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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Operations Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
98910  Advanced Diploma in Operations Management 
ORIGINATOR
Production Management Institute of Southern Africa (PMI) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Advanced 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 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0733/25  2024-06-30  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 purpose of the Advanced Diploma in Operations Management is to provide learners with an enriched and advanced knowledge and understanding of the current issues, theoretical framework, methodology, and practices applicable to the field of Operations Management within a wide variety of business organisations across different industries and sectors.

The qualification develops and strengthens the learner's knowledge base, which will lead to an increase in operational efficiency, minimisation of business and operational risks, the reduction of costs, and an understanding of the inter-relationship between the different elements of the value chain. Research and investigation skills that are integral to this qualification provide an opportunity for the learners to develop knowledge, specific skills, and applied competence pertinent to the global economic business operations.

Aligned with the purpose of the qualification, the NQF 7 Level descriptors inform the Exit Level Outcomes. Graduates of the qualification will be well-prepared to manage operational risks effectively and identify key factors contributing to health and safety in the operational environment. They will have the skills to drive innovation within operating systems and strategically plan for integrated resource management. Additionally, graduates will be able to evaluate economic phenomena and indicators, applying this knowledge to make informed business decisions. Ethical decision-making will be at the core of their operational approach, ensuring responsible business practices. Furthermore, they will possess the ability to conduct research within the operations function, enabling continuous improvement and competitive advantage in the South African business context.

Rationale:
In consultation with the institution's clients, particularly within the manufacturing and logistics sectors, it became clear that there was a significant need for a qualification that would equip learners with the specialized skills and knowledge required to address the complex challenges of these industries. This program was designed to bridge the skills gap by providing learners with the ability to determine and manage operational risks, particularly those specific to manufacturing and logistics environments. It emphasises health and safety factors in operations, ensuring learners are prepared to identify and address these critical aspects of operational efficiency.

Furthermore, the ualification fosters an environment for innovation in operating systems, ensuring learners are equipped to drive continuous improvement. The curriculum also prioritises integrated resource planning, enabling graduates to strategize effectively and optimise organisational resources. Alongside technical skills, learners will be trained to evaluate economic phenomena and indicators that influence decision-making, ensuring they understand the broader economic landscape. Ethical decision-making is a core component of the program, with learners being equipped to make sound business and operations choices. Finally, learners will gain the necessary skills to conduct research in the operations function, ensuring they can contribute to data-driven decision-making and ongoing organisational development.

The qualification provides learners with opportunities for continued personal, intellectual, and career growth. It acknowledges the demand for advanced skills and expertise necessary in the business sector. The qualification addresses the need for professionals who can provide expertise in the operations field across a broad range of industries, aiding in the improvement of the productivity of these industries and contributing to local and international competitiveness. The qualification also provides an opportunity for professional preparation and specialisation by providing graduates and diplomates with an in-depth understanding of the current issues, theoretical perspectives, methodology, and practice in business operations.

his qualification is designed for individuals working in or aspiring to roles within operations management, particularly in the manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain sectors. Typical learners include supervisors, team leaders, junior managers, and those with lower-level qualifications seeking career advancement. Graduates will be equipped to pursue roles such as operations managers, production managers, logistics managers, supply chain managers, risk managers, health and safety officers, project managers, and business analysts. These roles are found across various industries, with graduates contributing to operational efficiency, risk management, resource planning, and continuous improvement in organisations of all sizes.

The qualification contributes to both regional and national goals by:
  • Providing access to knowledge and skills for individuals who have been disadvantaged in their access to higher education, raising the skills level of the region and the nation.
  • Providing expertise in the management organisations across a broad range of industries, aiding in the improvement of the productivity of these industries, and contributing to national competitiveness.
  • Providing the learners with a pathway to achieving their potential, thus contributing to the national goal of promoting lifelong learning.
  • Accommodating the recognition of prior learning, ensuring that the national goals of equity and fairness in access to higher learning are addressed.
  • The combination of theory and practice, together with project work, ensures that the learning is applied and that the learner is equipped with learning skills.
  • The use of group work and a reflection on the experience of working in a team enhances the learners' understanding of working with others. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

    The institution's policy is based on three principles: recognizing all formal and informal learning to enhance access to further education, assessing prior learning to ensure applicants can succeed at their desired level, and acknowledging the multi-disciplinary nature of Production Management, allowing diverse academic backgrounds for entry.

