MBA

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1 MBA ACCREDITED

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3 welcome 01 Welcome to USB USB s internationally accredited MBA 3 international accreditations: AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA Strong focus on leadership development Global perspective with unique African input International Study Module International facilitators on elective courses Personal support and engaging client service Proud tradition of producing organisational leaders since 1964 We stand for responsible leadership The University of Stellenbosch Business School, located in the Tyger Valley business district in the northern part of Cape Town, offers an MBA focusing on a highly personalised leadership development journey. USB is recognised as a top school in the international business school network. It was the first school from an African university to receive all 3 international accreditations: AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. Overall, we strive to develop responsible leaders through well-grounded business education and research.

4 02 messages The University of Stellenbosch Business School is one of the few Triple Crown schools in the world schools with the three major international accreditations, namely AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. You therefore know in advance that the standard of our academic programmes, infrastructure and learner support is world-class. This is what you need to know about USB: We are deeply committed to Africa, but at the same time we educate you to function in a global business world. We will lead you to study the latest theories in a particular field, but also provide you with opportunities for the practical application in your business. We will walk the road to sharpen your critical thinking abilities, but also ignite your passion for better business skills. We will widen your strategic vision, but also equip you with operational skills in fields like leadership, finance and marketing. We will carefully select you to enter into one of our programmes, but then engage with you to leave us as a changed person. From the director of USB Prof Piet Naudé, USB Director, University of Stellenbosch Business School What else should you know about the School? Over and above our international accreditations, our approach to quality, the relevant research that we undertake and the range of academic programmes that we offer, we would like you to know that if you come to USB, we will change your life for the better. Ultimately, everything we do, including our collaboration with Stellenbosch University, is aimed at bringing hope to Africa and to the world. Welcome to USB your preferred business knowledge partner. Ultimately, everything we do, including our collaboration with Stellenbosch University, is aimed at bringing hope to Africa and to the world.

5 MESSAGES 03 Over the past five decades, USB has continually improved its MBA programme to meet complex challenges in the South African, African and global business environment. In lieu of continuous improvement USB s new professional MBA programme takes effect from The MBA has been redesigned into a significantly shortened format, namely a one-year full-time programme and a two-year modular programme, both at NQF level 9. The professional MBA aims to train and educate professionals who can contribute to the development of knowledge and to critically aware and innovative leadership. The MBA degree is therefore a relevant and solid investment that prepares individuals for advanced and specialised professional employment. One of the greatest benefits of doing an MBA is that students can immediately start to implement their learning in their work environment and apply this knowledge to resolve problems in appropriate areas. From the MBA programme head Dr Marlize Terblanche-Smit, Head: MBA Programme, University of Stellenbosch Business School Management tools, techniques and hard skills such as strategic management, economics, finance and marketing are important core competencies of the MBA graduate. However, the soft skills acquired on the programme are especially valued by employers and students. Soft skills such as leadership and communication skills, adaptability, flexibility and self-awareness can be applied across a myriad of professional environments, and are in high demand in the business environment. One of the key differentiators of USB s MBA is the Leadership Module which develops leaders as individuals with their own authentic leadership styles. The International Study Module at foreign business schools offers students a global perspective that supports the other elements of the MBA. To further enhance global perspectives most electives are presented by international faculty. The collaborative approach to learning through group work, the analysis of case studies and networking combined with individual work support the analysis of business problems and the development of solutions. USB s professional MBA provides a transformative experience, with new and different viewpoints on current and future business challenges. This enhances the MBA graduate s relevance in the business environment. USB s MBA provides a transformative experience, with new and different viewpoints on current and future business challenges.

6 04 Leading Business School The USB Advantage Leadership development A strong focus on leadership development forms part of USB s programmes in particular its MBA and Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership Development. USB s leadership expertise is benchmarked against international standards and is endorsed by a growing body of respected research institutions. 3 international accreditations The USB MBA comes with quality guarantees in the form of AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA accreditation. USB was the first school from an African university to hold all three international accreditations for business schools. International exposure Students will experience the international dimension at work at the School. The School s international participation is demonstrated by its three international accreditations, its international student body, visiting international faculty and exchange students, the compulsory MBA International Study Module at a foreign business school, its presence in many parts of the African continent, and partnerships with business schools on all continents. Africa-focused expertise USB is your business knowledge partner in Africa. The School has become known for its African-focused expertise in areas such as sustainable development, futures research, development finance, ethics and corporate governance, personal leadership development, management coaching and emerging-country economics. Collaborative learning Collaborative learning is a key feature of the USB s MBA, and this intense engagement contributes to the life-changing experience of doing an MBA with us. Each student brings unique knowledge and management experience to the table. They come with different undergraduate qualifications, industry experience and cultural backgrounds. This diversity enables students to learn from one another and to work with different perspectives. In addition, USB s students are mature students.

