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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118131  Bachelor of Science in Computer Science 
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First 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  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-03-25  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 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 in Computer Science has as aim to train computer professionals who show a fundamental theoretical understanding of the complex world of integrated digital platforms, and who can translate that understanding into solutions to difficult theoretical and practical problems in the industry.

The context is therefore to provide highly skilled professionals, with ample career opportunities, on a national level. The expected knowledge and skills surpass a simple background of technical knowledge of specific products or programming environments. Indeed, it is the analysis of a problem in the context of theoretical knowledge, the design of a solution, and the practical implementation of the design, in a cyclic fashion, which forms the backbone of the module structures.

As a concerted effort to provide a solid theoretical foundation, the mathematical background is provided through mathematically based courses throughout the three years of the qualification (Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics). On the other hand, the application and practical programming aspects are covered extensively in the Computer Science, Applied Mathematics and Operations Research modules. The provision of mathematical foundations in pure mathematics courses allows for more in-depth coverage of computer-specific topics.

There are four possible sample curricula. Here, learners may concentrate on theory, or hardware design, or software engineering, or data science. However, in all four sample curricula, the foundational theory and practical programming aspects are embodied in the core computer science subjects. The selection of electives provides for broader exposure to different fields but was chosen to be relevant for specific directions in a later postgraduate qualification or possible career.

Rationale:
Internationally and nationally there is a dire shortage of skilled computer professionals. The establishment of this degree would address this shortage.

This qualification addresses the needs of the profession by allowing more computer science content in the undergraduate curriculum.

There is no single recognised professional body for computer scientists. However, Computer Science at the institution has strong ties with industry, and various industry role-players were consulted on their views. Without exception, the companies indicated that more Computer Science content would be advantageous to them in terms of hiring graduates.

The qualification addresses a subsection of typical learners, namely, those that are mathematically strong and would be able to progress to theoretically-oriented postgraduate studies. The new intended qualification creates an additional pathway for technically-oriented learners that are not necessarily mathematically inclined, but could easily progress to technically-oriented postgraduate studies.

This qualification forms a strong but wider curriculum for learners who intend to obtain a qualification that is highly desirable and will lead to many job opportunities. As the economy requires a large contingent of trained computer professionals, the advantages are immediate and clear. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Learners can specifically apply to be accepted to the qualification by the RPL or CAT route. The Science Faculty's Academic Committee will consider all such applications and weigh the formal (CAT) and non-formal or informal learning (RPL) against the knowledge required to complete the requirements of the BSc in Computer Science. This selection will be performed following the CAT and RPL rules accepted by the Council of Stellenbosch University, and according to the rules of the Faculty of Science.

In particular, RPL will be considered for learners who are returning to studies after spending time in the workplace in a similar field.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 6 and 7 totalling between 376 to 440 Credits.

    Focal Area 1: Theoretical Computer Science Modules:
    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 172 Credits.
  • Computer Science, 64 Credits.
  • Science in Context, 12 Credits.
  • Mathematics, 48 Credits.
  • Probability Theory, 16 Credits.
  • Operations Research, 32 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 6: Select any of the listed modules totalling a minimum of 80 Credits and a maximum of 96 Credits:
  • Physics 114 (16 Credits); 144 (16 Credits); 214 (16 Credits); 224 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits); 254 (16 Credits).
  • General Linguistics, 24 Credits, General Linguistics 178 (24 Credits); 278 (32 Credits).
  • Applied Mathematics 144 (16 Credits); 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).
  • Mathematical Statistics 214 (16 Credits); 245 (16 Credits); 246 (32 Credits).
  • Mathematics 214(16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits); 278 (32 Credits).

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 96 Credits:
  • Computer Science, 80 Credits.
  • Applied Mathematics, 16 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 7: Select any of the listed modules totalling 32 Credits:
  • Computer Science, 16 Credits.
  • Mathematical Statistics 312 (16 Credits); 316 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits).
  • Mathematics 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 325 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 345 (16 Credits); 365 (16 Credits); 378 (32 Credits).
  • Operations Research 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits).
  • Applied Mathematics 324 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits); 364 (16 Credits).
  • Physics 314 (16 Credits); 334 (16 Credits); Physics 384 (16 Credits).
  • General Linguistics 378 (32 Credits).

