on establishing whether the student has acquired competence in the following areas:
  • Basic theoretical knowledge
  • Practical competence
  • Reflective competence
  • Applied competence

    The RPL applicant must:
  • Be at least 23 years of age for undergraduate qualifications and at least 30 years of age for postgraduate qualifications
    Applicants must demonstrate relevant professional work experience as follows:
  • Undergraduate Qualifications: A minimum of 3 years of related work experience.
  • Postgraduate Diplomas: A minimum of 4 years of related work experience.
  • Honours Qualifications: A minimum of 5 years of related work experience.
  • Master's Qualifications: A minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience.

    Submit a detailed Portfolio of Evidence with documents required to substantiate RPL application
  • Provide a comprehensive CV with detailed working experience
  • Submit certified copies of qualification certificates and transcripts
  • Provide a signed personal letter of motivation
  • Submit all relevant and appropriate certificates for short courses or training (formally, informally, or non-formal) completed to support the motivation to be accepted for the qualification through RPL and as evidence of continuous assessment and learning
    Or
  • Produce a letter from the Human Resources (HR) Department for relevant and appropriate short courses or training (formally, informally, or non-formal) completed to support the motivation to be accepted for the qualification through RPL and as evidence of continuous assessment and learning for those who are not in possession of certificates
  • For all Master's qualifications- Submit a signed Recommendation letter written by a reputable person to be provided as an endorsement of the applicant's qualities, capabilities, performance and suitability for the qualification
  • Sign a Declaration to confirm English Language and IT proficiency

    NB: If the applicant's highest accredited qualification has been completed within 5 years to date of the application period, the applicant has to articulate onto the appropriate qualification

    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. Some of the key criteria that will be used in evaluating 'non-standard' applicants include:
  • The applicant's motivation;
  • Job description, covering relevant area of work, giving examples of tasks carried out, possibly supplying references, linked to a portfolio of evidence;
  • The nature and level of life/work experience and prior study, and the learning which has resulted from such experience;
  • Details of in-company short courses, length, content of material covered, standard achieved;
  • The clarity of the applicant's educational goals and objectives; and
  • The extent to which the applicant can provide evidence of the threshold skills and knowledge for the qualification.

    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:
  • National Senior Certificate NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate NQF Level 4 without endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits
  • Fundamentals of Project Management, 20 Credits
  • Project Scope and Time Management, 20 Credits
  • Introduction to Project Quality Management, 20 Credits
  • Project Risk Management, 20 Credits.
  • Project Schedule, Cost and Budget Control, 20 Credits.
  • Project Monitoring and Evaluation, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Practice the process of project management and its application in delivering successful projects.
    2. Evaluate a project to develop the scope of work, provide accurate cost estimates and to plan the various activities.
    3. Understand and use risk management analysis techniques that identify the factors that put a project at risk and to quantify the likely effect of risk on project timescales.
    4. Integrate project quality into the project life cycle.
    5. Employ basic financial management principals and basic accounting tools and techniques to ensure project success.
    6. Apply monitoring and evaluating tools and techniques to ensure successful project implementation. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Interrogate ten project management areas and project management processes to understand project management and dynamics in the application towards successful delivery of projects
  • Discuss qualities and skills of project managers and the development of strategic management environment suitable for project management to facilitate project success
  • Methods of project selection and dynamics are critiqued in order to enable efficient management of the project resources and to understand stakeholder needs for project success

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain project scope elements to demonstrate understanding of how scope defines project boundaries.
  • Sequence project activities to understand the logical flow required for effective implementation.
  • Calculate cost components to understand how accurate estimates contribute to realistic budgeting and control.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Distribute project risk factors to demonstrate awareness of causes leading to project uncertainty.
  • Discuss risk responses to demonstrate understanding of appropriate mitigation strategies.
  • Apply risk analysis techniques to determine the impact on overall project performance and outcomes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Determine quality requirements to recognise and align with defined quality expectations in projects.
  • Apply quality processes to maintain standards throughout the project life cycle.
  • Analyse quality results to demonstrate the ability to review and maintain continuous improvement.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Explain financial management principles to demonstrate understanding of sound financial control.
  • Employ accounting tools to record and monitor project-related transactions.
  • Interpret financial information to assess the project's cost-effectiveness and support informed decision-making.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Explain evaluation criteria to show understanding of how performance is assessed.
  • Assess monitoring tools to measure progress toward achieving specific project goals.
  • Analyse evaluation results to determine project effectiveness and areas for improvement.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The institution's Assessment Strategy has been reviewed and amended according to 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).

    Assessments at different NQF Levels:
    The institution has recognised a change in its student profile and, more significantly, in the learning needs of learners, nationally and internationally. Correspondingly, there have been a number of advancements in education technology that better support student success. In pursuit of global relevance and enhanced student 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 and 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 for 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 learner 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 lifelong 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 and 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, 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.

