Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management

Purpose

This qualification is an undergraduate qualification that offers a combination of theory and practice in the area of supply chain management. The qualification aims to develop an integrated conceptual understanding, synthesis and application of specific issues in supply chain management. The qualification will develop management and planning skills, and provide participants with knowledge of economics. The purpose of this qualification is to equip learners with a sound fundamental knowledge base and basic skills regarding supply chain management.

The qualification is aimed at equipping first-line managers with the knowledge and skills required to fulfil their management role within the supply chain. This includes the disciplines of warehousing, transport, inventory, materials management and purchasing. The qualification has relevance for learners who engage in processes across the supply chain so as to create sustainable value for organisations.

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 and engage in the processes and inter-relationships across the supply chain.
• 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 both the private and public sector.

Recognition of Prior Learning

This qualification may be obtained in whole 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 in 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 Certificate studies.

Or

• A National Certificate (Vocational) at NQF Level 4, granting access to Certificate studies or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification.

In addition to the above admission criteria, the following will also be considered

• Work experience.
• A detailed motivational letter and CV.
• Prior learning.

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

• Business Management.
• Basic Economics.
• Supply Chain Management.
• Purchasing Management.
• Logistics Management.
• Operations Management.

A learner attaining this qualification will be able to

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the Supply Chain Management environment within an organisation.
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the influence of performance and risk within a Supply Chain Management environment.
3. Contribute to the development of a supply chain strategy for an organisation.
4. Contribute to operational plans for Supply Chain Management.
5. Implement a supply chain strategy.

The Associated Assessment Criteria can be applied in an integrated manner across any one or combination of Exit Level Outcomes:

• Theory and principles are applied in a work-based context.
• Appropriate technology is utilised in various communication modes.
• Knowledge of supply chain management 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 in a business context.
• An understanding of economic issues in South Africa is demonstrated.
• An ability to propose solutions to problems is demonstrated.

Integrated Assessment

The learner's competencies will be assessed in an integrated way 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.