7 Leading Business School 05 Business connections USB s close cooperation with industry ensures an academic offering aligned with the needs of the world of work. Areas of alliance and collaboration include representation by the local and international business community on the USB Advisory Board and on the School s academic programme advisory committees (Roundtables). Partnerships between USB and industry include societal initiatives such as the USB Small Business Academy. It also includes the funding of students and the involvement of alumni in the school s activities (e.g. as mentors of new students). Business knowledge USB creates business knowledge through its research centres, academic conferences and seminars, a research fellowship programme, the research undertaken by its faculty members and students, and its partnerships with the business industry and other academic institutions. The School shares its research with its students from all over the world, as well as with stakeholders such as alumni and business leaders. Career development USB s Career Services prepares students for their next career moves. Services to students include career planning and development, and exposure to career opportunities. Workshops prepare students for job interviews, assist them to prepare CVs and show them how to network effectively, among other things. Companies do regular on-campus presentations and students have access to career-related resources. Social engagement USB engages with social issues in its research agenda, academic programmes and as part of its societal engagement programme. The school s main social initiatives are its Small Business Academy, its subsidised Management Programme for Non-profit Organisations and its bursary scheme. MBA students are exposed to social engagement projects, helping them to understand the role of business in society. Networking and diversity On your MBA journey, you will collaborate with people from a wide range of cultures and countries. Students come from all over South Africa, the rest of Africa and the world. This diversity will add depth to your learning experience and help you to build valuable networks of business contacts and fellow students that will last you a lifetime. Upon graduation, you become part of the USB Alumni Association with its almost members, offering access to continued learning, networking and more.

8 06 location School with a view Cape Town as top destination As South Africa s second main economic centre, Cape Town offers a world of possibilities for business people. The city has a thriving service-based metropolitan economy where growth is often driven by innovation. In 2014, World Travel Awards rated Cape Town as Africa s leading travel destination. South Africa has the longest wine route in the world some 800 km in length Cape Town is located in a biodiversity hotspot called the Cape Floral Kingdom which has plant species, 70% of which are not found anywhere else in the world.

9 Leading Business School 07 Central location The hilltop campus of USB is situated in the ever-expanding Tyger Valley business district, which is about halfway between the Cape Town CBD and Stellenbosch, home of USB s mother institution, Stellenbosch University. The campus is close to main access routes, the Cape Town International Airport, shopping malls, sports facilities, entertainment and first-class medical facilities. Also within easy reach are attractions such as the V&A Waterfront, Cape Point, Table Mountain (a World Heritage site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World), Robben Island, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and the neighbouring Boland area with its cultural heritage, scenic beauty and world-famous winelands.

10 08 important USB s NEW 1-year professional MBA From 2016 onwards: Full-time MBA: 1 year (2 years in the past) Modular MBA: 2 years (3 years in the past) You will be able to complete your class programme and research assignment within 1 year on the Full-time MBA and within 2 years on the Modular MBA. New, shorter MBA USB s MBA programme has been redesigned to better fulfil the needs of today s students. The previous (longer) MBA, presented up till 2015, has now been restructured into a 213 credit programme on NQF Level 9. All formats of the USB MBA have been shortened significantly and this takes effect from What does USB s new MBA look like? Full-time MBA: 1 year of full-time classes Modular MBA: 2 years of classes presented in 9 blocks of 1 week each What needs to be in place for the new MBA? The redesign has partly been a result of the new requirements of the South African Council on Higher Education that raised the entry requirements of the MBA programme in South Africa. Prospective students are now required to have one of the following qualifications before they are allowed entry into the MBA: 4-year Bachelor s degree Honours degree 3-year Bachelor s degree + Postgraduate Diploma Students applying for the 2016 MBA must therefore have an appropriate NQF Level 8 qualification. USB introduced a new 1-year Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management and Administration (NQF level 8 with 120 credits) in 2015 to prepare students for the MBA and make them eligible for entry into the MBA. I wanted to fill the gaps in my learning in areas such as finance, strategy and marketing, while at the same time growing and understanding myself better as a leader. The USB MBA offers all of this. Fabian Shaanika, 2015 Full-time MBA, Rosh Pinah, Namibia