    Focal Area 2: Software Engineering:
    Compulsory Modules Level 6, 176 Credits:
  • Computer Science 64 Credits.
  • Science in Context, 16 Credits.
  • Mathematics 48 Credits.
  • Probability Theory and Statistics, 16 Credits.
  • Operations Research 32 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 6: Select any of the listed modules totalling a minimum of 100 Credits and a maximum of 112 Credits:
  • Biology 114 (16 Credits); 144 (16 Credits).
  • Chemistry 124 (16 Credits); 144 (16 Credits); 234 (16 Credits); 254 (16 Credits).
  • Economics 114 (16 Credits); 144 (16 Credits); 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).
  • Geo-environmental Science 124 (16 Credits); 154 (16 Credits).
  • Music Technology 112 (6 Credits), 142 (6 Credits); 222 (8 Credits), 252 (8 Credts).
  • Physics 114 (16 Credits); 144 (16 Credits); 214 (16 Credits); 224 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits); 254 (16 Credits).
  • General Linguistics 178 (24 Credits), General Linguistics 278 (32 Credits).
  • Mathematics 154 (16 Credits).
  • Applied Mathematics 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).
  • Mathematical Statistics 214 (16 Credits); 245 (8 Credits), 246 (8 Credits).
  • Mathematics 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits); 278 (16 Credits).
  • Genetics 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).
  • Geography and Environmental Studies 214 (16 Credits).
  • Geographical Information Technology 211 (16 Credits); 241 (16 Credits); 242 (16 Credits).

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 80 Credits:
  • Computer Science, 80 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 7: Select any of the listed modules totalling 32 Credits.
  • Applied Maths 314(16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 364 (16 Credits).
  • Mathematical Statistics 312 (16 Credits); 316 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 354(16 Credits).
  • Mathematics 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 325 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 345 (16 Credits); 365 (16 Credits); 378 (32 Credits).
  • Chemistry 324 (16 Credits); 364 (16 Credits).
  • Computer Science 315 (16 Credits); 345(16 Credits).
  • Economics 318 (24 Credits); 348 (24 Credits).
  • Genetics 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 354(16 Credits).
  • Geographical Information Technology 311 (16 Credits); 312 (16 Credits); 341 (16 Credits); 342 (16 Credits).
  • Music Technology 379 (48 Credits).
  • Physics 314 (16 Credits); 334 (16 Credits), 384 (16 Credits).
  • General Linguistics 379 (48 Credits).
  • Operations Research 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits).

    Focal Area 3: Computer Engineering:
    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 231 Credits:
  • Computer Science, 48 Credits.
  • Science in Context, 12 Credits.
  • Mathematics, 64 Credits.
  • Probability Theory and Statistics, 16 Credits.
  • Electrotechnique, 15 credits.
  • Computer Science, 16 Credits.
  • Computer Systems, 30 Credits.
  • Systems and Signals, 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 6: Select any of the listed modules totalling a minimum of 32 Credits and a maximum of 64 Credits:
  • Mathematics, 154 (16 Credits).
  • Applied Mathematics 144 (16 Credits); 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).
  • Physics 114 (16 Credits), 144 (16 Credits).
  • Operations Research 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).
  • Physics 214 (16 Credits); 224 (16 Credits).

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 126 Credits:
  • Computer Science, 96 Credits.
  • Systems and Signals, 30 Credits.

    Electives Modules, Level 7: Select any of the listed modules for 16 Credits:
  • Applied Maths 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits); 364 (16 Credits).
  • Mathematics 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 325 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 345 (16 Credits); 365 (16 Credits).
  • Computer Science 315 (16 Credits).

