The Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate is the second course in the ICB Business Management Programme. Remember that you have to complete the previous course which is the Small Business Financial Management course to gain entry into this course.
During this course, you will focus more on the administrative aspect of a business. Additionally, it aims to provide you with more skills on how to run an office. It also focuses on basic Legal Practices and Human Resource Management.
| Certificate Type | ICB Higher Certificate |
| Awarded By | FASSET |
| Award Type | National Certificate and a Programme Completion Certificate |
| NQF Level | Level 5 |
| SAQA ID | 23619 |
| Credits | 240 |
| Entry Requirements |
|
Office Administration - Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate Subjects
First Complete the Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate subjects:
- Business Management 1
- Bookkeeping To Trial Balance
- Business Literacy
and then Complete the subjects for Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate:
- Office and Legal Practice
- Business Management 2
- Marketing Management and Public Relations
- Financial Statements
- Human Resources Management and Labour Relations
After successfully completing and passing all of the above subjects you will be awarded the Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate.
Career Opportunities
- Administrative Clerk
- Branch Administrator
- Buyers Assistant
- Compliance Support Agent
- Customer Service Manager
- Database Administrator
- Data Capturer
- Field / Floor / Store / Department Supervisor
- Labour Relations Manager
- Office and Procurement Administratrator
- Office Manager
- Personal Assistant to a Director
- Senior Office Administrator
- Secretary
- Team Leader: Student Support Office
What Will I Learn?
You will learn a variety of skills in this course, from Legal Practice to Human Resource Management. Here are some of the most important skills you will learn during this course:
- Managing your work schedule and diary
- Apply law, marketing, and economics in a business setting
- Work closely with Human Resource Departments
- Operate effectively and efficiently as an Office Manager
Business Management 2: This subject aims to teach you how to manage a business. You will learn more about how to run a business as you progress to the next course. Keep in mind that you will have this subject in the next course as well.
Office and Legal Practice: In this subject, you will learn the basics of how to run an office as well as the basics of the legal practice of an office. Legal Practice covers topics such as:
- How to deal with rules, policies, customs etc.
- The general practice of law
Marketing Management and Public Relations: Taking this subject will help students understand and manage marketing aspects of a business. It also helps students recognise how to manage an organisation’s image.
Financial Statements: You will learn how to record, manage, and present financial activities in a business in this subject.
Human Resources Management and Labour Relations: You will learn how important it is for employees to work closely with management. Additionally, you will learn how to address workplace concerns.
Office Administration - Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate Assessments
With the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) unique assessment criteria, you have the best chance of success. The final exam will be accompanied by a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE). Each subject will have a PoE. You are able to pass successfully since 70% of your final grade is based on the exams. The remaining 30 % will be determined by your assignments and online tests.
Portfolio of Evidence
Your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) will determine whether or not you are ready for the exams. The PoE consists of
- 3 Formative Assignments
- Two internal tests.
To qualify for the exams, you must complete the PoE.
Exams
The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers has two types of exams, namely:
- Online Exams
- Paper-based Exams
Students have these options because ICB recognised that each student have different preferences. Due to COVID protocols, they have chosen to administer their exams online. Many students began to prefer online exams to paper-based exams after first being hesitant about them.
Online Exams
Online exams are a great option for students who wish to study from home, BUT this option is not restricted to distance learning students. It is also possible for face-to-face students to take the online exams, but they have to make sure with their College before applying for the online exams.
Online exams are between (01:00 pm – 04:30 pm). For distance learning students, you can apply and pay for the exam registration through the ICB Student Portal. Face to face students can apply via their College.
Paper-Based Exams
A paper-based exam is written at a specific location. Distance learning students may also book these exams online.
Paper-based exams are between (09:00 am – 12:30 pm). If you are a distance learning student, you can apply and pay for the exam registration on the ICB Student Portal.
NOTE: The ICB distance venues (paper-based exams) can only accommodate a limited number of students due to COVID-19 protocols. Book your paper-based exam early to avoid disappointment.
Also NOTE: The ICB can cancel or withdraw any exams and / or venues at any time. Getting accepted into any exam booking by the ICB does not guarantee the exam sitting. Students who are affected by canceled exams will be offered alternative exam dates.
A Higher Certificate in general refers to study programmes that are primarily focused on vocational studies. This means that the course will focus on the practical skills you will learn to improve your performance in the workplace.
With regards to the ICB Office Administration – Business Management course, a Higher Certificate indicates that a student knows more than the basics of Business Management. The level of understanding is on an Intermediate level.
This means that the student can further their studies with an advanced certificate. In the case of the ICB Business Management Programme, you can complete a Diploma course in the Business Management Programme, Office Administration Programme OR at a university.
NOTE: each university has its own entry requirements and separate entry requirements for its courses.