11 Looking a hea d 09 What can I do with a USB MBA? USB MBA is aimed at producing leaders who can be employed at senior management and higher levels in any industry and in location. You will therefore gain a contextual understanding of business and improved self-awareness leading to enhanced leadership abilities. This will strengthen your ability to communicate effectively, to sharpen your analytical skills, to solve complex problems, to integrate environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles in your decisionmaking, and to do research. Operate on senior management level The USB MBA will give you an astute understanding of all aspects of business, enabling you to operate on senior management level in any industry. You will know how to implement strategies, solve complex problems in an increasingly competitive and volatile environment, operate in a global environment and understand the role of business in society. You will also be able to interpret financial statements, assess operational policies and develop marketing strategies. Lead with confidence You will learn to lead in different contexts after you have completed the Personal Leadership Development Journey. USB s MBA is strongly committed to your development as a leader, focusing on personal leadership, relationship leadership and organisational or strategic leadership, ultimately delivering leadership performance and organisational performance. Function globally The USB MBA curriculum is designed to develop you as a leader who can function in any position, anywhere in the world. You will attend an International Study Module at a foreign business school and touch base with global companies. You will meet international lecturers in class. In addition, USB s partnership agreements with over 80 of the world s top business schools hold the potential of exchange studies, participation in international competitions for MBA students, engagement and networking. Think critically Building and holding an argument are competencies that will help to futureproof your career. Critical thinking skills will equip you with the ability to think well and argue soundly. This, combined with analytical and strategic skills, will help you to recognise economic, social and other patterns, and to create robust action plans to respond to the unexpected. Understand the interlinked roles of organisational departments USB s MBA gives you a thorough understanding of the interlinked roles of all the functional areas of an organisation including finances, operations, ICT, marketing, people management and support services. This will enable you to understand the impact of each section s work on the entire organisation and to manage the alignment of efforts and resources towards moving the business forward. When I applied for the USB MBA I sought exposure, leadership training and personal growth. Having worked for government, I was aware of the challenges and need for dynamic and situational leadership as Kenya enters a phase of economic prosperity. Thanks to USB I am now equipped with relevant knowledge, skills and the right attitude to make a difference in my country both in the private and public sectors. Collins Nzakala Sifuma, 2014 Full-time MBA, Audit Associate, Office of the Auditor General, Kenya

12 10 MBA STRUCTURE The MBA programme The USB MBA aims to give you a clear understanding of how to manage a business responsibly in an African and global multicultural environment. It s about acquiring the intellectual ability to recognise social, economic and other patterns, to argue in a critical fashion, to innovate, to embrace the complexities of today s business and social environment, and to come up with solutions. USB s MBA is rigorous. It is underpinned by solid quantitative subjects and complemented by interpersonal and leadership skills. Collaborative learning where students learn from each other is a key feature of the USB MBA. What makes this valuable is the unique knowledge and managerial experience that each student brings to the table. USB s students are mature people; 36% of them have between 7 and 11 years of work experience while 43% have 12 or more years of work experience. The people at USB are focused on delivering the best possible client service by engaging with students in and outside the classroom. Leadership as a core theme USB believes leaders are developed, not born. Therefore, each MBA student follows USB s Personal Leadership Development Journey (PLDJ) in the Leadership Development Module. This journey focuses on personal leadership, relationship leadership and organisational or strategic leadership which ultimately deliver leadership performance and organisational performance. USB S approach to personal leadership development is endorsed by a growing body of respected research and evidence. One of the most valuable elements of the PLDJ is that it focuses on the process of development and utilises evidential theory and content to stimulate the thinking, learning and development of the individual as a leader. The two dimensions of the USB PLDJ involve you in the following: Content: Members of faculty introduce you to content through lectures, readings, video clips, case studies, class discussions, etc. Process: You utilise a range of self-led adult learning and leadership development processes to focus on strengthening and growing yourself as a leader. On this journey, students will acquaint themselves with both the theory and practice of leadership through: Exploring and enhancing personal authentic leadership Narrative learning Experiential learning Work-based and action learning Reflective learning and confronting knowledge that is not true Leveraging strengths and development potential Addressing derailment risks. Ultimately, this is what USB s Leadership Development Module promises you: You will leave USB being who you need to be as a leader. In addition, you will leave USB with what it takes to exercise leadership effectively. Intelligence competencies Leadership dimensions Emotional Intelligence competencies Personal leadership Social Intelligence competencies Relationship leadership Leadership performance Organization performance Cognitive Intelligence competencies Organisational/ strategic Systems thinking Levels of leadership dimensions and competencies acquired on USB s MBA Leadership Development Module

