Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Purpose

The purpose of the Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is to develop learners with well-rounded managerial, professional, and industry-specific intellectual competencies, knowledge, and skills in logistics and supply chain management. It aims to prepare graduates to critically engage with complex industry challenges, analyse and evaluate logistics and supply chain processes, and make informed managerial decisions in diverse and often unpredictable business environments.

Graduates of this qualification will be equipped to identify, analyse, evaluate, and solve complex problems by combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. They will develop and present well-reasoned, theory-driven arguments relevant to logistics and supply chain management while making strategic and operational decisions that demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, graduates will be able to synthesize and evaluate industry-related information to generate innovative responses to contemporary challenges and effectively communicate their ideas, decisions, and recommendations using appropriate academic, professional, and occupational discourse.

This qualification provides learners with a broad foundation of business knowledge, covering essential areas such as business management, economics, business statistics, project management, business research, and financial management. Alongside these core business competencies, learners will gain specialised knowledge of logistics and supply chain management principles, processes, procedures, and systems, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field.

A key component of the qualification is the ability to plan and execute logistics and supply chain research using appropriate methodologies. Learners will be encouraged to critically reflect on their research findings and effectively communicate their results, contributing to evidence-based decision-making in the industry.

Furthermore, this qualification offers a strong theoretical foundation for further learning and professional growth. Learners will develop the ability to work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams, engaging with various professional and administrative stakeholders in the logistics and supply chain environment. They will also demonstrate cultural and social sensitivity, particularly in addressing the distribution of goods within diverse communities, ensuring ethical and responsible decision-making in the logistics and supply chain sector.

Rationale

Globalisation, e-commerce growth, and international trade have increased the demand for skilled logistics and supply chain managers. South Africa faces a significant skills shortage, with vacancies in supply chain-related professions ranging from 70 to over 9,235, as reported by industry stakeholders such as the Road Freight Industries (RFI), South African Air Force (SAAF), and South African Express Parcel Association (SAEPA). While existing qualifications provide general supply chain training, there is a lack of managerial-focused programmes tailored to leadership roles in logistics.

The Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management addresses this gap by integrating business administration and logistics expertise. Unlike a BCom, which focuses on finance and commerce, this program develops strategic decision-making, cost optimisation, and supply chain leadership skills. Graduates will be equipped to streamline supply chain operations, reduce logistics costs, and enhance business efficiency at a managerial level.

The qualification is ideal for school leavers, mid-career professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs in logistics. Career opportunities include Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Manager, Procurement Manager, Inventory Control Manager, and Freight and Transportation Manager. Graduates can work in manufacturing, retail, transport, healthcare, and international trade, both locally and globally.

This qualification offers clear learning pathways, allowing horizontal articulation into related business and logistics fields and vertical progression to postgraduate diplomas, honours degrees, and MBAs. It ensures lifelong learning and career mobility, preparing graduates for leadership in a dynamic, evolving industry.

Beyond individual career benefits, this qualification supports economic growth by improving trade efficiency, logistics networks, and global competitiveness. It addresses South Africa's logistics skills gap, boosts industry productivity, and contributes to a more efficient and resilient supply chain sector. Chain management principles, processes, procedures, and systems, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field.

A key component of the qualification is the ability to plan and execute logistics and supply chain research using appropriate methodologies. Learners will be encouraged to critically reflect on their research findings and effectively communicate their results, contributing to evidence-based decision-making in the industry.

Furthermore, this qualification offers a strong theoretical foundation for further learning and professional growth. Learners will develop the ability to work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams, engaging with various professional and administrative stakeholders in the logistics and supply chain environment. They will also demonstrate cultural and social sensitivity, particularly in addressing the distribution of goods within diverse communities, ensuring ethical and responsible decision-making in the logistics and supply chain sector.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL is conducted in accordance with the institution's RPL Policy. This Policy provides processes and procedures by which RPL is conducted at the institution.

Learners who do not meet the minimum admission requirements of a particular qualification could, under certain conditions, apply for admission based on RPL and/or a process as approved by the Academic Board.

Through RPL, the institution therefore endeavours to responsibly widen access to deserving learners.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate (NSC), granting access to Bachelor's studies.

Or

• National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies.

Or

• Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement, NQF Level 5.

Or

• Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 5.

Or

• Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 5.

Or

• Higher Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management Practice, NQF Level 5.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5, 6, and 7, totalling 360 credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 100 Credits

• Business Management 1, 20 Credits
• Economics 1, 20 Credits
• Business Statistics 1, 20 Credits
• Logistics Management 1, 20 Credits
• Supply Chain Management 1, 20 Credits
• Transport Economics1, 20 Credits
• Procurement Management, 20 Credits.
• Marketing Management 2, 20 Credits.

