North-West University

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Financial Accountancy

Business, Commerce and Management Studies - Finance Economics and Accounting

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose: The purpose of this qualification is to provide students with a broad range of knowledge that, together with skills, attitudes, and behavior, enables them to deliver a specified professional service expected from a graduate entering the accountancy profession. It aims to instill an understanding of the theories, research methodologies, methods, and techniques relevant to the field of accountancy. Additionally, students will gain proficiency in applying this knowledge in a specific context, with specific competencies in Financial Accounting, Taxation, Financial Management and Decision Making, as well as Risk Management and Governance.

Rationale: This qualification aims to equip South Africa with graduates who demonstrate competence in the field of accountancy, enabling them to understand and function effectively in the economic and business sectors. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students will develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the accountancy profession and make valuable contributions to the financial landscape of the country.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate a broad range of knowledge that, together with skills, attitudes and behaviour, accounts for the ability to deliver a specified professional service as expected from a graduate entering the accountancy profession### an understanding of the theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques relevant to the accountancy field.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of how to apply such knowledge in a particular context, including Financial Accounting, Taxation, Financial Management and Decision Making as well as Risk Management and Governance.
  3. Demonstrate the ability to interrogate multiple sources of knowledge in the accountancy field and to evaluate knowledge and processes of knowledge production, including the use of information technology.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and uncertainties of selecting, applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures, processes or techniques to unfamiliar problems in accountancy.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to use a range of specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to accountancy.
  6. Demonstrate the ability to identify and address ethical issues based on critical reflection of the suitability of different ethical value systems to specific contexts and act in a professional manner.
  7. Demonstrate the ability to critically review information gathering, synthesis of data, evaluation and management processes in accountancy in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues.
  8. Demonstrate the ability to present and communicate professional ideas and texts effectively to a range of audiences, offering creative insights, rigorous interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to the context.
  9. Demonstrate the ability to operate effectively within a team, or manage a team based on an understanding of the roles and relationships between elements within the team.
  10. Demonstrate the ability to apply, in a self-critical manner, learning strategies which effectively address his or her professional and life-long learning needs### of an ability to take full responsibility for his or her work, decision-making and use of resources, and full accountability for the decisions and actions of others where appropriate.

Assessment Criteria

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes:

  1. Demonstrate a systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories.
  2. Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
  3. Demonstrate critical reflection on, and understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
  5. Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology.
  6. Demonstrate effective functioning as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress.

Integrated Assessment: As stipulated in the Assessment and Moderation Policy of the North West University (NWU), qualification, programme and module outcomes and assessment criteria are clearly formulated according to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) Level Descriptors and correctly communicated to students as guiding principle for assessment practices at the NWU. At least one opportunity for integrated assessment, where the main purpose and key outcomes of the qualification are assessed, is included in the assessment activities for this qualification. The following formative assessment modes are used, namely class tests and integrated assignments, which form a maximum of 50% of the pass mark. Summative assessment consists of a 2 to 3 hour written examination per module with a weight of 50%. Part of the integrated assessment is the research report or mini-dissertation with a credit value of 32 which the student must submit under the guidance of a supervisor.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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North-West University
Description
North-West University (NWU) is a public university located in South Africa. It was established in 2004 through the merger of three institutions: the Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, the University of Bophuthatswana, and the University of North-West. NWU has three campuses, namely Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, and Vanderbijlpark. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, business, education, engineering, health sciences, law, natural sciences, and theology. NWU is known for its strong focus on research and innovation, with several research centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges. NWU is committed to providing quality education and fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. It strives to produce graduates who are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to the development of South Africa and the global community. The university also promotes community engagement and social responsibility through various outreach programs and initiatives. Overall, North-West University is a reputable institution that values academic excellence, research, and community engagement, making it a sought-after choice for students seeking higher education in South Africa.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.