13 MBA STRUCTURE 11 Customise your MBA The content of the MBA consists of 18 compulsory modules (which include the International Study Module at a foreign business school and the flagship Leadership Development Module) and 2 electives. Students can customise approximately 30% of their MBA, depending on which electives and International Study Module they select and on the topic of their Research Assignment. Choose electives to acquire areas of specialisation Students can choose two electives from an extensive list of topics. The electives have been clustered into themes: Strategy Marketing Developing markets Leadership Finance Project management and Other / Management enhancement. Choosing both electives from the same theme say Competitive Intelligence and Global Business Strategy from the Strategy category allows students to acquire an area of specialisation. Use the International Study Module to grow a global mind-set All MBA students need to do the compulsory MBA International Study Module at a foreign business school (one of USB s partner schools) to enhance their international exposure. The cost of this module is included in the MBA study fees. The aim of this study tour is to develop managers with global mind-sets. It is about preparing them to work in a global environment, and helping them to understand cultural differences in order to turn cultural competence into a competitive advantage. It is also about developing leaders with an awareness of the ethics and values of today s business space. In 2015, for example, study tours will be undertaken to France, Germany, the Netherlands, the USA, Canada, Brazil, Morocco, Japan and China. All the tours include company visits and cultural activities. This is what is being planned for the 2015 study modules abroad: Japan Exeter Business School, Yokohama: Managing around the World: International Roundtables for Practising Managers China SKEMA Business School, Shanghai: Doing Business in China France Grenoble School of Management, Grenoble: Technology Management and Innovation France Kedge Business School, Marseilles: Driving Sustainable Change within the Firm Canada Laval University, Quebec: The Influence of Culture on Business, illustrated in the contexts of Québec and North America Netherlands Maastricht University, Maastricht: European Management Residency: Developing Talent Together Brazil Austral Group, Sao Paolo: Doing Business in Brazil: Culture, Opportunities & Challenges USA University of South Alabama, South Alabama: Realizing Potential: The Integration of Port Facilities and Manufacturing in Mobile Morocco ESCA School of Business, Casablanca: Doing Business in North Africa: Geopolitics and Strategy Germany Mannheim Business School, Mannheim: Entrepreneurship, Start-ups and Marketing Do research to gain business knowledge Concurrent to the MBA and building on the content of the MBA, students will write a Research Assignment of 50 to 70 pages on a business or management-related problem. These assignments are practice-oriented and may be based on the student s working environment, thus benefiting employer and student. Research approaches may include case studies, feasibility/business plans, marketing plans, strategic plans, econometric research, exploratory studies and studies based on surveys and/or interviews. The research assignment is expected to comprise original, critical and insightful research to add depth to students learning experience and knowledge of real-life business. Optional: Exchange studies abroad MBA students can choose to complete part of their studies at one of USB s overseas partner schools. This will enable them to earn credits towards the USB MBA by doing a module or summer school abroad. Exchange studies are optional.

14 12 MBA STRUCTURE Full-time or Modular? Reasons to choose our Full-time MBA Increased international exposure: In the Full-time MBA class, you will join international students from all over the world, allowing you to learn from their experiences and cultural backgrounds. Single-minded focus: Immerse yourself in your studies (11 months of classes) without the demands of a job. Career change: Take a break from fulltime employment and prepare yourself for a new career. Our MBA is aimed at preparing you to manage up to board level and to lead with confidence. Contact with business environment: Make the most of the many speaker and networking events in class and on campus. Reasons to choose our Modular MBA Study while you work: This block release programme is presented in focused blocks of one week each (up to four blocks per year), which will enable you to attend lectures without infringing too much upon your work obligations. This arrangement will enable you to make the most of your time on campus. Apply skills immediately: Implement your new business skills at work immediately while getting support from USB. Study at USB even if you live further afield: Students from all over South Africa and from various other African countries choose this option because they need to travel to USB only a few times a year. More details about the various MBA formats All classes are presented at the USB Campus in the Tyger Valley business district in northern Cape Town. Students in the Modular MBA class attend 9 blocks of classes of 1 week each, spread over 2 years. During a modular block, classes are presented from Monday to Saturday. All classes are supplemented by web-based support. The course content is embodied in a series of lectures and group discussions, blended with course material composed of comprehensive course outlines, text books and journal articles. Students have to be thoroughly prepared for all lectures so as to extract the optimal benefit from contact sessions and collaborative learning. The Modular MBA format has various intakes and allows people from all over South Africa and sub-saharan Africa to attend classes. Learning activities include lectures, guest lectures by practitioners, tutorials, syndicate groups, practical workplace experience and independent self-study. Students are assessed on a flexible assessment basis. The final performance mark is based on, among others, online assessments, class tests, group work, individual and group assignments, class participation as well as presentations. The flexible assessment system implies that there are no supplementary tests or opportunities for the resubmission of assignments to improve grades.

