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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Diploma in Information Technology

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
111493	Diploma in Information Technology
ORIGINATOR
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)	Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences		Information Technology and Computer Sciences
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	360	Not Applicable	NQF Level 06	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2019-09-03	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2033-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification replaces:

Qual ID	Qualification Title	Pre-2009 NQF Level	NQF Level	Min Credits	Replacement Status
72598	National Diploma: Information Technology	Level 6	Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L6	360	Complete

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The Diploma in Information Technology (IT) focuses on the theory, design, implementation and management of linked systems of computers to maximise efficiency and productivity in an IT environment.

Industrial Exposure is based on the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) policy on co-opt learning. Industrial Exposure has been assigned 60 Credits and consists of one module (Industry Exposure) offered in the final semester of the third year and 5% of the exposure is done internally through simulated environment.

The purpose of the qualification is to produce learners that can demonstrate the following competencies:

Apply the fundamentals of network theory and network computing systems;

Design and implement networking systems;

Secure network systems and assure computer-based systems;

Manage and evaluate network systems;

Provide IT support services;

Integrate and apply emerging technologies;

Apply algorithmic and mathematical techniques and solutions to networking and security domains;

Apply project management principles to communication network projects.
This qualification will equip the learner with the ability to research, identify, analyse, design and propose expansion, test, maintain, manage an IT project and deploy an application solution for any organisation, thus improving the efficiency of the organisation. Emphasis is also on providing adequate theoretical and practical knowledge on analysis, recommending solutions and deployment of solutions to organisation.

Qualifying learners will have the following attributes:

Applied knowledge of computing and logic appropriate to the discipline; analyse, design, implement, evaluate, secure and manage computer networks;

Ability to effectively integrate IT-based solutions into the user environment; understand best practices, standards and their applications;

Create and manage an effective project plan; function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal;

Communicate effectively with a range of audiences;

Engage in continuing professional development; understand issues and responsibilities related to professionalism, ethics, legalities, security and society.

Rationale:
This qualification was designed based on feedback from industry who indicated the required knowledge and skills. The learner will be provided with the needed knowledge and skills to function as a junior network administrator, junior network designer, junior network technician and junior network support within any organisation. This qualification will also prepare learners to meet the computer technology needs of business, government, healthcare, schools, and other types of organisations.

The Diploma in Information Technology (IT) through theory and practical will equip the learner to work in computer networks, distributed computing systems, information security, and network management and control, and infrastructure support services. Qualifying learners may also occupy work as Network Systems Administrators, Network Systems Architects, Network Security, IT Assurance and Forensics, Infrastructure and User Support. This qualification articulates to an Advanced Diploma (Information Technology). The learners are exposed to internal practical which is in a simulated environment and the workplace.

Qualifying learners would be able to assist any organisation (local or global) to assess their current situation, manage the IT project, propose solutions and assist in the deployment of the solution which shall enhance the organisation's economic and social stance. The qualification aims to provide the necessary skills and depth of knowledge to ensure that learners fulfil the relevant employment markets needs and consist of a combination of learning outcomes that have the defined purpose of capacitating the learner with workplace applicable competencies.

The Exit Level Outcomes of this qualification will allow articulation into Advanced Diploma in Information Technology which will equip learners with adequate knowledge to engage in innovative research and development as well as postgraduate studies.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be used to demonstrate competence for admission to this qualification. RPL may also be used to obtain credits for the Exit Level Outcomes. Evidence of prior learning will be assessed through formal institution policies and procedure.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Senior Certificate without endorsement.
Or

National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies;
Or

National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5 and 6 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 5, 120 Credits:

Introduction to Programming 115R, 15 Credits;

Discrete Mathematics 215R, 15 Credits;

Principles of Programming 125R, 15 Credits;

History of Computing and Information Models 115R, 15 Credits;

Communication for Academic Purposes, 10 Credits;

Life Skills, 2 Credits;

Information Literacy, 3 Credits;

Computer Networks 115R, 15 Credits;

Computer Networks 125R, 15 Credits;

Computer Architecture 125R, 15 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 6, 210 Credits:

Object-oriented Programming 216R, 15 Credits;

Operating Systems 226R, 15 Credits;

Advanced Object-Oriented 226R, 15 Credits;

Computer Networks 215R, 15 Credits;

Computer Security 215R, 15 Credits;

Computer Networks 226R, 15 Credits;

Wireless Networks 316R, 15 Credits;

Network Management 316R, 15 Credits;

Industrial Exposure 326R, 60 Credits;

Computer Networks 316R, 15 Credits;

Virtual Machines 216R, 15 Credits.

