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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Geomatics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118631  Advanced Diploma in Geomatics 
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
Advanced Diploma  Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Physical Planning, Design and Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  SAQA 137/22  2022-02-03  2025-02-03 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-02-03   2029-02-03  

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 Advanced Diploma in Geomatics is to meet the generic academic standard for a Geomatics Technologist as prescribed by the SAQA-recognised professional body, the South African Geomatics Council (SAGC). The qualification includes a fundamental commitment to educating learners as Geomatics Technologists in the various fields of geomatics; Precise Engineering Surveying, Geographic Information Sciences, Research Methodology, Entrepreneurship, Project Management, professionalism, and ethics amongst others.

The qualifying learner will be enabled to solve broadly-defined geomatics problems in an industry-oriented career in small and large projects while being part of a team or as a project leader. The qualification is designed to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning and towards becoming a competent practicing Geomatics Technologist.

The core of the qualification is the integration of theory and practice (practical skills and attributes). The knowledge emphasises higher-order geomatics principles and application or technology transfer. The qualification provides learners with a sound knowledge base in a particular field or discipline and the ability to apply their knowledge and skills to particular career or professional contexts while equipping them to undertake more specialised and intensive learning.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Apply geomatics principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly-defined geomatics problems.
  • Apply knowledge of mathematics, basic science and geomatics sciences to wide practical procedures and practices to solve broadly-defined surveying problems.
  • Perform procedural design of broadly defined components or processes to meet desired needs within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation, and apply scientific and geomatics knowledge.
  • Conduct investigation of broadly defined problems through locating, searching, and selecting relevant data from codes, databases and literature, design and conducting experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.
  • Use appropriate established techniques, resources, and modern geomatics tools including information technology for the solution of broadly defined surveying problems, with an awareness of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions, and constraints.
  • Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with geomatics sector audiences and affected parties.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of geomatics activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of geomatics management principles and apply these to one's own work, as a member and leader in a technical team.
  • Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.

    This qualification prepares learners for postgraduate studies by deepening their knowledge base and understanding of geomatics principles and application and develops abilities to solve advanced theoretical and practice related problems in the geomatics environment.

    Rationale:
    South Africa is a developmental state needing skill in the construction and associated industries. Therefore, the associated demand for human resources has exacerbated the skills shortage particularly in the scarce categories like engineering and related professions. In terms of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) list of scarce skills, there are a shortage of skills in the survey (or geomatics) professions. Recently, on the list of the DHET's List of Occupations in High Demand, published in Government Gazette (no 39604 on 19 January 2016), the survey related occupations are mentioned. This is attributed to the broad set of skills that surveyors possess in response to spatial data collection or manipulation for application in developments that are on the rise in South Africa as the middle-class numbers increase.

    The Advanced Diploma in Geomatics will respond to the demands of the Geomatics Profession Act No 19 of 2013 for registration in the Geomatics Technologist category. This qualification is endorsed by the SAGC, it is designed to meet the SAGC professional requirements for Geomatics Technologist. Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to register as Technologists in the geomatics environment.

    The rationale for the qualification arises from the following three areas:
  • Accelerating the provision of priority skills to address the identified shortage as per DHET.
  • Promoting greater relevance and responsiveness in the education and training system and strengthening the employability of graduates, and
  • Identifying blockages and obstacles within the system of education and training that stand in the way.

    The qualification addresses changing techniques and technology that is defining modern geomatics. Learners will be exposed to higher-order historical survey techniques, and this will be integrated with its evolution to modern geomatics.
    The process of development of a Geomatics Technologist starts with the attainment of an Advanced Diploma in Geomatics or equivalent that meets the relevant SAGC standards. The content of this qualification will prepare the learner to build on existing knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills obtained in the prior qualification (a cognate Diploma in Geomatics). This qualification will expose learners to advanced geomatics theory, practicals, and the content will prepare learners to undertake complex precise engineering surveys and be project leaders.
    The qualification is designed to provide vertical articulation into a cognate NQF Level 8 honours or postgraduate qualifications. 
    		•

    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 the qualification. This qualification may also be achieved through recognition of prior learning, which includes formal, informal, and non-formal learning and work experience. RPL will be applied according to the institution's RPL policy to grant access and credits to prospective candidates.

    RPL for access:
  • RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification where applicants do not meet the minimum admission requirements.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.
  • Advanced standing may be granted.

