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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
124896  Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems 
ORIGINATOR
Berea College of Technology (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   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 0535/25  2025-10-02  2028-10-02 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-10-02   2034-10-02  

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 a Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems qualification is to provide learners with a well-rounded education that combines foundational business knowledge with specialised skills in information systems. The qualification aims to bridge the gap between business management and technology by equipping learners with a solid understanding of both disciplines. It helps learners understand how information systems can be leveraged to support business operations, decision-making, and strategic objectives.

Through coursework and practical experiences, learners develop analytical and problem-solving skills necessary to address complex business challenges using information systems solutions. They learn how to analyse business processes, identify inefficiencies, and propose technology-enabled solutions.

The qualification prepares learners for careers in a rapidly evolving digital economy where information technology plays a central role in driving innovation and competitiveness. Graduates will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in various roles such as business analysts, IT consultants, systems analysts, and project managers.

The curriculum emphasises hands-on learning experiences, including case studies, projects, internships, and simulations, to help learners apply theoretical concepts to real-world business problems. This practical approach ensures that learners are prepared to enter the workforce with relevant skills and experiences.

The qualification emphasises the ethical and social implications of information systems, including issues related to privacy, security, and data governance. Learners learn to make ethical decisions and consider the broader societal impacts of technology implementation.
Given the rapid pace of technological advancements, the qualification prepares learners to adapt to evolving technologies and industry trends throughout their careers. It instils a mindset of lifelong learning and encourages learners to stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices.

In addition to technical skills, the qualification emphasises the development of communication, teamwork, and leadership skills essential for success in today's collaborative work environments. Learners learn how to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Upon completion of the qualification, a qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Understand and apply management theory to the operations of a modern organisation.
  • Compile an analysis of the micro and macroenvironment that impacts organisational.
  • Communicate effectively (orally and in writing) in a business environment.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of stakeholder interests in the business information systems.
  • Apply problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical techniques to plan and identify the structure for documenting a business case.
  • Demonstrate an advanced understanding of strategic planning principles in information systems, enabling them to develop strategic plans aligned with organizational goals and objectives by applying various approaches to information systems planning and strategising.

    Rationale:
    The rationale of this qualification in the South African education context is multifaceted and encompasses both the needs of the economy and the aspirations of learners. Growing demand for Information Systems Professionals in South Africa, like many other countries, is experiencing a growing demand for skilled professionals in information systems. As businesses increasingly rely on technology to drive innovation and competitiveness, there is a need for individuals who can effectively manage and leverage information systems to support business operations and improvements. Information and communication technology (ICT) is recognised as a key driver of economic growth and development in South Africa. By offering qualifications focusing on information systems, institutions can contribute to the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving digital transformation and innovation across various sectors of the economy.

    This qualification provides learners with a unique blend of business acumen and technical expertise. Graduates of such a program are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to bridge the gap between business needs and technological solutions, making them highly valuable in the job market.

    South Africa faces shortages of skilled professionals in fields such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and software development. By offering specialised programs in information systems, universities can help address these skills shortages and meet the needs of employers in high-demand sectors.

    Information systems play a crucial role in driving innovation and entrepreneurship. By equipping learners with the knowledge and skills to develop and implement information systems, universities can foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among future business leaders and technologists.

    In an increasingly interconnected world, businesses in South Africa need to compete on a global scale. This qualification ensures that graduates are equipped with internationally recognized skills and qualifications, enhancing their competitiveness in the global job market.

    The South African government has identified ICT as a priority area for national development. By offering qualifications in information systems, universities can support national development goals related to job creation, economic growth, and social inclusion.
    The qualification is essential in the South African education context to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in information systems, drive economic growth and innovation, address skills shortages, and support national development goals. 
    		•

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

    The institution has a RPL Policy benchmarked against the national and CHE policy and compares favourably with that of some private and public higher education institutions in South Africa. Thus, applicants will be considered for admission as per the policy guidelines captured in the RPL Policy.

    The RPL application will be reviewed by a panel consisting of academic experts from the relevant department and other academics and managers from the institution. The panel will consider formal academic qualifications, work experience, relevant professional certifications, and membership of professional bodies.

