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: 

Higher Certificate in Information Systems Support 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
123788  Higher Certificate in Information Systems Support 
ORIGINATOR
Regenesys Management (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Information Technology and Computer Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0730/25  2025-03-11  2028-03-11 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-03-11   2032-03-11  

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 Higher Certificate in Information Systems Support is an entry-level higher education qualification for learners interested in pursuing a career in the fast-paced environment of information technology (IT). The qualification is designed to equip learners with a fundamental understanding of IT architecture, systems support and basic programming skills to either directly enter the professional workforce in a junior role, or to further their information technology studies at a relevant bachelor's level.

The qualification is structured to ensure that learners will graduate with foundational knowledge consisting of hardware and operating system support, database management, network fundamentals and basic programming skills. From a personal development perspective, graduates will exit from the qualification with the skills necessary to approach decision-making or problem-solving activities with confidence.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Describe the fundamental principles and concepts of professional literacy to engage in formal business communication activities.
  • Demonstrate the ability to select appropriate syntax for basic data management and website design.
  • Describe the fundamental concepts, terminology and functions of information systems.
  • Display solid understanding of database management, system concept, designs, implementation of basic MySQL coding, and queries for information processing and management in the database system.

    Rationale:
    The aim of this qualification is to create an entry-level higher education qualification for learners wishing to enter the professional field of information technology (IT) or potentially to pursue further IT-related or Computer Science studies at higher NQF levels. This qualification is set to produce information system support technicians that have been provided with the fundamental understanding and skills necessary to gain access to entry-level positions in relevant IT-related careers.

    As local and global societies become more reliant on digital systems and infrastructures to engage both personally and professionally across borders, the demand for professionals who are 'digitally-literate' and capable of troubleshooting technological tools and software increases in tandem. The qualification aims to step into this critical skill-set requirement to ensure societies can still function given a new and different societal structure.

    From an internal perspective, the rationale for adding this qualification to its profile was influenced by the strategic decision the Board made in 2018 to develop leaders and organisations not only from a managerial context but to awaken potential across all professions, sectors and disciplines, inclusive of the emerging information technology fields.

    Learners who completed this qualification will have the skills and knowledge to work in roles such as:
  • Help Desk Technician.
  • IT Support Specialist.
  • Desktop Support Technician.
  • Network Support Technician.
  • System Administrator. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL refers to an assessment process to determine the potential of a learner to succeed at a particular level of a qualification based on prior informal or non-formal learning.
    The RPL assessment is based on the demonstration of abilities in respect of knowledge, competence, attitudes and values at the NQF level the student wants to attempt.

    RPL for access:
    This provides an alternative access route to qualification for those who do not meet the formal entry requirements for admission. Upon a positive result of the assessment, learners may elect to apply for exemption of relevant modules, but mostly the institution utilises the RPL process for access only.