    Focal Area 4: Data Science:
    Compulsory Modules, Level 6 (216 Credits):
  • Computer Science, 48 Credits.
  • Science in Context, 12 Credits.
  • Mathematics, 80 Credits.
  • Probability Theory and Statistics, 16 Credits.
  • Computer Systems, 30 Credits.
  • Systems and Signals, 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 6: Select any of the listed modules totalling a minimum of 32 Credits and a maximum of 64 Credits:
  • Physics 114 (16 Credits); 144 (16 Credits).
  • General Linguistics 178 (24 Credits).
  • Applied Mathematics 144 (16 Credits).
  • Mathematics 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).
  • Applied Mathematics 214 (16 Credits); 244 (16 Credits).

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 80 Credits:
  • Computer Science, 80 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 7: Select any of the listed modules totalling 48 Credits:
  • Operations Research 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits).
  • Mathematical Statistics 312 (16 Credits); 316 (16 Credits); 344 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits).
  • Applied Mathematics 314 (16 Credits); 324 (16 Credits); 354 (16 Credits); 364 (16 Credits). 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate integrated knowledge and an understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of the specific subject field of the chosen curricula.
    2. Recognise and explore a range of methods of inquiry in the selected field.
    3. Identify, analyse, evaluate and critically reflect on and address complex problems, current theories, models and techniques, applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments.
    4. Make informed decisions on effective solutions/methods to solve a problem, implement the method efficiently and interpret the results in a meaningful way.
    5. Demonstrate an understanding of the building blocks of the web.
    6. Work effectively alone and as a member of a team to develop quality software.
    7. Communicate scientific understanding in writing, orally and/or other forms of representation.
    8. Demonstrate the ability to design appropriate solutions in one or more application domains using software engineering approaches that integrate ethical, social, legal, and economic concerns.
    9. Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation for the importance of negotiation, effective work habits, leadership, and good communication with stakeholders in a typical software development environment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply modelling principles and mathematical.
  • Be familiar with the use of vectors and vector operations, with particular application to mechanical systems.
  • Develop problem-solving skills and honed mathematical tools to be able to solve more complex problems.
  • Discuss the fundamental concepts of problems and algorithms, without restrictions to specific computers, languages or implementations.
  • Discuss the concepts of automata, regularity, context-free, computability, decidability, nondeterminism, NP-completeness and other related concepts.
  • Discuss and explain the boundaries for computability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Organise tasks and data to choose the correct algorithm structure and supporting structure for implementation.
  • Understand performance analysis which includes topics such as efficiency, speedup, overheads analysis and scalability.
  • Understand the operating system's responsibility with regards to managing processes, including processes, including process creation, scheduling, and synchronisation; compute with matrices and vectors.
  • Apply matrix theory to solve a variety of practical problems (Examples are: solution of a system of linear equations, both over and underdetermined, solution of systems of difference and differential equations, handling of projections, reflections and rotations in 2D and 3D, as well as applications in image processing), and use MATLAB in these activities.
  • Discuss the fundamental concepts of problems and algorithms, without restrictions to specific computers, languages or implementations.
  • Discuss the concepts of automata, regularity, context-free, computability, decidability, nondeterminism, NP-completeness and other related concepts.
  • Discuss and explain the boundaries for computability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Construct a mathematical model of the problem.
  • Concrete and abstract problems, in familiar and unfamiliar contexts, are formulated, analysed and solved.
  • Visualize vectors, lines and planes in 2 and 3.
  • Dimensions so that mathematical results can also be interpreted physically.
  • Solve practical problems by suitable automata-based programming methodologies.
  • Formulate algorithmic solutions.
  • Design effective algorithms, regardless of a specific computer, language or implementation.
  • Use decomposition, ordering and mapping techniques to identify concurrency.
  • Organise tasks and data to choose the correct algorithm structure and supporting structure for implementation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse a model, either analytically or by the computer.
  • Interpret the solution in terms of the original problem.
  • Test solutions against experimental data.
  • Formulate algorithmic solutions using stacks, queues, symbol tables, graphs.
  • Understand the space and time requirements for various implementations.
  • Implement stacks, queues, symbol tables, graphs and know how to use various implementations of these abstract data types that are available in the standard java library.
  • Make an informed decision as to which computer method is most effective for the problem.
  • Implement the chosen method efficiently on a computer, taking into account the speed at which it executes as well as numerical stability.
  • Interpret the results in a meaningful way and, if necessary, improve the algorithm and/or implementation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Design and develop web user front-end.
  • Design and develop web server back-ends.
  • Understand the building of scalable solutions.
  • Know how to effectively test a website.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Reconcile conflicting project objectives, finding acceptable compromises within limitations of cost, time, knowledge, existing systems and organisations.
  • Collaboration with other team members to plan and solve complex problems in a group.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Scientific language is used correctly to produce clear and coherent written documents.
  • Communicate findings in written and oral form.
  • Scientific information is presented verbally in front of others.
  • Appropriate referencing conventions are used and intellectual property is respected.
  • Non-verbal forms of representations are used correctly and appropriately.
  • Communicate with self-confidence on problems that arise from the human-environment interaction.
  • Oral presentations on own work or sections of the prescribed material.
  • Create electronic presentations using appropriate software.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Design production systems through applying the scientific method.
  • Design effective algorithms, regardless of a specific computer, language or implementation.
  • Plan and develop web user front-end.
  • Design and develop web server back-ends.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Learn new models/techniques/technologies as they emerge and appreciate the necessity of ongoing professional development.
  • Communicate with self-confidence on problems that arise from the human-environment interaction.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The number and types of assessments may vary between modules. However, each module follows the policies and rules of assessment of the university. The two systems are flexible assessment or examination.

