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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
121198  Bachelor of Science in Computer Science 
ORIGINATOR
Regenesys Management (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
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
Registered  EXCO 0920/23  2023-11-14  2026-11-14 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2027-11-14   2032-11-14  

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 Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is to equip learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and competencies to understand and apply Computer Science principles. The qualification will prepare learners for a position involving the design, development, and implementation of computer software. The qualification will further prepare accountable and knowledgeable learners about the interplay of ethical issues, technical problems, and aesthetic values that play an important part in the development of computing systems.

The qualification provides an ideal opportunity for the school to grow its offering, aimed at individuals and matriculants who are interested in pursuing a career in Computer Science and related aspects. It will prepare the learner for entry into postgraduate study in computer science or related fields.

Qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the programme learning outcomes and the discipline.
  • Think critically, analyse a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
  • Function effectively in teams to accomplish a common goal.
  • Comprehend professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities.
  • Analyse the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organisations, and society.
  • Communicate effectively to a range of audiences.
  • Use theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.

    Rationale:
    There is a demand for 829 800 highly skilled computer scientists in South Africa across a wide range of occupations specifically 178 400 among professionals. The professionals' business needs include computer science professionals and graduates with skills to implement and maintain modern business applications. The situation regarding the computer science skills gap is made more complicated as technology evolves at an accelerating pace but this rapid rate of innovation is necessary and desirable if the country is to remain competitive. Hence, to stay abreast of new technology, knowledge workers need to be provided with appropriate training and qualifications such as software development to stimulate research and innovation. Industry and other higher education international partners who form part of the school's curriculum advisory committee confirmed the need for the introduction of the proposed qualification and knowledge areas.

    The qualification is intended to ensure that industry, business government and relevant structures have suitable computer scientists with critical, analytical, and organisational skills. The qualification is therefore designed to provide a simulated environment for learners to gain insight into how theory is applied in practice, which should increase the employability of learners and stimulate research through relevant postgraduate studies. Learners will major in mathematics and computer science.

    South Africa needs a highly skilled workforce with sound computer knowledge to take advantage of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Hence this qualification is going to produce much-needed skills and expertise to deal with these challenges. The qualification meets the needs of the Information Computer Technology (ICT) sector by ensuring learners graduate with more knowledge and practical skills related to modules covered in the undergraduate qualifications.

    The qualification can further open doors in the field of Big Data and machine learning which will help learners to be positioned for the fourth industrial revolution career opportunities. This qualification is for learners who wish to enter a computing profession, such as software development, network engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI) specialist. Also, learners who intend to pursue higher qualifications will find that a deeper level of knowledge in the qualification is essential for them to commence with Honours studies in Computer Science. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 07 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Computation and Reasoning, 20 Credits.
  • Mathematics for Computing, 20 Credits.
  • Emotional Intelligence for Programmers, 20 Credits.
  • Software Engineering, 20 Credits.
  • Systems Architecture, 20 Credits.
  • Programming in Java, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Project Management for IT Projects, 20 Credits.
  • Business Systems, 20 Credits.
  • Data Structure and Algorithms, 20 Credits.
  • Programming in C++, 20 Credits.
  • Object-oriented Analysis and Design, 20 Credits.
  • Language Processors, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 100 Credits:
  • Entrepreneurship for Programmers, 20 Credits.
  • Theory of Computation, 30 Credits.
  • Functional Programming, 30 Credits.
  • Networks and Operating Systems, 20 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 7, 20 Credits (Select one module from the following options):
  • Artificial Intelligence, 20 Credits.
  • Cloud Computing, 20 Credits.
  • Computer Graphics, 20 Credits.
  • Data Mining, 20 Credits.
  • Human-Computer Interaction, 20 Credits.
  • Electronic Commerce, 20 Credits.
  • Information Technology (IT) Security, 20 Credits.
  • Gaming Technology, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Exit Level Outcomes
    1. Demonstrate the ability to model, design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or programme to meet desired needs.
    2. Demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline.
    3. Demonstrate the ability to think critically, analyse a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
    4. Demonstrate the ability to function effectively in teams to accomplish a common goal.
    5. Demonstrate the ability to comprehend professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities.
    6. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively to a range of audiences.
    7. Demonstrate the ability to analyse the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organisations, and society.
    8. Demonstrate the ability to recognise the need for and engage in continuing professional development.
    9. Demonstrate the ability to use theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Model and design a computer-based system, process, component, or programme to meet desired needs.
  • Perform procedural and non-procedural design of broadly defined components, systems, works, products, or processes to meet desired needs usually within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  • Explain fundamental design and evaluation techniques of human-computer interaction.
  • Demonstrate the interactivity of user interfaces through prototypes.
  • Develop a computer-based solution.
  • Create and execute test cases.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Analyse the foundations of mathematics, logic, and statistics.
  • Reflect on the knowledge of digital logic to understand the fundamentals of computer organisation.
  • Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science, and computer sciences to apply computer procedures, processes, systems, and methodologies to solve broadly defined computer problems.
  • Examine the basic data structures and their representation.
  • Relate concepts of mathematics with computability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Formulate and decompose a problem into appropriate components.
  • Solicit and formulate requirements specifications.
  • Construct a mathematical model of the problem.
  • Formulate, analyse, and solve concrete and abstract computer-related problems, in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
  • Interpret the computer and mathematical results for data.
  • Solve practical problems with suitable automata-based programming methodologies.
  • Estimate resources required for the proposed solution.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Participate in team activities by applying emotional intelligence.
  • Organise themselves and complete assignments to meet the deadline.
  • Take initiative and work independently.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Discuss the security issues in computer systems.
  • Consider and respond appropriately to the ethical dimensions of professional relationships and responsibilities.
  • Function within the code of professional conduct in computer science and IT practice.
  • Act in the parameters of best practice, industry standards and professional ethics.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Write technical reports.
  • Deliver oral presentations.
  • Communicate scientific understanding in writing, orally and/or in other forms of representation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Explore various ways in which computing technology impacts individuals, organisations, and society.
  • Analyse and reason about the impact of advances in computing technology.
  • Document and communicate research results and the methods of presenting these orally and in written reports.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Summarise research, and technical knowledge.
  • Demonstrate ability to learn new skills and apply them to solve the given problem.
  • Objectively assess their performance.
  • Be aware of the social consequences of the role of information technology.
  • Enthusiastically pursue lifelong education in their discipline.
  • Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Apply current tools or platforms for computing and software development.
  • Use different systems development methodologies, theories, techniques, and skills for computing practice.
  • Critically analyse research literature and conduct a literature review.
  • Conduct independent research, applying methods, tools, and techniques appropriate to the research question. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification is comparable with qualifications in other countries.

