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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Management Accounting 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125498  Postgraduate Diploma in Management Accounting 
ORIGINATOR
Walter Sisulu University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Finance, Economics and Accounting 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0638/26  2026-03-10  2029-03-10 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-03-10   2033-03-10  

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 Postgraduate Diploma in Management Accounting aims to provide a well-rounded and technically focused postgraduate education for learners who hold a relevant NQF Level 7 qualification, such as an Advanced Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting or a cognate bachelor's degree. The qualification intends to equip these learners with the specialised technical knowledge, advanced proficiency, and pervasive skills required to excel in the dynamic field of management accounting. Learners will benefit by gaining enhanced employability, the competence to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, and a clear pathway for career progression towards senior management and leadership roles.

The Exit Level Outcomes of this Postgraduate Diploma are inextricably linked to its purpose, ensuring that each learning outcome reflects the qualification's commitment to developing technologically proficient, ethical, and competent management accountants and financial practitioners. The various learning opportunities facilitate and support constructive alignment between the purpose, the related assessments and the ELOs. This alignment ensures the qualification meets academic and industry expectations, preparing learners for lifelong learning and meaningful employment.

This qualification provides a professional pathway for qualifying learners to operate as Management Accountants, Financial Analysts, Controllers, and, with experience, as Chartered Management Accountants, Finance Managers, and Chief Financial Officers (CFOs). It also serves as a formal academic pathway, granting learners access to further studies at NQF Level 9, such as a Master of Commerce degree. Upon achieving this, a qualifying learner will be able to apply advanced theories and principles of strategic management accounting, conduct complex financial analyses and business valuations, and understand the integration of financial strategy within the broader organisational ecosystem. Qualifying learners will be responsible for leading financial operations, rendering risk control assessments, formulating financial policy, ensuring regulatory and ethical compliance, and providing high-level management advisory services to support strategic decision-making.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Analyse and formulate management accounting strategies to support organisational decision-making and to evaluate and manage strategic, financial, and cyber risks within an enterprise risk management framework.
  • Formulate and critique corporate financial strategies concerning investment, financing, and long-term value creation.
  • In addition, they will be equipped to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors into strategic planning and reporting, as well as to conduct supervised, practice-oriented research to investigate and recommend solutions to complex problems in the field of management accounting.

    In addition, learner attributes (including ethics and professional practice, critical problem-solving, accessing and processing information, producing and communicating information, and managing learning) will be integrated into the learning process.

    Rationale:
    This qualification has been developed to address an identified national skills shortage in the second and third tiers of the accounting profession in South Africa. The institution currently has no direct articulation pathway for learners who complete the Advanced Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, preventing them from furthering their studies within this specialisation.

    This qualification serves to fill this critical gap, creating a necessary NQF Level 8 qualification that provides access to higher levels of management accounting training for learners of NQF Level 7 qualification. This qualification is unique in its focus and does not duplicate other existing qualifications but rather creates a vital progression route previously unavailable at the institution.

    The need for this qualification is underscored by its alignment with national priorities, as it directly addresses a scarce skill identified by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The qualification will benefit the regional and national economy by producing highly skilled learners with the specialised knowledge and practical insight required by public and private sector organisations. As an institution uniquely positioned in the Eastern Cape, WSU will leverage this qualification to serve underdeveloped areas of the province, contributing to rural development and urban renewal.

    The curriculum was developed in consideration of the requirements of globally recognised professional bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), to ensure that learners meet international standards.

    The typical learners for this qualification are learners who have completed a relevant NQF Level 7 qualification, such as an Advanced Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, or professionals who have accumulated significant industry experience and seek formal recognition and advancement through the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.

    Qualifying learners are prepared to enter a range of occupations, initially as budget analysts, financial analysts, or accounting officers, and can progress to senior roles such as chartered management accounting team managers and Chief Financial Officers (CFOs). The qualification establishes clear work and learning pathways, enabling learners to pursue professional qualifications with bodies such as CIMA or to enrol for a Master of Commerce degree in Management Accounting.

    The design of this qualification is closely aligned with the requirements for professional membership and recognition in the accounting field. The curriculum explicitly considers the competency frameworks and educational requirements of professional bodies such as CIMA and ACCA. This alignment ensures that the knowledge and skills developed within the qualification are relevant to the profession, potentially providing learners with exemptions from certain modules of the CIMA professional qualification, thereby facilitating a faster route to becoming a Chartered Management Accountant.