15 learning contents 13 Programme contents This section covers the compulsory modules and the electives. The compulsory modules include the Research Assignment, which spans the entire MBA, and the International Study Module at a foreign business school. Please note that USB reserves the right to modify the contents of subjects and to combine subject matter for better integration of learning areas. This is in the interest of continuous improvement of the curriculum. The compulsory MBA modules Accounting for Decision-Making (8 credits) Business Communication Skills (4 credits) Business in Society (8 credits) Contemporary Decision-Making (12 credits) Corporate Finance (12 credits) Digital Enterprise Management (8 credits) Economics for Managers (8 credits) Human Capital Management (8 credits) Integrated Case Studies (8 credits) International Study Module (8 credits) Operational Excellence (8 credits) Perspectives on African Frontiers (8 credits) Managerial Accounting (8 credits) Managerial Statistics (8 credits) Research Methodology and Assignment (45 credits) Strategic Management (12 credits) Strategic Marketing and Branding (8 credits) Values-Based Leadership (16 credits) Accounting for Decision-Making This module covers management and financial accounting; internal financial information used in making strategic decisions; external financial information; costing systems; budgeting; and the interpretation and analysis of financial statements and historical reviews in the South African regulatory environment. Business Communication The module is about effective oral and written communication in a connected global world; interactive and practical approaches; the elements of persuasive writing and the write-tight technique; reader-centred language, style and structure; and presentation skills focusing on engaging different audiences. Business in Society This module focuses on the capability of students to exercise responsible leadership through sound decision making in matters related to the environmental, social and economic impact of an organisation s activities. It includes the conceptual, strategic, operational and regulatory aspects that leaders and managers have to consider and incorporate in the process of optimising an organisation s contribution to sustainable development in a local and global context. Contemporary Decision-Making This module covers systems thinking; complex problem solving; problem structuring methods; multiple criteria decision analysis; linear programming; and simulation modelling. Corporate Finance This module focuses on the aims and functions of corporate finance, financial analysis; management of working capital; financial markets; strategic investment and financing decisions; dividends; cost of capital, risk and required rate of return; valuation and acquisitions; and an introduction to derivative instruments. Digital Enterprise Management This module covers operating models, customer value propositions and the digital transformation; from business strategy to IT architecture; IS investment decision, competitive necessity, competitive advantage and rule changing innovation; Technology Acceptance Model, the technology hype cycles, the technology adoption curve, change management; enterprise information systems (ERP / CRM / ECS); systems configuration and customisation; decision making when faced by big data; human computer interaction; data visualisation; buy vs. build decision; systems development life cycle and iterative development methods; IS impact on business risk from a security and ethical perspective. Economics for Managers This module covers the meaning of economics and economic systems, economics influences on society; the meaning and challenges of globalisation and international economic integration, especially with regard to an open developing economy; the African context; the application of the principles of supply and demand in a market economy; the implications of the interaction between changes in one or more of a wide range of macro-economic forces; economic growth and development; inflation; unemployment; the balance of payments and exchange rates; the reasoning behind economic policy decisions, and the impact of such decisions on the managerial function.

16 14 learning contents Human Capital Management This module looks at high-performance people management; approaches to organisational structure; career development; and talent management. Integrated Case Studies This module serves as an introduction to the field of strategic management, while simultaneously providing students with the opportunity to apply the contents of multiple modules in integrated cases studies. Three themes are covered: Introduction to strategic thinking; Strategic direction and environmental analysis: strategic awareness & agility; and An integrated case study analysis. International Study Module Students do this module at a foreign business school (costs included in MBA fees; various options offered each year). The module looks at how to business in the target country; relevant models and frameworks of the theory of management and related fields as applied in the target country; the identification and exploiting of opportunities for business; the cultural and societal framework of the target country; challenges of globalisation; and geoeconomic and geo-political frameworks. Managerial Statistics This module covers data description; probability; probability and sampling distributions; estimation; tests of hypotheses; correlation; regression; contingency tables. Managerial Accounting This module explores the understanding of management accounting and financial accounting; cost concepts applied by managers in internal financial information; financial information disclosed in the financial statements (with specific focus on the cash flow statement and the management of cash flows); sustainable growth rate; and financial health. Operational Excellence This module unpacks the following: resources, capabilities and the impact on operations strategy; the transformation process design and value stream mapping; continuous improvement and business process design; the Bullwhip effect and global supply chains; SCORE model; measuring operational excellence; Theory of Constraints; Six Sigma; Lean Operations; quality control and the role of statistical techniques in quality; the impact of technology on operations. Perspectives on African Frontiers This module is aimed at helping students to develop an awareness and understanding of the diversity of African countries and the business opportunities this provides; focuses on the main factors that impact on doing business in and within Africa. Research Assignment The Research Assignment module (45 SAQA credits) forms an integral part of the USB MBA. The module comprises three distinct activities of learning. The first activity comprises the teaching of an appropriate research methodology foundation in class. The second activity is a workshop-based phase to guide students to develop a research proposal (with the assistance of faculty members in the discipline of their interest). The third activity is the actual research assignment in which students work independently towards accomplishing their research objectives, under the guidance of a supervisor. Strategic Management The module is a capstone course on the MBA where the knowledge and practices associated with the different functional management areas is combined with the thinking frames and practices of strategic management to create an integrative perspective on a General Manager level (Levels of work complexity 4/5). This module is divided into six themes: The philosophy of strategy; Strategy development; Strategy innovation; Strategy execution; Entrepreneurship; and Managerial innovation. The following overarching strategic themes from the MBA will be reinforced in the content of this module: Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Complex problemsolving, Stewardship and the International context. Strategic Marketing and Branding This module explores the strategic analysis of organisational activities from a marketing point of view; marketing and brand strategy formulation; the functional areas of marketing (4Ps & 7Ps) and their relevant application to strategic marketing frameworks. Values-based Leadership This module is aimed at leveraging the student s own personal and authentic leadership style to develop sustainable high-performance teams and organisations within an ever-changing world of work. It also covers the changing leadership context; authentic and personal leadership; EQ development; and organisational change and transformation practices.

