Program Overview

Programme: BComHons specialising in Supply Chain Management

Introduction

The BComHons specialising in Supply Chain Management is a postgraduate degree that focuses on the integrated total materials flow through the enterprise to the target market. The programme aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to manage supply chains effectively.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for the programme are as follows:

• A relevant Bachelor of Commerce degree
• An average of at least 65% for Supply Chain Management or relevant modules at final-year level
• All applications must be accompanied by certified full academic transcripts from undergraduate to current level, a certified copy of ID or passport, and a research concept note (not applicable to honours or coursework master's degrees)
• All applicants with international qualifications must submit a SAQA evaluation of the completed qualification or a comprehensive Foreign Qualification Report, TOEFL or IELTS or Pearson Test of English or Oxford Test of English test results (if applicable), and a certified copy of passport
• Admissions is based on the content of and performance in the prior degree, bridging arrangements (where required), academic merit, and prior work experience (if applicable)

Additional Requirements

All the modules are compulsory, and a minimum of 120 credits must be obtained. Only students registered for this degree programme may register for specific modules.

Programme Structure

The programme consists of the following core modules:

• GLB 788: Strategic supply chain management
• OBS 782: Strategic operations management
• OBS 785: Analytical decision-making
• OBS 786: Procurement and supply management
• OBS 787: Physical distribution management
• OBS 790: Research report

Module Descriptions

GLB 788: Strategic Supply Chain Management

The purpose of this module is to have students gain insight and perspective into the integrated total materials flow through the enterprise to the target market. The module covers topics such as logistics management, global dimensions of supply chain management, supply chain structure, and supply chain performance measurement.

OBS 782: Strategic Operations Management

The module focuses on the design, implementation, and analysis of an operations management strategy. It covers topics such as the role of operations management, contemporary trends and innovations in operations management, and the implementation of operations strategy.

OBS 785: Analytical Decision-Making

The module aims to inform future managers, consultants, and advisors on the psychological processes and biases underlying the decisions made by customers, competitors, colleagues, and themselves. It covers topics such as business analytics, decision-making, and quantitative modelling tools.

OBS 786: Procurement and Supply Management

The focus of the module is on procurement as a strategic function within the firm. It covers topics such as the role of procurement and supply management in the supply chain, drivers and challenges within procurement, and supplier relationship management.

OBS 787: Physical Distribution Management

The integrated nature of inventory, transportation, and warehousing management within the supply chain is analysed. The module covers topics such as optimisation techniques and strategies to rationalise inventory levels and improve warehousing and transportation performance.

OBS 790: Research Report

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the nature and the role of research in a business enterprise. It covers topics such as the research process, research planning and design, data gathering and analysis, and reporting of research results.

Assessment and Evaluation

A semester mark of 40% is required to be admitted to the examination. The semester mark will be compiled from assignments, group projects, and written tests. Final examinations will take place during May/June and October/November annually. A final mark of 50% is required to pass a module. There are no supplementary examinations for any of the modules. A maximum of two years will be allowed for the completion of the honours degree.

Pass with Distinction

To be awarded the degree with distinction, a student must meet the following criteria:

• Obtain a Grade Point Average of at least 75% including at least 75% for the research component
• Complete the degree within the minimum period prescribed
• Only the final mark of the first attempt to pass the modules or research report will be considered
• The GPA will not be rounded up to a whole number

Minimum Credits

The minimum credits required for the programme is 120.