E.g you may gain entry to the university BUT not the course you wish to complete.
- Find employment
- Further your studies with ICB in the Business Management Programme
- Further your studies with another ICB Programme
Find Employment
After completing your studies you can find employment. Please keep in mind the following factors when applying:-
- The position you are applying for: Make sure that the hiring criteria state that they need someone who has your level of education or a qualification that is similar to yours.
- Your level of experience: the amount of experience you have determines whether you will find employment. Apply for positions with your level of experience.
- The company meets your values: Make sure that the company meets your personal values. This will determine whether you will be happy in the workplace.
Further Your Studies With ICB In The Business Management Programme
Our ICB Business Management Programme consists of three courses:- Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate
- Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate
- Financial Accounting – Business Management: ICB National Diploma
Further Your Studies With Another ICB Programme
We offer three ICB Programmes, namely: ICB Programmes have the advantage of allowing you to change from one Programme to the next. This is because most of the subjects in all of the Programmes are the same. You can complete one Programme or Course and start another Programme OR Course. Below you will find a list of the different ICB Programmes with their Courses and subjects. See how similar the subjects are. Here we have only highlighted up to the Higher Certificate courses for all of our ICB Programmes as an example.| ICB Office Administration | ICB Business Management | ICB Financial Accounting |
|---|---|---|
| First Course (Certificate) | ||
| Business and Office Administration 1 | Business Management 1 | Bookkeeping To Trial Balance |
| Bookkeeping To Trial Balance | Bookkeeping to Trial Balance | Payroll and Monthly SARS Returns |
| Business Literacy | Business Literacy | Computerised Bookkeeping |
| Marketing Management and Public Relations | Business Literacy | |
| Business Law and Administrative Practice | ||
| Cost and Management Accounting | ||
| Second Course (Higher Certificate / Further Education and Training Certificate) | ||
| Business And Office Administration 2 | Office and Legal Practice | Financial Statements |
| Human Resources Management and Labour Relations | Business Management 2 | Cost and Management Accounting |
| Economics | Marketing Management and Public Relations | |
| Financial Statements | ||
| Human Resources Management and Labour Relations | ||
| Third Course (Diploma) | ||
| Business and Office Administration 3 | Business Management 3 | Income Tax Returns |
| Financial Statements | Financial Management and Control | Business Law and Accounting Control |
| Management | ||
| Fourth Course (Diploma) | ||
| Corporate Strategy | ||
| Management Accounting Control Systems | ||
| Financial Reporting and Regulatory Frameworks | ||
| Research Theory and Practice |
Yes, Office Administration – Business Management is a good course. You learn skills that will not only help you in your field of study but also learn skills that can assist you in any other job you get into. This means that you are gaining transferable skills.
Office Administration is a very important field of study in South Africa for the following reasons:
- They are scarce skill qualifications: This means that they are in high demand
- They provide transferable skills: You can use these skills in most businesses
Required in every business: Every business requires someone with these skills to ensure that the business is run smoothly
Here are the many benefits of studying an Office Administration – Business Management course at Matric College:
- You can study and work: We are a distance learning college
- Distance learning courses are affordable: You can pay for your studies on a monthly basis There is a lot of flexibility: This means that you can decide when and how you want to study because we are a distance learning college
- You will gain scarce skills: This means that your skills are high in demand. In South Africa, these particular skills are required in almost every business
Develop or strengthen your organisational skills: This course generally involves skills that require you to be organised and have the ability to manage a group of people well
Yes, you can get a job with a Higher Certificate. Here are some of the options you have:
- Internships: This is a learning opportunity for students who have just graduated from a course. Employers give students the opportunity to gain real-work experience and they give students a stipend
- Learnerships: This is also a learning opportunity for students to gain both practical and theoretical knowledge. You will also receive a stipend from your employer
Full-time employment: You can find full-time employment after completing your Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate
Your Next Step Is To Get Your Financial Accounting - Business Management: ICB National Diploma
This is the third and final course in the ICB Business Management Programme. In this course, you will learn even more about the Business Management Programme and gain an in-depth understanding of Business Management. This course includes the following subjects:
Business Management 3
Financial Management and Control
Financial Reporting and Regulatory Frameworks
Research Theory and Practice (by short dissertation, topic: Business Management)
Why Choose To Study With Matric College?
Matric College is the perfect option for students who are comfortable with distance learning. Distance learning is a type of learning that does not require you to attend physical classes. Busy students can take advantage of this type of learning. Below are some reasons why you should study with us:
- We offer unique payment options: We offer a variety of payment options. You can choose from the following payment options:
- Advance payments (Paying for your studies in full)
- Split payments (Half at the beginning of the year and the other half at the end of the year)
- Monthly payments (make a fixed monthly payment)
- Unique payment method (we will work with you to find a payment method that works for both of us)
- You can study and work: You can work full-time while studying full-time. You do not need to attend classes. You will only submit assignments, take tests, and write the final exam.