17 application 15 What else do you need to know? Admission requirements USB s stringent admission criteria result in higher retention and pass rates. From 2016 onwards, the Council on Higher Education (CHE) in South Africa will, based on new regulations, requires all MBA applicants to have a 4-year degree, a 3-year Bachelor s degree plus a postgraduate diploma, or an honours degree. The minimum admission requirements for USB s MBA include: Academic qualifications An appropriate 4-year Bachelor s degree at NQF level 8 and at least 3 years of relevant full-time working experience, preferably on managerial level OR An appropriate 3-year Bachelor s degree at NQF level 7 and a Postgraduate Diploma at NQF level 8, and at least 6 years of relevant working experience, preferably on managerial level OR An Honours degree at NQF level 8, plus 3 years of relevant full-time working experience, preferably on managerial level. Other requirements Mathematics at NNS (Grade 12) level or equivalent A comprehensive CV 3 essays, showing the candidate s level of motivation and working experience An interview with an MBA alumnus Satisfactory selection test results Selection tests USB accepts the SHL or GMAT selection test. Both tests are recognised internationally. Make an appointment with USB to do the SHL selection test on the USB campus or elsewhere, or contact GMAT at SHL The SHL consists of the following parts: Verbal critical reasoning assessment Numerical critical reasoning assessment Inductive reasoning test The Occupational Personality Questionnaire (OPQ) on behavioural preferences. SHL selection test Verbal critical 1 reasoning assessment... Numerical critical 2 reasoning assessment... 3Inductive reasoning test... 4Occupational Personality Questionnaire (OPQ)... Duration: The test takes about 3 hours to complete and no preparation is required beforehand. When and where: Applicants may do the SHL test on set dates at USB (see USB website) or by appointment at USB or other centres in the country. Cost (2015 amounts): R2 600 (if taken at USB). Please note: You can only take the SHL test once you have started your electronic MBA application process, because you will need a provisional student number for payments and for SHL reports (which will be linked to your electronic application). The total therefore is R3 900 (R2 600 SHL test + R1 300 MBA application fee). Please see bank details below and use your provisional student number as reference. Book: Contact USB on telephone or shl@usb.ac.za. Additional information: Go to GMAT The GMAT consists of three timed sections, namely an analytical writing assessment, a quantitative assessment and a verbal assessment. A copy of the results will automatically be forwarded to USB. The test takes about 4 hours. This test is not administered by USB and bookings to take the test cannot be made with USB staff. Foreign students need to contact the Regional Registration Centre in The Netherlands on SA students need to contact Pearson VUE Professional Centre in Johannesburg on +27 (0) or or at justin.jacobs@pearson.com. Cost: $250. Find more information at or

