Qualification Summary

Purpose:

The purpose of this qualification is to introduce learners to the main functions and management of a retail business and the key issues associated with understanding retail trading and retail environments. The curriculum aims to equip qualifying learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to perform effectively in a Retail Management role as well as with an appropriate knowledge base as preparation for further learning. This qualification is also designed to develop the learner's ability to think and act strategically and professionally and to contribute meaningfully to the organisations they will be serving. Consequently, it facilitates the development of a well-rounded strategic business knowledge base in conjunction with substantial skills, knowledge and insight to allow for professional practice entry into a broad range of business enterprises as well as further studies in retail management. The qualification will promote access to higher education and equipping learners with appropriate knowledge, skills and attitudes attuned to the demands of business and industry. Learners will gain a critical understanding of the interplay between the disciplines of modern retail management, strategic planning, retail ethics and marketing. The qualification design reflects the logical progression of learning by introducing learners to the foundational and fundamental aspects of their learning areas in the first year and then progressing to the higher-order skills of analysing, interpreting and applying the principles and theories of focus areas in the second and third years of study. As the Retail industry evolves, the demand for talent increase. Changing corporate climate, coupled with an evolving Retail industry, has created a strong demand for business-minded, Retail professionals across South Africa. Business-educated, key Retail professionals have become instrumental in the commercial environment in which we now find ourselves.

Rationale:

The Bachelor of Commerce in Retail Management degree will provide access to higher education to persons wanting to consolidate their careers in the field of Retail Management and will complement the existing accredited qualifications that are offered by the institution. South Africa, with one of the most sophisticated economies in Africa is already the biggest retail market in sub-Saharan Africa, and the 20th largest in the world, with a wide array of shopping malls and retail developments, as well as a sizable food and non-food manufacturing sector. The retail sector in South Africa is also the largest contributor to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). While the average GDP growth rates are modest, per capita incomes are far higher than elsewhere on the continent. Furthermore, local consumers are highly aspirational and brand conscious, making for a thriving and competitive retail and consumer goods market, as a visit to any of the country's many large shopping malls will attest. The promotion of retail management competence in this respect, becomes an imperative objective in order to sustain and grow the country's economy. This qualification is therefore of special interest to the working professional in business and private organisations and those who wish to pursue a career in Retail Management. The course work is designed to provide the learner with an understanding and working application of the principles of Retail Management. The Bachelor of Commerce in Retail Management: Contributes to national goals by facilitating capacity building and human resource development in the retail industry. Empowers learners with skills and competences to function and progress in the retail environment. Recognises and caters for the career needs of learners who are in employment. The qualification content is designed to provide learners with graduate-level knowledge, specific skills and applied competence (including the development of graduate attitudes and qualities). The qualification will provide opportunities for continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity and rewarding contributions to society.