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) at the institution is categorized into RPL for access to a qualification and RPL for exemption from specific modules.
  • RPL for access requires candidates to demonstrate competence at the level below the desired course, with qualifications in a related field. If insufficient evidence exists, a four-hour assessment may be required.
  • RPL for exemption requires a completed application form with certified transcripts (not older than five years) for formal qualifications. For work experience-based exemptions, candidates must submit a Portfolio of Evidence verified by a senior manager. A subject matter expert evaluates the portfolio and may recommend a written assessment if evidence is insufficient.
    As per CHE regulations, no more than 10% of a cohort of learners will be admitted through an RPL process.

    A learner cannot be granted an exemption for more than 50% of the modules in a qualification

    Entry Requirements:
    A learner must have either of the following minimum entry requirements.
  • Diploma in Operations Management, NQF Level 6.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Operations Management, NQF Level 7.
    Or
    Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain and Operations Management, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of compulsory modules totalling 120 Credits at NQF Level 7.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Risk Management in Operating Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Occupational Health and Safety, 15 Credits.
  • Technology and Innovation in Operations, 15 Credits.
  • Strategic Supply Chain Management, 15 Credits.
  • Economics for Managers, 15 Credits.
  • Operations and Business Ethics, 15 Credits.
  • Research Essay, 30 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Determine and manage the operational risks which an organisation may face.
    2. Identify factors that contribute to health and safety in the operations environment.
    3. Prepare for effective innovation in operating systems.
    4. Strategise effectively for integrated resource planning.
    5. Evaluate broad economic phenomena, economic theory and economic indicators that influence decision-making in business.
    6. Make ethical business and operations decisions.
    7. Conduct research in the operations function. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Discuss the operational Risk Framework to have a better understanding of operational risk in the business context
  • Identify operational Risk to evaluate and control the risk within the business environment.
  • Develop a risk financing programme to understand risk in a real or simulated environment.
  • Develop a risk monitoring procedure to understand a real or simulated environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Analyse factors contributing to the safety of working premises to identify potential risks and implement effective control measures that ensure a safe working environment.
  • Evaluate the safety of mechanical and electrical installations and implement appropriate safety protocols to guarantee the protection of personnel and minimise hazards associated with these installations.
  • Develop and apply fire prevention measures in the workplace, ensuring that all fire safety standards are met and safeguard the work area from potential fire hazards.
  • Complete and critically assess documentation and records for accident recording and investigation, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and providing an accurate basis for incident analysis and future prevention.
  • Promote health and safety in the workplace by critically evaluating relevant legislation and regulations, ensuring that operational practices align with the legal framework governing workplace health and safety.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Determine and critically evaluate different forms that innovation can take and understand their impact on operating systems.
  • Assess and apply the principal theories associated with technological innovation to evaluate their relevance and effectiveness in business environments.
  • Implement, manage, and review the innovation process to ensure that it aligns with organisational objectives.
  • Develop an innovation strategy for a real or simulated business environment, demonstrating the ability to integrate innovative practices into the organisation's overall strategic framework.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Discuss and critically evaluate concepts of Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, and the systems driving the Total Cost Approach, to understand their impact on operational efficiency.
  • Distinguish and analyse Purchasing and Procurement as a holistic process to support the effective operations of a business, emphasising strategic decision-making in sourcing and supply management.
  • Integrate Supply Chain Networks, and determine and synthesise, identifying how best to manage an International Supply Chain optimal strategy.
  • Control and assess Logistics and Supply Chain Management performance to ensure alignment with organisational goals.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Explain and critically analyse the economic terms and concepts relevant to decision-making in business, to assess their application in business environments.
  • Determine and evaluate prices in different types of markets, identifying key market structures and the factors influencing pricing strategies.
  • Discuss and evaluate the influence of key financial variables such as money, credit, interest, and exchange rates, highlighting their impact on business decision-making.
  • Summarise the benefits and costs of globalisation and the factors that influence the balance of payments to understand the impact on economies
  • Discuss the importance of economic growth to understand the factors that stimulate economic growth
  • Discuss causes of inflation to understand its effects on the economy.
  • Determine causes and effects of high unemployment to potentially identify strategies to combat unemployment.
  • Examine the different types of economic policy of a country to regulate economic activity

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Discuss and analyse the underlying philosophies of operations and business ethics that influence decision-making in the organisation.
  • Determine the role of morality in business operations, advertising, and marketing when dealing with property and information within business practices.
  • Determine how production methods affect the environment and make production choices of the business within the relevant legislative framework that are defended in alignment with suitable practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Identify and clearly define a research topic, demonstrating the ability to formulate a relevant research question.
  • Appropriately document a comprehensive literature review with literature evidence that is conducted and synthesised in alignment with the study and research questions.
  • Identify and apply appropriate research design and methodology for the effective investigation of a research area/topic.
  • Develop competence in executing and documenting the research process in a comprehensive technical research essay.

