Higher Certificate in Business Management in Project Management

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to introduce learners in the workplace with general business management theories and introductory management competencies to enable them in assisting management in managing projects within their organisation or business or department.

Rationale

The customisation of short learning of this qualification to industry is one of the most dynamic features of the institution. Career orientated learning qualifications are particularly associated with just in time and just enough learning to meet the specified needs of industry. Short Career orientated learning qualifications facilitate access to learning in a manageable manner in terms of cost, time, energy and resources, both for the employer and employee. These short learning qualifications target specific adult learners to upgrade skills and knowledge in the workplace context and are subject to the institution quality assurance processes.

Recognition of Prior Learning in the case of learners not complying with the formal entry requirements will be conducted following the policy and guidelines of the institution concerning the recognition of other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. Recognition takes place only where prior learning corresponds to the required National Qualifications Framework(NQF)-level, and in terms of applied competencies relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification. Through Recognition of Prior Learning, learners may gain access, advance placement, or status recognition on the condition that they continue their studies at this institution.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement is

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4.

This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, Credits

1. Project Identification and Scoping, 12 Credits.
2. Human Resource Management, 12 Credits.
3. Strategic Management, 12 Credits.
4. Environment of Business, 12 Credits.
5. Project Management, 12 Credits.
6. Accounting Aspects, 12 Credits.
7. Risk Management, 12 Credits.
8. Project Control, 12 Credits.
9. Project Procurement and Communication, 12 Credits.
10. Business Writing and Communication, 12 Credits.

1. Describe, explain and illustrate managerial theories applicable in the specific business environment.
2. Describe strategic management concepts and analyse the business environment.
3. Provide an overview of motivational theories and the management of conflict in the workplace.
4. Communicate and write reports in a business environment.
5. Illustrate basic management accounting principles.
6. Use basic project management tools and techniques.
7. Apply the principles of project selection and the development of a project scope (plan).
8. Demonstrate the role of communication in project management.
9. Identify and analyse the uncertainties surrounding organisational operational activities.
10. Describe, explain and illustrate risk management concepts in the project environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria

• Explain managerial theories applied in a specific business environment.
• Discuss basic accounting principles.
• Report on strategic management concepts that a business can use in evaluating their business environment.
• List the motivational theories and the management of conflict in the workplace.
• Apply communication and writing skills in a business environment.
• Use basic project management tools and techniques to achieve project deliverables.
• Review proposed projects and assist management in identifying new projects in the workplace.
• Explain the basic principles applicable to procurement and communication in a project environment.
• Apply project control techniques in a basic project.
• Practice accepted risk management terminology and the risk management framework in a project.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification is coherently aligned in that all teaching, learning and assessment activities are linked to module and qualification outcomes. Assessment methods vary and includes summative and formative assessment to enhance applied competence from learners and facilitate authentic assessment and learning. Assessment will not only be used to determine whether outcomes were achieved, but also to generate data for grading and provide feedback in order to improve the curriculum. For all the assessment purposes to be achieved, assignments and examinations will be used.