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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Information Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93709  Higher Certificate in Information Technology 
ORIGINATOR
MANCOSA Pty (Ltd) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  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  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  SAQA 1141/23  2021-07-01  2024-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2025-06-30   2028-06-30  

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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Higher Certificate in Information Technology is the first Higher Education qualification in the information systems discipline that offers a combination of theory and practice in the key area of Information Technology (IT). The purpose of the qualification is to provide a structured programme for persons wishing to work as information technology support staff in public and private sector organisations.

The Qualification aims to develop an integrated conceptual understanding, synthesis and application of Information Technology principles. It will also develop communication and project management skills, and provide learners with skills in IT support. This qualification covers fundamental concepts and operation into the technology and operation of modern information systems.

Upon successful completion of this course, learners will have an understanding of:
  • The basic principles of computing and how computer systems work.
  • The basic concepts of data representation and structure.
  • Database types and basic mechanisms for information retrieval from databases.
  • Data capture and digitisation techniques.

    Rationale:
    The Higher Certificate in Information Technology:
  • Contributes to regional and national goals by facilitating capacity building and human resource development.
  • Empowers learners with knowledge, skills and competencies necessary to function in a public sector environment.
  • Recognises and caters for the career and economic needs of learners who are in employment.
  • Meets the needs of learners in a variety of positions in the public sector.
  • Provides learners with the opportunity to proceed on a course of study culminating in the attainment of a Bachelor's Degree.
  • Broadens the social base of learners in higher education by targeting learners with work experience. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning:
    This qualification may be obtained wholly or in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning.

    In cases where prior learning is to be recognised for purposes of access to the qualification, it is assumed that the learning derived from work or life experience will be a major element in the profiles of non-standard entrants primarily by means of an examination of the individual's Curriculum Vitae (CV). Such 'non-standard' applicants will be selected on the recommendation of a senior manager from the place of work.

    Where appropriate, interviews will also be conducted to assess the applicants. Some of the key criteria that will be used in evaluating 'non-standard' applicants include:
  • The applicants' motivation, maturity and realistic approach to their studies.
  • A verified Job Description, covering relevant area of work, giving examples of tasks carried out.
  • The nature and level of life/work experience and prior study, and the learning which has resulted from such experience.
  • Details of in-company short courses, length, content of material covered, standard achieved.
  • The clarity of the applicant's educational goals and objectives.
  • The extent to which the applicant can provide evidence of the threshold skills and knowledge of the qualification.

    Where prior learning is recognised for advanced standing, credit will be given for prior certificated learning in accordance with established practice at South African Higher Education Institutions. The amount of 'specific' credits granted is dependent on the match between prior learning and award towards which the intended qualification leads.

    Credits may only be accumulated for modules, which are prescribed within the structure of a named award.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum level of attainment required for entry into this qualification is:
  • A National Senior Certificate granting access to Certificate.
    Or
  • A National Certificate (Vocational) NQF Level 4, granting access to Certificate studies.
  • A Senior Certificate, with Matriculation exemption.

    In addition to the above admission criteria, the following will also be considered:
  • Relevant work experience.
  • A detailed motivational letter and CV.
  • Evidence of Prior learning. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Higher Certificate in Information Technology comprises eight compulsory modules of 15 Credits each, all at NQF Level 5. All the modules must be successfully completed in order to be awarded the qualification.

    Modules:
  • Communication.
  • Essential Mathematics.
  • Introduction to Programming.
  • Networking Fundamentals.
  • Computer Hardware and Architecture.
  • Web Development.
  • Information Systems.
  • Information Security.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 5: 120. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the Information Technology environment of an organisation.
    2. Utilise information technology to communicate effectively.
    3. Operate as part of the information technology support staff.
    4. Implement and/or apply the basic principles of an Information Technology system.
    5. Compile information for business decision making. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following assessment criteria are applied to some or all of the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Basic information technology tasks within an organisation are successfully undertaken.
  • Theory and principles of information technology are applied in a work-based context.
  • Appropriate technology is utilised in various communication modes.
  • Knowledge of information technology is demonstrated within the context of the workplace.
  • Research skills are displayed in solving work related problems.
  • Knowledge acquired is communicated to peers and related staff members.
  • The management of resources and processes is understood and demonstrated.
  • An ability to propose solutions to problems is demonstrated.
  • The use of work based assignments to test the application of principles is demonstrated.
  • Information technology, networks and web browsers are utilised to obtain work related information and to communicate with peers.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment centres around:
  • The extent to which the learner has grasped the basic concepts.
  • The application of theory to a practical context.
  • The methods of research used.
  • A balance between theory and practice and its relevance to the level of the qualification.
  • The use of appropriate technology to ensure effective communication of ideas.

    Assessment methods measure the extent to which the learner has achieved competence in the different areas of study delivered through course modules.
    These assessment methods include:
  • Case studies.
  • Report writing.
  • Interpretative and analytical problem solving in the written examination.
  • Work based assignments.
  • Self assessment activities in the course material. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Higher Certificate in Information Technology was compared to the following international qualifications:
  • Certificate in Information Technology, offered by the University of Virginia, United States of America.
  • Certificate in Information, Digital Media and Technology, offered by the Kangan Institute, Australia.
  • Certificate in Information Technology, offered by the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom.

    It was found that the core and specialised knowledge expected of the learner achieving the Higher Certificate in Information Technology compared favourably with that required from the three international qualifications given above. It may therefore be taken that this qualification is of international standard. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates with:
  • Diploma and Degree programmes from related and other sectors of the economy.
  • The expertise acquired doing this qualification in full or in part can be measured against requirements of other qualifications at MANCOSA or other institutions to obtain credits for specific modules.

    Horizontal articulation:
    This qualification articulates horizontally with any similar Higher Certificate at NQF Level 5.

    Vertical articulation:
    This qualification articulates vertically with either an Advanced Certificate or a Diploma in Information Technology at NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    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.
     
    1. MANCOSA Pty (Ltd) 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.