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: 

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
123426  Bachelor of Science in Information Technology 
ORIGINATOR
Berea College of Technology (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 0729/25  2025-02-04  2028-02-04 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-02-04   2034-02-04  

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 
The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is to equip learners with software development skills that allow them to navigate the increasing demand for highly specialised skills. The qualification will provide theoretical and professional skills to enable graduates to formulate unique and relevant software solutions to address societal needs and challenges.

This qualification was inspired by the need to address the shortage of highly skilled software developers whose skills cannot be underestimated. It is crucial to formulate academic qualifications that address this pressing need. The qualification was designed to address the recent South African labour market trends. As a country, South Africa faces a human resources crisis with a massive deficit of Information Communication Technology (ICT)-based skills if the issue is not attended to urgently. Skills such as data scientists, software developers, network analysts, and cyber security specialists have been identified to be in short supply.

Rationale:
South Africa faces a continuing shortage of essential skills, particularly in the areas of science and technology. Research has identified a vast skills deficit of ICT-based skills. In addition, there has been a notable decline in the number of graduates over the years. This decline further puts pressure on the country to produce a competent labour force. In its 2022 gazette, the government has published a comprehensive list of critical skills in short supply. The government document highlights the need for ICT skills ranging from data scientists and software developers to network analysts and cyber security specialists. This qualification is proposed in response to this national imperative.

Furthermore, it is essential to note that almost every profession in the world is changing owing to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), and the IT profession is no exception. In fact, the 4IR puts a significant demand on highly specialized IT skills. The IT industry in South Africa is in dire need of professionals capable of implementing 4IR-based solutions to address societal problems.

The has been developed in such a manner as to ensure that qualifying learners will be employable within the ICT industry or operate in other industries where they can apply their software development skills. This qualification also serves as a platform for vertical articulation into postgraduate studies, consequently contributing to the national development goals of increasing the number of postgraduates in South Africa. The qualification aims to contribute to the government's efforts in addressing this vital gap in the higher education sector. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning in South Africa has, unlike similar initiatives in other countries, a very specific agenda. RPL supports the transformation of the education and training system of the country. This calls for an approach to the development of RPL policy and practices that explicitly address the visible and invisible barriers to learning and assessment. Such an approach must generate the commitment of all role players to remove these barriers and to build a visible, usable and credible system as an effective and creative vehicle for lifelong learning. It is important that consensus be generated around the criteria and support systems within which the integrity and quality of all assessments will be protected. At the same time, the opportunities and benefits of RPL need to be extended to all learners and stakeholders. It is also imperative that a viable, sustainable and credible system is built for RPL.

The institution's RPL process is aligned with national RPL Policies. As per the national and institutional RPL policies and procedures, RPL is applicable to all prospective candidates.
This qualification may be achieved in part through the recognition of prior learning

RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification 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 should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.
  • The limitation of 10% of the cohort regarding admission applies as stipulated in the CHE guidelines.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from 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 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.
  • A maximum of 50% of the credits, which includes informal, formal learning and work experience. The candidate must demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes indicated in the qualification to obtain credits/credit exemptions.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4 granting access to bachelor's degree 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 Levels 5. 6 and 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Algorithm design and programming concepts, 15 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Computer Networks, 15 Credits.
  • Business Communication, 15 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Web Technologies, 15 Credits.
  • Object-oriented Programming, 15 Credits.
  • Scaling Networks, 15 Credits.
  • Discrete mathematics, 15 Credits.
  • Emerging technologies for the 4th Industrial Revolution, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Software development Methodologies, 15 Credits.
  • Relational and NoSQL Database Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Advanced Web Development, 15 Credits.
  • Data Structures and Algorithms, 15 Credits.
  • Business, Project Analytics, and Approaches, 15 Credits.
  • Cloud Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Information Systems Security, 15 Credits.
  • Mobile App Development, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Secure software development, 15 Credits.
  • Cloud software development, 15 Credits.
  • Software Development Integrated Project, 15 Credits.
  • Design thinking, 15 Credits.
  • Machine Learning and Intelligent Systems Development, 15 Credits.
  • User Experience Design, 15 Credits.
  • Work-integrated Learning (WIL), 15 Credits.
  • Software testing and maintenance, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate the ability to critically analyse business and societal trends with the view of utilizing ICTs in the development or enhancements of solutions.
    2. Demonstrate knowledge of business processes and communicate effectively, demonstrating an appreciation of the role of ICT in an organization and society at large.
    3. Demonstrate knowledge in the analysis, design, implementation, and testing of software solutions to solve business problems.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of various tools and techniques for working with different types of business data to provide business solutions.
    5. Apply business management techniques, laws and best practices in the execution, and management of IT software projects.
    6. Demonstrate the ability to design, develop, configure, and deploy applications on centralized and distributed infrastructure.
    7. Apply problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical techniques to plan and identify the structure for documenting a business case. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse business and societal problems and processes with the view of formulating ICT solutions
  • Investigate and apply ICT technologies to solve societal challenges.
  • Analyse the evolution of IT technologies and their impact on business and society.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Model and analyse business processes and apply them in the development of software and database systems
  • Discuss communication processes, including communication models, intercultural communications, and the levels of communication in the organization to enhance the understanding of the importance of effective communication in an organizational context
  • Explain formal and informal communication structures that are relevant in a business environment.
  • Discuss the role of technology in ethical business communication to ensure ethical business practices are maintained

