Higher Certificate in Accounting

Purpose

This qualification is an undergraduate qualification that offers a combination of theory and practice in the key area of accounting. The purpose of the qualification is to provide a structured qualification for learners wishing to work as bookkeepers and junior accountants. The qualification aims to develop an integrated conceptual understanding, synthesis and application of accounting principles. It provides a relevant higher education qualification enabling learners to gain meaningful employment.

The qualification will develop junior management and leadership skills, and provide participants with skills in accounting, organisation and management. The purpose of this qualification is to equip learners with a sound fundamental knowledge base regarding accounting. The Higher Certificate in Accounting is a qualification in a career pathway towards an accounting and financial management specialist.

Rationale

This qualification aims to

• Contribute to regional and national goals by facilitating capacity building and human resource development.
• Empower learners with knowledge, skills and competencies necessary to function in a public sector environment.
• Recognise and cater for the career and economic needs of learners who are in employment.
• Meet the needs of learners in a variety of positions in the public sector.
• Provide learners with the opportunity to proceed on a course of study culminating in the attainment of a Bachelor's Degree.
• Broaden the social base of learners in higher education by targeting learners with work experience.

Recognition of Prior Learning

This qualification may be obtained wholy or in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning.

In the cases where prior learning is to be recognised for purposes of access to the qualification

• It is assumed that the learning derived from work or life experience will be a major element in the profiles of non-standard entrants primarily by means of an examination of their Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Such 'non-standard' learners will be selected on the recommendation of a senior manager from their organisations/companies.
• Where appropriate, interviews will also be conducted to assess the applicants. Some of the key criteria that will be used in evaluating 'non-standard' applicants include:

> The applicants' motivation, maturity and realistic approach to their studies.

> Job description, covering relevant area of work, giving examples of tasks carried out, possibly supplying references.

> The nature and level of life/work experience and prior study, and the learning which has resulted from such experience.

> Details of in-company short courses, length, content of material covered, standard achieved.

> The clarity of the applicant's educational goals and objectives.

> The extent to which the applicant can provide evidence of the threshold skills and knowledge for the qualification.

Where prior learning is recognised for advanced standing, credit will be given for prior certificated learning in accordance with established practice at South African higher education institutions. The amount of 'specific' credit granted is dependent on the match between prior learning and award towards which the intended qualification leads.

Entry Requirements

The minimum level of attainment required for entry into this qualification is

• A National Senior Certificate, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• A Further Education and Training Certificate or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• National Certificate (Vocational) at NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

This qualification consists of six compulsory modules (20 Credits each) all at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits

• Basic Economics.
• Business Management.
• Financial Accounting A.
• Management Accounting.
• Business Law.
• Financial Accounting B.

A learner attaining this qualification will be able to

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the accounting and finance environment of an organisation.
2. Apply management principles in a work-based context.
3. Utilise technology to communicate effectively.
4. Acquire skills in planning, budgeting, decision-making, and collaboration.
5. Operate as an informed junior accountant or manager.
6. Undertake basic accounting tasks in an organisation.
7. Classify, record, implement and maintain basic accounting systems.
8. Apply, implement and maintain the basic principles in cost and management accounting systems.
9. Compile financial information for business decision making.

• Theory and principles are applied in a work-based context.
• Appropriate technology is utilised in various communication modes.
• Knowledge of accounting is demonstrated.
• Research skills are displayed in solving work related problems.
• Knowledge acquired is communicated.
• An understanding of how to manage resources and processes is demonstrated.
• An ability to propose solutions to problems is demonstrated.

Integrated Assessment

The learner's competencies will be assessed using an integrated method utilising both formative and summative assessment.

Assessment centres on

• The extent to which the learner has grasped the basic concepts.
• The application of theory to a practical context.
• The methods of research used.
• A balance between theory and practice and its relevance to the level of the qualification.
• The use of appropriate technology to ensure effective communication of ideas.

Assessment methods measure the extent to which the learner has achieved competence in the different areas of study delivered through course modules.

These assessment methods include

• Case studies.
• Report writing.
• Interpretative and analytical problem solving in the written examination.
• Work based assignments.
• Self assessment activities in the course material.