Elective Modules at Level 6, 30 Credits (Choose two):

Computer Security 226R, 15 Credits;

Web Organisation 226R, 15 Credits;

Resource Allocation 316R, 15 Credits;

Computer Security 316R, 15 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Apply the fundamentals of network theory and network computing systems.
2. Design and implement networking systems.
3. Secure network systems and assure computer-based systems.
4. Manage and evaluate network systems.
5. Provide Information Technology (IT) support services.
6. Integrate and apply emerging technologies.
7. Apply algorithmic, mathematical techniques and solutions to networking and security domains.
8. Apply project management principles to communication network projects.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Network Models and protocols are explained and discussed.

Fundamental principles of networking components are discussed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Principles of network design are discussed, explained and applied to design optimum networks.

Network theory is applied to the network design.

Appropriate network components are utilised in the design.

Network devices are configured.

Network is tested for functionality.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Threats and risks are identified.

Mitigation strategies are implemented.

Vulnerability and penetration testing of the network are performed.

Forensic and audit techniques are applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

An existing network is analysed for performance and efficiency.

Network performance is monitored and problems identified.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Various types of end-users are identified and their possible needs in different Information and Communications Technology (ICT) support environments are explored.

Diagnostic tools are used to analyse.

Troubleshoot and fix network problems.

End users of the network are supported.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Industry practical skills will be integrated with academic training.

New technologies are investigated and applied as competencies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Security implementation mechanisms - cryptography, crypto analysis, steganography, etc., are explained and applied.

Discrete network structures are explained and applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Basic project management techniques are applied.

A suitable project is done to integrate academic training with practical skills.

Integrated Assessment:
Integrated assessment will be achieved by a variety of strategies. These assessments will include written examinations (class tests, online, tests, semester tests) presentations group work and individual projects and assignments, practical examinations and a research report. Some of the criteria may be assessed through observation of the learners during their classes when they demonstrate their projects. This will enable qualifying learners to achieve applied competence, foundational competence, practical competence and reflexive competence for furthering their learning.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Diploma in Information Technology compares favourably in structure of Computer Science Curricular as done by Joint Task force on Computing Curricula Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society (IEEE CS) and also the Universities in Africa.

This qualification was compared to the Diplomas in Information Technology from the University of New Hampshire, Hofstra University and Brigham Young University in the USA, Al Imam Ibn, Saud Islamic University in Saudi-Arabia, Peking University in China, Mt. Royal University in Canada and the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in Nederland.

The following modules were compared:

History and overview;

Foundation of Networking;

Network Management and Security;

Virtual Systems and Services;

Cybersecurity Emerging challenges;

Wen and Mobile Systems/Mobile Applications;

Software Fundamentals;

Communication Skills.

Some of the modules were adopted in this qualification.

The qualification was also compared to the University in Nairobi and the African Nazarene University. The following modules were compared:

Concepts of Computer Applications;

Computer fundamentals;

Mathematics for Science;

Computer Security;

Data Communications and Networks;

Advanced networking;

Web based applications;

Introductions to Programming;

Object Oriented Programming;

Mobile Applications;

Discrete Mathematics;

Communication skills;

Computer Architecture;

Operating Systems;

Computer Networks.

Some of the modules were adopted in this qualification.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Diploma in Business and Information Management, Level 6.

Diploma in Business Information Technology, Level 6.

Vertical Articulation:

Advanced Diploma in Business Information Technology, Level 7.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.

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PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

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