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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: 

Master of Business Management and Administration 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
94898  Master of Business Management and Administration 
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch 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
Master's Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  213  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  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 primary purpose of the qualification is to equip learners with high level competencies to solve complex problems in an increasingly competitive and volatile environment. The Master of Business Management and Administration (MBA) enhances the learners' leadership abilities and abilities to integrate environmental, social and governance principles in decision-making. The curriculum provides learners with a thorough understanding of management theory and contributes to the learners' ability to communicate effectively and to do research.

Learners must be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, design and critically appraise analytical writing, make sound judgements using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions to specialist and non-specialist audiences, demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks with a professional orientation, and continue to advance their knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to a particular profession. Learners must conduct an independent single research or technical project or a series of smaller projects based on a single research problem.

Rationale:
This qualification will address the need for producing learners for employment at general management and higher levels. The successful completion of the qualification will allow learners to exhibit contextual understanding and improved self-awareness leading to enhanced leadership abilities. It will strengthen the learners' ability to communicate effectively, to integrate business theory to solve complex problems by sharpening analytical skills, to integrate environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles in their decision-making and to do research.

The modular and part-time nature of this qualification will allow for a large and wide target audience for the degree, mainly serving South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
According to Stellenbosch University's policy framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), a limited number of non-degree students may join the MBA. Learners admitted according to a RPL process cannot comprise of more than 10% of an annual intake.

Stringent assessment criteria are applied to determine whether the applicant has developed the necessary generic competencies during his/her undergraduate learning. Admission requirements for RPL learners include:
  • A minimum of 10 years of full-time work experience of which at least five years should have been in management.
  • Selection test: For the SHL test - numeric, verbal and inductive reasoning scores of 6 are expected.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV): An extensive CV is required in which growth and learning over time is shown in the responsibilities associated with successive jobs.
  • At least two references: Confidential reports from two referees are required on the candidate's work and management experience.
  • An interview by at least two members of faculty: This is mandatory.

    Entry Requirements:
    Admission to the qualification is subject to the academic selection criteria and the learner must have:
  • A Bachelor Honours Degree or equivalent.
    And
  • At least three years' managerial experience. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises 20 compulsory modules and 2 elective modules at NQF Level 8 and 9 respectively, totalling 213 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 8, 32 Credits:
  • Human Capital Management, 8 Credits.
  • Managerial Accounting, 8 Credits.
  • Managerial Statistics, 8 Credits.
  • Economics for Managers, 8 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 9, 181 Credits:
  • Integrated Case Studies, 8 Credits.
  • International Study Module, 8 Credits.
  • Operational Excellence, 8 Credits.
  • Perspectives on African Frontiers, 8 Credits.
  • Research Assignment, 45 Credits.
  • Strategic Management, 12 Credits.
  • Strategic Marketing and Branding, 8 Credits.
  • Values-Based Leadership, 16 Credits.
  • Accounting for Decision Making, 8 Credits.
  • Business Communication Skills, 4 Credits.
  • Business in Society, 8 Credits.
  • Contemporary Decision-Making, 12 Credits.
  • Corporate Finance, 12 Credits.
  • Digital Enterprise Management, 8 Credits.