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Integrate different IT technologies to solve business and societal challenges
  • Examine and apply programming techniques and algorithms to solve complex problems
  • Identify and apply software testing techniques to ensure software quality
  • Apply user interface design principles in the development of computer applications

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse current trends in big data handling.
  • Explore applications of data science.
  • Design, develop and implement database solutions for business applications.
  • Implement NoSQL database applications.
  • Critically analyse applications that integrate the techniques and practices from other applications
  • Develop database and database technologies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply best practices in the management and Governance of computer systems and processes.
  • Analyse and apply laws that govern information technologies

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Design, implement and manage computer network
  • Describe computer networking concepts
  • Apply computer network hardware and software knowledge
  • Store and manage cloud infrastructure in software development.
  • Develop and deploy software solutions on cloud platforms.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Discuss information systems requirements, specifications and the strategy information flow models to plan and document the business case.
  • Create a business case by applying problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical techniques with a view to generating effective reports.
  • Apply decision-making processes and methodologies in the execution of software projects

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    This qualification uses the following assessment strategies namely summative and formative strategies. Several assessment techniques and instruments are used to ensure appropriate learning and evaluation.

    Formative Assessment:
  • Mid-semester assessment.
  • At least One assignment or project.
  • At least One class written test.
  • Constructive classroom activities.
  • Attendance.

    Summative Assessment:
  • One final written examination.

    Assessment Percentage:
  • Class Test 20%.
  • Written Assignment/ Project 20%.
  • Mid-Year Written Examination 60%.
    Final Mark: 100%.

    40% of the DP mark and 60% of the written examination are combined to produce the final total. Qualifications that require continuous assessment, practical assessment and external written examinations by relevant accreditation authorities - as per criteria the rules will apply. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Although inspired by developments within the South African labour market, this qualification is also relevant internationally. The conceptualization of the curriculum considered the need for the learners to have skills comparable with their peers worldwide. This opens doors for the graduates from this program to pursue further studies outside the borders of South Africa. In addition, the qualification also opens opportunities for jobs outside South Africa.

    The qualification was compared with similar qualifications from the following international countries.

    County: Poland
    Institution: WSB University in Gdansk
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Information Technology in Software Development
    Credits: 210 ECTS points
    Duration: 36 months

    Requirements
  • Have successfully completed secondary education and have a secondary school-leaving certificate.

    Purpose:
    In this qualification, learners focus on computer programming, web development, and designing data-driven systems. Learners learn how to write code in a variety of programming languages such as Arduino, ASP.NET, C#, Java, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, PHP and Swift. Learners gain experience developing software for diverse platforms including embedded systems, desktop, mobile and mainframe systems. With a strong emphasis on business and entrepreneurial values, learners gain experience in problem-solving, troubleshooting and system building through a series of applied assignments, projects and co-op work terms.

    Modules:
  • Programming in Java comparable to Algorithm design and programming concepts
  • PHP programming comparable to Algorithm design and programming concepts
  • Programming in C++ comparable to Algorithm design and programming concepts
  • Advanced mobile applications programming comparable to Mobile App Development
  • Embedded programming
  • Advanced WEB technologies comparable to Advanced Web Development
  • Advanced object-oriented programming comparable to Object-oriented Programming
  • Software engineering comparable to Secure Software Development, Software Development Methodologies and Cloud Software Development

    Similarities:
  • The WSB University in Gdansk (WUG) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over three years of full-time study.
  • Both qualifications require applicants who completed secondary education.
  • Learners graduating with the WUG and SA qualifications will be able to independently design comprehensive campaigns aimed to acquire customers on the Internet, using the best-known tools on the market, including Google AdWords and Facebook.
  • Both qualifications share the following similar modules.
  • Databases
  • Object-oriented programming
  • Web development using PHP
  • Mobile Applications development

    Differences:
  • The WUG qualification has 210 ECTS points whereas the SA qualification has 360 credits.
  • The WUG qualification does not include data science, machine learning and cloud computing. In addition, the program does not teach key skills in software development skills like software testing. Computer networks are also not covered in this qualification. However, SA qualification considers computer networks as a critical component in the software development process.
  • The SA qualification emphasizes the importance of cloud computing due to its massive adoption within the South African context. Data science and machine learning form part of our offering due to the skills demand of the fourth industrial revolution. Due to the rapid changes and technological advancements, it is imperative to have this futuristic

