Advanced Diploma · 100% online

Advanced Diploma in Business Administration

An accredited, career-focused qualification delivered 100% online — flexible starts, pay per module.

2 years
Duration
120
Credits · NQF 7
16 Jan 2027
Apply by
1 Feb 2027
Next start

About the programme

The online Advanced Diploma in Business Administration is designed for aspiring and current business professionals who want to strengthen their management capability, broaden their commercial understanding and advance their careers. This qualification equips learners with a solid understanding of the principles, processes, and techniques needed to supervise and manage business functions across a range of sectors. 

The programme develops practical, applied knowledge in areas such as business law compliance, financial statements, risk analysis, business financial management, and office management, enabling graduates to operate responsibly and effectively within modern organisations. A key strength of the qualification is its balanced focus on financial accounting, strategic business management and entrepreneurship. 

Learners gain specialised knowledge and workplace-relevant skills they can apply directly in professional settings. We also introduce preliminary research skills that support analytical thinking and informed decision-making in business practice. 

This qualification meets the need for skilled professionals who can contribute to better organisational and economic outcomes. It is particularly relevant for those seeking a stronger foundation in business administration, improved leadership potential, or preparation for more senior roles. On completion, graduates will hold a recognised qualification that can open doors to further academic progression.

The Tshwane University of Technology delivers the Advanced Diploma in Business Administration fully online. With multiple start dates a year and pay-per-module tuition, it is designed for working professionals who need to balance study with work and personal commitments.

What you will learn

  • To apply strategic management principles to analyse business challenges and make informed decisions in unfamiliar but relevant organisational contexts.
  • How to integrate entrepreneurship, innovation and business development concepts to identify opportunities and support sustainable growth
  • To interpret and apply financial accounting principles to evaluate financial information and support sound business decision-making.
  • How to use appropriate research and enquiry methods to investigate business problems and recommend practical, evidence-based solutions.
  • The skills to introduce change and improve performance within business administration environments through effective analysis, planning and problem-solving.

Modules and fees

Every module in this programme, with its credits and its own fee. You register and pay module by module.

Compulsory modules All required

Modules in the compulsory group
CodeModuleCreditsFee
AS127CN
Advanced Strategic Management IV Part A

The purpose of this module is to enable learners to engage with the knowledge and skills of strategic management within the context of various industries. Learners will develop specific knowledge and capabilities relating to the internal and external environments of an organisation, industry analysis, generic strategies and other strategic options, the development of a strategic plan, and the implementation of strategies.

15 R7 120
AS127DN
Advanced Strategic Management IV Part B

The purpose of this module is to enable learners to engage with the knowledge and skills of strategic management within the context of various industries. Learners will develop specific knowledge and capabilities relating to the internal and external environments of an organisation, industry analysis, generic strategies and other strategic options, the development of a strategic plan, and the implementation of strategies.

15 R7 120
EB127AN
Entrepreneurship IV Part A

Through the learning components of this module, students will gain insight into the various aspects of entrepreneurship as it is understood within today’s modern organisation. The module focuses on sharing practical knowledge and skills related to this important function, while engaging students and providing them with opportunities to actively participate in the learning process. This aligns with the practical orientation of courses presented at TUT, which are designed to enable students to fulfil their vocational responsibilities immediately and effectively, without the need for extensive in-service training.

15 R6 550
EB127BN
Entrepreneurship IV Part B

Through the learning components of this module, students will gain insight into the various aspects of entrepreneurship as it is understood within today’s modern organisation. The module focuses on sharing practical knowledge and skills related to this important function, while engaging students and providing them with opportunities to actively participate in the learning process. This aligns with the practical orientation of courses presented at TUT, which are designed to enable students to fulfil their vocational responsibilities immediately and effectively, without the need for extensive in-service training.

15 R6 550
FK127AN
Financial Accounting Aspects IV Part A

After successfully completing this module, students will be able to prepare financial statements for single entities. These statements are compiled within a conceptual and regulatory framework that requires an understanding of various valuation alternatives, as well as the role of legislation and accounting standards. Students will also develop the ability to apply accounting techniques and systems in preparing accounts for different types of operations and specific transactions. In addition, the module introduces the measurement of financial performance through the calculation of basic ratios.

15 R6 550
FK127BN
Financial Accounting Aspects IV Part B

After successfully completing this module, students will be able to prepare financial statements for single entities. These statements are compiled within a conceptual and regulatory framework that requires an understanding of various valuation alternatives, as well as the role of legislation and accounting standards. Students will also develop the ability to apply accounting techniques and systems in preparing accounts for different types of operations and specific transactions. In addition, the module introduces the measurement of financial performance through the calculation of basic ratios.

15 R6 550
RC127AN
Research Methodology A

Research Methodology A and B introduce learners to scientific research literature, principal qualitative and quantitative research designs, and research ethics. The modules provide a strategic foundation for selecting appropriate scientific research designs aligned with ethical research principles, the problem statement, and the intended research purpose.

15 R6 550
RC127BN
Research Methodology B

Research Methodology A and B introduce learners to scientific research literature, principal qualitative and quantitative research designs, and research ethics. The modules provide a strategic foundation for selecting appropriate scientific research designs aligned with ethical research principles, the problem statement, and the intended research purpose.

15 R6 550

Module fees are for 2026 and are reviewed annually. Where the programme includes electives, you pay only for the modules you take.

Full fees & funding

Admission requirements

To apply for this qualification, a student must have:

  • A Diploma or equivalent qualification at NQF Level 6 with a minimum of 360 credits.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and work-experience routes are available for applicants who do not meet the formal requirements — ask an adviser to assess your eligibility. An RPL assessment takes around six months.

English language requirements

All teaching, learning materials and assessment are in English. Applicants must be able to read, write and communicate in English at the level required for higher education study.

What you can do with this qualification

An accredited, career-focused qualification delivered 100% online — flexible starts, pay per module.

Career opportunities

  • Business Analyst
  • Operations Manager
  • Project Manager
  • Human Resources Generalist / Manager
  • Administrative Supervisor
  • Business Development Manager
  • Account Executive / Sales Manager

Student support

  • Tutor access
  • Student success coordinator
  • Careers service
  • Technical support
  • Fully accredited qualifications

    (Council on Higher Education)

  • 4 start dates a year

  • Pay per module — no upfront annual fee

  • Dedicated student success support

Programme FAQs

Is the qualification accredited?
Yes. This is a fully accredited qualification with the same recognition as its on-campus equivalent.
How many hours a week will I need?
Most students spend around 15–20 hours a week, but because study is online and flexible you can fit it around work and family.
How am I assessed?
Assessment is continuous and online — a mix of assignments, quizzes and projects within each module, with no need to travel to a venue.
What do I need to study online?
A computer or laptop and a stable internet connection. All learning materials are delivered through the online learning platform.
Can I pay per module?
Yes. Tuition is structured per module, so you pay as you progress rather than a full year upfront.

Request information

Complete the form and an enrolment adviser will be in touch.

Take the next step

Check your eligibility in two minutes.

Check eligibility
Call toll-free
0800 233 725