Cis Hand Book and Syllabus 2019
Cis Hand Book and Syllabus 2019
CHARTERED
SECRETARIES AND
ADMINISTRATORS
IN ZIMBABWE
(ICSAZ)
ICSAZ
MEMBERS’ AND
STUDENTS’
HANDBOOK
AND SYLLABI
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.icsaz.co.zw
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators was originally founded in England
in October 1891 and was known as the Institute of Secretaries. In 1902 it was granted its
Royal Charter and became the Chartered Institute of Secretaries. The name has since been
changed to The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators to more fully describe
the status and capabilities of the members. In 1909 the first branch to be established
outside the United Kingdom was formed in South Africa and in 1957 it became the Southern
Africa Division. Zimbabwe was part of the Southern Africa Division until January 1992, when
it was granted its autonomy as an independent territory with a seat on the International
Council. Today, there are divisions in South Africa, Nigeria, Australia, Canada, New
Zealand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and Zimbabwe.
The Institute in Zimbabwe was incorporated on 1st January 1971 by an Act of Parliament
through the Chartered Secretaries (Pvt) Act, which generally prescribes the operations of the
Institute in Zimbabwe, status of its members, relationship with Government and world at
large. The local incorporation does not affect the membership status of the Zimbabwe
Chartered Secretary. The examination standards and the criteria for membership are the
same as those that apply elsewhere in the world. Accordingly success in the Zimbabwe
Institute’s examinations is widely recognised and membership of this Institute confers
simultaneous membership of the international body.
The Institute is the professional home of members with a high level of competence in
business administration, general management, accounting, company secretaryship, taxation
and corporate governance. Membership of the Institute is widely recognised internationally
and is held in high esteem in the world business community. Members occupy senior
positions in the private and public business sectors.
There are two classes of members of the Institute, i.e. Fellows and Associates. All qualified
members of the Institute are entitled to describe themselves as Chartered Secretaries and
use the designatory letters, FCIS or ACIS as appropriate. Fellowship is the senior grade of
membership. Another grade, Grad ICSA comprises those who have successfully completed
the examinations but have not yet gained sufficient qualifying service for Associateship.
Today there are more than 37 000 qualified Chartered Secretaries throughout the world of
whom over
1 500 are in Zimbabwe. Of the more than 30 000 registered students more than 5 000 are in
Zimbabwe. Members (i.e. Fellows or Associates) of the Institute are not confined only to
serving limited liability companies. The members are also working in a variety of
organisations such as: agricultural, marketing, industrial development, Electrical, Transport
undertakings, Government departments, Incorporated Associations, Trade Associations,
Universities, Banks, Building Societies, Insurance companies and all the countless
organisations in the world. In Zimbabwe Chartered Secretaries are also eligible for
registration with the Public Accountants and Auditors Board as Public Accountants and once
registered may use the designatory letters RPAcc (Z) after their names. Application for
registration is made through the Institute. On the international arena, ICSA in Zimbabwe is a
“The objective for which the Institute is established and incorporated is the promotion and
advancement of the efficient administration of commerce, industry and public affairs by the
continued development of the study and practice of secretaryship and administration of
companies and other bodies”
- Article 4, ICSA Royal Charter.
GLOBAL OBJECTIVES
To provide a platform for the sharing of knowledge, ideas and experience relevant to
the Profession of Chartered Secretaryship;
To raise the profile of the Profession through increased awareness of the contribution
made by Chartered Secretaries in all types of organisations;
To set and promulgate standards of excellence in propriety and best practice in the
profession.
ACTIVITIES
i. The holding of conferences and seminars for the discussion of professional subjects.
ii. The exercise through the disciplinary committee of professional supervision over the
membership and action as necessary to promote and safeguard the professional
standing of the Institute’s members.
iv. The conduct of examinations for membership and the award of prizes.
CORPORATE MANAGEMENT
The Chartered Secretary is a person who has a sound knowledge of Financial Management,
Information Technology, People and Resource Management. He or she is capable of
holding varied senior management posts in a company. This involves analysing the status
of the business and its environment and ensuring that it is properly equipped to compete in
an efficient and profitable manner.
COMPANY SECRETARY
The traditional role of the Chartered Secretary is that of Secretary of a Limited Liability
Company, an appointment recognised by statute in the Companies Act. It is a role of ever-
increasing importance due to the responsibilities of corporate governance. It is the
Chartered Secretary’s responsibility to ensure that the company is legally constituted,
economically viable and properly organised.
CONSULTATIVE SERVICES
Chartered Secretaries can choose between working in a company or private practice offering
a consultative service to businesses in terms of planning, organising, leading, controlling and
submitting financial returns at year-end.
ACCOUNTING
Managing the day-to-day finances of the company
Preparing financial statements
Planning and implementing accounting systems
Providing financial information for management decisions
Reporting on cash flows and capital expenditure
Instigating profit improvement programmes
Monitoring performance ratios
Reporting on all other corporate financial affairs
TAXATION
General taxation planning
ICSAZ Members’ & Students’ Handbook
4 (Effective 2019)
Designing methods of legal tax avoidance
Training
Manpower and Succession Planning
Interpreting tax legislation
Calculating the impact of tax legislation
LEGAL MATTERS
Ensuring that the company remains legally constituted
Ensuring that the company complies with minimum legal requirements
Protecting the company’s interests in contracts, leases, and other commercial exchanges
Guiding the company through the complexities of mergers, acquisitions, formations and
liquidations
FINANCE
Planning sources of finance
Budgeting, cash flow and capital expenditure
Negotiating with financial institutions
Assisting in asset-purchase decisions
Planning mergers and acquisitions
Assisting marketing in costing and pricing
Raising capital and loans
ADMINISTRATION
Structuring and streamlining company procedures and methods for efficiency
Ensuring that legal requirements are met
Ensuring that general administration functions effectively
Keeping legal and marketing records
Developing systems and procedures
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Installing electronic information processing system
Implementing management reporting systems
Devising financial and strategic models
Selecting computer equipment
Designing and implementing systems
MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
There are two grades of membership: the Associate grade, designated by the initials ACIS
and that of Fellow, designated by the initials FCIS.
Fellowship is the senior grade of membership. People are eligible for election by the Council
if:
Graduates of the Institute are persons who have completed the examinations successfully
but have not completed the required period of qualifying service. A Graduate cannot
describe himself or herself as a Chartered Secretary, but may use the designated letters
Grad.ICSA. He or she can enjoy all the practical advantages of membership excluding the
right to vote.