    The institution does not exceed the national maximum of 10 % admissions into its programme through the recognition of prior learning. The application of the institution's RPL policy is described in the RPL process.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 without endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF 5, totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Business Communication, 10 Credits.
  • Database Management Systems, 10 Credits.
  • End-User Computing, 10 Credits.
  • Information Systems, 10 Credits.
  • Mathematical Foundation, 10 Credits.
  • Foundational Personal Mastery, 5 Credits.
  • Python Programme, 10 Credits.
  • Database Management Systems, 10 Credits.
  • Hardware Support, 10 Credits.
  • Information Systems, 10 Credits.
  • Networking Fundamentals, 10 Credits.
  • Operating System Support, 10 Credits.
  • Web Designing with HTML, 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate the ability to describe the fundamental principles and concepts of professional literacy to engage in formal business communication.
    2. Demonstrate the ability to recall fundamental programming concepts and terminologies, specifically in relation to Python and HTML, to select appropriate syntax for basic data management and website design.
    3. Demonstrate the ability to describe the fundamental concepts, terminology and functions of information systems as they develop practices and enhance ethical, data-driven decision-making in organizations.
    4. Display a solid understanding of database management system concepts and design, allowing for successful implementation of basic MySQL coding and queries for information processing and management in the database system.
    5. Demonstrate the ability to identify and define the fundamental concepts, principles and techniques associated with computer networking and effectively manage and implement simple network security protocols and VPNs within an organization.
    6. Demonstrate the ability to identify basic computer components and architecture, recognize hardware integration and how operating systems create digital environments for the running of software applications. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria are assessed in an integrated manner across all Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Display proficiency in recalling and reproducing the essential skills for interpersonal and group communication channels and modes in an organisational environment.
  • Select appropriate digital tools for producing electronic documentation and performing foundational information technology calculations.
  • Correctly define fundamental Python and HTML programming concepts and terminologies and accurately reproduce simple programming syntax according to provided instructions.
  • Accurately define key information systems concepts and terminology, inclusive of offering a brief examination of the potential risks and benefits of such systems for organisations and their stakeholders.
  • Describe the importance of database design and concepts, together with the ability to write basic MySQL commands for database management.
  • Accurately recall the fundamental concepts and protocols of computer networking, utilising these to create and manage simple virtual private networks (VPNs).
  • Identify security zones, and other inter/intranet requirements.
  • Identify basic computer hardware architecture, describing the main functions of operating systems (OS) in relation to software management, and performing routine troubleshooting on both hardware components and operating systems.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    The institution's assessment strategy broadly includes formative assessment and summative assessment.

    Formative Assessment:
    In the formative assessment, learners are required to complete and submit two formal formative assessment tasks for each module, which consist of the following components:
  • Objective test, such as multiple-choice questions, which is weighted at 20%.
  • Cognitive assessment, exemplified by traditional assignment which is weighted at 40%.
    The formative assessment component contributes a weight of 60 % to the overall grade for the module.

    Upon achievement of a sub-minimum of 40% for each formative assessment, the learners will be allowed to proceed to the summative assessment (examination) (weighted at 40%).

    Summative Assessment:
    The summative assessment will have a sub-minimum requirement of 40%. It accounts for 40% of the overall grade. Consequently, the final mark is therefore determined by the formative assessment carrying a weight of 60 % and the summative assessment carrying a weight of 40 %. A learner passes a module if a final average mark of at least 50% is achieved for the module as a whole, that is, the final mark. This is subject to a sub-minimum of 40% being obtained for both the formative and summative assessments. A learner who does not achieve an average pass mark of 50% for the module after writing the exam, may be granted the opportunity to improve and re-submit the assignment for which a mark of between 40-50% was achieved.

    Such a re-submission mark is capped at 60% as mentioned earlier.
    Those learners who obtained a final module mark of between 30% and 39% are not automatically allowed a second examination opportunity but may apply to the Academic Committee for special permission to write during the next examination session, providing written justification for the request. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).
    Qualification title: Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support.
    Duration: One year full-time.
    NZQF Credits: 120.

    Entry requirements
  • Learners are recommended to hold one of the following qualifications, or have equivalent knowledge, skills and experience.
  • NCEA Level 2 or 3 including Level 1 Literacy and Numeracy
  • New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Intermediate User) (Level 3).
  • New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Advanced User) (Level 4).
  • New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials (Level 4).
  • New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology (Level 5).
    Or
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Previous work experience and on-the-job skills, volunteering, professional development, and other providers' qualifications can be recognised as prior learning, matched against credits in the courses, and put towards the qualification.

    Qualification structure:
    Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will have the skills and knowledge to work in roles such as:
  • Overview of IT Systems.
  • Database Administration.
  • Hardware Servicing.
  • Professional Practice.
  • Technical Support in IT.
  • Server Management.
  • Fundamentals of Programming and Problem-Solving.
  • Network Implementation.