Elective Modules, NQF Level 6, 20 Credits (Select one module)

• Transport Economics1, 20 Credits
• Procurement Management, 20 Credits
• Marketing Management 2, 20 Credits

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits

• Financial Management 2, 20 Credits
• Supply Chain Management 2, 20 Credits
• Logistics Management 2, 20 Credits
• Economics 2, 20 Credits
• Business Management 2, 20 Credits
• Business Research, 20 Credits

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 120 Credits

• Business Management 3, 20 Credits
• Project Management 1, 20 Credits
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management Systems, 20 Credits
• Logistics and Supply Chain Research Theory, 10 Credits
• Logistics and Supply Chain Research Project, 10 Credits
• Logistics Management 3, 20 Credits
• Supply Chain Management 3, 20 Credits

1. Demonstrate a broad theoretical knowledge base of general management and economics.
2. Demonstrate a sound, integrated theoretical knowledge base of the logistics and supply chain discipline.
3. Critically analyse appropriate logistics and supply chain information and effectively communicate and disseminate information within the logistics and supply chain environment
4. Apply relevant models, procedures, tools, and techniques to logistics and supply chain problems to establish effective and efficient solutions.
5. Apply sound financial management principles in a logistics and supply chain environment.
6. Effectively utilise quantitative approaches in decision-making.
7. Effectively research appropriate logistics and supply chain questions and problems.
8. Display an understanding of cost management, accounting, and financial management principles within the logistics and supply chain environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Explain various theories of management and general management tasks.
• Explain the micro, market, and macro environment of an enterprise.
• Explain the purpose, structure, and responsibilities of the different functions of a typical enterprise, as well as the degree of integration with other functions.
• Explain the role of operations management in the organisation.
• Identify and describe the key economic challenges in South Africa.
• Explain the difference between a perfect and imperfect competitive environment for price and output determination.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Discuss logistics' role in the economy and the organisation, and the importance of logistics as a source of competitive advantage.
• Design, select, and manage a distribution channel.
• Apply the principles of logistics management and demonstrate an understanding of the role that transportation plays in a supply chain.
• Explain how logistics costs affect customer and product profitability.
• Describe the importance of planning for logistics managers, implement an evaluation of the logistics performance of an organisation, and recommend improvements.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Identify and select relevant data, tools, and technologies for solving logistics and supply chain problems.
• Evaluate the credibility, accuracy, and relevance of information sources (e.g., market trends, inventory data, supplier performance metrics).
• Use appropriate criteria to prioritise information based on the context of the logistics or supply chain scenario.
• Integrate information from multiple sources to support decision-making processes.
• Analyse data to identify patterns, trends, and insights relevant to logistics and supply chain operations.
• Use quantitative and qualitative methods to interpret information and draw conclusions.
• Select appropriate communication styles to suit different audiences, such as suppliers, managers, or clients.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Apply the theory and principles of the quantitative analysis of transport and logistics markets.
• Apply Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and GPS systems to transportation and logistics planning.
• Explain how Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) play a role in transport and logistics systems project design and performance assessment.
• Identify the concepts of designing and implementing data collection procedures, particularly through surveys of human populations.
• Describe the major environmental issues that must be considered in contemporary transport and logistics operations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• explain the theory of financial management.
• Analyse financial statements.
• Explain the concept of risk and return and identify sources of risk.
• Explain the application of cost management accounting and financial management principles within the logistics and supply chain environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Utilise statistical terminology and concepts in the management environment.
• Analyse data using tables and graphs.
• Describe how probability and sampling form the basis of statistical inference.
• Analyse statistical inferences through hypothesis tests and analysis of variances and apply statistical models for forecasting and planning.
• Describe statistical data in financial calculations and apply Excel as a data analysis tool.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Explain key research methodologies applicable to logistics and supply chain management.
• Demonstrate knowledge of ethical considerations in logistics and supply chain research.
• Develop clear, researchable questions and problem statements related to logistics and supply chain management.
• Justify the relevance and significance of research topics within the industry.
• Select and apply appropriate research methods (e.g., surveys, case studies, statistical analysis) to investigate logistics and supply chain issues.
• Use research findings to propose evidence-based solutions to logistics and supply chain challenges.
• Critically evaluate existing literature and industry reports to support decision-making.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Explain the theory of financial management.
• Analyse financial statements.
• Explain the concept of risk and return and identify sources of risk.
• Explain the application of cost management accounting and financial management principles within the logistics and supply chain environment.

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT

Assessment is conducted in accordance with the institution's Assessment Policy. The assessment strategy ensures that learners demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical application of knowledge in their respective fields.

The assessment process includes both formative and summative assessments to evaluate the learner's applied competence

Formative Assessment

• Each module requires learners to complete two assignments, which contribute to continuous learning and provide evidence of job-related knowledge application.

The assignments serve as a means of ongoing assessment, allowing learners to engage with real-world scenarios and apply theoretical concepts in practice.

Summative Assessment

• Learners are required to complete a three-hour examination for each module.
• This serves as a comprehensive evaluation of the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the learning process.

Research Project

Learners produce a limited research project as part of their assessment.

• This project allows learners to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research, analyse data, and apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges.
• The research project serves as an integrative assessment tool, ensuring that learners develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic writing skills.

Supplementary examinations are available twice a year, in July and December, following specific rules, guidelines, and procedures.