SAQA 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.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
123041  Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences 
ORIGINATOR
Sol Plaatje University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's 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  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0628/24  2024-11-21  2027-11-21 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-11-21   2031-11-21  

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 primary purpose of the Master of Science in Computer and Information qualification is to deepen a learner's mastery of a chosen field in the domain of computer and information sciences. A learner admitted to the qualification will either specialise in data science or computer science. Learners will be trained in relevant scientific methods to prepare them for roles as professional scientists in academia or industry.
Many employers in South Africa and beyond require a master's degree in data science or computer science as part of the minimum requirements of many data science roles such as data scientist, machine learning engineer, machine learning researcher, etc. Similarly, many academic and industry research-based roles require a master's degree as the minimum qualification. Additionally, technical lead roles in the domain of computer science and data science require a master's degree as the minimum qualification. Thus, the qualification will embody aspects of practical training essential for functioning as a senior scientist in a work environment able to solve real-world problems.

The purpose is also to equip learners with the tools necessary for them to be professional academic practitioners in the domains of data science and computer science. The qualification also prepares learners for entry into academia.

Computer Science and Data Science are among the scarce skills in South Africa and beyond. As such, the qualification also serves the purpose of bridging the gap between the demand and supply for these computational skills.

In certain industries, such as higher education or research-based organizations, graduate degrees offer mandatory training and the best path for certain jobs or promotions. This qualification also has the advantage of developing the learner's skill set in science and academic writing. As a result, one can become a better problem solver and handle challenging tasks with greater ease. One can continue to build upon a wealth of expertise by obtaining a graduate degree, preparing one for a life of continuous learning with vertical articulation to a PhD in their area of specialisation.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Undertake research competently and independently in Data Science or Computer Science.
  • Demonstrate a thorough understanding of research methodologies and techniques used in Data Science or Computer Science scientific research.
  • Apply proficiency in acquiring technical skills through the use of specialised equipment or software, as well as the ability to conduct fieldwork relevant to their research project.
  • Demonstrate the capability to write and interpret research reports, displaying a high level of analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills to convey outputs from the research project to academics and the wider scientific community in a clear, concise, and coherent manner.

    Rationale:
    The proposed qualification responds to a real need in South Africa in that there is a critical shortage of graduates with science qualifications, especially at the Masters level. The goal is to promote human capital development and growth of the knowledge system that drives the development of new scientific knowledge to achieve a knowledge economy, economic growth and development. A Master of Science degree can also open many career doors, including certain career fields, advancement opportunities, and increased learning potential. The qualification also provides people who are or aspire to be professionally involved in higher education a unique opportunity to expand and improve their expertise and develop research skills in a field that is directly applicable to their professional positions and responsibilities.
    The qualification will also help learners to focus on a particular field of study, which allows one to gain specialised knowledge to advance in their field of specialization and become more competitive. This qualification also makes it easier to transition into more senior positions.

    A typical learner in this qualification is someone who has a BSc honours degree in a science-related discipline and meets the minimum admission criteria. The learner would be eligible to apply for a PhD degree at any university after successful completion of this course. 
    		•

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

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • 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 formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations.

    RPL for credit:
  • 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 formal, 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:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science, NQF level 8.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science and Information Systems, NQF level 8.
    Or
  • Postgraduate Diploma, NQF Level 8 in a cognate field. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

    Compulsory Module, NQF Level 9, totalling 180 Credits (Select one)
  • Dissertation in Data Science, 180 Credits.
  • Dissertation in Computer Science, 180 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Undertake research competently and independently in Data Science or Computer Science.
    2. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of research methodologies and techniques used in Data Science or Computer Science scientific research.
    3. Apply proficiency in acquiring technical skills using specialised equipment or software, as well as the ability to conduct fieldwork relevant to their research project.
    4. Demonstrate the capability to write and interpret research reports, displaying a high level of analytical and critical thinking skills.
    5. Demonstrate effective communication skills to convey outputs from the research project to academics and the wider scientific community in a clear, concise, and coherent manner. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1.
  • Illustrate a clear understanding of the research question and objectives, and formulate an appropriate research design and methodology.
  • Collect and analyze relevant data using appropriate techniques and tools.
  • Draw conclusions and make recommendations based on the research findings.
  • Manage the research project effectively, including planning, time management, and resource allocation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2.
  • Illustrate a comprehensive knowledge of research methodologies and techniques used in Data Science or Computer Science scientific research.
  • Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different research methods and select the most appropriate approach for their research project.
  • Apply advanced statistical and computational methods to analyse data and draw conclusions.
  • Evaluate and critique the research methods used in published studies in the chosen field.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3.
  • Apply specialised equipment or software relevant to the research project.
  • Plan and conduct fieldwork effectively, including data collection and management and addressing ethical and safety issues.
  • Troubleshoot technical problems and adjust research methods as needed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4.
  • Write a clear and well-structured research report that effectively communicates the research question, objectives, methodology, findings, and conclusions.
  • Apply appropriate language, style, and format for a scientific research report.
  • Apply high level analytical and critical thinking skills in interpreting the research findings and drawing conclusions.
  • Identify the limitations of the research and suggest areas for future research.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5.
  • Effectively communicate the research outputs to academics and the wider scientific community, using clear, concise, and coherent language.
  • Communicate to different audiences and formats, such as conference presentations or journal articles.
  • Apply appropriate visual aids, such as graphs or tables, to convey the research findings.
  • Respond to questions and critique from peers and reviewers in a professional manner. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: University of Huddersfield
    Qualification title: Computer Science and Informatics (MSc by Research)
    Duration: One year full-time