The Institute’s Annual General Meeting is held during March or April. The Annual
Conference for members usually takes place during September or October. The Winter
School for students is held in the middle of the year. Continuous Professional Development
Seminars (CPDs) are organised regularly.
The Institute has branches of members and students, wherever there is a sufficiently large
number to warrant the establishment of a formal group for social and educational purposes
and for keeping a watch on the local Institute’s affairs. Regular functions include monthly
lunch meetings and Student Society lectures.
BRANCHES
1. Bulawayo
2. Harare
3. Masvingo
4. Gweru
5. Mutare
5
1 4
The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators requires members to observe the
highest standards of professional conduct and ethical behaviour in all their activities.
Members are required to uphold the Institute’s Charter and comply with the Bye-laws.
GENERAL
1. The Chartered Secretaries (Private) Act 1971 requires the observance of rules of
conduct as a condition of membership and render a member liable to disciplinary
action if found guilty of misconduct, which includes but is not confined to, any act or
default likely to bring discredit to the member, Institute or profession.
2. Members are required to exercise integrity, honesty, diligence and due care in
carrying out their duties and responsibilities. They shall conduct themselves with
courtesy and consideration towards all with whom they come into contact in the
course of their professional work.
4. Members shall at all times safeguard the interests of their employers, colleagues and
clients and shall not knowingly be a party to any illegal or unethical activity.
5. Members shall not enter into any agreement or undertake any activity which may be
in conflict with the legitimate interests of their employer or client or which would
prejudice the performance of their professional duties.
6. Members shall ensure that their knowledge, skills and technical competence in
relation to their professional activities remain up to date.
7. Members shall refrain from conduct or action which detracts from the reputation of
the Institute.
9. Members shall not use any confidential information gained in the performance of their
duties for any personal gain nor in a manner which would be detrimental to their
employer or client.
1.2 A member in public practice shall be and be seen to be, free in each professional
assignment he or she undertakes of any interest which might detract from objectivity.
1.4 Personal relationships can affect objectivity. There is a particular need to ensure that
an objective approach to any assignment is not endangered as a consequence of
any personal relationship.
1.5 Where financial involvement with a client may affect objectivity the member shall
seriously consider his or her position.
1.6 Where advice given to a client is such that, if acted upon, will result in commission
being earned by the practice or anyone in it, special care shall be taken that the
advice is in fact in the best interests of the client.
2. CONFIDENTIALITY
2.1 Information acquired in the course of professional work shall not be disclosed except
where consent has been obtained from the client or where there is a public duty or
there is a legal or professional right or duty to disclose.
2.2 A member acquiring information in the course of professional work shall neither use
nor appear to use that information for his or her personal advantage or for the
advantage of a third party.
3.2 A member may seek publicity for his or her services and achievements and may
advertise his or her services, but in so doing shall have regard to the standards set
by the Institute.
3.3 In addition to meeting the requirements of the standards, a member shall ensure that
his or her promotional material is in good taste both as to content and presentation,
and that it does not belittle the services offered by others, whether member or not,
either by claiming superiority for the services of a particular member or otherwise.
4.2 A practising firm’s name should be consistent with the dignity of the profession.
5. FEES
5.1 A practitioner is entitled to charge for his or her services such fees as he or she may
consider appropriate in connection with the work that he or she undertakes.
5.2 The fact that one practitioner may charge a lower fee than another for undertaking
the same or similar work is not improper provided care is taken to ensure that the
client is not misled:
5.2.1 as to the precise range of services that a quoted fee is intended to cover (in which
connection the practitioner should provide the client with an engagement letter)
5.2.2 as to the likely level of future fees for any work undertaken for the client
5.3 Fees should not be charged on a percentage or similar basis, save where that course
is authorised by statute or is generally accepted practice for certain specialist work;
nor shall instructions be accepted on a contingency fee basis save in the
circumstances set out in the sub-clause below.
6. CLIENTS’ MONEY
A practitioner is strictly accountable for all clients’ monies received by him or her and
these shall be deposited without delay into a separate bank account. Such monies
shall be kept apart from all other monies and be applied only for the purposes of the
client.
1. The Institute, as a matter of policy, will not normally require its Disciplinary
Committee to consider investigation into and possible application of sanctions
against a member in respect of advertisements for business of a nature ordinarily
undertaken by a Chartered Secretary in public practice, whether the advertisement is
published by:-
1.3.1 No advertisement, circular or other form of publicity used may claim for the individual,
or his or her firm or his or her company, superiority in any respect over any or all
other persons either as individuals or practices.
1.3.2 Such publicity must be factual and may not contain any inaccuracies.
1.3.3 While advertisements, circulars and other publicity may make clear the intention of
the member of his or her firm to seek custom, they should not be of a character that
could reasonably be regarded in the opinion of Council as likely to bring the
profession of the Institute into disrepute.
1.3.4 Such advertisements may not only draw attention to the existence of the practice but
may describe the nature of the practice with allusions to particular classes of clients
to whom services are offered, or of particular kinds of service to be offered, provided
that services in a specific professional capacity may only be advertised by the
member who has had at least five years relevant experience in the specific
professional discipline.
4. It is expected that members will exercise discretion and good taste in the preparation
and use of all publicity material.
6. Council reserves the right at its discretion to take appropriate steps, including the
termination of membership, against any member contravening the code of practice.
In addition to the Institute code set out above it is proposed that professional conduct By-
laws will be made in terms of the Public Accountants and Auditors Act. All Registered Public
Accountants will be bound by these By-laws when they become law.
1. Only students registered WITH THE INSTITUTE are permitted to write its
examinations.
The closing date for registration by a student registering for the first time, and wishing
to write:
a) the May Examinations – 31 January.
Application forms for registration, or re-registration, are obtainable from the office in
Harare. The appropriate fee must accompany the relevant application.
All students are required to re-register annually on 1 January. Students must register
by 31 January if they intend to write examinations in May.
4. The application forms must indicate that at the time of application, the applicant is
engaged in the office of a company or other public authority or body or society or
institution; or that he or she is undergoing a course of systematic instruction
approved by the Institute; or that if at the time of application he or she cannot fulfil
either of these requirements, he or she is contemplating a career as a Chartered
Secretary and is fully aware that success in the examinations of the Institute does not
entitle him or her to membership unless he or she also has the necessary qualifying
services and character reference.
5. The application forms must bear the recommendation of a member of the Institute or
an approved official of the applicant’s company or educational institution certifying,
from personal knowledge, that he or she is a fit and proper person for admission to
the examinations of the Institute.
6. Registration confers no rank of membership and no voting rights except with Student
Societies of which students are automatically members.