    Country: United Kingdom (UK)
    Institution: University of London
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
    NQF Level: Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England (FHEQ) Level 6
    Credits: 360 UK credits
    Duration: 3 years full time

    Entry requirements:
    To be eligible to register, applicants must:
  • Satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for an undergraduate programme.
  • Have a qualification equivalent to a pass at the UK GCE 'AS' level in a mathematical subject or a UK GCSE/GCE 'O' level in Mathematics at no less than grade B.
  • Satisfy the University of London English Language Requirements.

    Exit Learning Outcomes:
    Learners who successfully complete the qualification will be able to:
  • Demonstrate a sound understanding of all the main areas of computer science and also demonstrate the ability to exercise critical judgement in the evaluation of computing applications.
  • Apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles, and practices of computer science, and critically evaluate the results, in the context of loosely defined scenarios, using structured arguments based on subject knowledge to justify the selection and use of tools and techniques.
  • Produce work involving problem identification and the analysis, design, or development of a system, with appropriate documentation, recognising the important relationships between these.
  • Show problem-solving and critical evaluation skills, draw upon supporting evidence and demonstrate a deep understanding of the need for a high-quality solution.

    Curriculum structure:
    The qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules.

    Level 4
    Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits:
  • Introduction to programming I compares with Programming in Java and Programming in C++.
  • Introduction to programming II compares with Programming in Java and Programming in C++.
  • Computational mathematics compares with Computation and Reasoning
  • Discrete mathematics
  • How computers work
  • Fundamentals of computer science
  • Web development
  • Algorithms and data structures I compares with Data Structure and Algorithms

    Level 5
    Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits:
  • Object-oriented programming.
  • Software design and development compares with Software Engineering.
  • Databases, networks, and the web.
  • Agile software projects.
  • Computer security compares with IT Security.
  • Graphics programming compares with Computer Graphics.
  • Algorithms and data structures II compares with Data Structure and Algorithms.
  • Programming with data compares with Programming in C++.

    Level 6:
    Compulsory Modules, 30 Credits:
  • Final Project.

    Elective Modules, 90 Credits (Select six modules from the following option):
  • Data science.
  • Databases and advanced data techniques.
  • Machine learning and neural networks.
  • Artificial intelligence.
  • Virtual reality.
  • Games development compares with Gaming Technology.
  • Advanced web development.
  • Physical computing and the internet of things.
  • 3D Graphics and animation compares with Computer Graphics.
  • Mobile development.
  • Interaction design.
  • Natural language processing compares with Language Processors.
  • Intelligent signal processing compares with Artificial Intelligence.

    Assessment:
    Each module includes a mix of assessments. During the study period learners will undertake formative assessments, which help them to measure their progress but do not count towards the grade, and summative assessments. Summative assessments do count towards the final grade. These include a mid-session coursework submission and an unseen written examination (or final project) at the end of the session. Written examinations are held twice a year.

