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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Operations Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99577  Advanced Diploma in Operations Management 
ORIGINATOR
Nelson Mandela 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
Advanced Diploma  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
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-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:
The Advanced Diploma in Operations Management is designed to build on the knowledge and skills obtained in Operations Management at Diploma and/or Bachelor's Degree level. The Advanced Diploma will provide a deeper level of knowledge, understanding, and skills required towards becoming primarily a competent and efficient Operations Manager.

The study of Operations Management fills a strategic role in the operational efficiency of manufacturing as well as the service industry. Included in the tasks of Operations Managers are the essential components of quality enhancement and assurance, Supply Chain Management, increased productivity, cost reduction and flexibility improvements. Operations Managers could be required to solve complex operations related problems, apply analytical techniques to operations related procedures, processes, systems and methodologies, design and apply operations related control systems, understand the impact of Operations Management, use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern operations tools including Information Technology in operations. They must communicate effectively using appropriate professional and professional discourse and demonstrate the ability to work in a team.

Rationale:
Manufacturing is one of the main drivers of the future economy of South Africa and the Eastern Cape region. South African manufacturing industries must compete globally and therefore products and services rendered must be of a word class standard. In attaining world class standards, Operations Management fills a strategic role, not only in the operational efficiency of manufacturing but also in the service industry. Included in the tasks of the Operations Manager are the essential components of productivity enhancement, quality assurance, and improvements. This qualification aims to meet the industry need for Operations Managers and employees in all sectors. The qualification is also aimed at people who are already employed in the operations field, be it manufacturing or services related.. Furthermore, this qualification will provide crucial skills and add value to existing industries especially the automotive and related, as well as new business enterprises that are currently preparing themselves for the participation in the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ). New developments planned for the Eastern Cape includes Fuel and Manganese refineries, Marine Engineering, a new Nuclear Power Station at Thyspunt and various renewable energy (Wind and Solar) projects in the Eastern and Northern Cape. These projects will require skilled operations employees and managers for a number of years to come. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL implementation will use a triangulated verification approach using academic records, portfolios and interviews conducted by a panel of external experts and/or academic. All RPL decisions are tabled at the Faculty management committee meeting for scrutiny and approval. RPL will be used to grant admission to the qualification for those who do not meet the minimum entry requirements and/or advanced standing through the granting to the learner of exemption from modules.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entrance requirement is:
  • A relevant National Diploma or Diploma, Level 6.
    Or
  • Bachelor's Degree, Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Modules:
  • Lean Manufacturing 4, 15 Credits.
  • Quality Management Systems 4, 15 Credits.
  • Business Information Systems 4, 15 Credits.
  • Marketing Management 4, 15 Credits.
  • Operations Management 4, 15 Credits.
  • Financial Management 4, 15 Credits.
  • Operations Project 4, 30 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply operations related principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly defined operations related problems.
    2. Apply knowledge of basic mathematics and analytical techniques to operations related procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve complex operations related problems.
    3. Apply operations related control systems to a defined range of operations scenarios.
    4. Investigate and design procedures to determine the impact of operations on society, the economy and the industrial and physical environment.
    5. Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern operations tools including Information Technology for the solution of complex operations related problems, with an awareness of their limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
    6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing within an Operations Management context using appropriate professional and occupational terminology and language.
    7. Demonstrate the ability to work effectively as an individual and in teams.
    8. Commit to and apply professional ethics, responsibilities and norms. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The problem is analysed and defined and criteria are identified for an acceptable operations related solution.
  • Relevant information and Operations Management knowledge and skills are identified and applied to solve the problem.
  • Possible approaches are generated and formulated that would lead to a workable solution for the problem.
  • Possible solutions are modelled and analysed.
  • Possible solutions are evaluated and the best solution is selected.
  • The solution is formulated and presented in an appropriate form.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • An appropriate mix of knowledge of basic mathematics, numerical analysis and statistics is applied in an integrated way in the solution of complex operations related problems.
  • Theories, principles and laws relating to Operations Management are used.
  • Formal analysis and modelling is performed on operations related systems or processes.
  • Reasoning about and conceptualising of operations related materials, components, systems or processes is performed.
  • Work is performed within the boundaries of the operations related practice area.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • An operations process that focuses on important issues and recognises and deals with constraints is planned and managed.
  • Knowledge, information and resources are acquired and evaluated in order to apply appropriate principles and to design tools to provide workable operations related solutions.
  • Selected operations related solutions are assessed in terms of the social, economic, legal, health, safety and environmental negative impact and benefits.
  • Tasks are performed including analysis, quantitative modelling and optimisation of the operations related product, system or process subject to the relevant premises, assumptions and constraints.
  • The operations problem is formulated to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Macro and micro environmental (society, economy, industrial and physical) investigations and experiments are planned and conducted within the operations management field.
  • Available literature is searched and material is critically evaluated for suitability to the operations management related investigation.
  • Analysis is performed as necessary to the operations related investigation.
  • Equipment or software is selected and used as appropriate in the investigations.
  • Information is analysed, interpreted and derived from available operations related data.
  • Environmental impact conclusions are drawn from an analysis of all available evidence.
  • The purpose, process and outcomes of the investigations are recorded in technical reports.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • The operations related method, skill or tool is assessed for applicability and limitations against the required operations related result.
  • The operations related method, skill or tool is applied correctly to achieve the required result.
  • Operations related results produced by the method, skill or tool are tested and assessed against required results.
  • Operations related Computer applications are created, selected and used as required.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The structure, style and language of written and oral communication are appropriate for the purpose of the communication.
  • Graphics used are appropriate and effective in enhancing the meaning of operations related solutions.
  • Visual materials are used to enhance oral communications pertaining to the operations related solutions.
  • Accepted methods are used for providing operations related information to others involved in the operations activity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • The principles of planning, organising, leading and controlling are explained.
  • Individual work is carried out effectively, strategically and on time.
  • Contributions to team activities, support the output of the team as a whole.
  • Functioning as a team leader is demonstrated.
  • A design or research project is organised and planned.
  • Effective communication is carried out in the context of individual and team work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • The nature and complexity of ethical dilemmas is described.
  • The ethical implications of decisions are described.
  • Professional judgements are ethically and professionally made in problem solving and design.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The operations projects with comprehensively detailed criteria will provide the opportunity for comprehensive Integrative Assessment covering the complete spectrum of the learning achieved.