7. Council reserves the right at its discretion to change the curriculum and study
processes, rules and regulations during a person's studentship.
8. It must be noted that no duplicate receipt can be issued for any payments made.
Students are advised to keep their receipts safely.
9. Every student is expected to attend at least two conferences in the mould of the
Winter School. The first should be attended during Part A and B and the second
REGISTRATION FEES
An entrance fee is charged for all initial registrations. This entrance fee is non-refundable
should the registration be refused and is in addition to the registration fee.
REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
A. NORMAL REGISTRATION
i) The ‘O’ Level subjects must include English Language (English Literature is not counted
as a separate subject) and either Mathematics or Accounting.
B. The following educational certificates will also be accepted for this registration:
i) A degree or approved diploma of a recognised university in Zimbabwe, Botswana,
Lesotho, Swaziland or the Republic of South Africa; the British Commonwealth or the
Republic of Ireland; or a degree of the Council for National Academic Awards in the
United Kingdom.
ii) A matriculation or matriculation exemption certificate.
iii) The diploma of a recognised professional body:
- Institute of Bankers
- IAC
- IBAS
- HEXCO
- SAAA
C. SPECIAL REGISTRATION
The Institute may at its discretion approve an application from a student who has not fully
satisfied the normal registration requirements set out above.
For consideration under this clause applicants must be at least 23 years of age and must
have satisfied a substantial part of the normal education requirements, i.e. have passed five
subjects at GCE ‘O’ level and have had three years commercial experience. The five
subjects must include English Language passed with A or B symbols and one of either
Mathematics or Accounting passes with A or B symbols. The remaining subjects must be of
an academic or commercial nature and have been passed with A, B, or C symbols.
Every applicant for registration as a student must submit acceptable evidence that he or she
has obtained an approved educational qualification.
Students with certain approved Degrees and Diplomas will be allowed direct entry to the
Professional Programme I.
Examples of acceptable diplomas and degrees are as follows:
- National Higher Diploma in Accounting (HEXC0)
- B.Com in Accounting
- B.Com in Banking and Finance
- B.Accountancy
STUDENT RE-REGISTRATION
Re-registration fee is payable by all students at any time after 1 December the previous year
but before 31st January in the current year and after June before 31 July in the second
semester. Late re-registration will be accepted from students who do not re-register before
31st January but who do so before 31 July on payment of full fee plus a penalty fee.
It is in the student’s interest to remain on the student roll by promptly re-registering each
year before 31st January. Students who wish to write the November examinations must re-
register by 31 July. Students who do not re-register in any one year will be charged a
penalty determined by the Institute when they come to re-register.
Re-registration forms are obtainable from the office in Harare and can also be downloaded
from the ICSAZ website.
EXEMPTION POLICY
EXAMINATIONS
EXAMINATION ENTRIES
Students should enter the subjects for the May examination on or before 28 February and for
the November examination on or before 31 August on the web portal.
The correct examination fee for each subject to be written should be deposited at the bank to
allow the entry to be processed.
ICSAZ Members’ & Students’ Handbook
14 (Effective 2019)
Attention is once again drawn to the fact that NO LATE ENTRIES FOR THE
EXAMINATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED. The closing date for Examination entries is as
follows:-
Candidates will be able to check their examination registrations on the web portal.
Examination entries will not be postponed except as stated below under Refund of
Examination Fees.
Examination fees are not normally refundable, but consideration will be given to applicants
for refunds on medical grounds only at the discretion of the Institute.
a. A certificate from the doctor is required, stating the nature and duration of the illness
of the student. A covering letter and doctor’s certificate must reach the office not
later than the end of the month in which the examination is held (i.e. by the end of
May and the end of November).
c. In all other cases the examination fee will be forfeited if the candidate does not write.
It is important that students read and understand examination rules and regulations as they
are strictly enforced. Any variation of the rules is entirely at the Institute’s discretion. In
respect of 1 and 2 below, exemptions should have been obtained before a student registers
for the examinations.
1. The 4 parts of the examination are progressive in their complexity. Therefore earlier
stages must be completed first. Parts A and B must be completed before attempting
Parts C and D respectively.
Any Examination Entry for any subject at Part C (professional programme I) will be
rejected unless the student has passed or has been exempted from all the five
subjects at Part A. The 5 subjects are:
i) Business Accounting
ii) Business Economics
iii) Business Law
iv) Business Communication and Ethics
v) Business Statistics and Information Technology
Any Examination Entry for any subject at Part D (Professional Programme II) will be
rejected unless the student has passed or has been exempted from all the 9 subjects
at Part A and Part B. The 9 subjects are:
i) Business Accounting
ii) Business Economics
iii) Business Law
iv) Business Communication and Ethics
v) Business Statistics and Information Technology
vi) Human Resources Management
vii) Tax Law and Practice
viii) Financial Accounting and Reporting
ix) Auditing
(ii) Students who proceed to write the succeeding subject prior to passing the
previous subject will not have the script marked and the examination fees
paid will be forfeited. Acceptance of the registration fees for such
examinations does not mean that permission has been granted to waive this
ruling. The administration procedures only enable the Institute to identify
such cases usually once scripts have been returned after the examination
session.
4. Any number of the examination subjects may be attempted at any one sitting as long
as rules 1 and 2 above are complied with. Students studying part time are advised to
take no more than four subjects in a year.
5. No student will be allowed to write less than two subjects in one sitting unless the
subject is:
5.1. The final subject at Part A, having passed or been exempted from all the other
subjects at Part A and B.
5.2. The final subject at Part B, having passed or been exempted from all the other
subjects at Parts A, B and C.
7. Failure to complete the examinations within the given period will result in Studentship
being withdrawn.
10. All examination entries must be registered through the web portal. Failure to do so
will result in the non-allocation of the examination fee paid.
11. No change in a candidate’s entry will be accepted after the closing date.
12. If a candidate satisfies the examiners in any subject he or she will be credited with a
pass irrespective of performance in any other subject attempted at the same sitting.
13. Examination candidates are reminded that no aids are allowed into the examination
except those designed for Open Book Examinations. Candidates found cheating or
intending to cheat will have their studentship permanently cancelled.
14. Students who are writing examinations in subjects which involve the use of statutes
and/or standards will only be examined on the statutes published at least six
months prior to the examination.
16. Students who arrive thirty minutes after the start of the examination will not be
allowed to enter the examination hall.
17. Students are only allowed to leave the examination hall after the first hour of the
examination.