    Elective Modules at NQF Level 9, 16 Credits:
    Learners need to choose from the following modules, to the amount of 16 credits:
  • Building future markets, 8 Credits.
  • Business strategy in emerging and frontier markets, 8 Credits.
  • Competitive intelligence, 8 Credits.
  • Customer experience leadership, 8 Credits.
  • Customer behaviour and research metrics, 8 Credits.
  • Emotional intelligence, 8 Credits.
  • Enterprise risk management, 8 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 8 Credits.
  • Financing renewable energy, 8 Credits.
  • Global business strategy, 8 Credits.
  • Global marketing, 8 Credits.
  • Innovating for the bottom/base of the pyramid, 8 Credits.
  • International finance, 8 Credits.
  • Internet marketing, 8 Credits.
  • Leader as coach, 8 Credits.
  • Leadership when it really counts: An action practicum, 8 Credits.
  • Managing knowledge for strategic effectiveness, 8 Credits.
  • Management consulting specialisation, 16 Credits.
  • Marketing metrics, 8 Credits.
  • Portfolio management, 8 Credits.
  • Project management, 16 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Gathering knowledge and gaining an understanding of the broad societal and cultural environment within which business in the target country in order to develop lessons learnt for the home country.
    2. Develop an understanding and working knowledge of the core concepts, principles and techniques of financial accounting, management accounting, and the contemporary nature (and the value and challenges) of reporting on social and environmental performance.
    3. Examine the power of marketing and how it can be applied to greatest effect and for the greatest social exploring both commercial and social marketing contexts.
    4. Define a research problem (potentially including a research question and/or research objectives). 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The impact of the socio-political and economic environments of the target country on leadership in the home country is evaluated.
  • Opportunities and challenges of doing business in the target country are evaluated.
  • The drivers of business and managerial performance within the target country are critically reviewed and analysed in order to identify issues of strategic importance.
  • The role of the target country with regards to regional cooperation is analysed.
  • New specialist fields of knowledge exposed to in the target country with existing business perspectives in the home country is related to.
  • A critical awareness of current problems and new insights in the sustainable development debate and their relevance to business are understood.
  • Theoretical arguments and concepts to the analysis of empirical case studies are applied.
  • Knowledge and understanding is applied to evaluate alternative solutions to business dilemmas.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • How to plan, control, report upon and analyse organisational activity from both financial and non-financial perspectives is developed.
  • The core concepts, principles and techniques of both financial and management accounting are explained.
  • The concepts underpinning social and environmental accounting and integrated reporting are evaluated.
  • Accounting/financial formulae and techniques are utilised to analysed financial statements and other accounts.
  • Accounting/financial models in a real-world context are applied and critically analysed.
  • Data from multiple sources is located, extracted, analysed and referenced.
  • The reporting of non-financial aspects of organisational performance is critically assessed.
  • Quantitative and qualitative measures for assessing an organisation's (integrated) performance are critically assessed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The role of marketing in both commercial and social marketing contexts and in different cultural market places is explained.
  • The impact of marketing on consumption and behavioural change is evaluated.
  • The drivers and processes involved in consumer and organisational buyer behaviour in order to evaluate their utility and impact on marketing strategy are assessed.
  • How organisations can develop successful segmentation, positioning, branding and communication strategies are explained.
  • How the tools of marketing can be applied in social contexts is demonstrated.
  • A coherent marketing plan, based on a sound understanding of consumer behavior is developed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • A topic is critically reviewed to the relevant literature.
  • A suitable/relevant research methodology is selected and applied.
  • The findings and conclusions are articulated by way of robust arguments and presentation.
  • The research is presented in an integrative, coherent document.
  • A distinct contribution is made, either to solving a practical management problem, or to the body of theory.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Learners are assessed on a flexible assessment basis. Modules have a minimum number of assessments based on the number of credits for that module. The final performance mark therefore includes, among others, on-line assessments, class tests, group work, individual and group assignments, class participation as well as presentations. The flexible assessment system implies that there are no supplementary tests or opportunities for the resubmission of assignments to improve grades.

    Each module must be passed on individual work alone before a group mark will be taken into account. If a learner was to achieve a grade less than 50% for the individual work, the individual grade becomes the final grade. On the other hand group work is very important, and if a learner was to neglect the group work, a fail grade can be allocated even though the individual grade was a pass.

    If a learner were to withdraw (i.e. not participate) from any substantive assessment (an assessment accounting for at least 10% of the final grade), for example a group assignment, no grade will be allocated for the module but a comment "Discontinued" will be assigned. A "Discontinued" comment implies that the participant has no right to the supplementary examination and will have to redo the module from scratch by joining another class and participating from scratch in all assessments for that particular module.