    Country: Kenya
    Institution: Zetech University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
    Duration: Four (4) academic years
    Entry Requirements:
  • An aggregate grade of C+ and above in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) and a minimum grade of C in Mathematics, English and Kiswahili C
    Or
  • Relevant qualification approved by the University Senate

    Purpose:
    This qualification offers skills in the use of technology to manage and support business-related computer systems. The qualification offers career-based training for the development of business information technology systems using varied programming techniques, and software and hardware configurations. This qualification is aimed at bridging the existing knowledge gap in organisational data storage, business continuity, disaster recovery, security, business analytics and optimisation and enterprise architecture.

    Career Opportunities.
  • Information Security Analyst.
  • Software Application Developer.
  • Computer Systems Analyst.
  • Computer Systems Manager.
  • Computer Network Architect.
  • Information Research Scientist.

    Programme Goals
  • To produce IT specialists capable of providing IT business solutions.
  • To develop IT solutions and to enhance business and organizational efficiency.
  • Develop analytical and logical thinking, problem-solving, communication skills and teamwork.
  • Acquire business principals from real-world perspectives.

    Learning Outcomes:
  • Plan and implement computer applications in the IT industry.
  • Use Information Technology effectively in the work environment to analyse, identify and define organisation requirements and opportunities.
  • Design, install and manage computer networked systems.
  • Analyse the impact of technology on individuals, organizations and society, including ethical, legal and policy issues.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.

    Compulsory Modules:
    Year 1
  • Basic Mathematics
  • Communication Skills comparable to Business Communication
  • Environmental Studies
  • Health And Wellness Management
  • Introduction To Computer Studies and Internet comparable to Fundamentals of Computer Networks
  • Structured Programming and Algorithms comparable to Algorithm design and programming concepts
  • Calculus I comparable to Discrete mathematics
  • Introduction to Computerized Business Accounting
  • Introduction To Digital Systems
  • Object Oriented Programming I comparable to Object-oriented Programming
  • Operating Systems
  • Probability and Statistics I
  • Software Design Methods and Architectures comparable to Software development Methodologies
  • Computer Graphics
  • Computer Organization and Architecture
  • Data Structures and Algorithms comparable to Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Database Management Systems comparable to Relational and NoSQL Database Systems
  • Discrete Mathematics comparable to Discrete mathematics
  • Electronics
  • Object Oriented Programming II comparable to Object-oriented Programming
  • Advanced Database Development comparable to Relational and NoSQL Database Systems
  • Data Communication and Computer Networks comparable to Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Internet Programming I
  • Legal And Professional Ethics in Computing
  • Multimedia Systems and Applications
  • Object-Oriented Software Design Methods comparable to Object-oriented Programming

    Year 3
  • Computer and Information Systems Security comparable to Information Systems Security
  • Distributed Computing
  • Programming In Python
  • Research Methods and Technical Writing
  • Software Engineering comparable to Secure software development
  • Telecommunication And Broadcasting Systems
  • Artificial Intelligence comparable to Machine Learning and Intelligent Systems Development
  • Human-Computer Interface
  • Internet Programming II
  • IT Project Management
  • Programming With Net Framework
  • System Integration and Collaborative Technologies

    Year 4
  • Blockchain Technology
  • Data Science
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Information Systems Audit and Assurance
  • Project Proposal
  • Satellite And Broadband Communication
  • Wireless And Mobile Technologies comparable to Mobile App Development
  • Business Information Systems Management
  • Final Project comparable to Project Analytics, and Approaches
  • Industrial Attachment comparable to Work-integrated Learning [WIL]
  • Machine Learning comparable to Machine Learning and Intelligent Systems Development
  • Microprocessors Applications
  • Mobile Application Development comparable to Mobile App Development
  • Real-Time Software Systems comparable to Software testing and maintenance

    Similarities:
  • The Zetech University (ZU) requires applicants who completed the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education similar to the National Senior Certificate in the South African (SA) qualification.
  • The purpose of the ZU and SA qualifications is to prepare professionals with high-quality IT knowledge and skills to take care of IT business-related matters.
  • Both qualifications share similar learning outcomes.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory modules.

    Difference:
  • The ZU qualification takes four years of full-time study whereas the SA qualification takes three years of full-time study. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Information and Communications Technology in Applications Development, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Communication Networks, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Information and Communications Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Information Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Information and Technology Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Information Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Application Development, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology in Internet of Things, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Information Science, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Information Technology in Software Development, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Computer and Information Science, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Systems, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Systems in Information Technology, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Computer Information Systems Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Information Science Honours, 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 Science Honours in Information Technology, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Information Communication Technology, NQF Level 8.

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

    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. Berea College of Technology (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.