18. Hats, headgear and inappropriate attire are banned from the examination hall.
19. The Institute reserves the right to vary the examination rules as and when it is
necessary and to correct any errors as and when they are noted.
EXAMINATION RESULTS
Examination results will be communicated to each candidate through the website and by
post and will not be given over the telephone or by fax. Every effort is made to ensure that
the results are available by 30 June in the case of the May examinations and 31 December
in the case of the November examinations.
Candidates cannot be informed of the number of marks they have obtained but in the event
of failure they will be given a symbol to indicate the approximate standard of their attempt.
Letters will be issued to successful candidates for all parts of the examinations. All finalists
will receive a letter from the Institute confirming that they have completed the examinations
and listing the subjects passed.
The Institute reserves the right to correct any errors / omissions on results and transcripts
whenever these are noted or detected.
RE-MARKS
The application for re-mark, together with the applicable fee must be submitted within ten
(10) working days after the release of the results of the previous examination.
Requests for a re-mark may be considered at the discretion of the Institute; otherwise the
examiner’s decision is final.
INTERMEDIATE CERTIFICATE
To obtain an Intermediate certificate a student must have been credited with all the subjects
in Part A and Part B. The certificate will be issued on application. A student must have
passed at least two subjects of this Institute.
The Intermediate certificate is only to prove progress made and does not entitle one to apply
for membership of the Institute.
PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMME I
To obtain a Professional Programme 1 certificate, a student must have been credited with all
the subjects in Part A, Part B and Part C. The certificate will be issued on application.
The Professional Programme 1 certificate is only to prove progress made and does not
entitle one to apply for membership of the Institute.
GRADUATESHIP CERTIFICATE
The Graduateship certificate will be issued on completion of the full ICSAZ course.
Graduates of the Institute will be entitled to apply for Institute membership provided they
meet the other requirements for membership (on page 7).
PRIZES
A prize is available for each subject of the examinations and there are also special prizes for
the top three students in the final examination.
No award is made if a certain standard is not reached in the paper.
2. Library Membership
Entry to the library is free to the following persons:
2.1 Registered Students
2.2 Graduates (Grad.ICSA) in good standing
2.3 Associates (ACIS) in good standing
2.4 Fellows (FCIS) in good standing
3. Operating Hours
Day Opening hour Closing hour Months
Monday - Friday 0830 hours 1600 hours February - May &
July - November
Saturday 0830 hours 1330 hours February - May &
August - November
Sunday & Public CLOSED
Holiday
4. Reference Service
Trained staff are available to respond to general, personal, telephone and
correspondence enquiries.
5. Access to Computers
Users can access computers with internet access free of charge to enhance their
competence in finding, retrieving, analysing, and using electronic information
that support continual professional development and examination preparations.
6. Photocopying facilities
There are no photocopying facilities at the office.
DO’S DON’TS
Please carry your ICSAZ student/ membership Personal textbooks and bulky files are not
card whenever visiting the Library and register. allowed in the Library.
Please switch off your cell phone when in the Do not damage any Library material
Library.
For the Library materials security reasons, please Do not condone if you find anybody
tuck in your shirt or blouse. Hat, cap, dustcoat or causing damage to Library materials.
overalls are not allowed. Regalia for any political Please report the matter to the Librarian
party is not allowed in the Library immediately.
Please leave your bags at the designated place at Do not shelve books. A misplaced book
your own risk. Take your valuables with you. is a lost book.
After consulting a book, please leave same on the Do not talk in the Library.
table.
Please allow another user to take your vacant seat Do not eat any food inside the Library.
whenever you go out for more than 20 minutes.
i. Speciss College, 39/41 Jason Moyo Avenue, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues,
Bulawayo.
ii. Chinhoyi Public Library, Cnr Chegutu Road and Jongwe Street.
iii. Gweru Memorial Library, 54-8th Street, Gweru.
iv. Masvingo Polytechnic College, Masvingo.
v. Turner Memorial Library, Civic Centre, Mutare.
vi. Redcliff Municipal Library, Redcliff Civic Centre.
vii. Victoria Falls Library, Victoria Falls.
You will need to contact the individual Library for details regarding access to the books.
Please Note:
The libraries are not equipped to provide students with their full reading requirements
for their studies. Students should obtain the essential textbooks and use the Library
facilities to supplement their study requirements.
A B C D
Pre- Pre-Professional Professional Professional
Professional Intermediate Programme I Programme II
MANAGING Business Law; Human Resources Corporate Law *Corporate
PEOPLE Business Management Secretarial Practice
Communication
and Ethics
The new curriculum has 18 examinable modules and all these modules are compulsory.
To keep the qualification in line with current market requirements and developments, the
Institute reviews the curriculum regularly. Recent reviews of the curriculum or qualifying
scheme were made on these dates:
2001 – examined up to year 2004; 2005 – examined up to year 2006 and 2007 –
examined up to year 2012; 2013 examined up to 2018
Please note that the new curriculum becomes effective from January 2019. Therefore Rule
1 and 2, as set out in this Members and Students handbook regarding the order of writing
examinations will be enforced up to November 2018 based on the 2013 curriculum and from
May 2019 examination session based on the new curriculum, as shown in this handbook.
It is essential that students study the table and take note of the subjects that they are not
expected to write because of their current credits, as well as those subjects they will now
need to write in order to complete their studies.
If students have written the following subjects under the old parts and passed they will not
need to write the subjects in the new parts, as indicated in the following table.
CURRICULUM
Subject Passed Old Subject not to be written New
Part Part
1. Business Communication Part A Business Communication and Ethics Part A
2. Business Law Part A Business Law Part A
3. Corporate Law / Corporate Law and Practice Part B Corporate Law Part C
Note: It must be noted that all students will now be required to write Public Financial
Management at Part D. No credit will be awarded for having passed Integrative
Case Study.
Students should study the table and take note of the subjects they are not expected to write
based on the credits already in hand.
Students must note that the subjects that they have already passed will appear in their
current names on their transcripts when they complete their studies.
Applied
Audit and Public Financial Corporate
Part D Governance, Risk
Assurance Management Secretarial
Professional and Compliance
Practice
Programme II
PART A – (Pre-Professional)
BUSINESS ACCOUNTING
BUSINESS ECONOMICS
BUSINESS LAW
BUSINESS COMMUNICATION AND ETHICS
BUSINESS STATISTICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Subject type: Core for the Zimbabwe Division’s Normal Qualifying Scheme
The aim of this subject is Learning Outcome 1 ► Double Entry System Accounting theory.
to introduce the student On successful completion Concepts and accounting for capital, assets, liabilities,
to the subject of Financial of this subject, you will be expenses and income including the accounting (Statement of
Accounting and Reporting able to: Financial Position) equation.