    The typical profession for a learner is that of a Management Accountant, a role central to business strategy, performance management, and financial decision-making. This qualification establishes a critical learning pathway, providing vertical and professional articulation. It creates a vertical academic pathway by bridging the gap between NQF Level 7 qualifications (Advanced Diploma) and the entry requirements for an NQF Level 9 master's degree qualification. As a professional pathway, it equips learners with the advanced competencies required for senior roles. It provides a strong foundation for attaining a professional designation from an internationally recognised body such as CIMA.

    Furthermore, this qualification gains added significance in light of the 2022 Memorandum of Agreement between the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). Under this agreement, holders of the CGMA designation from CIMA who complete the Board 2 SAICA professional exams are eligible to obtain the CA(SA) designation. This development further strengthens the articulation pathway provided by this Postgraduate Diploma, enhancing learners' prospects for professional recognition and career advancement within both accounting and management accounting domains. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The RPL policy is aligned with the guidelines and frameworks established by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), guaranteeing that it adheres to national quality standards. The CHE and SAQA RPL guidelines require a quality-assured process for formally assessing non-formal and informal learning to ensure equitable access and progression.

    The institution guarantees the equitable and consistent application of RPL through this structured and transparent process, which facilitates recognising prior learning for credit exemption (advanced standing) and access. This approach supports lifelong learning and broadens participation in higher education, all while preserving academic integrity and quality assurance.

    As a result, applicants interested in RPL will submit a comprehensive portfolio of evidence demonstrating their competencies concerning the qualification's learning outcomes for advanced standing and against the entry requirements for access. This portfolio will be accessed through the relevant institutional, academic, and governance processes.

    Prospective learners must compile a portfolio of evidence in accordance with the institutional framework for developing a portfolio. The portfolio will be assessed according to the framework stipulation. Where necessary, the prospective learner will present him/herself to a panel determined by the policy to clarify issues that may not be elucidated in the portfolio.

    RPL will therefore be used for admission, where prior learning is assessed against the entry requirements, and for advanced standing, where prior learning is evaluated against the module-specific outcomes.

