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Postgraduate Diploma in Public Finance
Days
Hours
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Apply by:
01 October 2024
01 October 2024
start by:
01 October 2024
01 October 2024
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Finance
The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Finance is designed to prepare professionals for senior financial management roles within the public sector. The programme provides advanced knowledge and applied expertise in public finance law, public finance management, auditing, public sector accounting, ethics, research, and governance. Learners develop the ability to critically analyse financial information, apply legislative and policy frameworks, and manage complex financial processes across national, provincial, and local government environments.
Aligned with National Treasury competency requirements and recognised by the Chartered Institute of Government Finance, Audit and Risk Officers (CIGFARO), the qualification equips learners with the specialised skills needed to support accountable, ethical, and efficient public financial management. Graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to public service delivery, policy implementation, financial oversight, and strategic decision-making within the public sector.
Requirements and Opportunities
Admission requirements
To apply for this qualification, a student must have:
- An Advanced Diploma in Public Finance or a Bachelor of Administration in Public Finance (both NQF Level 7).
Technical requirements
To successfully complete your online qualification, you will need:
• A laptop or desktop computer
• A stable internet connection
• To be computer literate
Modules & Credits
Fees are paid per module. The programme will be completed over two years. Compulsory modules - 120 credits
Fees are subject to an annual increase.
Auditing VA
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module provides students with an advanced understanding of auditing within the public sector environment. The module focuses on the evaluation of governance, risk management, and financial management practices within organisations governed by the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) and the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). Students will explore the role of auditing in public institutions, including the responsibilities of the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) in auditing financial and performance information. The module further examines compliance with legislation, accounting standards, Treasury regulations, strategic planning, budgeting, and performance management processes. Emphasis is placed on accountability, consequence management, and the oversight role of parliamentary and legislative committees such as SCOPA in monitoring audit outcomes and governance practices within the public sector.
Auditing VB
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module develops students’ understanding of risk management processes within complex public sector environments. Students will examine formal approaches to identifying, assessing, managing, and monitoring operational and strategic risks in public institutions. The module explores the role of governance structures, assurance providers, audit committees, and risk committees in supporting effective risk management and organisational oversight. Emphasis is placed on understanding the responsibilities of executive authorities and management in designing and implementing control activities to mitigate risks and ensure sound governance practices. Students will strengthen their ability to apply risk management principles within public sector auditing and financial management contexts.
Professional Standards and Ethics in Public Sector V Part A*
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module develops advanced knowledge and applied competence in professional ethics, conduct, and standards within the public sector financial management and auditing environment. Students will examine the ethical principles and professional codes of conduct prescribed by international and national professional bodies and apply them in complex and unfamiliar public sector scenarios. The module focuses on ethical decision-making, professional accountability, and compliance with legislation and professional standards relevant to public sector practice. Through practical case studies based on real workplace contexts, students will develop the ability to apply ethical principles and professional judgement in challenging and dynamic public sector environments.
Professional Standards and Ethics in Public Sector V Part B*
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module advances students’ ability to critically evaluate and apply professional ethics and standards within complex public sector financial and auditing contexts. Students will explore ethical dilemmas, governance challenges, and professional responsibilities affecting public sector institutions and officials. The module emphasises ethical leadership, accountability, compliance, and responsible decision-making in accordance with legislative and professional requirements. Through applied case studies and scenario-based learning, students will strengthen their ability to exercise sound ethical judgement and uphold professional standards in diverse and evolving public sector environments.
Research in Public Finance V Part A*
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module equips students with advanced research knowledge and skills required to conduct independent research in the field of Public Finance. The module develops students’ understanding of scientific research principles, methodologies, and critical enquiry relevant to contemporary public-sector challenges. Students will explore the formulation of research topics, research problems, and research aims, as well as literature reviews, theoretical and conceptual frameworks, research design, sampling methods, quantitative and qualitative research approaches, data collection techniques, and data analysis methods. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking, academic writing, and research proposal development skills in preparation for postgraduate research within Public Finance.
Research in Public Finance V Part B*
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module provides students with the opportunity to apply advanced research methodologies and theoretical knowledge to an independent research project within the field of Public Finance. Students will conduct scholarly research addressing contemporary public sector issues while demonstrating competence in research design, data analysis, interpretation of findings, and academic writing. The module focuses on producing a coherent and academically rigorous research report that reflects critical enquiry, methodological competence, and professional research standards. Emphasis is placed on applying research to support informed decision-making and contribute to knowledge development within the public finance sector.
Public Finance and Accounting V
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module develops advanced knowledge and practical skills in public sector accounting and financial management across all spheres of government. Students will gain an understanding of accounting systems, the recording of financial transactions, and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with National Treasury requirements, the PFMA, and the MFMA. The module focuses on revenue, expenditure, ledger management, and the practical application of legislation, regulations, and accounting guidelines within public sector environments. Emphasis is placed on preparing students for management-level responsibilities through practical exercises based on real government contexts and financial management scenarios.
Public Finance Law V
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module provides students with an advanced understanding of the legislative and regulatory frameworks governing public-sector financial management in South Africa. Students will examine the laws, regulations, and governance principles applicable to national, provincial, and local government institutions. The module focuses on the interpretation and practical application of legislation relevant to the management of public finances and the responsibilities of financial managers within the public sector. Emphasis is placed on developing a comprehensive understanding of public finance law, regulatory compliance, and the legal foundations underpinning public sector financial management practices.
Public Finance Management V
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module focuses on strategic planning, financial reporting, and financial analysis across the three spheres of government. Students will develop advanced knowledge and practical skills required for effective public financial management at a management level. The module explores strategic planning processes, financial reporting requirements, and performance analysis within public sector institutions. Emphasis is placed on applying public finance legislation, accounting standards, and governance principles to support sound financial decision-making and accountability. Practical exercises grounded in real government contexts enable students to strengthen their analytical, strategic, and managerial competencies in public-sector environments.
Office Practice and Interpersonal Relations V
Module Fees:
Credit: 12
This module develops students’ understanding of organisational behaviour, interpersonal relations, and group dynamics within professional and public sector environments. Students will examine various power strategies, leadership approaches, and the effective use of influence within organisations. The module explores concepts of empowerment, empowerment models, and facilitation strategies to support effective group management and teamwork. Emphasis is placed on developing interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills required to manage relationships, resolve workplace challenges, and contribute positively to organisational effectiveness and professional collaboration.
FEES
Fees are payable at the start of each module and payment must be received by the payment deadline to successfully register and start the programme.
* Fees quoted are as at 2026 and are subject to an annual increase.
* Fees quoted are as at 2026 and are subject to an annual increase.
Number of modules: 10
Programme credits: 120
Fees per programme credit: ±