► Accounting concepts
and provide an Understand the basic Approaches to double entry principle.
understanding of the role Financial Accounting
of the discipline in principles and Corporate
ensuring accountability Reporting concepts. Definitions of going concern, accruals, matching,
and stewardship in the (Weighting: 15%) prudence, consistency, materiality, substance
running of organisations. over form, business entity, duality, separate
determination
Accounting for accruals and prepayments of income and
expenses.
Accounting for assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses in
proper reporting period.
► Cash Accounting Writing up and adjustment of cash books (including petty cash
book).
Trade discount and cash discount.
Bank reconciliation statements, including treatment of unpaid
cheques, post-dated cheques, bank charges, transfers and
contra entries and errors.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject. Candidates may make use of hand-held, self-powered,
silent, non-programmable calculators but intermediate working steps must be shown
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding at ‘A’ Level, or those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the
Institute’s qualifications.
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict management
Effective Team-working
behaviour with
others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
Subject type: Core for the Zimbabwe Division’s Normal Qualifying Scheme
Factors influencing growth, the debt problem, people and growth, development
economics. Role of regional bodies.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject. The examination will be related primarily to the Zimbabwean
economy.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding at ‘A’ level, or those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the
Institute’s requirements must be demonstrated.
Subject type: Core for the Zimbabwe Division’s Normal Qualifying Scheme
The aim of this subject is to Learning Outcome 1 ► The Nature of Stare decisis
create an understanding of the On successful Law Obiter dictum
laws that govern business completion of this Ratio decidend
operations and different forms subject, you will be
of legal entities. able to: ► The sources of
Understand the law The relationship of and distinction between common law, statute law and
nature and sources of customary law.
law Function and purpose of law.
(Weighting: 25%) The Constitution of Zimbabwe
► Transfer of
Forms of breach
contractual
rights and Remedies
obligations
► Breach of
contract and
remedies on
the ground of
breach
Definition of delict
Remedies
Responsibility of employers for the defects of employees
► Specific
Contracts:
Delict
► Carriage of
Goods The common law position
The position under the consumer contracts Act No. 6 of 1994
Taking note of the existence of other related statutes.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding at ‘A’ level, or those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the
Institute’s requirements must be demonstrated.
Subject type: Core for the Zimbabwe Division’s Normal Qualifying Scheme
► Audio Visual Aids Various audio and visual aids in use and appropriate security.
Design of systems including classification for retrieval and updating
information.
The use of Audio and Visual Aids and important considerations to
remember when using these devices.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding at ‘A’ Level, or those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the
Institute’s qualifications must be demonstrated.
Subject type: Core for the Zimbabwe Division’s Normal Qualifying Scheme
► Business Calculations Use of annuity tables, sinking fund schedules, simple and compound
interest, elementary insurance calculations.
The aim of this subject is to Learning Outcome ► Index Numbers Problems involved in their use, price relative methods, aggregative
expose the student and to 4 methods. Laspeyre and Paasche indices retail price index, index
assess competency in the On successful construction and interpretation.
application of statistical completion of this
methods and techniques in subject, you will be
solving business problems as able to: ► Time Series Analysis Trends, moving averages, seasonal variations, random variations,
well as to provide a conceptual Apply Index exponential smoothing and simple forecasting.
framework and practical Numbers and Time De-seasonalising a time series.
applications of information Series Analysis to Official sources of economic and business data.
technology to organisational proffer solutions to The National Income and Expenditure Accounts.
situations. business problems. Censuses of population, production, distribution.
(Weighting: 10%) Manpower earnings, cost of living, capital formation, trade returns and
balance of payments.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject. Candidates will be provided with the necessary tables.
Candidates may make use of hand-held, self-powered, silent, non-programmable calculators, but intermediate working steps must be shown.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding at ‘A’ Level, or those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the
Institute’s requirements must be demonstrated.
Competence Dimension Learning Learning Learning Learning Learning Learning Learning Learning
Outcome 1 Outcome 2 Outcome 3 Outcome 4 Outcome 5 Outcome 6 Outcome 7 Outcome 8
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
The aim of this subject is to Learning Outcome ► Human resources The duties of a human resources manager and the position of the role in
impart knowledge of the 3 management the organisation.
management of the key On successful
resource in the completion of this Managing a workforce.
organisation, human subject, you will be Organisation of work.
resources and the able to: Organisational types and their differences.
measurement, Understand the role
management and and function of
improvement of Human Resources
organisational performance in an organisation.
through the application of (Weighting: 15%)
various tools and
techniques.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated through the Institute’s examinations, or
those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the Institute’s requirements.
- Business Communication
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication
skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
Questions will be set on any of the provisions of the Income Tax Act, Finance Act Value Added Tax and Capital Gains Tax Act.
Candidates will be required to submit answers to certain questions in the form of reports or memoranda and to quote the relevant case law.
Questions will be based on the legislation applicable to the year of assessment ended on the 31st December in the previous calendar year.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject. Candidates may make use of hand-held, self-powered,
silent, non-programmable calculators but immediate working steps must be shown. Candidates may take into the examination room an unmarked copy of the
Income Tax Act (as amended) and of the Finance Act and the Capital Gains Tax Act. Students are permitted to take in their ZXNET Amended Zimbabwe
Taxation Statutes provided, of course, that no notes or commentaries are included.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated through the Institute’s examinations, or
those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the Institute’s requirements.
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict management
Effective Team-working
behaviour with
others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
The aim of this subject is to Learning Outcome 1 ► Partnership Accounting for partnerships including changes in profit sharing
build on the body of Financial On successful accounting ratios
Accounting knowledge learnt in completion of this Conversion of partnership to limited liability companies
the Business Accounting subject, you will be able Dissolution of partnerships.
subject and apply International to: ► Formation of
Financial Reporting Standards Prepare financial company and issue
(IFRSs) or other relevant statements for of shares Steps in formation of company,
standards to transactions and partnerships, branches Issues of shares and debentures
other events, evaluate and trusts. Explain the Pre-incorporation profits.
appropriateness of accounting formation of limited
policies used to prepare liability companies
► Accounts of
financial statements and including the issue of different types of Preparation of accounts for branches and trusts
prepare financial statements in shares and account for organisations
accordance with IFRSs and transactions of special
other relevant standards. nature. ► Transactions of
special nature Investments, underwriting, redemption of shares and debentures,
(Weighting: 20%)
royalties, consignment, joint ventures, hire purchase(in
accordance with relevant accounting standards)
Assessment
Assessment must comprise of a three-hour written examination, which must be passed, for the subject. Candidates may make use of hand-held, self-
powered, silent and non-programmable calculators but intermediate working steps must be shown. Candidates are expected to apply theory to practical
situations.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated through the Institute’s examinations, or
those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the Institute’s requirements.