    Similarities:
  • The University of London (UoL) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over three years of full-time study.
  • Both qualifications have 360 credits.
  • The UoL and SA qualifications require applicants who hold a high school certificate.
  • Both qualifications have similar exit-level outcomes.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules.
  • The formative and summative assessment methods are used to assess the UoL and the SA qualifications.

    Differences:
  • The UoL is registered at Level 6 on the FHEQ while the SA qualification is registered at Level 7 of the NQF.
  • The UoL has seven (7) specialisations while the SA qualification has no specialisations.

    Country: Zambia
    Institution: Mulungushi University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
    NQF Level: Zambian Qualifications Framework (ZQF) Level 7
    Duration: Four years
    Entry requirements:
  • Grade 12 Examinations Council of Zambia (ECZ).
    Or
  • Cambridge "O" levels school certificate and have credit in at least 5 subjects including Mathematics.
  • Diploma in Information Technology and related fields Three "A" levels including Mathematics.

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is:
  • To provide an academic, research and training environment whose standards match those of recognised institutions of computer studies elsewhere.
  • To furnish learners with the computer skills and professional expertise necessary for national development.
  • To produce graduates who can demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles, and theories relating to computer science and software applications. They must understand the elements of computational thinking.
  • To produce graduates who can deploy appropriate theories, practices, and tools for the specification, design, implementation, and maintenance as well as the evaluation of computer-based systems.
  • To ensure that graduates are guided by the social, professional, legal, and ethical as well as cultural issues involved in the use of computer technology.
  • To produce graduates with practical capabilities and skills to specify, design, and implement computer-based systems. They must be able to apply the principles of effective information management and human-computer interaction while considering security issues.
  • To produce graduates who can effectively use and deploy tools for the construction and documentation of software or system development and implementation.
  • To produce graduates who can communicate and work effectively as members of software development and/or implementation teams while at the same time being able to manage themselves.

    Qualification structure:
    The learner has an option to specialize in the following areas:
  • Software Engineering.
  • Computer Networks.
  • Enterprise and Information Systems.

    The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.

    First Year:
  • Mathematical Methods I compares with Mathematics for Computing.
  • Introduction to Chemistry.
  • Introductory Biology.
  • Fundamentals of Physics.
  • Mathematics II compares with Mathematics for Computing.
  • Introductory Chemistry II.
  • Molecular Biology and Genetics.
  • Introductory Physics II.
  • Ethics and Sustainable Behaviour in Society.

    Second Year
  • Discrete Mathematics compares with Mathematics for Computing.
  • Computer Architecture compares with Computer Graphics.
  • Digital Design.
  • Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) and Java I compares with Programming in Java and Object-oriented Analysis and Design.
  • Databases Systems.
  • Data Structures and Algorithms compares with Data Structure and Algorithms.
  • Operating Systems compares with Systems Architecture.
  • Networking and Communication compares with Networks and Operating Systems.
  • Introduction to OOP and Java II compares with Programming in Java and Object-oriented Analysis and Design.
  • Computers, Professional Practice and Ethics compares with ELO5: "Demonstrate the ability comprehend professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities".

    Third Year:
  • Real-Time and Embedded Systems.
  • Computer Security compares with IT Security.
  • Theory of Computation compares with Physical computing and the internet of things.
  • Mobile Application Development.
  • Software Engineering, I compare with Software Engineering.
  • Industrial Attachment.
  • Fundamentals of Compilers.
  • Artificial Intelligence and Prolog.
  • Computer Graphics compares with Computer Graphics.
  • Advanced Databases.
  • Software Engineering II compares with Software Engineering.

    Fourth Year:
  • Numerical Analysis.
  • Distributed and Concurrency Systems.
  • Capstone Project (Proposal and Presentation).
  • Advanced Networks.
  • Web Systems and Technology compares with Systems Architecture.
  • ICT Project Management compares with Project Management for IT Projects.
  • Statistics and Empirical Methods for Computing.
  • Capstone Project.
  • Advanced Security compares with IT Security Systems Architecture.
  • Human-Computer Interaction compares with Human-Computer Interaction.
  • E-Commerce compares with Electronic Commerce.

    Similarities:
  • The Mulungushi University (MU) and the South African (SA) qualifications require candidates who completed Grade 12, a National Senior Certificate.
  • Both qualifications are registered at Level 7.
  • Both qualifications share a similar purpose.
  • The MU and SA qualifications share similar modules.

    Differences:
  • The MU is offered over four years of full-time study while the SA qualification takes three years of full-time study.
  • The MU qualification has three specialisations while the SA qualification has no specialisations. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Computer Science, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Computer Networking, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Computer Technology, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science and Information Systems, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science and Information Technology, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Social Science Honours in Computer Science, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Information and Communication Technology: Business Development Consultant, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    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. Regenesys Management (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.