SAQA ID: 112824, NQF Level: 5, Credits: 180, Duration: 18–24 Months, Blended learning (online theory with face-to-face practical sessions where applicable).
This occupational qualification provides structured entry into the field of Management Accounting, preparing learners to operate competently at middle management level within finance and business environments. It is designed for individuals pursuing careers in financial planning, cost management, performance analysis, and strategic decision support, as well as professionals in other business functions who require strong financial and analytical capability.
Through a combination of applied knowledge, practical skills training, and workplace experience, the programme equips learners to support critical business decisions, analyse and manage costs, prepare and interpret financial information, and contribute to ethical governance within organisations.
The qualification responds directly to South Africa’s need for competent finance professionals in addressing unemployment, skills shortages, and organisational inefficiencies. Management Accounting is listed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) as a scarce and high-demand skill, making this qualification relevant across sectors and suitable for skills development funding and employment equity initiatives.
Standard Entry Requirements
Certified copy of South African ID or valid passport
Certified copy of Grade 12 / NQF Level 4 qualification with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (50% or above)
Applicants with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy below 50% are required to complete a Mathematics Bridging Module.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Access Pathway
Applicants who do not meet the formal academic requirements may apply through RPL.
RPL Eligibility
Individuals without Matric / NQF Level 4 qualification (bridging required)
Applicants with relevant experience in accounting, finance management, bookkeeping, or related roles
Required Documentation for RPL
(All documents certified within the last 3 months)
Certified copy of ID or Passport
Detailed CV outlining roles and responsibilities
Employer reference letter(s) confirming experience
Proof of informal or non-formal learning (short courses, workshops, etc.)
Optional portfolio of evidence
Proof of payment: Application Fee + RPL Fee ( R250 + R2,500 = R2,700 )
All RPL-approved candidates are required to complete an additional Mathematics Bridging Module.
Upon successful completion of this qualification, learners will be able to:
Apply principles of business economics within organisational contexts
Perform management accounting functions including cost analysis, budgeting, and performance measurement
Apply financial accounting principles to support reporting and control
Analyse organisational strategy and operational performance
Support management decision-making through accurate financial and non-financial information
Apply principles of ethics, corporate governance, and business law
Operate effectively within finance and accounting environments at junior to middle management level
The qualification consists of Knowledge Modules, Practical Skill Modules, and a Work Experience Module, ensuring full occupational competence.
Knowledge Modules (108 Credits)
Code
Module Name
NQF Level
Credits
KM-01
Fundamentals of Business Economics
5
27
KM-02
Fundamentals of Management Accounting
5
27
KM-03
Fundamentals of Financial Accounting
5
27
KM-04
Fundamentals of Ethics, Corporate Governance and Business Law
5
27
Practical Skill Modules (36 Credits)
Code
Module Name
NQF Level
Credits
PM-01
Apply Business Economics to Organisational Context
5
12
PM-02
Analyse Organisational Functions and Strategy
5
12
PM-03
Apply Integrated Management Approaches
5
12
Work Experience Module (36 Credits)
Code
Module Name
NQF Level
Credits
WM-01
Functioning as a Junior Management Accounting Officer
5
36
Graduates of this qualification may access roles such as:
Management Accounting Officer
Assistant Cost Analyst
Finance Administrator
Budget Analyst
Corporate Governance Support Officer
The qualification also supports career advancement, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and progression toward further study or professional designation, subject to the admission requirements of the relevant institution or professional body.
Assessment is conducted through internal formative and summative assessments, practical evaluations, and structured workplace-based assessments in line with QCTO requirements. Learners must also complete the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) as prescribed.
Upon successful completion of all components, learners will be awarded the Occupational Qualification: Management Accounting Officer (NQF Level 5).
2026 Course Fees
Fee Type
Amount (ZAR)
Application Fee
R250
Enrolment Fee
R1,800
Full Course Fee (Semester Plan) R10,700 x 4
R42,800
Full Course Fee (Monthly Plan) R1,950 x 24
R46,800
Additional Fees
Fee Type
Amount (ZAR)
RPL Application Fee
R2,500
Final External Exam Fee
To be confirmed by QCTO and CIMA
Is this qualification internationally recognised?
Yes. It was developed in cooperation with CIMA and aligns with internationally used management accounting practice.
How does this connect to CIMA pathways?
It supports progression toward professional management accounting and is aligned with the CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting pathway.
What’s the biggest advantage of a Management Accounting Officer path?
You don’t just “learn accounting” — you learn how to support real business decisions with numbers.