Higher Certificate in Management programmes are designed to teach foundational management skills, providing students with the knowledge to function effectively in management roles. This type of programme focuses on the core aspects of business management, equipping students with practical skills to improve their career opportunities.
Like other higher certificates, it can be completed in one year full-time, or two if studying part-time. In South Africa, the qualification is at Level 5 on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and is open to anyone who has completed their National Senior Certificate. Read on to learn more about this practical qualification and how you could benefit from studying for a Higher Certificate in Management.
Management studies cover a range of skill sets that are needed for leadership roles in different organisational settings. This field of study covers areas such as strategic planning, organisational behaviour, financial management, human resources and market dynamics.
Management studies can be done at multiple levels. These range from entry-level programmes such as FPD’s Higher Certificate in Management that equip students with the foundational skills needed to effectively manage teams, projects and organisations to more advanced specialist qualifications that further refine these skills, such as FPD’s Advanced Certificate in Management and its Advanced Management Programme Alliance Manchester Business School.
In this article we will focus on the Higher Certificate in Management, which provides a comprehensive management foundation, allowing learners to develop the critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership skills that are needed for today’s dynamic business world.
In recent years, the landscape of management skills development has evolved significantly, driven by technological advancements and changing workforce dynamics. Current trends in management skills development emphasise the importance of digital literacy, agile management practices and sustainable business strategies.
This article in the Harvard Business Review highlights the increasing importance of conflict management and diversity management, while this article in DigitalFirst magazine highlights digital skills, the rise of remote management and the increasing importance of soft skills such as communication and emotional intelligence.
Both articles also regularly note the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion training, which is extensively covered by the Diversity & Relationship Management module in FPD’s Higher Certificate in Management programme.
The field is dynamic and evolving with the global economic landscape at an increasing pace. This makes ongoing professional development through different management programmes and workshops increasingly important for managers to keep up with their field.
Managers are needed across a vast range of industries and organisation types, giving qualified managers a wide range of career paths from which to choose. Managers also have more freedom to change paths from one industry to another than most professions.
Some typical roles that graduates can pursue include project managers, human resources managers, operations managers and marketing managers.
In the corporate sector, management professionals are often involved in strategic planning, resource allocation and performance evaluation. At the upper end of the career ladder, management graduates can advance into executive positions, such as chief executive officers or chief operating officers, where they influence high-level decision-making and organisational strategy.
Management careers are not only limited to big businesses and corporations. Managers can also find opportunities in non-profit organisations, government agencies and startups, where they play crucial roles in driving growth and achieving organisational goals. The versatility of a management qualification ensures that graduates are well-equipped to adapt to diverse career paths and industries.
Completing a Higher Certificate in Management provides students with practical work skills that are in demand by employers. It is a cost-effective qualification that can be completed much quicker than a degree.
Completing a Higher Certificate in Management equips graduates with management skills, including planning, organising, leading and controlling, making them better prepared for leadership roles within various organisational settings.
The online Higher Certificate in Management programme at FPD includes the modules Effective Leadership Strategies and Supervisory Skills & Teamwork, which focus on developing leadership abilities. Students learn to set goals, motivate teams, drive performance and manage conflicts so they can lead teams effectively.
Managers often need to make difficult decisions and tackle challenging problems throughout the course of their jobs. For this reason, decision-making and problem-solving skills are well covered in the FPD Higher Certificate in Management. The programme enhances analytical skills, allowing students to make informed decisions and solve complex problems efficiently when working in a managerial position.
Through modules such as Managing Self and Operations Management Fundamentals, students learn how to analyse complex situations and develop strategic solutions. Students are taught to approach problems methodically, considering various perspectives and potential impacts before making decisions. This systematic approach to problem-solving improves their ability to handle challenges efficiently and make carefully considered decisions that benefit their organisations.
Effective communication and strong interpersonal relationships play large roles in a successful management career. Studying for a Higher Certificate in Management enhances the communication and interpersonal skills managers need to successfully lead teams, handle customer interactions and build strong business relationships.
FPD’s Higher Certificate in Management syllabus includes modules such as Diversity & Relationship Management and Customer Experience, designed to develop students’ ability to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts and manage relationships effectively within diverse teams. Through exposure to a mix of practical case studies, theoretical knowledge and interactive discussions, graduates of FPD’s programme can step into management roles confidently and with the ability to communicate effectively.
You can read more about communication and interpersonal skills in our article on conflict management.
A Higher Certificate in Management equips students with the essential skills needed for entry-level management positions. This entry-level qualification covers various aspects of management, including leadership, human resources and operations, preparing graduates well for roles such as team leaders, supervisors and junior managers.
The FPD programme’s focus on real-world applications ensures that students are knowledgeable and able to implement what they have learned in practical settings. This readiness enhances their attractiveness to potential employers, facilitating a smoother transition into management roles.