References:
ISAs, IFAC – International Auditing Guidelines, Companies Act (Chapter 24:03) requirements
Legislation and regulations affecting public sector audits, including the Public Finance Management Act (Chapter 22:19), Current textbooks.
Knowledge of International Accounting Standards and the International Auditing guidelines is a pre-requisite.
Assessment
Assessment must include a four three written examination, which must be passed, for this subject.
The written examination should include multiple choice questions, short form questions and case scenarios.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated through the Institute’s examinations, or
those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the Institute’s requirements.
- All Part A
- Financial Accounting
- Taxation
(Weighting: 15%)
(Weighting: 15%)
(Weighting: 15%)
(Weighting: 10%)
Types of shares
► Shares and class
rights Class rights
Variation of class rights
Alteration of share capital
Issue shares
Payment for shares
Premiums and discounts
Statutory pre-emption rights
► Loan/debt capital Types of debt capital, including debentures and other personal
property debt
Instruments and types of financial security, such as fixed and floating
charges or personal property
Final exam should have five problem questions to cover the field of content and combining at least two areas of content under each question. Exam should
require problem-solving, identification and application of legal principles (with some authority) and advice to relevant parties.
Recommended pre-requisites
There are no compulsory prerequisites, such as a requirement to have taken particular preparatory or degree programmes or other subjects. Nor is there a
required order in which subjects are taken. Each subject outline may give recommendations and Divisions may provide advice to candidates. Relevant work
experience is always recommended.
It is assumed that all candidates have a fundamental understanding of legal frameworks within their jurisdiction (legislation, case law, Roman-Dutch law, civil
codes, federal/state laws, court system, commercials laws – contracts-torts etc). This material is covered in all undergraduate business degrees.
If a student has not undertaken an undergraduate business or similar degree, without any business law, the candidate should undertake a course of study to
cover the elements of basic content, to equip them with the concepts and terms of basic business law. Each jurisdiction would have a series of alternative
textbooks to cover such material.
Competency framework
The qualifying scheme overall through the subjects within it is designed to provide both knowledge and understanding and competence and skills and relevant
to the intended designation. The competency framework for ICSA professionals has three key competencies:
I behave professionally. Dimensions: personal presentation, good judgement, oral and written communication skills, analytical skills.
I behave with integrity. Dimensions: independence, ethical code, alertness to conflict of interest, assertiveness, conflict management.
I behave effectively with others. Dimensions: team-working, leadership, influencing skills, negotiating skills, diplomacy.
Competence is developed in the workplace through professional practice and through effective teaching, learning and assessment of the subjects in the
qualifying scheme.
The final section of the subject outline maps the learning outcomes of the subject to the competencies in the competency framework.
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication
skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to
conflict of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
(Weighting: 10%)
References:
Current textbooks, standards and or modules on accounting and financial reporting.
Assessment
Assessment must comprise of a four-hour written examination, which must be passed, for the subject.
LO1. Candidates must be able to interpret and analyse the content of a given set of financial statements (including notes) prepared in accordance with IFRSs
and/or other relevant standards.
LO2. This LO is conceptual and does not require calculations as required by other outcomes. Theoretical questions should be posed on the need for the
reporting entity to follow international and/or national financial reporting frameworks.
LO3. Assessment for this LO should include complex financial calculations to prepare group financial statements.
LO4. Typical questions for this LO should be based on business cases that require application of a relevant international accounting standard. Candidates
should provide advice on the recognition criteria, measurement and disclosure requirements under relevant standards.
LO5. Candidates will be required to analyse and interpret financial information from a set of financial statements and/or reports. Computations are essential
for this LO.
LO6, LO7, LO8, LO9, and LO10. Candidates must be able to interpret and analyse the content of a given set of financial statements (including notes)
prepared in accordance with IFRSs/IPSASs and/or other relevant standards.
Recommended pre-requisites
The subject assumes a prerequisite knowledge of financial accounting and reporting at basic and intermediate level. Pre-requisite knowledge and
understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated:
All of Part A of the ICSAZ Qualifying Scheme
Financial Accounting
Taxation
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good
Judgement
Oral and
written
communication
skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to
conflict of
interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing
skills
Negotiating
skills
Diplomacy
(Weighting: 15%)
(Weighting: 15%)
(Weighting: 30%)
(Weighting: 15%)
(Weighting: 15%)
(Weighting: 10%)
As part of the senior management team, chartered secretaries and chartered governance professionals have an important role to play in ensuring that
strategy fits organisational purpose, is acceptable in terms of risk, and is consistent with good governance as well as with stakeholder requirements and
concerns.
LO1: Chapters 1 and 2; LO2: Chapters 3 and 4; LO3: Chapters 5, 6, 7 and 8; LO4; Chapters 9 and 10; Chapters 11 and 12; LO6: Chapter 13.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three-hour written examination, which must be passed, for each subject. Coursework (assessment of assignments other than
examinations) is permitted. Divisions may require a coursework element of up to 30% of the overall mark or grade.
LO1. A theoretical question could be posed to ensure that fundamental understanding of the topic has been accomplished.
LO2. Provide a case study with a complex set of external and internal environmental factors. Develop questions that will indicate whether the candidate is
able to examine the case study and appropriately identify and categorise the relevant factors.
LO3. Include aspects of culture and potential ethical issues within a case study and develop questions that will indicate whether the candidate can identify the
challenges and make recommendations that consider culture, ethics, and risk in serving an organisation’s purpose.
LO4. Candidates need to be able to identify potential strategic approaches after analysing a case study, and make recommendations on the most appropriate
strategy.
LO5. On selection of a strategy, a candidate must be able to identify alternative structures and control methods, and make recommendations that would suit
the new strategy.
LO6. A short scenario should be provided for candidates to analyse and provide a recommendation on how to manage the aspect of change identified in the
scenario.
Recommended pre-requisites
There are no compulsory prerequisites, such as a requirement to have taken particular preparatory or degree programmes or other subjects. Nor is there a
required order in which subjects are taken. Each subject outline may give recommendations and Divisions may provide advice to candidates. Relevant work
experience is always recommended.