    Entry Requirements:
  • An Advanced Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Diploma studies or a cognate qualification at NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8, totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits:
  • Management Accounting Strategy, 12 Credits.
  • Risk Management, 12 Credits.
  • Financial Strategy, 12 Credits.
  • Research Project in Management Accounting, 24 Credits.
  • Environmental, Social and Governance, 12 Credits.
  • Public Sector Accounting, 12 Credits.
  • International Financial Management, 12 Credits.
  • Investments: Portfolio Management, 12 Credits.
  • Money and Capital Markets, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply Management Accounting strategy in the organisational ecosystem to generate strategic management accounting options to support decision-making.
    2. Evaluate enterprise risk management frameworks and strategic risk management in accounting.
    3. Critically analyse cyber risks and the related risk management strategies.
    4. Appraise and analyse the financial policy decisions, the chosen sources of long-term funding and the related financial risk mitigating strategies.
    5. Apply business valuation methods for informed decision-making.
    6. Organise and execute a supervised, practical research project in Management Accounting.
    7. Interpret the influence of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) factors on strategy and recommend strategies to integrate ESG for long-term value creation.
    8. Investigate the unique context and structure of public sector accounting and the related reporting frameworks.
    9. Reflect on the international finance domain and exchange rate environment and identify the key risks associated with international business.
    10. Recommend an appropriate Portfolio Management strategy to adequately respond to relevant market scenarios and Investment Policy Statement.
    11. Examine Money Markets, Capital Markets, financial entities, financial and economic policies and emerging financial markets. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Evaluate complex organisational data and contextual variables to determine strategic management accounting needs and constraints within the broader organisational ecosystem.
  • Formulate and justify alternative strategic management accounting options, integrating advanced theories, methods and professional judgement to support evidence-based decision making.
  • Synthesise and communicate strategic recommendations with clarity and academic rigour, demonstrating accountability, ethical awareness, and responsiveness to dynamic organisational challenges.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Investigate and compare enterprise risk management frameworks to determine their applicability, strengths, and limitations in diverse organisational accounting contexts.
  • Integrate and apply advanced principles of strategic risk management to construct evidence-based accounting solutions that mitigate organisational risks and enhance decision-making.
  • Evaluate and justify selected risk management approaches' ethical, governance, and sustainability implications, demonstrating accountability and professional judgement in complex scenarios.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Prioritise and evaluate diverse cyber risk scenarios by systematically analysing their potential impact on organisational objectives and operational resilience.
  • Validate and compare various cyber risk management frameworks and strategies to develop well-justified recommendations tailored for complex organisational contexts.
  • Assess emerging cyber threats through comprehensive data interpretation and apply advanced risk mitigation techniques to formulate adaptive and proactive control measures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Recommend the rationale and implications of financial policy decisions within complex organisational contexts, considering both internal and external financial environments.
  • Analyse and compare various long-term funding sources by assessing their costs, benefits, and strategic fit to inform optimal financing decisions.
  • Appraise financial risk mitigation strategies, emphasising applying advanced theoretical frameworks and practical tools to effectively manage and reduce associated financial risks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate comprehensive application of multiple business valuation techniques to calculate accurate estimations of enterprise value based on financial data and market conditions.
  • Interpret complex valuation outcomes to inform strategic decisions that affect investment, mergers, acquisitions, or financial reporting.
  • Formulate value enhancement and risk mitigation recommendations by integrating quantitative analysis with qualitative business insights.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Plan and design a coherent research proposal by applying appropriate research methodologies and ethical considerations specific to management accounting.
  • Implement and manage data collection and analysis processes systematically, ensuring accuracy and relevance to the research objectives.
  • Present detailed research findings clearly and logically, demonstrating the ability to draw informed conclusions and implications for the field of Management Accounting.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Examine the impact of diverse ESG factors on organisational strategy by interpreting relevant data and contextual business environments to identify value drivers and risks.
  • Differentiate between ESG integration approaches and formulate pragmatic strategies that align with organisational goals and sustainability commitments.
  • Design a comprehensive ESG integration plan that supports long-term value creation by balancing economic, social, and environmental considerations within governance frameworks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Examine the distinct organisational, legislative, and regulatory characteristics influencing public sector accounting practice and financial management.
  • Differentiate between public sector financial reporting frameworks by explaining their applicability and structure in the South African context.
  • Develop detailed interpretations of public sector financial reports demonstrating understanding of accountability, transparency, and compliance requirements within government entities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Explain the dynamics of the international finance environment, including factors influencing exchange rate fluctuations and their impact on business operations.
  • Distinguish among various types of exchange rate risks such as transaction, translation, and economic risks, illustrating their effects on international business decisions.
  • Construct risk management strategies that mitigate exposure to foreign exchange volatility by integrating financial instruments and operational adjustments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Interpret diverse market scenarios and investment objectives to devise a portfolio management strategy that balances risk and return according to the Investment Policy Statement.
  • Formulate tailored asset allocation models that account for market volatility, economic conditions, and investor risk tolerance to optimise portfolio performance.
  • Construct actionable recommendations for portfolio adjustments using quantitative and qualitative analysis to enhance long-term investment value and adhere to governance frameworks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Interpret the structure and function of money markets and capital markets, evaluating the roles and interactions of various financial entities within the South African context.
  • Synthesise the effects of financial and economic policies on market dynamics and investor behaviour, integrating theoretical and practical insights to explain market trends.
  • Assess emerging financial markets by examining their growth potential, associated risks, and implications for economic development and investment strategies.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The Institutional Assessment Policy requires four assessments per year for year-long courses and two assessments for semester modules.

    Formative Assessment:
    There will be a minimum of two assessments per course per semester, which can be either two written tests or one written test and an assignment.

    Summative Assessment:
    The summative assessment will take the form of a three-hour examination paper at the end of the semester. Supplementary examinations are offered at the end of the semester to students who do not meet the minimum required mark in the final examination. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for the following articulation options:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Accounting Sciences Honours in Management Accounting, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Commerce in Accountancy, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Business Management, NQF Level 9.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Advanced Occupational Diploma: Financial Administration Manager, NQF 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. Walter Sisulu 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.