18 16 application Three essays Write an essay of approximately 250 words on each of the following topics: Competencies: Your achievements, developed abilities and significant learning to date, and areas of competence that you still need to develop. Career objectives: Where would you like to be five and ten years after completing your MBA and how do you intend getting there? Personal motivation: How do you deal with adversity and stress, what keeps you motivated and focused, and how do you intend coping with the additional stress that the MBA will create? Interview by an alumnus USB alumni interview all qualifying applicants to determine their motivation levels, general knowledge of the business world and ability to support their arguments. These interviews are conducted by alumni in various cities, local and internationally. In the event that we do not have an interviewer close by, the interview will be conducted telephonically. Credits for completed modules Credits are awarded on a weighted basis per module. The total number of SAQA credits granted on the USB MBA programme is 213. Transfer of credits from subjects completed elsewhere USB supports the principle of recognition of prior academic learning, although this is only applied in very selective instances at USB, because group work and collaborative learning are cornerstones of the USB MBA. To obtain an MBA degree at USB, a student must be registered at Stellenbosch University for at least two years and at least 50% of the credits have to be obtained at this University. A student who has been admitted to the MBA programme may apply for accreditation of prior learning, provided that it was obtained on another MBA programme. Students wanting to apply for accreditation of credits obtained elsewhere need to supply: An application which includes full course outlines, number of SAQA credits, learning outcomes, number of class contact hours, prescribed textbooks, method and weights of assessment, and outcomes or topics per class session. Additional work or assessments may be required. Assessment of MBA students deliverables Assessment takes place on a continuous basis through individual and group assignments, tests, discussions, presentations, participation and the analysis of case studies. All assessments take place on campus during scheduled class times. Detailed regulations for the MBA degree are included in the Calendar of Stellenbosch University. Assessment and recognition of prior learning Wider access is assured through the Assessment and Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) process. According to Stellenbosch University s policy framework for ARPL, a limited number of non-degree students may join the MBA. The number of ARPL candidates may not exceed 10% of an annual intake of a programme. Stringent assessment criteria are applied to determine whether applicants have developed the necessary generic competencies during their undergraduate learning. Admission requirements for RPL candidates include the following, in addition to the normal application process: Work experience: A minimum of 10 years of full-time work experience, of which at least five years should have been in management. Selection test: For the SHL test, numeric, verbal and inductive reasoning scores of 6 are expected. For the GMAT test, a score of 550 is expected. CV: An extensive CV is required in which growth and learning over time is shown in the responsibilities associated with successive jobs. At least two references: Confidential reports from two referees are required on the candidate s work and management experience. An interview by at least two members of faculty: This is mandatory. Bridging measures for prospective students To prepare themselves for the MBA programme, prospective MBA students may opt for or be required to follow the Quantitative Skills Foundation Programme prior to enrolment. The programme is aimed at prospective MBA students, as well as those wishing to improve their knowledge of statistics, mathematics and finance. Focusing on basic financial and mathematical skills, this programme aims to enhance numerical and quantitative skills, provide a basic understanding of key financial and statistical terms, and build confidence in dealing with financial mathematics. The programme is presented by USB Executive Development Ltd (USB-ED) and the fees are not included in the MBA fees. Programme dates: November 2015 Venue: USB, Bellville Language: English Class times: 08:15 17:30 Cost: R9 000 (excluding VAT)

19 application 17 MBA information sessions Across the country, across borders USB hosts on-campus, countrywide and cross-border information sessions from May to October each year. Dates and times Please see website for dates, venues, timeslots and booking details. Or or call +27 (0) Time management Students need to be aware of the time-consuming nature of MBA studies and they need to arrange study time with their employers and families beforehand. Here is a rough guideline: for every 1 hour spent in class, students need to set aside 3 hours for self-study (reading, assignments, group work, etc.). The class programme of the USB MBA takes up around 426 hours. Prioritisation will therefore be crucial. Groupwork and diversity Groupwork in a context of diversity is a characteristic of the USB MBA. People from diverse backgrounds and with different strengths will be asked to work together on projects and to rotate leadership within such groups. This will allow students to learn from one another and it will help to prepare them for real-life situations in the world of work. How to apply 1Apply online: Go to and complete the online MBA application form. You will be able to complete the form in steps without losing information. The application process is the same for South African and foreign students. 2 Do a selection test: USB accepts the SHL or GMAT selection test. Both tests are recognised internationally. Make an appointment with USB to do the SHL selection test by sending to Joanne.Sleigh@usb.ac.za, or contact GMAT at See for selection test fees and further information. 3 Pay your application fee: Bank: Standard Bank. Type of account: cheque account. Account number: Branch name: Stellenbosch. Branch code: SWIFT code: SBZAZAJJ. Proof of payment of your application fee can also be ed to joanne.sleigh@usb.ac.za. 4 Upload the following documents online: o Proof of application fee payment o Comprehensive CV o 3 essays of 250 words each on your competencies, career objectives and personal motivation o Copies of degree certificates (please note that the original certificate must be shown on the first day, or shown together with a transcript of the subjects) o Proof of school-leaving mathematics results o SHL or GMAT selection test results (if these were not sent to USB directly) o Copy of your ID (or passport for non-south African students); o A marriage certificate (where the applicant s new surname does not match that on the degree certificate).