    Modules:
  • IT system overview.
  • Database administration, comparable to Database Management Systems.
  • Hardware servicing, comparable to Hardware Support.
  • Professional practice.
  • IT technical support, comparable to Information Systems.
  • Server management.
  • Fundamentals of programming and problem-solving.
  • Implementing networks, comparable to Networking Fundamentals.

    Qualification progression:
    The qualification provides a pathway to Level 6 specialist or other higher-level IT qualifications. These may include:
  • New Zealand Diploma in IT Infrastructure (Level 6) with strands in Networking, and Systems Administration.
  • New Zealand Diploma in Information Systems (Level 6) with strands in Business > Analysis, User Experience, IT Project Management, Information Systems Innovation, and Data Analysis
  • New Zealand Diploma in Software Development (Level 6).

    Similarities:
  • The Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and South African (SA) qualifications are both offered for one year full-time.
  • The qualifications from MIT and SA share similar modules, including Database Administration, Hardware Servicing, IT Technical Support, and Network Implementation.
  • Both MIT and SA qualifications carry a minimum of 120 credits.
  • Both MIT and SA qualifications require that learners have completed a minimum of a NZQF/NQF level 4 qualification. Additionally, these qualifications allow for the integration of learners by acknowledging their previous educational work experiences.
  • Both qualifications allow learners to progress to NZQF/ NQF Level 6, however, the South African qualifications additionally grant access to an NQF Level 7 with 360 credits.
  • Both qualifications will provide learners with the skills and knowledge to work in roles such as Network Support Technician, System administrator, Server Management, etc.

    Country: Namibia
    Institution: The International University of Management (IUM)
    Qualification title: Certificate in Business Information Systems.
    Duration: One year full-time.

    Entry requirements:
  • NSSC Ordinary/Advanced Subsidiary or equivalent with a minimum of 20 points in 5 subjects (including English Language minimum D symbol and Mathematics E) on the IUM's evaluation scale.
  • A recognised qualification at NQF level 4.

    Purpose/rational
    The Qualification is designed to give learners a competitive advantage in pursuing a career in business or Information Technology based on the blending of technological and business competencies. This qualification will help learners to understand development concepts and professional issues relevant to business information systems. The main purpose of this course is to bring an integration of Information Systems in the Business Environment with management issues.

    Qualifications structure:
    Modules:
  • Applied English Language Skills
  • Fundamentals of Computer Systems and Architecture, comparable to End-User Computing
  • Principles of Computer Programming
  • Basic IT Skills
  • Mathematics, comparable to Mathematical Foundation.
  • Introduction to Entrepreneurship
  • Communication Skills
  • Systems Analysis, comparable to Information Systems.
  • PC Maintenance.
  • Programming with C++.
  • Principles of Management.
  • Financial Accounting.

    Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will have the skills and knowledge to work in roles such as:
  • Help Desk Specialist.
  • Help Desk Technician.
  • System Technician
  • Network Technician.
  • Database Support Technician.

    Similarities
  • The International University of Management (IUM) and the South African (SA) qualifications are both offered for one year full-time.
  • IUM and SA qualifications require learners who completed an NQF Level 4 qualification.
  • Both qualifications will provide learners with the skills and knowledge to work in roles such as Database Support Technician, System Technician, Network Technician, etc.
  • The IUM and SA qualifications share comparable modules such as Systems Analysis, Mathematics, and Fundamentals of Computer Systems and Architecture.
  • Both qualifications are designed to equip learners with a fundamental understanding of IT architecture, systems support and basic programming. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Information and Communication Technology, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Information Communication Technology in User Support, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Information Systems, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Information Technology, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Certificate in Information Technology, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Information Technology in Support Services, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Information Technology Governance, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Communication Networks, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Business and Information Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Applications Development, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Information Technology, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Information Technology in Communication Networks, NQF Level 6.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Information Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Information Technology, NQF Level 7.

    Diagonal Articulation
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Information and Communication Technology: Business Development Consultant, NQF Level 5
  • National Certificate: Vocational: Information Technology and Computer Science, NQF level 4. 
    		•

    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.