Business Management

General Management Certificate

Acquire essential managerial skills and foundational business knowledge with an accredited certificate designed for aspiring leaders and professionals.

Description

The General Management Certificate equips students with the knowledge and practical tools needed to manage people, processes, and resources in modern organisations. Designed for newcomers to management, this programme blends theory and practical application to ensure students are prepared for real-world challenges in leadership and operations.

Students will explore key management disciplines including systems thinking, financial management, customer engagement, sustainability, and innovation. The curriculum also covers strategic decision-making, leadership diversity, and business ethics, supported by practical case studies, exercises, and real-world examples.

On completion, students will be able to take on management responsibilities with confidence, applying frameworks and best practices to guide organisational performance. This certificate is accredited by the QCTO and endorsed internationally by QLS, ensuring both local and global recognition.

What You’ll Gain

  • Understand the core principles of business and general management.
  • Apply systems thinking to analyse and manage organisational challenges.
  • Manage budgets, financial reports, and resources effectively.
  • Conduct market research and apply competitive analysis frameworks.
  • Implement marketing, innovation, and sustainability strategies.
  • Lead diverse teams using modern leadership approaches.
  • Resolve workplace conflicts with structured strategies and emotional intelligence.

Included in the Course

  • Dedicated student support during office hours via WhatsApp, phone, email, and live chat.
  • Fully online delivery with no offline option.
  • Immediate access to structured modules and supplementary materials.
  • Certification awarded in both digital and physical formats upon completion.
  • Access to interactive case studies, videos, and management toolkits.
Foundations of Management

Learn the fundamentals of management, leadership, and entrepreneurship, guided by Fayol and Mintzberg’s principles.

Systems Thinking and Strategy

Understand how systems thinking and strategic analysis support long-term business resilience.

Finance and Resource Management

Gain skills in budgeting, ratio analysis, and resource allocation to support decision-making.

Customer and Market Focus

Apply research methods and competitive frameworks to understand customer needs and industry dynamics.

Innovation, Ethics, and Sustainability

Develop strategies that balance innovation, governance, and sustainable practices for long-term growth.

General Management Certificate

QCTO Accredited
QLS Endorsed
NQF Level 5 Skills Programme
11 Modules
6 to 13 weeks
Self-Paced
College
Accelerate Management School
Accreditation No.
SP-210409
Credits
8
Full course access, accredited certification, and ongoing learner support valued at
R 10 890
.
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Entry Requirements
  • Matric/Grade 12 qualification.
  • Mature age exemption for candidates 23 years or older.
  • Proficient English literacy.
  • Reliable internet access.
  • Suitable mobile or desktop device.
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Course Introduction

This short video gives you a quick overview of your course, what to expect, and how to get the best out of your learning experience.

What you can
expect to learn

Students can expect a flexible, self-paced online programme that combines management theory with applied case studies and exercises. The course provides practical insights and real-world applications to ensure immediate workplace relevance.

Support is available during office hours to guide students throughout the programme. Certification is awarded in both digital and physical formats, providing students with credentials recognised locally and internationally. Students also enjoy 24-month access for maximum flexibility.

Career Opportunities

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Course Structure

11 Modules
6 to 13 weeks
Module
1
Overview of Business Management

Introduction to management roles, principles, and entrepreneurship.

  • Apply Fayol’s principles.
  • Analyse Mintzberg’s managerial roles.
  • Understand entrepreneurship basics.
Module
2
The Business Environment

Explore external business forces and analysis tools.

  • Apply STEEPLE analysis.
  • Evaluate globalisation’s impact.
  • Analyse external factors affecting performance.
Module
3
Management and Leadership

Understand the distinction and overlaps between management and leadership.

  • Analyse authority and power.
  • Apply leadership diversity frameworks.
  • Explore contemporary leadership styles.
Module
4
Systems Thinking

Apply systems thinking to management challenges.

  • Use the iceberg model.
  • Analyse organisational interdependencies.
  • Solve problems using systems approaches.
Module
5
Financial Management and Budgeting

Develop financial literacy for management.

  • Interpret financial reports.
  • Manage budgets.
  • Apply ratio analysis.
Module
6
Customer Focus and Market Research

Learn how to understand and engage with customers.

  • Apply market research methods.
  • Conduct survey design.
  • Use Porter’s Five Forces for market analysis.
Module
7
Strategic Analysis and Decision-Making Frameworks

Explore strategic tools for competitive advantage.

  • Apply SWOT and SELECT frameworks.
  • Use Porter’s strategies.
  • Align strategy to organisational goals.
Module
8
Marketing

Understand marketing concepts and applications.

  • Apply the 6 Ps and 4 Cs frameworks.
  • Explore advertising and brand equity.
  • Conduct segmentation strategies.
Module
9
Business Innovation and Creative Problem Solving

Explore innovation drivers and problem-solving techniques.

  • Apply creative thinking frameworks.
  • Analyse types of innovation.
  • Build innovation strategies.
Module
10
Business Sustainability

Learn to integrate sustainability into business practice.

  • Apply CSR and King IV governance.
  • Implement ethical frameworks.
  • Design sustainability strategies.
Module
11
Conflict Management

Develop conflict resolution skills in business contexts.

  • Identify sources and types of conflict.
  • Apply conflict resolution strategies.
  • Use emotional intelligence in conflict management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are course materials provided?

Yes. Students receive structured course modules, assessments, and resources. Content remains accessible for at least 24 months after enrolment for ongoing reference.

Can international students enrol?

Yes. All courses are accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO, SA) and endorsed by the Quality Licence Scheme (QLS, UK), ensuring both national and international recognition.

Does the course include practical exercises?

Yes. Every programme combines theory with practical assignments, case studies, and applied assessments to ensure real-world learning.

Is dedicated student support available?

Yes. Real human support is available via WhatsApp, live chat, phone, and email in multiple languages. Response times are SLA-driven, with live channels responding within minutes.

What are the prerequisites for enrolment?

A Matric/Grade 12 (or equivalent), reliable internet access, and English proficiency are required. Some specialised courses may recommend prior work experience.

What devices are required for the course?

The platform is mobile-first and works on smartphones, tablets, or desktops. Courses are optimised for low-data use and include offline-ready options for rural or low-bandwidth areas.

Will I receive certification upon completion?

Yes. On successful completion, students receive an accredited certificate in both digital and physical formats, recognised locally and internationally

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To access this course, your organisation must be a LearnSquad partner. If your company is already registered, you’ll receive login details by email to complete enrolment.

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If you don’t have login credentials yet, please check with your HR or training department. Not a partner yet?

This is your final step before enrolment. Once payment is confirmed, you’ll receive an email with your course details and login instructions.
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