20 18 application What happens next? Your application can only be assessed by the selection panel if it is accompanied by the fully filled out online application form and all the appropriate supporting documents. Each qualifying applicant will be interviewed (face-to-face or telephonically) by an alumnus of the School. The outcome of the selection process will be made known within 30 days or as soon as possible thereafter. Study permit requirements for foreign students All students from foreign countries studying at USB require study permits (also called study visas). Due to new SA immigration regulations and policies, applications for study permits take longer than before. Application requirements have also changed. Prospective students should contact the nearest South African Foreign Mission (South African Embassy, Consulate or High Commission) nearest to where they live to inquire about the requirements for study permits for South Africa. Some Consulates require visa applicants to show up in person. Students from West Africa can also contact USB s representative for this region in Nigeria while students from East Africa can contact USB s representative for this region in Kenya. (See contact details at the back of the brochure.) Foreign students must obtain valid study permits prior to entering South Africa. Also note the following: Obtaining a study permit from the South African authorities takes approximately 10 to 12 weeks from the date of being offered a place on the USB MBA (or other programme). Sufficient time should be allowed for study permit applications to be processed. Your study permit application should include a copy of the letter offering a place on USB s MBA (or other programme). This letter will be provided by USB s Academic Administration once the application has been approved. A place on the programme must be confirmed before a study permit application can be considered by the South African Department of Home Affairs. Applications should be made through the nearest South African Embassy, Consulate or Trade Mission or directly from: The Director General Department of Home Affairs, Private Bag 114, Pretoria 0001, South Africa. Applicants should not leave their home country unless they have obtained the study permit that is required at registration. The application packages of foreign students should also include the following, among others: a police clearance certificate, proof of medical insurance in South Africa, proof of sufficient funds, full and abridged birth certificates, and an admission letter from USB. Your nearest South African Foreign Mission will be able to help in this regard. The onus falls on the foreign student to make sure that their documentation is complete. All documents should be certified and translated into English before submission (in order not to delay the outcome of the application).

21 financing 19 Programme fees and financing Programme fees See The fees for South African students for 2017 (i.e. for the 2nd year of enrolment) will be adjusted to make provision for annual price increases. 1 = about R13.42; US$ 1 = about R12.03 (4 May 2015). South African students can pay the full amount upon registration or they can pay 75% of the annual fees by the end of May and the balance of 25% by the end of September. Foreign students need to pay the full amount upon registration. Fees include books and study materials. The application fee must accompany the application. The application fee is not refundable. On acceptance of admission, the deposit is payable and is deducted from the programme fee. The deposit is not refundable. Preparatory study material will be handed out during the orientation block. Travelling and accommodation costs are for students own accounts. USB reserves the right to change the fees at any time. Financing Bursaries The USB s Bursary Scheme provides partial bursaries and financial assistance to a number of deserving students who have been admitted to the MBA programme. For more details on how to apply for bursaries, contact Marie Willows on or at mba@usb.ac.za. The closing date for bursary applications is 30 November each year. Only students who have been accepted onto the MBA may apply for a bursary. The bursaries will be awarded to a full-time MBA. All the bursaries will be awarded on academic merit. Applicants from previously disadvantaged groups (in the case of South Africans) will be given preference. Applicants must provide evidence of financial need and not be recipients of any other form of study sponsorship (e.g. from their companies). Further terms and conditions apply to each bursary. Every application will be treated in the strictest confidence. Other bursaries The National Research Foundation offers bursaries. Loans Certain banks grant loans at favourable interest rates. You may also contact Eduloan at

22 20 alumni What do USB students and alumni say? USB does not only provide knowledge, but forms an international, active and driving attitude in each of its students. Furthermore, every alumnus is linked to a post-mba network of people where you maintain business connections and friendships for life. Lennart Lühnen, 2003 Full-time MBA, Practice Manager, INTERSHOP Communications AG, Stuttgart, Germany The MBA has been a life-changing experience. It enabled me to emerge with a better understanding of how to leverage my strengths as a leader, implement global best practices and apply critical thinking skills to workplace challenges. The modular MBA gave me the time to exchange insights with peers from a wide range of industries and countries. Dr Mehran Zarrebini, 2010 Modular MBA, CEO: PFE International, Whixley, United Kingdom. (Dr Zarrebini is chairperson of the USB Alumni Association s UK Committee.) The MBA challenged and inspired me from Day 1 to reflect on who I am as a person and as a leader. It empowered me to see challenges as opportunities, to take risks, and to inspire and lead others to rethink current business approaches with focus on emerging markets. Anja Mehler, 2013 Full-time MBA, Project Management: Corporate Solutions, Adidas Group HQ, Nuremberg, Germany On my own, I would never have been able to tap into the wealth of knowledge that I am exposed to through the USB s Full-time MBA. It has been an exciting and challenging experience so far. Pateka Quwe, 2015 Full-time MBA, Johannesburg, South Africa The time at USB allowed me to get in touch with high-class managerial education, and a variety of people and cultures. The open mindedness and people-focused approach resulting from my MBA and PhD gave me a true advantage in business and in my personal life. Christian Nitschke, 2003, Full-time MBA and 2009 PhD, Manager: Finance and Controlling, Mercedes-AMG, Germany