- Set up your own study schedule: You can decide how much time you want to devote to studying. At Matric College, we understand the importance of balancing family life, earning a living, and studying.
- Get tutor assistance from us: We have tutors that can assist you when you are struggling with the work. Contact our tutors by filling out our online form or requesting a callback
Our friendly support team checks in on your progress: We will contact you regularly to find out OR remind you about assignments and exams.
Here is the meaning of a Higher Certificate:
| FOCUS | TIME FRAME | ENTRY REQUIREMENTS |
This qualification is a skills-focused qualification. It aims to help students with specific skills that can assist with understanding the basics of their field of study. It also gives some practical knowledge. | It usually takes between 12 months to 24 months to complete. | In the case of our course, you MUST complete the Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate course to gain entry to the Higher Certificate course. |
The ICB Business Management Programme is made up of 12 subjects. Each one of these is important and teaches you everything you need to know about Business Management. The main subject that appears throughout the programme is:
- Business and Office Administration 1
- Business and Office Administration 2
- Business and Office Administration 3
| Sections Of Differences | Office Manager | Office Administrator |
|---|---|---|
| Responsibilities | Decides how the workflow should be organised. | Coordinates the various administrative tasks |
| Skills | Analytical skills Managing Budgets Resolving disputes Ability to make decisions A sense of emotional intelligence The ability to lead | Knowledge of computers and technology Ability to conduct research and analyse data The ability to manage time effectively Exceptional attention to detail |
| Education | Degree course You need to have a Matric or Matric Equivalent Certificate You can start your career with a Diploma or Degree course*Note that each workplace has its own requirements | You need to have a Matric or Matric Equivalent Certificate You can start your career with a Certificate course OR*Note that each workplace has its own requirements |
| Training | Most Office Managers do not receive on-the-job training when they start their training because they should have a lot of experience in similar positions | Office Administrators typically receive on-the-job training for a few weeks up to a month. Office Administrators that work in the medical or technical field may need more training |
| Experience | If you are interested in becoming an Office Manager, you should have at least 2 to 4 years of experience. Ideally, you should also possess strong leadership OR management skills. *It is important to note that companies typically hire applicants with specific skills. Each company has its own requirements that can vary. | If you are interested in becoming an Office Administrator, you should have at least 1 to 2 years of experience. Ideally, you should also possess strong leadership AND Organisational skills *It is important to note that companies typically hire applicants with specific skills. Each company has its own requirements that can vary. |
| Expected Salary | Office Managers are generally paid more than Office Administrators. Office Managers in South Africa earn an average salary of R 17 000 to R 50 000 per month. Office Administrators in South Africa earns an average salary of R 15 000 to R 30 000 per month. | |
Yes, you can study a Business Management Programme without a Matric. You only need to have a Grade 11 Certificate to apply. If you do NOT have a Grade 11 Certificate, you can apply for our ICB Bridging course (Junior Bookkeeping: ICB National Certificate) with your Grade 10 Certificate.
The difference between a Higher Certificate and a Bachelor’s Degree is that a Higher Certificate is at NQF Level 5 and a Bachelor’s Degree is at NQF Level 7. Here are some other differences:
| Differences | Higher Certificate | Bachelor’s Degree |
| NQF Level | 5 | 7 |
| Credits | 240 | 360 |
| Awarded by | Generally, a distance learning college, TVET College etc. | Generally, awarded by a University |
Yes, an Office Administrative Higher Certificate is worth it. To find out if this certificate is worth it for you, you need to determine whether or not it will add value to your education or your experience level. Follow these steps to determine if the ICB Office Administration: Higher Certificate course is worth it for you:
- Find your career path
- Look for accredited certificates related to your career
- Decide how much money you would like to spend
- Think about what you want for your future
Step 1: Find Your Career Path
This is the first and most important step to knowing whether or not the ICB Office Administration: Higher Certificate course is the right choice. If you do not have an interest in this field of studies then you should consider another stream. For example, ICB Business Management or ICB Financial Accounting stream.
It will also let you know whether you need a certificate in the field in order to be successful. Even though Business Management skills can be acquired, employers tend to choose candidates that have an educational background in the field of studies.
Step 2: Look For Accredited Certificates Related To Your Career
Accredited certificates are a sure way to get employed. The ICB Office Administration: Higher Certificate course is not only accredited by the ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) themselves BUT is also accredited by the QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations). ICB courses are accredited nationally and internationally.
Step 3: Decide How Much Money You Would Like To Spend
This is a very important aspect of studying. Many students do not further their education because they assume that it would cost them a lot of money. With all ICB courses, you only pay for the subjects you choose to write which means that you can save up and then write the exams.
