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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Information Communication Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118274  Postgraduate Diploma in Information Communication Technology 
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  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  2021-06-22  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 purpose of the Postgraduate Diploma in Information Communication Technology (PGDip in ICT) is to enable learners to use Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and computing skills to develop solutions in response to the needs of different industries and of society. The qualification will equip learners with appropriate competencies and knowledge aligned to solving ICT business-related problems. It will provide them with advanced theoretical, analytical and practical knowledge in emerging ICTs and allow for professional and academic growth in careers such as applications development, analytics, networking, cybersecurity and business, to make a constructive contribution to industry and society at large. The qualification will enable learners to develop creative and innovative skills, applied, and cognitive competencies in the acquisition, interpretation and application of ICT principles professionally and ethically. Further, the qualification aims to produce life-long, independent learners capable of undertaking research to make meaningful contributions to knowledge and society.

Qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Evaluate and apply key terms, concepts, principles, insights, methods and technologies of ICT.
  • Use ICT knowledge, including computational thinking, the role of research and development in advancing ICT knowledge and particularly the fast rate at which knowledge has and will continue to advance and the implications of this for an ICT professional.
  • Critically analyse and apply advanced understanding, skills, methods of enquiry, knowledge and experience of ICT in the context of loosely defined scenarios, showing effective judgement in the selection of tools and techniques.
  • Undertake an independent but supervised research and development project to address a current problem in business or society. Including problem identification and evaluation, the selection of appropriate software and hardware, the development of an effective solution or computer-based system, critical evaluation and testing, and appropriate documentation.
  • Take decisions and act ethically and professionally, and justify those decisions and actions drawing on appropriate ethical values and approaches within a supported environment during the course of their interaction with different kinds of clients in different contexts.
  • Develop appropriate processes for accessing/gathering, processing and storing information for a given context or use; and independently validate the sources of information as well as evaluate and manage the information.
  • Develop and communicate ideas and opinions to a range of audiences using well-formed arguments, with the appropriate academic, disciplinary professional, or occupational register and discourse, including the appropriate use of technology.
  • Manage a number of processes and procedures, for example, those relating to project work in unfamiliar and variable contexts, as well as recognise that problem solving is context and system bound, and does not occur in isolation.
  • Identify, evaluate and address his or her learning needs in a self-directed manner and reflect on the success of their approach in a manner which facilitates consistent proficiency, sustained achievement, and lifelong learning.
  • Work in a group as a member or leader and take full responsibility for own work, and, where appropriate, that of fellow learners, as well as accountability for her/his own actions and where necessary, those of fellow learners. Work effectively and efficiently in a team as a member and as a leader in a manner that facilitates collaborative learning with other fellow learners.

    Rationale:
    ICT is identified as a scarce skill in the National Labour Scarce Skills Document. The qualification will support the Mpumalanga Provincial Growth & Development Strategy (PGDS), which identifies ICT as one of the priority areas in their provincial strategic development plan. The proposed qualification will present an opportunity for Advanced Diploma graduates to further their studies in Masters and Doctoral Degrees.

    Statistic.com reports that ninety million smart home devices are to be shipped worldwide in 2018 and further that the worldwide smart home market size will be $53.5 billion by the year 2022. In addition, the market size for applications such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and analytics, involved in the use of smart devices, is projected to reach $470 billion by 2020 worldwide. Mobile application development targeting smart devices with a deliberate focus on IoT and analytics can arguably be deemed to be the next generation market for innovative projects if we are to satisfy the need for such devices based on the projections from Statista.com.

    The qualification will also broaden access to the university since it will be offered for full time and part-time learners meaning it will present an opportunity for the young ICT practitioners to work and study at the same time. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL will be applied in line with the institution's policy on the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT). This policy is aligned with the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (Amended March 2019).

    The institution will use the RPL and CAT as important tools to widen access with success, to achieve inclusion and to overcome barriers to access in higher education. RPL and CAT will play important roles in promoting lifelong learning and in redressing inequities by providing alternative routes into higher education.

    The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is central to the notion of lifelong learning and, by providing alternative access to higher education, will play a role in redress of past inequities. RPL is the process through which informal learning is measured, evaluated and translated into perceived formal equivalents for recognition across different contexts. The goal of RPL is the facilitation of alternative access and admission to higher education, or progression within a qualification.