    Formative and summative assessment: The practicals and tutorials serve as the formative assessment components of each module, while the tests and examinations serve as the summative assessment component.

    Internal and external moderation of assessments: According to the institution's policy and faculty guidelines, the assessments for all undergraduate modules have to be internally moderated, and the assessments for all exit level (third year) modules have to be internally and externally moderated.

    Experiential learning: Kolb's model of experiential learning [1] moves in a cycle, through active experimentation to concrete experience to reflective observation to abstract conceptualization, and back. In particular, for all Computer Science modules, the required practical programming component matches this model exactly. Other subjects in the Science Faculty follow this model as well, based on tutorial sessions where practical problems are presented, and learners work with support to solve these and hence cements the abstract concepts involved. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The overwhelming majority of international has a BSc (Computer Science) Degree, which is often combined with Informatics as a second major.

    The European model (for example, at Oxford) offers a three or four-year BA or Masters qualification. The characteristic of these qualifications is that the majority of courses are taken from the Computer Science curriculum, but with some supporting Mathematics courses, such as Discrete Mathematics. American universities require more general electives from different fields - for example, Princeton requires several electives from literature and arts, and some supporting Mathematics courses in the first two years.

    However, all third and fourth-year modules are computer science-related subjects. This model, in general, holds for all the good international universities. It is important to note that all good universities require both theoretical and practical exposure, and independent projects, in the Computer Science degrees.

    Most American universities (for example, Princeton) requires a four-year Degree, with various subjects from different disciplines as part of the requirements. The European model (for example, Oxford) offers a three-year Degree with modules in Computer Science only (and some underlying Mathematics).

    Computer Science qualifications at Princeton University in the USA and Oxford University in the United Kingdom.

    Oxford: BA in Computer Science (after 3 years) or Masters in Computer Science (after 4th year).
    Princeton: AB or BSE.

    Areas of comparison:
  • Exit Level Outcomes: proficiency in problem-solving, programming skills, theoretical foundations.
  • Associated Assessment Criteria: tests, examinations, programming project.
  • Duration: 3 to 4 years.
  • Level of the qualification: NQF 7 or NQF 8. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science, Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematics, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Applied Mathematics, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Statistics, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Physics, 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.
     
    NONE 


    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.