The Higher Certificate in Management serves as a foundation for further education. Graduates can pursue more advanced qualifications, such as FPD’s Advanced Certificate in Management, a diploma or a Bachelor’s degree in management or a related field.
Studying further enables graduates to stay current with industry trends and continuously improve their skills. By building on the foundational knowledge gained in the higher certificate programme, students can complete more advanced qualifications that open doors to more senior positions and greater responsibilities.
Completing a Higher Certificate in Management gives graduates the skills and knowledge needed to meet the demands of modern businesses, immediately making them more attractive to potential employers in the competitive job market. This includes competencies in leadership, decision-making, communication and financial management.
FPD’s comprehensive online programme for the Higher Certificate in Management includes practical training and real-world applications to ensure that graduates are adaptable and capable of contributing to organisational success.
When studying for a Higher Certificate in Management, you will be exposed to other students entering the same line of work. These connections can prove very useful in future as they help you to grow your network and connect with more industry professionals.
FPD’s online platform includes many features to facilitate and encourage students to engage with their peers. Students are actively encouraged to help each other through online forums and discussion boards, preventing the isolation that might otherwise come from studying at home.
Networking is a key component of career advancement. By connecting with others who work in the industry, you will be exposed to new career opportunities and gain insights into industry trends. Programme instructors can also offer valuable insights and provide leads and guidance that might lead to job referrals and professional growth.
Studying for a Higher Certificate in Management is substantially cheaper than enrolling for a degree. The programme is designed to be financially accessible, offering affordable tuition fees without compromising the quality of education.
FPD’s Higher Certificate in Management is competitively priced, making it an affordable option for those looking to enhance their management skills. Thanks to the programme’s flexibility to study online in your own time, you can earn while you learn and do not have to stop working to advance your skills.
Investment in a Higher Certificate in Management pays dividends in terms of career advancement and personal development. The programme focuses on practical work skills and directly applies to what you will encounter in the business environment.
Not only do higher certificate programmes have much cheaper tuition fees than degrees, they are also much quicker to complete. This means you can improve your job prospects more quickly with a higher certificate than with a degree.
Completing an online programme such as FPD's Higher Certificate in Management also allows the flexibility to continue working, meaning that you do not fall behind your colleagues and peers while you advance your education.
A Higher Certificate in Management programme typically includes various fundamental components designed to equip students with essential managerial skills to prepare them for entry-level management roles and to handle day-to-day business operations with confidence.
The Higher Certificate in Management offered by FPD includes modules that equip students with essential skills in business communication, financial management, human resource management and organisational behaviour, providing a comprehensive foundation for emerging managers.
The following are some of the key components and skills that are taught in a Higher Certificate in Management programme.
The principles of management are fundamental guidelines that inform the practices and decision-making processes within organisations. By completing a Higher Certificate in Management, students will gain an understanding of these principles, allowing them to manage an organisation and its operations effectively. You can read our FAQ on the 12 principles of project management further down, which can also be applied to the wider management of an organisation as a whole.
The principles of management are covered under various modules in the FPD’s Higher Certificate in Management programme, such as Effective Leadership Strategies and Supervisory Skills & Teamwork. These modules explore topics such as self-management planning, effective group management, leadership skills, business operations, project management principles and human resource laws. By understanding and applying these concepts, students will enhance their managerial capabilities, enabling them to contribute effectively to their organisation's success in dynamic environments.
Business managers need to be adept at business communications and negotiations. Business communication involves the clear and concise exchange of information within and outside the organisation. Negotiation skills, on the other hand, involve reaching mutually beneficial agreements between parties. Together, these skills are essential for resolving conflicts, closing deals and fostering strong professional relationships.
The FPD Higher Certificate in Management includes modules such as Managing Self and Supervisory Skills & Teamwork, which cover critical aspects of business communication and negotiation skills. These modules help students develop effective verbal and non-verbal communication techniques and teach strategies for successful negotiation.
To learn more about this topic, you can read about the different communication styles and negotiation skills in our previous article on conflict management.
Strategic planning and implementation are important management skills that involve setting long-term goals and determining the best strategies to achieve them. This process includes analysing the business environment, defining the mission and vision, setting strategic objectives and developing action plans. Effective implementation ensures that these plans are executed efficiently to achieve the desired outcomes.
Elements of these skills are integrated into modules in FPD Higher Certificate in Management such as Effective Leadership Strategies and Organisational Learning. These modules help students develop long-term goals, analyse business environments and create actionable plans to achieve strategic objectives.
Financial management and budgeting play an important role in business management. This involves planning, organising, controlling and monitoring financial resources to achieve organisational goals. Budgeting includes forecasting revenues, estimating expenses and managing cash flow to ensure financial stability. Effective financial management helps in making informed decisions, optimising resource allocation and achieving financial objectives.
