NQF Level:
6
Credits:
360
Minimum Duration:
3 years
Faculty:
Faculty of Public Administration, Governance & Sustainability
Department:
Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
Accreditation Authority:
Council on Higher Education
Lead with Impact - Build a Career in Public Service
The Diploma in Local Government Management is designed to equip aspiring and current public service professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in local government roles. The program covers key areas such as governance, policy development, financial management, community engagement, and strategic planning. Through a blend of theoretical and practical learning, participants gain the competencies to address local challenges, enhance service delivery, and drive impactful change in their communities. Ideal for those seeking to advance their careers in public administration, this diploma fosters leadership, accountability, and innovation in local governance.
Why Choose This Qualification?
This qualification is ideal for professionals seeking to build or advance a meaningful career in public service. It provides essential skills in governance, policy implementation, financial management, and community development tailored specifically for local government contexts. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, the program prepares graduates to lead effectively, drive innovation, and improve public service delivery. Whether you're an emerging leader or an experienced official, this diploma enhances your ability to make a tangible impact in local governance while opening doors to career growth in the public sector.
Admission Requirements.
To be admitted to the Diploma in Local Government Management, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:
• National Senior Certificate (NSC) at NQF Level 4 or equivalent qualification with an endorsement for admission to a diploma.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): For candidates with relevant professional experience.
• National Senior Certificate (NSC) at NQF Level 4 or equivalent qualification with an endorsement for admission to a diploma.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): For candidates with relevant professional experience.
Qualification Structure.
The qualification consists of three years and six semesters which includes a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) module in Semester 6.
Learning Outcomes.
Upon completing the Diploma in Local Government Management, graduates will be able to:
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of both historical and contemporary local government management techniques and their application in diverse governance environments.
• Be proficient in using various digital governance tools, software, and platforms to create efficient local government systems.
• Design and develop effective policies and administrative strategies that cater to the needs of diverse communities.
• Implement effective project management strategies in governance environments, promoting efficient workflows and timely delivery of public services.
• Develop and employ modern governance techniques, leveraging technology for continuous improvement and innovation in local government.
• Exhibit leadership and change management skills, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and ethical practices in governance settings.
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of both historical and contemporary local government management techniques and their application in diverse governance environments.
• Be proficient in using various digital governance tools, software, and platforms to create efficient local government systems.
• Design and develop effective policies and administrative strategies that cater to the needs of diverse communities.
• Implement effective project management strategies in governance environments, promoting efficient workflows and timely delivery of public services.
• Develop and employ modern governance techniques, leveraging technology for continuous improvement and innovation in local government.
• Exhibit leadership and change management skills, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and ethical practices in governance settings.
International Comparability.
The DipLGM aligns with leading international programmes such as the Diploma in Government (Public Administration) (Australia) and the Diploma in Public Administration (Canada). These programmes share a focus on ethics, accountability, governance, and digital transformation, ensuring global relevance for graduates.
Qualification Modes of Delivery and Support.
Study your way with flexible learning options:
Contact Learning: In-person engagement with industry experts.
Blended Learning: A mix of interactive online and face-to-face sessions.
Distance Learning: Study anytime, anywhere with access to AIFT’s Moodle LMS.
All modes include career guidance, digital resources, and state-of-the-art virtual or physical lab.
Contact Learning: In-person engagement with industry experts.
Blended Learning: A mix of interactive online and face-to-face sessions.
Distance Learning: Study anytime, anywhere with access to AIFT’s Moodle LMS.
All modes include career guidance, digital resources, and state-of-the-art virtual or physical lab.
Career Opportunities.
Graduates of the DLGM are equipped for a range of impactful roles, including:
• Administrative Officer – Manage records, documentation, and office operations.
• Public Service Assistant – Deliver essential services and support government operations.
• Community Development Worker – Engage communities to implement government programmes.
• Policy Assistant – Support policy research, development, and implementation.
• Local Government Officer – Work in service delivery, community liaison, and governance.
• Human Resource Assistant (Public Sector) – Handle recruitment, payroll, and staff management.
• Administrative Officer – Manage records, documentation, and office operations.
• Public Service Assistant – Deliver essential services and support government operations.
• Community Development Worker – Engage communities to implement government programmes.
• Policy Assistant – Support policy research, development, and implementation.
• Local Government Officer – Work in service delivery, community liaison, and governance.
• Human Resource Assistant (Public Sector) – Handle recruitment, payroll, and staff management.
Articulation Options.
Horizontal Articulation:
Diploma in Business Administration (NQF Level 6)
Vertical Articulation:
Bachelor of Public Administration (NQF Level 7)
Diagonal Articulation:
Occupation Certificate: Senior Government Official (NQF Level 7)
Diploma in Business Administration (NQF Level 6)
Vertical Articulation:
Bachelor of Public Administration (NQF Level 7)
Diagonal Articulation:
Occupation Certificate: Senior Government Official (NQF Level 7)
Ensure Compliance, Empower Financial Accuracy.
Council on Higher Education