Candidates are recommended to have completed a relevant business-related program before undertaking this subject. Candidates might also wish to
complete Finance for Decision making before embarking on this subject. Work experience that has provided some exposure to strategy development is also
be recommended.
Competency framework
The qualifying scheme overall through the subjects within it is designed to provide both knowledge and understanding and competence and skills and relevant
to the intended designation. The competency framework for ICSA professionals has three key competencies:
I behave professionally. Dimensions: personal presentation, good judgement, oral and written communication skills, analytical skills.
I behave with integrity. Dimensions: independence, ethical code, alertness to conflict of interest, assertiveness, conflict management.
I behave effectively with others. Dimensions: team-working, leadership, influencing skills, negotiating skills, diplomacy.
Competence is developed in the workplace through professional practice and through effective teaching, learning and assessment of the subjects in the
qualifying scheme.
The final section of the subject outline maps the learning outcomes of the subject to the competencies in the competency framework.
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication
skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject. Coursework (assessment of assignments other than
examinations) may not be appropriate for this subject.
Recommended pre-requisites
The subject assumes a prerequisite knowledge of financial accounting and reporting at basic and intermediate level. Pre-requisite knowledge and
understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated:
Financial Accounting
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict management
Effective Team-working
behaviour with
others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
(Weighting: 20%)
(Weighting: 20%)
Aim Learning Syllabus Syllabus detailed content
outcomes topics
The aim of this subject is for students Learning ► Role of The main activities of the treasury function
to develop their knowledge of finance Outcome 5 treasury The factors leading to short, medium and long term liquidity
and the ability to use that knowledge manageme surpluses and deficits
nt Outsourcing the treasury function and the use of shared services
in organisational financial planning On successful
and analysis and in understanding the completion of this Treasury management instruments and techniques
impact of the fiscal environment on subject, you will
organisational decision-making. be able to: ► Financial Types of financial risk – currency risk; interest rate risk; liquidity risk;
risk factors credit risk; refinancing risk; legal and regulatory risk; fraud and
explain the role of
affecting corruption risk; market risk
treasury
management and organisatio Mitigation of risk including the four T’s
apply the tools ns Impact of market volatility
Interpretation of yield curves
ICSAZ Syllabi (Effective 2019)
128
Normal Route Corporate Financial Management
► Use of
Computation of risk and evaluation of the most appropriate strategy for a
financial
given hedging requirement on the basis of:
instruments
to hedge
Forward markets and use of forward contracts and synthetic
against
forwards (money market hedges)
foreign
Synthetic agreement for forward exchange (SAFE)
exchange
risk Exchange-traded currency futures contracts
Currency swaps
FOREX swaps
Currency options
Assessment
Assessment must include a three hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated through the Institute’s examinations, or
those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the Institute’s qualifications.
All of Part A
Taxation
Financial Accounting
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication
skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to
conflict of
interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
► Corporate governance The Zimbabwe National Code on Corporate Governance best practice
requirements auditing requirements on the structure and role of an Audit Committee
Contribution of internal and external auditors to corporate governance, in particular
through their relationship with the Audit Committee
Regulations affecting audit and governance of public service organisations
► Audit risks and their Identification of risk at the financial statement level
implications Identification of risk at the assertion level
Determination of potential misstatements in respect of each assertion
Nature of significant risk and required audit responses
Setting of planning and performance materiality
Assessment
Assessment must include a four hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject.
The written examination should include multiple choice questions, short form questions and case scenarios.
Recommended pre-requisites
Evidence of assessed pre-requisite knowledge and understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated through the Institute’s examinations, or
those of equivalent qualifications which have been approved as meeting the Institute’s requirements.
All Part A
Financial Accounting
Taxation
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication
skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
The aim of this subject is for Learning Outcome 1 ► Discuss and Key terms in government borrowing and debt management
students to develop an On successful analyse the Fiscal constraints in government debt
understanding of financial completion of this mechanics Methods of government borrowing – treasury bills; government
associated with bonds; national savings and investment products; certificates
management issues in public module you will be
sources of
sector organisations – those able to discuss and government
of tax deposit
funded by taxation and those evaluate the specific borrowing and Economic impact of different forms of government borrowing
funded through other means - sources of finance explain the use of Government taxation as a source of funding
including national government available to national government Explain the contribution and role of public sector spending
departments and agencies , governments including taxation as a within the context of national finances
local government, health grants, taxes, aid and funding source
bodies, universities and other charging (30%)
educational institutions ,
charities, mutual organisations
and social enterprises.
► Discuss and evaluate Central government public spending, incorporating formula and
the role of central specific grants
government formula Local Authorities and levies
grant and local
The gearing effect and its impact on local tax decision making
taxation in the
financial of local Comparisons of local tax raising powers internationally
public services Control or influence over local tax levels by central government
► Discuss and evaluate Role of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in financing public service
the role of Public projects
Private Partnerships Principles of the Public Finance Initiative (PFI)
(PPPs) and in Advantages and disadvantages of PFI
particular the private Potential investors
finance initiative (PFI) Ensuring success - overcoming issues and obstacles
in funding large-scale
Monitoring performance
construction projects,
and calculate the Role of the government in PFI projects
public sector Dealing with changing circumstances and project failure
comparator Cases of privatisation
The aim of this subject is for Learning Outcome 2 ► Discuss and analyse the Factors affecting public service financial strategy development - the
students to develop an On successful completion of environment in which role of government and stakeholders; issues of consultation,
understanding of financial this module you will be able financial management is engagement, scrutiny and accountability
to discuss, analyse and practised within the Alignment of financial strategy with organisational objectives
management issues in
evaluate the issues
public sector organisations public services The role of auditors, inspectors and regulators
surrounding financial
– those funded by taxation planning and strategy Attitude of risk; risk diagnosis and management
and those funded through development in the public Impact of austerity; organisational and service-level financial
other means - including services, and the role of resilience
national government finance manager in public Impact of fraud on financial strategy
departments and agencies , sector organisations (35%)
local government, health ► Discuss examples of the
bodies, universities and legal, governance and
other educational ethical constraints or Impact of governance arrangements and legal requirements and
institutions , charities, expectations impacting how these vary across sectors
mutual organisations and on finance professionals
Ethical considerations in relation to financial strategy
social enterprises. in public service settings
The importance of leadership and the role of the Chief Finance
Officer/ Finance Director
► Discuss and analyse
Business partnering and the importance of organisational culture
the role and structure
of the finance function Affordability and value for money of the finance function
for public service
► Discuss and analyse Financing capital investment, the need to borrow and alternative
the specific issues methods of borrowing
associated with Attitudes to risk and return in the public services
treasury management The use of financial instruments in the public services
in public service Organisational investments powers and other constraints
organisations Statutory and regulatory frameworks
Best practice guidance
Ethical investment strategies
Management of public services pension funds
Impact of treasury management on strategic financial management
The aim of this subject is for Learning Outcome 3 ► Discuss and evaluate Relevance of competitive advantage strategy frameworks
students to develop an the factors affecting Strategies to manage demand
understanding of financial On successful completion strategy development Volatility of demand for services and related spending
of this subject you will be in public services requirements
management issues in
able to discuss, evaluate
public sector organisations including responding Practical strategies for managing demand and influencing
and apply practical tools to managing demand
– those funded by taxation and techniques that behaviour
pressure Invest-to-save and disinvestment strategies
and those funded through support strategy
other means - including development and delivery Media strategy and marketing of services
national government of objectives for public
departments and agencies , service organisations,
including managing
local government, health
demand, effective
bodies, universities and business cases and
other educational appropriate performance ► Explain and apply the
institutions , charities, management. (35%) stages involved in The role of the business case for both spending plans and
mutual organisations and developing a service reductions
social enterprises. business case and
The business case development process
distinguish between
Strategic Outline Plan
the types and content
Strategic Outline Case
of different business
Outline Business Case
cases
Full Business Case
Reviewing business cases
Interaction between business cases and Government Gateway
reviews
The module concludes by focusing on the issues associated with evaluating performance of public services.