    Tests may cover prescribed readings to ensure that learners have mastered the necessary theory, or may deal with the application of the module content in a practical situation. In all instances the application must be founded on sound theory. If multiple-choice tests are used in assessment, incorrect answers will be penalised consistently. The University's examination policy holds for all tests written. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is internationally comparable with the following qualification:

    Master of Business Administration - University of Manchester, UK:
    Entry is competitive for the Master of Business Administration (MBA) qualification. The 'right' learner is admitted to the qualification one who is talented, has the highest potential, not just those with the most experience or best test scores. A Holistic view is taken when evaluating applications, paying particular attention to academic credentials, fast career progression, leadership characteristics and entrepreneurial talent. The learner's potential is then compared to peers in terms of contributions to and enhancing the diverse professional backgrounds, cultural profile and experience.

    The MBA qualification is intellectually demanding and requires learners to quickly absorb and analyse new material and apply it in a fast-moving environment. Learners need to be confident to be able to rise to the intellectual challenges the qualification presents. A strong undergraduate degree result (UK bachelor or international equivalent as recognised by UK NARIC) from a recognised university. Qualifications vary by country and university, however , the equivalent of a first class or upper second class honours result in the UK system are sought and it is expected of the learner to be in the top 25% of their class.

    The MBA involves the development of strategic business knowledge and international perspective, combined with training in leadership and managerial skills. The qualification is designed to build on previous experience gained from having worked within organisations, therefore it is important that the learners have good relevant professional experience in order to fully contribute and benefit from the qualification.

    At least four years of full-time work experience after graduation (from completion of your undergraduate degree to commencing the MBA) is expected. Thus, a strong CV/resume showing a good level of responsibility, consistent and ideally fast-track career progression, strong achievements for the length of your career to date demonstrating impact in your organisation and higher than average performance in your industry sector or function compared to your peers.

    Leadership/management experience and potential including some or all of the following:
  • Management/leadership of teams/colleagues.
  • Client relationship management.
  • Financial/budgetary responsibility.
  • Project management/leadership.
  • Managing across different parts of an organisation.
  • Decision making, contribution to strategy.

    Success in the qualification and the learners' future career also depends on other work related skills and competencies e.g. analytical skills, numeracy, negotiation, presentation, problem-solving, reasoning, creativity, ability to generate ideas etc. Good knowledge of MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint are also essential. Although not an essential requirement, international exposure can add a competitive edge to the application. The qualification has a strong international focus and learners with an international outlook is also sought.

    Entrepreneurial experience and creativity (within own business or corporate environment) are highly valued in learners. Learners with the ability to innovate are often strong contributors during the MBA qualification involved in entrepreneurship can contribute significantly to society and communities. Also learners with the ability to perceive opportunities and contribute ideas to the MBA class, thereby enhancing the stimulating learning environment of the MBA.

    If the learner does not have a degree it may be possible to gain a place without the specified formal academic qualifications. The application will be considered through the accreditation of prior learning (APL), which may be certificated or experiential. Credit is allocated for evidence of achieving appropriate and assessed learning outcomes, rather than for experience itself. The application will be considered if:
  • The learner can demonstrate high levels of achievement, exceptional career progression and significant management experience in a leadership position.
    Or
  • Has an excellent track record as a successful entrepreneur.

    Alternative evidence of intellectual ability e.g. strong school results, professional training courses, non-degree business qualifications needs to be shown.

    Conclusion:
    From the evidence it is clear that this qualification compares favourably with the qualification being offered at the Manchester University. It compares favourably with the following aspects: entry requirements and the purpose of the qualification. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification enables learners to articulate horizontally to:
  • Master of Administration in Public Management at NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Administration in Labour Relations Management at NQF Level 9.

    Vertically to:
  • Doctor of Administration at NQF Level 10. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    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. Stellenbosch 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.