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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101192  Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science 
ORIGINATOR
Walter Sisulu University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Honours Degree  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 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

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 Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer , Level 8learnerded for careers involving the design, configuration, and implementation of computer systems and software. Topics studied during the qualification include algorithms, artificial intelligence, computer networks, databases, Advanced Enterprise Java Programming and Web Computing. Learners who successfully complete the qualification can use their enhanced skills to pursue more interesting research and development positions in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry. An Honours Degree also naturally leads to further study for a Degree at Masters or Doctorate level.

Rationale:
Computer scientists are required locally, nationally, and internationally in the scientific, business and manufacturing industries. An Honours Degree also naturally leads to a research higher Degree at Master or Doctorate level. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

RPL may be used to demonstrate competence for admission to this programme for learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements.
This qualification may be achieved in part through Recognition of Prior Learning processes. Credits achieved by RPL must not exceed 50% of the total credits and must not include credits at the exit level. Learners who already work in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry who believe they possess competencies to enable them to meet some or all of the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs) listed in the qualification will be able to present themselves for assessment against those of their choice.

The provision that the qualification may be obtained through the recognition of prior learning facilitates access to an education, training and career path in ICT enabled fields and thus accelerates the redress of past unfair discrimination in education, training and employment opportunities.
Evidence of prior learning must be assessed through formal RPL processes through Institutions approved methods. Any other evidence of prior learning should be assessed through formal RPL processes to recognize achievement thereof.

Entry Requirements:
  • Entry Requirements of Computer Science, Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules at Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Research Methodology, 15 Credits.
  • Data Communications and Networking, 15 Credits.
  • Advanced Algorithm and Data Structures, 15 Credits.
  • Programming Mobile Applications Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Research Project, 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules (Choose Two):
  • Database Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Advanced Enterprise Application Development, 15 Credits.
  • Artificial Intelligence, 15 Credits.
  • Web Engineering, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Create complex software applications and perform detailed systems analysis.
    2. Perform basic research with minimal assistance. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Understand the role of research in computer science by providing support to organisations and society.
  • Understand the research theories and techniques used in computer sciences and Information Technology (IT).
  • Understand a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods which may be utilised in Computer Science research.
  • Understand the roles of research ethics, peer review and collaborative research.
  • Apply the fundamentals of conceptual methodological computer science related research.
  • Think creatively in developing solutions to problems.
  • Critically analyse research literature and conduct a literature review.
  • Conduct independent research, applying methods, tools and techniques appropriate to the research question.
  • Document and communicate research results and the methods of presenting these orally and in written reports.
  • Consider and respond appropriately to the ethical dimensions of professional relationships and responsibilities.
  • Take initiative and work independently.
  • Objectively assess their own performance.
  • Be aware of the social consequences of the role of information technology.
  • Enthusiastically pursue lifelong education in own discipline.
  • Function within the code of professional conduct in computer science and IT practice.
  • Act within the parameters of best practice, industry standards and professional ethics.
  • Implement software solutions to problems that require intensive planning and error-free coding.
  • Work effectively with others as a member of a software development team.
  • Combine human factors, IT and business concepts in problem-solving.
  • Collect analyse, organise and critically evaluate information needed for solving a software related problem.
  • Develop as a full and balanced human being by:
    > Showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
    > Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
    > Participating in local, national and global civic and professional communities.
    > Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
    > Exploring further educational and career opportunities.
    > Exploring entrepreneurial opportunities based management skills developed in certain courses.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment takes a variety of forms including assignments, written tests and final examinations and the production of a research thesis on the research project. In general, the assessments that will be conducted throughout the programme are:
  • Formative assessments that are Internally moderated, which include: assignments, quizzes, and tests.
  • Assess-Integrated-Learning (project-based, problem-based, case-based and simulated learning).
  • Integrated final examination to assess the level of learner abilities in terms of knowledge assimilation and demonstration of practical ability to solving authentic problems. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    On completion of the course, learners will not only have improved their knowledge of and skills in computer science, but they will also be confident that they will fit in easily with research groups elsewhere around the world. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification enables the following articulation opportunities:

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Computer and Information Sciences, Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Computer and Information Sciences, Level 9.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences Honours, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Education Honours in Computer Applications Technology, Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    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. Walter Sisulu University 


    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.