LO1. Content to be delivered through a textbook or study manual supplemented by classroom deliveries, webinars, etc.
LO2 and LO3. Content to be presented or acquired through a textbook or study manual which can be supplemented by readings such as journal articles or
extracts from textbooks and classroom tuition, webinars, etc.
Assessment
Assessment must include a three-hour written examination with 100 marks available.
Recommended approach.
Final exam should have 4 essay questions consisting of 10 marks each and 2 longer scenario questions worth 30 marks each.
Recommended pre-requisites
This subject assumes knowledge from previous stages of the qualification in particular Cost and Management Accounting and Development of Strategy.
Competency framework
The qualifying scheme overall through the subjects within it is designed to provide both knowledge and understanding and competence and skills relevant to
the intended designation. The competency framework for ICSA professionals has three key competencies:
I behave professionally. Dimensions: personal presentation, good judgement, oral and written communication skills, analytical skills.
I behave with integrity. Dimensions: independence, ethical code, alertness to conflict of interest, assertiveness, conflict management.
I behave effectively with others. Dimensions: team-working, leadership, influencing skills, negotiating skills, diplomacy.
Competence is developed in the workplace through professional practice and through effective teaching, learning and assessment of the subjects in the
qualifying scheme.
The final section of the subject outline maps the learning outcomes of the subject to the competencies in the competency framework.
Subject:
Public Financial Management
Competence Dimension Learning Outcome 1 Learning Outcome 2 Learning Outcome 3
► Meetings of the board and its Board meetings – composition, quorum, roles, procedures (i.e.
committees frequency, notice, voting, agenda preparation and meeting
materials / papers, meeting technology, motions and
resolutions)
Role of the Corporate Secretary before, during and after board
meetings
Role, functions and duties of the chair
Delegation of authority and responsibility
Reliance on management and advisors
Committees – types, purposes and composition
Matters reserved for the board
Executive discretion
Written / circular resolutions
Conflicts of interest
(Weighting: 20%)
Assessment
Assessment must include a three-hour written examination, which must be passed, for each subject. Coursework (assessment of assignments other than
examinations) is permitted. Divisions may require a coursework element of up to 30% of the overall mark or grade.
The coursework for this subject should enable candidates to demonstrate particular skills as follows:
Case study-type questions where candidates can demonstrate that they can analyse the situations presented and provide solutions / actions plans.
Open book examination where candidates are able to critically engage and apply their knowledge and understanding to real-world case studies.
Recommended prerequisites
There are no compulsory requirements, such as a requirement to have taken particular preparatory or degree programmes or other subjects. Nor is there a
required order in which subjects are taken. Each subject outline may give recommendations and Divisions may provide advice to candidates. Relevant work
experience is always recommended.
It is recommended that the candidate either has completed the Corporate Law and Corporate Governance subjects prior to undertaking Corporate Secretarial
Practice, or has completed Corporate Law and is taking Corporate Governance concurrently with Corporate Secretarial Practice. This will ensure that, at the
completion of the Corporate Secretarial Practice subject, the candidate is able to apply the principles of good governance in the context of effective corporate
secretarial practice.
Competency Framework
The qualifying scheme overall, through the subjects within it, is designed to provide both knowledge and understanding and competence and skills relevant to
the intended designation. The competency framework for ICSA professionals has three key competencies:
I behave professionally. Dimensions: personal presentation, good judgement, oral and written communication skills, analytical skills.
I behave with integrity. Dimensions: independence, ethical code, alertness to conflict of interest, assertiveness, conflict management.
I behave effectively with others. Dimensions: team-working, leadership, influencing skills, negotiating skills, diplomacy.
Competence is developed in the workplace through professional practice and through effective teaching, learning and assessment of the subjects in the
qualifying programme.
The final section of the subject outline maps the learning outcomes of the subject to the competencies in the competency framework.
Subject:
Corporate Secretarial Practice
Competency Dimension Learning Outcome Learning Outcome Learning Outcome Learning Outcome
1 2 3 4
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to conflict
of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict management
Effective Team-working
behaviour with
others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
► Emerging trends
and future
developments in
risk and compliance Anti-money laundering legislation/practices
management Counter-terrorism financing legislation/practices
Assessment
Assessment must include a four-hour written examination, which must be passed, for this subject. Coursework (assessment of assignments other than
examinations) is permitted and the coursework element shall be up to 30% of the overall mark or grade.
Recommended pre-requisites
Pre-requisite knowledge and understanding in the following disciplines must be demonstrated:
All of Part A of the ICSAZ Qualifying Scheme
Financial Accounting
Taxation
Professional Personal
Behaviour Presentation
Good Judgement
Oral and written
communication
skills
Analytical skills
Integrity Independence
Ethical code
Alertness to
conflict of interest
Assertiveness
Conflict
management
Effective Team-working
behaviour
with others Leadership
Influencing skills
Negotiating skills
Diplomacy
TUITION PROVIDERS
It is the responsibility of students and not of the Institute to arrange study programmes. Enquiries may be made at the ICSAZ Office for advice
in this regard so as to obtain the names of colleges which are accredited by the Institute to offer ICSAZ tuition.