    The National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (Amended March 2019) indicates that there are two types of RPL, being RPL for access and RPL for credit. Both apply to this Postgraduate Diploma in Information and Communication Technology. The former will be used to provide an alternative route/s into the qualification. The latter is equally applicable to learners looking to apply for credits for equivalent NQF Level 8 modules passed at another institution or in-house.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Advanced Diploma in Information and Communication Technology, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Relevant 3-year Bachelor's Degree, NQF Level 7 with ICT as a major subject. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 135 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 90 Credits:
  • Artificial Intelligence, 15 Credits.
  • Computer Forensics, 15 Credits.
  • Data Analytics, 15 Credits.
  • Enterprise Architecture, 15 Credits.
  • Research Project (Mini Thesis), 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 8, 45 Credits (Select three modules from one of the following specialisations).
  • Functional Management, 15 Credits.
  • IT Governance, 15 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 15 Credits.
    Or
    Networking
  • Mobility Principles, 15 Credits.
  • Internet of Things, 15 Credits.
  • Ethical Hacking, 15 Credits.
    Or
    Programming
  • Robotics, 15 Credits.
  • Cloud Computing, 15 Credits.
  • Project Management, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Critically analyse and apply theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques relevant to the ICT field, discipline or practice.
    2. Explore and evaluate the nature of knowledge in ICT, including computational thinking, the role of research and development in advancing ICT knowledge and particularly the fast rate at which knowledge has and will continue to advance and the implications of this for an ICT professional.
    3. Critically analyse and apply advanced understanding, skills, methods of enquiry, knowledge and experience of ICT in the context of loosely defined scenarios, showing effective judgement in the selection of tools and techniques.
    4. Undertake an independent but supervised research and development project to address a current problem in business or society. Including problem identification and evaluation, the selection of appropriate software and hardware, the development of an effective solution or computer-based system, critical evaluation and testing, and appropriate documentation.
    5. Identify and address ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical ICT value systems.
    6. Critically review information gathering, synthesis of data, evaluation and management processes in specialised ICT contexts to develop creative responses to problems and issue.
    7. Present and communicate academic, professional or occupational ideas and texts effectively to a range of audiences, offering creative insights, rigorous interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to the ICT context.
    8. Selecting, applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures, processes or techniques to unfamiliar problems in a specialised field, discipline or practice.
    9. Identify and apply, in a self-critical manner, learning strategies that effectively address his or her professional and ongoing learning needs and the professional and ongoing learning needs of others.
    10. Work in a group as a member or leader and take full responsibility for own work which facilitates collaborative learning with other fellow learners where appropriate, use of resources as well as accountability for her/his own actions and where necessary, those of fellow learners. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse critically and apply theories, principles, procedures and practices, research methodologies, methods and techniques in ICT
  • Evaluate the role of research and development in advancing ICT knowledge.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explore and evaluate the fast-changing nature of ICT knowledge in written and oral presentations.
  • Apply the principles of computational thinking when tackling a complex problem in ICT.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Select and apply appropriate methods, software and hardware in familiar and unfamiliar scenarios.
  • Analyse critically any inherent weaknesses of the recommended methods and apply them in the ICT context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The independent but supervised research and development project to address a current problem in business or society is completed. The research report will demonstrate the following outcomes:
  • Conceptualisation - the project question and scope are decided and clearly presented.
  • The literature review supports the project, is comprehensive, uses a range of information sources and demonstrates a critical evaluation of each source.
  • The project plan includes timeframes and budget, goals, targets and indicators.
  • Appropriate methods, software and hardware are identified, including statistical methods, where a range of methods are considered and the appropriate chosen ones.
  • Ethical issues are considered and approval sought if necessary.
  • Data are successfully collected, collated and analysed.
  • Data are interpreted and discussed in the context of the available information gathered in the literature review.
  • An appropriate computer-based system is developed evaluated and tested.
  • Recommendations are formulated, are supported by the data and fully justified.
  • The research report is in a format that is appropriate for the discipline and demonstrates no plagiarism.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical ICT value systems are identified and addressed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The information gathering, synthesis of data, evaluation and management processes in ICT contexts are critically reviewed and applied to develop creative responses to problems and issue.
  • Multiple sources of ICT knowledge are interrogated and knowledge production processes are evaluated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Both oral and written communication to professional and other audiences, ideas, conclusions and opinions are clearly shared using academic language, discourse, audiovisual tools and technology, as well as appropriate referencing conventions.
  • Academic writing is presented in the approved style and adheres to norms for scientific writing in ICT.
  • System development documentation is in the approved format.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • The systems thinking approach to conceptualise patterns and processes is critically applied in familiar and unfamiliar scenarios to understand the issue at hand and to develop possible solutions.
  • The complex, multidisciplinary nature of ICT systems is clearly demonstrated by managing multiple, conflicting viewpoints and creative tensions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
    Learning strategies that effectively address his or her professional and ongoing learning needs and the professional and ongoing learning needs of others are identified and applied.
  • The research journal includes positive and constructive reflection on the learning process is completed and submitted on time.
  • Qualifying learners are supported to become independent learners who can manage their own learning, and learners who successfully complete the programme will have achieved the outcome.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Independent research project and group assignments are successfully planned, executed, completed and submitted on time. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The proposed qualification has been compared to four international institutions. The focus of the comparison was mostly on the degree of similarity in the duration, credits and qualification structure.
    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: Auckland Institute of Studies
    Qualification Title: Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology
    Duration: One year
    Qualification structure
    The qualification comprises five courses corresponding to one of three specialist topics: Software Development, Information Systems, Networks and Security as well as an Internship or Research or Industry Project pathway. The curriculum structure is similar to that of the proposed qualification.