You can also work and study. This means that you do not have to leave your current place of employment.
Step 4: Think About What You Want For Your Future
Do you want to go into a career that is in demand and will make money or do you want a career that you believe can make a change in the world? These are the questions that you should think about when you look at what the future holds for your career choice.
A Higher Certificate in Office Administration has 240 credits. Credits can be identified by the duration of the course, study time and examinations. Credits determine the learning outcomes achieved within the duration of the course you have completed. Here is what you need to know about the credits:
- One credit is awarded for 10 hours of successful learning activity
- There is a link between “credits” and “learning time”. The emphasis on “learning time” is the learning achieved and NOT the time spent. This means that you have passed a module
- Credits are awarded based on a specific learning outcome (mark / percentage achieved). You cannot achieve more than the credits achieved at a certain level BUT your achievements can be recognised through your marks OR percentage achieved for a particular subject or subjects
Application Process
Here is how you can apply for the Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate Course:
Step 1: Contact us
You can contact us using the following methods:
- Fill out the online application form
- Book a call
- Our landline number is (021 838 8295)
- Visit us at our physical address
Step 2: Speak to one of our friendly course experts
You will have the opportunity to speak with our course experts so that we can determine which course would be best for you.
Step 3: Register for one of our courses
As a distance learning college, we accept applications any time of year.
Step 4: Write the exams
Start your first course and then continue your studies. You can apply for the next course in the ICB Business Management Programme after you have passed the exams. The next course is the Financial Accounting – Business Management: ICB National Diploma.
How Do I Study An Office Administration - Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate Course?
| Step 1: Follow the instructions in your registration pack to become an ICB student |
| Step 2: Register on ICB MACCI to get your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) |
| Step 3: Upload your assignments to ICB MACCI |
| Step 4: Take the open book tests on ICB MACCI |
| Step 5: Register for the final exam on ICB MACCI |
| Step 6: Take the online OR paper-based exams |
| Step 7: You will receive your Matric Certificate once you have successfully completed your course |
When Can I Start Studying An Office Administration - Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate Course?
No matter what time of year it is, you can start studying. Matric College is a distance learning institution. Therefore, you can apply whenever you are ready. The exam process is the same.
Once you feel ready to write the exams, you can register on the ICB Student Portal. By doing this, you are fully in control of your studies and future career development.
Where Can I Study An Office Administration - Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate Course?
You can study an ICB course through distance learning. Matric College is one of the many distance learning institutions that offer ICB Courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) is an Independent External Examination body. This Institute offers three ICB Programmes through accredited institutions. While ICB does not offer the courses themselves, there are training providers that provide these programmes.
Matric College is one of the training providers that offer the course and study material for the course. ICB administers the exams, online tests, final examinations, assignments, and the Portfolio of Evidence.
ICB Student Portal is one of two online portals (the other is ICB MACCI) that are available to students to
- Sign up as an ICB student
- Take the ICB Exam (Matric College does not register students for exams)
- Documents and qualification certificates can be retrieved as digital copies
- Pay the associated fees to for the ICB
- Update your personal information
Students can access ICB MACCI as a second online portal that allows them to:
- Follow the progress of their course
- Complete and submit your assignments
- Write online tests and exams
- Complete their Digital Portfolio of Evidence
Yes, ICB will accept Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL for work experience and studies completed within five years of starting an ICB Programme.
Credits are awarded for work experience and previous studies if they are recognised by the National Qualification Framework (NQF). Your qualification must have a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) ID.
It Is Important To Note That Credit Exemptions Are Not Guaranteed.
Yes, ICB has associated fees for all the programmes and courses they offer which can be paid directly to the ICB. Associated fees include:
- Registration Fees
- Exam-Related Fees
- And Recognition of Prior Learning Fees
Above are the most updated prices of fees due to the ICB. Fees are correct as of the date of publication and are subject to change.
Once your results have been reviewed and your Qualification is approved for Graduation, ICB will direct FASSET to print your certificate. FASSET will then prepare your Certificate which gets sent to Matric College. We will then send your Certificate to you via courier.
This process can take between 3 – 6 Months.
Yes, ICB courses are recognised nationally and internationally. Here is how they are accredited:
Nationally Accredited
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
- Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)
- Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB)
- All training providers are accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
Internationally Accredited
The courses provided by the ICB are internationally recognised by professional bodies or membership for further studies. Here are all the professional bodies:
- ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants – UK)
- CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants – UK)
- IAB (International Association of Bookkeepers – UK)
IAAP (International Association of Accounting Professionals – UK)
R 8 906 per month
The average salary for an Office Administrator is R 8 906 per month in South Africa
Source: Indeed
Other ICB Office Administration Courses
Author: Jesmé Africa
Editor: Amy Venter
Date Published: February 22, 2022
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