    Both Formative and Summative Assessment processes throughout the duration of the operations projects completion will provide an opportunity for the learners to validate that they are able to integrate concepts, ideas and actions across the qualification to achieve the required competence in order to meet the purpose of the qualification. The assessment tools will critically evaluate the candidate's knowledge, critical thinking, and evaluation prowess as well as communication and presentation skills.

    Formative Assessment:
  • Individual and collaborative group tutorials with memoranda and direct lecturer and/or tutor formative feedback.
  • Individual and collaborative Assignments/Projects with direct discussions providing formative feedback.
  • Class tests with direct formative feedback via memoranda and discussions.
  • Computer based simulations.
  • Computer based interactive feedback using clicker based systems/Moodle.

    Summative Assessment:
  • Closed and/or open book tests including feedback and scoring.
  • Individual projects and assignments including feedback via assessment rubrics and scoring.
  • Group projects and assignments including feedback via assessment rubrics and scoring.
  • Individual Presentations including feedback via assessment rubrics, lecturer and peer scoring.
  • Closed or open book examinations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Operations Management Degree offered at Oregon Institute of Technology in the United States prepares learners for leadership positions in the production and service industries.

    Educational Objectives:
  • To prepare learners for supervisory positions in organisations, including for-profit organisations, non-profit organisations, and government organisations.
  • To develop skills in problem solving, project management, communication, and managing effectively in team-based work environments, and for employment within a wide variety of service and product industries.

    The Institute of Operations Management in the United Kingdom offers the Advanced Diploma in Operations Management. The qualification is aimed at those who will evaluate and develop present techniques and systems, or who will design and implement tomorrow's technologies.

    The Advanced Diploma in Logistics and Operations Management offered at the East Asia Institute of Management in Singapore equips learners with the skills to apply scientifically-based techniques to work-related problems. Learners learn to apply skills in Transport management, problem-solving, Supply Chain and Logistics and to develop decision support, scheduling and control systems. The qualification enables learners to develop an in-depth study of Logistics and Operations Management.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares very well with the qualifications cited in this comparability exercise in terms of purpose, outcomes and level of learning. They are all designed to prepare learners to be competent and efficient Operations Managers and employees. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification does not offer specific articulation with other qualifications offered by the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.

    It, however, offers systemic articulation opportunities with qualifications offered by other institutions provided the learner meets the minimum entry requirements.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce: Supply Chain and Operations Management, Level 7. 
    		•

    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. Nelson Mandela 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.