FPD’s Higher Certificate in Management programme includes the module Introduction to Financial Management, which teaches the fundamental principles and concepts of financial management and covers topics such as financial analysis, budgeting, financial forecasting, risk management and capital budgeting. The module is designed to equip students with the skills to contribute positively to an organisation’s financial health and success.
Human resource management (HRM) and organisational behaviour are key aspects of a business management programme as they both play important roles in building a productive workforce and fostering a positive organisational culture. HRM focuses on the effective management of people within an organisation. It involves recruitment, training, performance appraisal and employee relations. Organisational behaviour studies how individuals and groups interact within an organisation, aiming to improve organisational effectiveness and employee well-being.
FPD’s higher certificate programme includes modules such as Foundations of Human Resource Management and Organisational Learning, which cover essential topics in HRM and organisational behaviour. These modules teach recruitment, employee development and performance management and include the study of individual and group behaviour within organisations.
Completing a management programme such as the Higher Certificate in Management is highly beneficial to the professional development of any manager. The higher certificate programme aids professional development by equipping individuals with essential skills such as strategic thinking, leadership and effective communication.
These programmes help managers improve their strategic thinking, leadership and communication skills. Management programmes often include modules on financial management, organisational behaviour and human resources, which are critical for managerial roles. By enhancing these skills, professionals are better prepared to handle complex business challenges and drive organisational success.
While the Higher Certificate in Management is aimed at entry-level managers, many management programmes cater for more experienced managers who want to engage in professional development and further advance their careers. Examples of more advanced management programmes include the Advanced Certificate in Management for mid-level managers and the Advanced Management Programme (AMP) Alliance Manchester Business School for senior managers.
The following are some of the ways that a management programme can benefit your professional development.
Engaging in management programmes can significantly boost career prospects by equipping individuals with the necessary credentials and practical skills sought by employers.
Programmes such as the Higher Certificate in Management provide practical skills and vocational knowledge that are highly valued in the job market, increasing employability and the potential for promotions. Graduates often find themselves eligible for higher-level positions with increased responsibilities and higher salaries.
Obtaining an education in management enhances professional skills and empowers students to take on leadership roles confidently by fostering personal growth and self-confidence. By participating in these programmes, managers gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement, leading to greater self-awareness and confidence in their abilities.
Practical exercises, case studies and feedback from peers and instructors further support the personal development of students who complete a good management programme. Through this experiential learning, individuals will become more confident and capable of navigating complex scenarios and making informed decisions. This boosts their confidence in leading teams and managing projects.
A large part of business management involves creative problem-solving and innovative thinking. These skills are developed in a management programme by exposing participants to the latest business trends and creative problem-solving techniques.
Management programmes are also of immense value to aspiring entrepreneurs as they teach all the skills needed to run a business. This is particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs as they often decide to start a business or company because of their expertise in a particular field or industry, but they don’t always have the business and management skills to successfully run a business.
Management programmes inspire managers to think creatively and develop new solutions for business challenges. This is of great benefit to both those wishing to innovate within and grow an existing business or to grow a new business from scratch.
The business landscape is constantly changing and it is doing so at an ever more rapid pace. This means that lifelong learning and continuous improvement are essential if you do not want to fall behind in your career.
Even highly experienced managers can benefit from the exposure to new ideas and trends that are offered within a business management programme. For example, someone who studied business management 20 years ago would not have learnt many of the digital skills that are essential in today’s work world. Fast forward to today and the first module of the Higher Certificate in Management is on digital literacy.
Management programmes also instil the importance of staying updated with industry developments and continuously seeking personal and professional growth. This mindset encourages managers to pursue further education, attend workshops and participate in professional development activities throughout their careers.
Engaging in lifelong learning and keeping your skills and knowledge current with emerging trends and technologies will protect you from career stagnation and redundancy.
The Foundation for Professional Development (FPD) offers several online management programmes to cater for aspiring managers as well as those who have many years of experience in the field. As with all of FPD's online programmes, the management programmes are studied entirely online, allowing you to study at times that are convenient for you.
In addition to the two-year Higher Certificate in Management that we have covered in this article, there is the mid-level Advanced Certificate in Management that also takes two years to complete and the higher level Advanced Management Programme Alliance Manchester Business School for experienced managers, which takes one year to complete.
Take the next step toward a successful career in management with the Higher Certificate in Management from the Foundation for Professional Development (FPD). This fully online programme is designed for both aspiring managers and current professionals, offering the flexibility to study in your own available time, wherever you are.
All you need to apply is a National Senior Certificate or an equivalent qualification. This accredited certification not only enhances your knowledge but also strengthens your resume, setting you apart in today’s competitive job market.
Click here to request more information from one of our application specialists. Begin your leadership journey today and open doors to new career opportunities in management.