    The qualification's flexible pathways also cater for those learners wanting to pursue a career in research. Learners will have the opportunity to enter the IT industry at a higher-than entry-level position, and the advanced technical skills provided by the PGDIT specialist topics ensure graduates are prepared for success in any of these career paths. Software Development specialist topic enables students to analyse requirements and design, implement, test and deploy a software application. Information Systems specialist topic covers the acquisition, storage, transformation and analysis of data and information within a business setting. Networks and Security specialist topic deals with the technical issues involved in designing, implementing, administering and securing computer networks.

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: Eastern Institute of Technology
    Qualification Title: Postgraduate Diploma in ICT
    Duration: One year
    Learning Outcomes
    This qualification will also introduce learners to research in IT.
    Graduates will have an understanding of the broad conceptual and theoretical elements involved in IT, including:
  • A sound knowledge of the IT environment and its effective management
  • The ability to analyse the needs of business and make recommendations for IT services and systems
  • The ability to advise on, develop and implement innovations leading to more efficient use of resources within a dynamic IT environment
  • The ability to relate to and communicate effectively with personnel and clients having diverse backgrounds
  • The motivation for continued learning and self-development to cope effectively with change
  • An understanding of the legal, regulatory and ethical frameworks of the IT sector
  • A broad understanding of the legal, regulatory and ethical frameworks of the IT sector

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: Wellington ICT Graduate School
    Qualification Title: Postgraduate Diploma in ICT (PGDipICT)
    Entry requirements: Bachelor's degree in Information Technology or relevant work experience.
    Qualification structure:
    The ELOs are very similar to those of the proposed qualification and learners will be able to:
  • Work effectively in teams and exercise leadership as required
  • Engage in rigorous intellectual analysis, criticism and problem-solving
  • Apply advanced knowledge and skills in practical situations
  • Apply focused technology skills to meet emerging industry needs
  • Critically evaluate research literature in Information and Communications Technology
  • Plan, conduct and report on small-scale research projects
  • Communicate effectively (orally, visually and in writing)
  • Identify, analyse and address ICT-related ethical issues
  • Apply project management knowledge and skills
  • Undertake further postgraduate study

    The PGDipICT offers a range of courses relevant to the Technology sector and includes an internship and two special topic courses.

    Three compulsory modules:
  • Project Management for Information Technology,
  • Research in Information Technology and Internship.
    Elective modules 60 Credits (with a maximum of 15 credits at level 7):
  • Business Analysis for Information Technology
  • Business Intelligence and Data Mining
  • Cloud Computing and ICT Infrastructure
  • Conceptual Data Modelling
  • Information Management
  • Information Management
  • Multimedia Application Development for Mobile Devices
  • Network Design and Management
  • Network Security and Forensics
  • Quality Assurance and Testing
  • Systems Architecture and Technology Integration
  • Topics in Cyber Ethics
  • Service Quality Management for ICT
  • Special Topic in Information and Communications Technology

    Country: Australia.
    Institution: The University of Sydney.
    Qualification Title: Graduate Diploma in Information Technology
    Entry requirements: Bachelor's Degree in IT
    Duration: One year full time or two years part-time
    Articulation: Vertical Articulation: Master's Degree
    Qualification structure:
    The curriculum structure and many of the modules are similar to those in the proposed PGDip (ICT)
    Modules include:
  • Cloud computing
  • Cybersecurity
  • Enterprise management
  • Data analytics and Business Intelligence
  • Mobile Computing, and Data
  • Base Management

    Country: Australia
    Institution: Deakin University
    Qualification Title: Graduate Diploma in Information Technology. Students
    Duration: One year full time or two year part-time
    Four core modules and then four electives including Project Management, Web Technologies, Database and Information Retrieval.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: Central Queensland University
    Qualification Title: Graduate Diploma in Information Technology
    Duration: One year full time or two year part-time Graduate Diploma in Information technology which provides a pathway to the Master of Information Technology
    Qualification structure:
    The programme has compulsory and elective modules.
    Core modules
  • Project Management
  • Professional Skills in IT
  • Programming
  • ICT services Management
  • Database Design and Development

    Electives Modules (Select one):
  • Network Routing
  • Switching
  • Web Design

    Conclusion
    The Postgraduate Diploma in ICT is not a widely offered qualification and the number of comparisons is restricted by this. It is designed to align with the national and international standards set out by ACM (Association for Computing Machinery). The qualification further addresses the ACM call for different specialisations to address the global demand for ICT diverse skills.

    In summary, where the PGDip (ICT) or Graduate Diploma is offered as a one year full-time qualification it is very similar to the proposed qualification. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Systems or Information Technology, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master's Degree in Information Systems or Information Technology, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    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.