    Formative Assessment:
  • Formative Assessment 1
  • Formative Assessment 2
  • Formative Assessment 3
  • Formative Assessment 4

    Summative Assessment:
  • Summative Assessment (Project)

    The final mark is calculated as follows: ¿¿
  • Formative Assessment, 40%
  • Summative Assessment, 60%

    How to Pass a Module:
  • To pass a module the following requirements must be met:
  • The compulsory completion of ALL assessment activities
  • 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
  • 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. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United Kingdom
    Name of Institution: Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
    Name of Qualification: Certificate in Project Management

    Purpose of Qualification:
    The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) offers the Certificate in Project Management to provide professionals with a comprehensive understanding of project management principles and practices. This qualification is designed to enhance skills in planning, executing, and overseeing projects effectively, thereby improving business efficiency and outcomes. It is particularly beneficial for supervisors or first-line managers responsible for managing projects, as it builds on general managerial skills and introduces specific project management disciplines. By completing this qualification, individuals can develop the competencies necessary to manage organisational projects successfully, contributing to the achievement of strategic objectives and fostering organisational growth. The curriculum typically includes units such as "Introduction to Project Management," which covers the foundational aspects of project management, including planning, execution, and monitoring.

    Learning Outcomes:
  • Understand the role of projects in delivering organisational strategy
  • Understand processes for initiating, planning and managing projects
  • Understand the factors which contribute to effective project management
  • Know how to plan a management project
  • Be able to conduct a management project

    Content:
  • Managing Projects to Achieve Results:
  • Conducting a Management Project:

    Similarities:
  • Both the United Kingdom Certificate in Project Management qualification and the South African Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification aim to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of project management principles and practices, including project planning, execution, monitoring, and control.
  • Both qualifications are designed to enhance the capabilities of individuals working in, or aspiring to work in, managerial, supervisory, and project-related roles by developing effective project management skills.
  • Both qualifications focus on developing key project management competencies, including the ability to initiate, plan, implement, manage, and evaluate projects to achieve defined objectives.
  • Both qualifications emphasise aligning project outcomes with organisational goals and strategic objectives, enabling learners to contribute to business efficiency and organisational growth.
  • Both qualifications support the development of decision-making, problem-solving, leadership, and organisational skills required to manage projects successfully within a business environment.

    Differences:
  • While the United Kingdom Certificate in Project Management qualification and the South African Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification share many similarities in their approach to project management education, there are notable differences in their focus, target audience, and depth of content.
  • One key difference lies in the scope and depth of the content. The United Kingdom Certificate tends to focus on developing core project management skills with a more concise and practical approach aimed at first-line managers and supervisors.
  • The curriculum includes fundamental project management principles such as planning, execution, and monitoring, but with a relatively general approach. In contrast, the South African Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification provides a more detailed exploration of specific project management methodologies, tools, and techniques.

    Country: Zimbabwe
    Name of Institution: Trust Academy
    Name of Qualification: Certificate in Project Management (CPM)

    Purpose of Qualification: The Certificate in Project Management (CPM) offered by Trust Academy is designed to equip professionals with essential skills and knowledge to effectively plan, implement, execute, monitor, and manage successful projects. This qualification aims to enhance learners' abilities in project management, thereby improving business efficiency and outcomes. The curriculum typically includes foundational aspects of project management, such as planning, execution, and monitoring, to ensure that learners are well-prepared to handle various project management challenges.

    Content:
  • Introduction to Project Management
  • Project Planning
  • Project Implementation
  • Project Monitoring and Evaluation

    Similarities:
    The Zimbabwe and the South Africa Higher Certificate in Project Management qualifications share several key similarities in their approach to equipping professionals with foundational project management skills.
  • Both qualifications focus on providing individuals with the necessary tools to plan, implement, execute, and monitor projects effectively. This ensures that learners are well-prepared to manage projects successfully within any organisational context. They target professionals, particularly those in supervisory or managerial roles, who are looking to enhance their project management competencies.
  • Both qualifications cover essential aspects of project management, such as project planning, implementation, and evaluation, allowing learners to gain a well-rounded understanding of the discipline.
  • Both institutions also place an emphasis on practical application, offering learners the opportunity to apply their learning to real-world project management scenarios.
  • Both qualifications aim to improve business efficiency and contribute to successful project outcomes, ultimately fostering organisational growth. By equipping learners with the knowledge and skills required to manage projects from initiation to completion,
  • Both qualifications help professionals make meaningful contributions to the organisations they serve.

    Differences:
  • The Zimbabwe Certificate in Project Management (CPM) and the South African Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification have some notable differences in terms of their institutional context, depth of content, and regional focus.
  • While both qualifications cover core project management topics such as project planning, execution, and monitoring, the South African Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification may offer more advanced modules or a broader curriculum due to its longer academic history and established reputation within South Africa.
  • The South African qualification may delve deeper into project management methodologies, leadership skills, and strategies for managing complex projects, whereas the Zimbabwe Certificate in Project Management (CPM) appears to focus more on foundational knowledge and practical skills. Furthermore, there may be differences in the delivery format and flexibility.
    The Zimbabwe Certificate in Project Management (CPM) offers a more flexible and accessible structure for professionals based in Zimbabwe or surrounding regions, with potential options for online or blended learning.

    Conclusion:
    The South African Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification compares favourably with many international project management qualifications, particularly those with a duration of less than one year and more conservative content coverage. When compared to qualifications offered by other international institutions, the South African Higher Certificate in Project Management qualification demonstrates a strong focus on relevant learning outcomes and comprehensive content that aligns with the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBoK). The qualification equips learners with universally accepted project management knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques, enabling them to effectively plan, execute, monitor, and control projects across different organisational contexts. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Business Management in Project Management, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Project Management. NQF Level 7.

    Diagonal Articulation:
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    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.