    Entry requirements:
  • Upper second honours degree
    Or
  • Qualification of an equivalent standard

    Purpose/Rationale:
    A Master of Science (MSc) by Research allows learners to undertake a one-year (full-time) research degree. It contains little or no formal taught component. This type of study gives learners the chance to explore a research topic over a shorter time than a more in-depth oral programme.
    The learner is expected to work to an approved programme which they will develop in conjunction with the supervisor within the first few months of starting their studies. Whilst undertaking the research project they will also develop their research skills by taking part in training courses and events.
    The aim is to research and develop new methods and technology in computer science that will have a real impact on global grand challenges in areas such as transport, health, security and energy.
    On successful completion, learners may then decide to apply for the full research doctoral degree (PhD).

    Course structure
    Modules:
  • Advanced Co-Simulation Procedures and Application on Pantograph-Catenary Interaction
  • Aerodynamic Effects in Pantograph-Catenary Interaction Dynamics
  • An Argumentation-based Conversational Chatbot for Explainable Collaborative Planning
  • Argument Mining from Natural Language Text
  • Automatic analysis of medical notes
  • Developing gesture elicitation approaches for immersive systems
  • Digital Skills and Learning Analytics
  • Expansive NLP pipeline for pedagogical needs
  • Fostering mental health through technology-enhanced non-pharmacological approaches
  • Automatic analysis of medical notes
  • Developing gesture elicitation approaches for immersive systems
  • Digital Skills and Learning Analytics
  • Disorder-Specific Knowledge Graph for Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Enhancing Creative Computing Applications: Exploring Haptic Feedback for Improved User Experience
  • Expansive NLP pipeline for pedagogical needs

    Similarities:
  • The University of Huddersfield (UH) and the South African (SA) qualifications both accept learners who have completed an honours degree in the relevant field.
  • Both qualifications allow learners to undertake research study in their chosen field.
  • The UH qualification aims to research and develop new methods and technology in computer science that will have a real impact on global grand challenges in areas such as transport, health, security and energy.
  • The SA learners will be trained in relevant scientific methods and embody aspects of practical training essential for functioning as a senior scientist in a work environment able to solve real-world problems.
  • Both qualifications contain little or no formal taught component.
  • Both qualifications vertically articulate into a doctoral degree.

    Differences:
    The UH qualification is offered over one year, whereas the SA qualification is offered over two years.

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution name: Auckland University of Technology
    Qualification title: Master of Computer and Information Sciences
    Duration: 18 months
    AQF Level: 9
    Credits: 180

    Entry requirements:
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences
    Or
  • Equivalent qualification with a B grade average or higher in level 7 courses

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The Master of Computer and Information Sciences learners have advanced technical, creative, analytical and conceptual abilities, coupled with an understanding of their chosen specialisation. They will have the capability, credibility and judgement to manage significant software development projects and be able to lead teams of IT professionals engaged in analysis, design, construction, implementation, technical support and service delivery. They will have demonstrated an ability to undertake a sustained period of research. and may progress to further study at the doctoral level.

    Course structure
    Modules:
  • Research Methods
  • Thesis
  • Dissertation
  • Artificial Intelligence and Knowledge Engineering
  • Information Systems and Technology
  • Software Systems Engineering

    Similarities:
  • The Auckland University of Technology and the South African (SA) qualifications both consist of 180 credits at Level 9 of the respective countries qualifications framework.
  • The AUT qualification provides learners with the capability, credibility and judgement to manage significant software development projects and be able to lead teams of IT professionals engaged in analysis, design, construction, implementation, technical support and service delivery.
  • The SA qualification will, similarly, deepen a learner's mastery of a chosen field in the domain of computer and information sciences and embody aspects of practical training essential for functioning as a senior scientist in a work environment able to solve real-world problems
  • Both qualifications prepare and deepen learners' expertise in scientific research in the areas of interest, towards exploring the latest developments in computer and information sciences.
    The AUT learners work closely with one of their research institutes or labs for their research. Similarly, the SA qualification has research centres equipped to support students' research.
  • Both qualifications vertically articulate into a doctoral degree.

    Differences:
    The AUT qualification is offered over eighteen months whereas the SA qualification is offered over two years. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Science in Computer Science, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Information Systems, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Information Technology, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Computer and Information Sciences, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer and Information Sciences, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal Articulation
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    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. Sol Plaatje University 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.