    Integrated Assessment
    Even though the nature of the qualification is essentially academic and theoretical, the emphasis in the tasks and assignments is on the integration of the theory with actual practice. The tasks encourage the learners to integrate theory and practice and to reflect on the application of the theory in their own work environment and other unfamiliar environments.

    The institution's qualifications do not have a WIL component as the majority of the institution's learners are already employed; all formatives include a component of integrated learning, where our learners would need to apply theory in real-life examples in a workplace.

    Formative Assessment:
    Each of the components described in the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria has several tasks associated with it. The tasks vary in number and complexity depending on the characteristics of the outcome and criteria.

    The tasks constitute the prime formative assessment mechanism and can be either individual or group assignments. Group tasks are incorporated to provide practice in working effectively as a team. They include a presentation element which develops the ability to communicate effectively utilising a range of techniques. The assignments test the reflexive component of assessment.

    At this level the emphasis is on integration of theory and practice in a variety of environments. For all modules except quantitative modules, learners will complete one formative assignment that focuses on the application of theory. For quantitative modules like Applied Mathematics, Business Statistics and all Finance modules, learners will write two tests. The formative assessments produce the course mark, and a learner must achieve at least 50% for admission to the exam.

    Summative Assessment:
    Examinations are the primary summative assessment method. Use is made of case studies and practical exercises in examinations wherever appropriate.

    The examinations assess the learners' understanding of theoretical learning (Foundational Competence). The tasks and assignments provide a means to assess the learners` ability to apply the theory to real workplace situations (Practical Competence).

    The following sub-minima must be achieved by the learner:
  • Course mark: 50%
  • Summative assessment/examination: 40%

    The following must be achieved to qualify for a supplementary:
  • Course mark: 50%
  • Final Mark: 45% or more if the sub-minimum of 40% for the exam is not achieved. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is comparable with the following international qualifications in terms of the module competencies the learner is to master.

    Country: New Zealand
    Graduate Diploma in Operations and Production Management
    Institution: Universal College of Learning
    Duration: 1 year (Full-time)

    Purpose:
    This one-year program equips learners with knowledge in supply chain management, resource planning, quality management, and project management. The curriculum integrates real-world industry projects or internships, providing practical experience in the field.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Project Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Operations Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Product Development, NQF Level 7.
  • Resource Integration Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Professional Practice, NQF Level 7.
  • Industry Project/Internship, NQF Level 7.

    Elective Module
  • Introduction to Finance, NQF Level 6.

    Country: United Kingdom
    International Postgraduate Diploma in Operations Management
    Institution: Metropolitan School of Business and Management (MSBM)
    Duration: 9 months (Full-time)

    Purpose:
    This intensive program is designed for professionals who want to deepen their understanding of operations management. It focuses on practical applications and business simulations rather than traditional lectures, with assessments including a Graduation Project that integrates the knowledge from all modules.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Management Information Systems
  • Operations Management
  • Planning, Controlling, and Leading a Project
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Operations and Information Management for Project Managers
  • Advanced Research Methods

    Country: India
    Institution: Nelson Business School
    Qualification Title; Diploma in Operations Management
    Duration: 1 year (Regular track) / 3 months (Fast-track)

    Purpose:
    This qualification provides foundational knowledge in operations management, focusing on production planning, quality control, and process optimization to improve operational efficiency and productivity.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Introduction to Operations Management
  • Production Planning and Control
  • Quality Management and Process Improvement
  • Supply Chain and Logistics Management
  • Operations Strategy and Performance Management

    Comparison:
    Upon comparison, the institution's qualification stands out as a more comprehensive and robust qualification when compared to similar one-year diplomas offered internationally. With a well-rounded curriculum covering essential topics like Risk Management in Operating Systems, Occupational Health and Safety, Technology and Innovation in Operations, Strategic Supply Chain Management, Economics for Managers, Operations and Business Ethics, and a Research Essay, the PMI Advanced Diploma not only provides practical knowledge but also prepares learners for further academic advancement and professional growth.

    The modules offered by the institution emphasise real-world application, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of operations management principles, making it a leader in its field. Both nationally and internationally, the institution's qualification offers an industry-relevant, comprehensive educational path that equips learners to meet the evolving demands of global business operations. Thus, the qualification is indeed a leader in its field, offering unique value to its graduates and positioning them for success in the international marketplace. The qualification compares favourably as the focus is on operations management rather than general business studies. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Business Administration, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Technology in Operations Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Logistics and Transport Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Project Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Technology in Industrial Engineering, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Operations Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Strategy, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation
  • Advanced Occupational Diploma: Mine Manager, NQF Level 7
  • Specialised Occupational Diploma: Professional Construction Project Manager, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    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. Production Management Institute of Southern Africa - Durban 


    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.