National Certificate
(Finance, Economics and Accounting) Qualification

What is the National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) Qualification?

The National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) is a new Finance, Economics and Accounting qualification at each of Levels 2, 3 and 4 of the NQF. This qualification is designed to provide both the theory and practice of Finance, Economics and Accounting. The practical component of study may be offered in a real workplace environment or in a simulated workplace environment. It will provide students with an opportunity to experience work situations during the period of study.

What are the minimum entry requirements to the qualification?

For entry into the National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) at NQF level 2, you require:

• A year end school report for Grade 9 or higher,or
• A NQF Level 1 qualification, or
• An approved bridging programme designed for the specific purpose to access NQF Level 2, or
• A Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment to meet the basic requirements for access to NQF Level 2.

How long is the Qualification?

The National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) qualification is a full year programme at each of the NQF levels of study. A student is issued with a certificate on successful completion of each level of study, that is, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4.

Which subjects make up a National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting)?

In order to obtain a National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) a student is required to take a total of 7 subjects. These include 3 fundamental subjects and 4 vocational subjects, of which 3 are compulsory and 1 is optional.

Which are the fundamental subjects?

The 3 fundamental subjects are:

• Language – which must be the language of teaching and learning
• Mathematics
• Life Orientation

What are the Vocational subjects in Finance, Economics and Accounting?

The vocational subjects in Finance, Economics and Accounting are:

• Applied Accounting
• Economic Environment
• Financial Management
• New Venture Creation

These subjects are offered at each of the different NQF Levels of study in the National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) qualification.

What vocational activities would this give you access to?

The holder of the National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) will be able to:

• Perform bookkeeping duties
• Keep records of wages, salaries, petty cash, Value Added Tax (VAT), reconciliations
• Prepare financial statements
• Manage budgets, analyse finances of the business etc

What career opportunities do I have after completing the National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting)?

The National Certificate (Finance, Economics and Accounting) provides an opportunity to access careers in any of the sectors listed below:

• Private and Public Accounting
• Banking
• Financial Services
• Insurance Services
• Investment Broking
• Bookkeeping