    RPL for exemption of modules
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted for modules that form part of the qualification.
  • For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

    RPL for credits:
    It is acknowledged that all learning has value, and the institution will therefore endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant.
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Higher Certificate in the related field, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Diploma in Geomatics, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 6 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 120 Credits.
  • Geometric Design, 12 Credits.
  • Geomatics Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Research Methodology, 12 Credits.
  • Geographic Information Sciences, 12 Credits.
  • Satellite Surveying and Geodesy, 24 Credits.
  • Project Management - Engineering Surveying, 12 Credits.
  • Precise Engineering Surveying, 24 Credits.
  • Geomatics Practice Management and Ethics, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply geomatics principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly-defined geomatics problems.
    2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, basic science and geomatics sciences to wide practical procedures and practices to solve broadly-defined surveying problems.
    3. Perform procedural design of broadly-defined components or processes to meet desired needs within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation, and apply scientific and geomatics knowledge.
    4. Conduct investigation of broadly-defined problems through locating, searching, and selecting relevant data from codes, databases and literature, design and conducting experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.
    5. Use appropriate established techniques, resources, and modern geomatics tools including information technology for the solution of broadly-defined surveying problems, with an awareness of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions, and constraints.
    6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with geomatics sector audiences and affected parties.
    7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of geomatics activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation.
    8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of geomatics management principles and apply these to one's own work, as a member and leader in a technical team.
    9. Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.
    10. Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of technical practice as specified by the South African Geomatics Council. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse and define the problem and identify the criteria for an acceptable solution.
  • Identify relevant information and geomatics knowledge and skills for solving the problem.
  • Generate and formulate possible approaches that would lead to a workable solution for the problem.
  • Model and analyse possible solutions.
  • Evaluate possible solutions and select the best solution.
  • Formulate and present the solution in an appropriate form.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Bring an appropriate mix of knowledge of mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, natural science, and engineering science at an appropriate level and in a specialist area to bear on the solution of broadly-defined engineering problems.
  • Apply applicable principles and laws.
  • Select appropriate surveying engineering materials, components, or processes.
  • Communicate concepts and ideas effectively.
  • Perform reasoning about and conceptualising geomatics materials, components, systems or processes.
  • Perform work within the boundaries of the practice area.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Formulate the design problem to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  • Plan and manage the design process to focus on important issues and recognises and deals with constraints.
  • Acquire and evaluate knowledge, information and resources to apply appropriate principles and design tools to provide a workable solution.
  • Perform design tasks including analysis, quantitative modelling and optimisation of the product, system or process subject to the relevant premises, assumptions, constraints and restrictions.
  • Evaluate alternatives for implementation and select a preferred solution based on techno-economic analysis and judgment.
  • Assess the selected design in terms of the social, economic, legal, health, safety, and environmental impact and benefits.
  • Communicate the design logic and relevant information in a technical report.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Plan and conduct investigations and experiments within an appropriate discipline.
  • Search available literature and critically evaluate material for suitability to the investigation.
  • Perform analysis as necessary to the investigation.
  • Select and use equipment or software as appropriate in the investigations.
  • Analyse, interpret and derive information from available data.
  • Conclude from analysis of all available evidence.
  • Record the purposes, processes and outcomes of the investigation in a technical report.
  • Perform qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods research.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Assess the method, skill or tool for applicability and limitations against the required result.
  • Apply the method, skill or tool correctly to achieve the required result.
  • Test and assess results produced by the method, skill or tool against required results.
  • Create, select and use computer applications as required by the discipline.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Use appropriate structure, style and language of written and oral communication for the communication and the target audience.
  • Use appropriate and effective graphics in enhancing the meaning of the text.
  • Use visual materials to enhance oral communications.
  • Provide information in a format that can be used by others involved in the activity.
  • Deliver oral communication ed with the intended meaning being apparent

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Explain the impact of technology in terms of the benefits and limitations to society.
  • Analyse the geomatics activity in terms of the impact on occupational, public health and safety, and on the physical environment.
  • Take personal, social, economic, cultural values and requirements into consideration for those who are affected by the geomatics activity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Explain the principles of planning, organising, leading, and controlling.
  • Carry out individual work effectively, strategically and on time.
  • Contribute to team activities, including at disciplinary boundaries, support the output of the team as a whole.
  • Demonstrate functioning as a team leader.
  • Carry out effective communication in the context of individual and teamwork.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Manage learning tasks autonomously and ethically, individually and in learning groups.
  • Reflect learning undertaken on and determine own learning requirements and strategies to suit personal learning style and preferences.
  • Source, organise and evaluate relevant information.
  • Comprehend and apply the knowledge acquired outside of formal instruction.
  • Assumptions are challenged critically, and new thinking is embraced.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Describe the nature and complexity of ethical dilemmas.
  • Describe the ethical implications of decisions made.
  • Apply ethical reasoning to evaluate geomatics solutions.
  • Maintain continued competence through keeping abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques available in the workplace.
  • Understand and embrace the system of continuing professional development as an ongoing process.
  • Accept responsibility for consequences stemming from own actions.
  • Make judgments in decision making during problem-solving and design. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualifications offered by the Geomatics Department are aligned with international best practice. The SAGC, as a statutory body, provides for an Education Advisory Committee (EAC). The EAC undertakes accreditation every four years and advises, or insists, on certain changes to modules offered to update the overall qualifications. If these are not adhered to, qualifications will lose accreditation. The accreditation of qualifications is to ensure that the required level of quality is achieved. In this accreditation process, the council ensures that the learning content is still relevant and up to date when compared with international standards and that our graduates can work internationally or seamlessly migrate to other international academic institutions for further studies.

    The SAGC EAC is comprised of academics and industry stakeholders that advise on best practices, which are derived from the direction taken at the international level. This committee continually assists in giving feedback to improve the qualification to extensively meet industry requirements. These industry partners assist with practical industrial training for learners and technology lectures. Lecturers participate in research in different knowledge areas of the course to enable continuous updating of content. The lecturers attend international conferences from time to time to interact with other professionals and keep up to date with emerging research themes that can be applied to the Geomatics courses.

    Modules are practically oriented using internationally used software to include ESRI Systems, Leica Geosystems, ModelMaker, Surpac, Microstation and Autodesk products for specifically the Geomatics modules.

    The SAGC is also a member of the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG), which is an umbrella body for many international statutory bodies where articulation and levels of comparability of qualifications are discussed and maintained. All learners from South Africa intending to study abroad will require assessment at foreign institutions of higher learning before admission.

    According to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, "If you are a Surveying Technician or Technologist registered with SAGC you are eligible for direct entry to Associate membership of RICS in the Land/Engineering pathway, subject to the successful completion of the RICS online ethics module".
    As a benchmarking exercise, international institutions were investigated for comparability. No other directly comparable Advanced Diploma in Geomatics were found. As this NQF level 7 Advanced Diploma in Geomatics requires a completed cognate Diploma in Geomatics (with embedded work-integrated learning/placement) for admission, it is comparable with cognate 3-year Bachelor of Geomatics programmes, also at NQF level 7. International institutions with 3-year qualifications were found in the following. Additionally, the table below provides a detailed analysis of the comparability of this qualification with reference to the admission requirements, the number of credits, duration of study and composition of classroom teaching and learning.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: University of New Brunswick
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Geomatics
    Admission requirements: Matriculation with English, Physics and Mathematics equivalent to the requirements of the institution. International learners will be assessed before admission.
    Comparability:
  • Number of credits is 260 (different credit system)
  • Duration of study is 3 years.
  • NQF level 7 equivalent.
  • Qualification encompass classroom teaching, supervised practicals, inclusive of work-integrated learning.
  • Modules are similar to the Advanced Diploma in Geomatics.
  • Qualification provides entry to a Bachelor's degree in Land Surveying or a Post Graduate Diploma in Geomatics.

    Country: Norway
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Engineering (Geomatics)
    Admission requirements: Matriculation with English, Physics and Mathematics equivalent to the requirements of the institution. International learners will be assessed before admission.
    Comparability:
  • Number of credits is 160 (different credit system).
  • Duration of study is 3 years full-time contact.
  • NQF level 7 equivalent.
  • Qualification encompass classroom teaching, supervised practicals.
  • Modules are similar to the Advanced Diploma in Geomatics.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: Newcastle University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Engineering (Geomatics)
    Admission requirements: Matriculation with English, Physics and Mathematics equivalent to the requirements of the institution. International learners will be assessed before admission.
    Comparability:
  • Number of credits is 360
  • Duration of study is 3 years full-time contact.
  • NQF level 7 equivalent.
  • Qualification encompass classroom teaching, supervised practicals.
  • Modules are similar to the Advanced Diploma in Geomatics. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Geomatics, NQF Level 7

    Vertical Articulation:
  • A relevant Honours qualification in the related field, NQF Level 8.
  • A relevant Postgraduate qualification in the related field, NQF 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.