    The RPL panel will consider applications for:
  • Admission to a qualification (restricted to 10% of the cohort).
  • The awarding of credit exemption equivalence for a specific discrete module within the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's degree studies..
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV), NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • A Senior Certificate (SC), NQF Level 4 with exemption.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Information Technology, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework, Level 5, 6 and 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Financial Accounting, 15 Credits.
  • Business Communication, 15 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Business Management, 15 Credits.
  • Emerging technologies for the 4th Industrial revolution, 15 Credits.
  • Introduction to Computer Networks, 15 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Object-oriented Programming, 15 Credits.
  • Business Management, 15 Credits.
  • Principles of Database, 15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 120 Credits.
  • Business Statistics I, 12 Credits.
  • Business Law, 12 Credits.
  • Economics I, 12 Credits.
  • Business Analysis, 12 Credits.
  • Fundamentals of Web Technologies, 12 Credits.
  • Business statistics II, 12 Credits.
  • Software Development Methodologies, 12 Credits.
  • Economics II, 12 Credits.
  • E-Commerce and Digital Economy, 12 Credits.
  • Web-based Technologies, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 120 Credits.
  • Business, Project Analytics and Approaches, 15 Credits.
  • Blockchain for Information Security and Privacy, 15 Credits.
  • Research Methodology, 15 Credits.
  • Design thinking and Business Innovation, 15 Credits.
  • Information System Strategy and Management, 15 Credits.
  • Software testing and maintenance, 15 Credits.
  • IT Governance and Compliance, 15 Credits.
  • Business Information Systems Integrated Project, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply with understanding management theory to the operations of a modern organisation.
    2. Compile an analysis of the micro and macroenvironment that impact organisational performance and provide methods to manage these factors.
    3. Communicate effectively (orally and in writing) in a business environment.
    4. Demonstrate an understanding of stakeholder interests in the business information systems.
    5. Apply problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical techniques to plan and identify the structure for documenting a business case.
    6. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of strategic planning principles in information systems, enabling them to develop strategic plans aligned with organizational goals and objectives by applying various approaches to information systems planning and strategising.
    7. Demonstrate integrated knowledge of business information systems.
    8. Apply business management techniques, laws, and best practices in execution and management of IT software projects.
    9. Design, develop, configure, and deploy applications on centralized and distributed infrastructure.
    10. Critically analyse business and societal trends with the view of utilising ICTs in the development or enhancements of solutions
    11. Demonstrate a practical understanding of the concepts of Modelling and Categorising and apply them in documenting system requirements.
    12. Effectively apply design thinking principles and methodologies to drive business innovation, addressing complex challenges and opportunities with a focus on human interaction, emotions, and empathy, resulting in outcomes aimed at business growth and development.
    13. Demonstrate a practical understanding of the popular programming language and web technologies to develop IT software and online web-based projects.
    14. Apply management techniques and industry best practices in the execution, management and Governance of IT projects and processes. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Explain theories of Business Management with a view to enhance the understanding and the importance of management practice in contemporary business Institutions.
  • Apply effective understanding and application of the management function such as Planning, Leading, Organising, and Controlling with a view to achieving greater efficiency in modern business institutions.
  • Analyse contemporary management issues to explain its application.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Interrogate the relationship between macroeconomic trends and business operations is interrogated to mitigate the impact of external factors on business performance.
  • Examine the impact of microeconomic factors on organisational performance to be examined with a view to taking a decision that facilitates the promotion of a favourable business environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss communication processes including communication models, intercultural communications, and the levels of communication in the organisation to enhance the understanding of the importance of effective communication in an organisational context.
  • Explain formal and informal communication structures that are relevant in a business environment are explained.
  • Discuss the concept of groups and conflict in groups from a communication perspective to understand the impact of group dynamics on the effective functioning of business.
  • Maintain the role of technology in ethical business communication to ensure ethical business practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Identify stakeholders and establish their status in relation to the business information systems to ascertain their expected role in the strategy.
  • Examine and analyse the stakeholder's interests to inform the business functional structure on the impact of stakeholders to the strategy.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Determine information systems requirements, specifications and the strategy information flow models to plan and document the business case.
  • Document a business case by applying problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical techniques with a view ensuring effective reports are generated.
  • Apply decision-making processes and methodologies in the execution of software projects.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Evaluate learner's ability to a comprehensive strategic plan for information systems that demonstrates a clear understanding of strategic planning principles and aligns these with organisational goals and objectives.
  • Apply various approaches to information systems planning and strategising, including the ability to select and justify appropriate methodologies based on organizational context, industry trends, and technological advancements are to be assessed.
  • Examine the learners' ability to align the strategic plans for information systems with broader organisational goals and objectives, including the ability to articulate the rationale for strategic decisions and demonstrating how they contribute to organisational success.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Study the business information systems in relation to different business functions to assess each business function's contribution towards the business strategy.
  • Identify and evaluate the systems development life cycle phases to relate them to business facets such as operation, structures, type of industry, value chain, generic business processes, regulatory requirements and how they link with strategy to establish critical system requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Apply understanding of best practices in the management and Governance of computer systems and processes.
  • Analyse the laws that govern information technologies and their application.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Illustrate and undertake computer network design, implementation, and management.
  • Apply understanding and knowledge of computer network hardware and software.
  • Apply storage and management of cloud infrastructure in software development.
  • Illustrate the development and deployment of software solutions on cloud platforms.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Analyse business and societal problems and processes with a view to 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 11:
  • Apply an understanding of concepts of modelling to enhance documentation of system requirement.
  • Examine and recognise modelling types and techniques to gain an understanding of the applicability of each technique to the project being worked on.
  • Determine with understanding fundamentals of categorisation comprising the various schemes and associated roles and responsibilities involved with different categories must be understood to determine the effective application in documenting system requirements

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Effectively apply design thinking principles and methodologies to address complex business challenges and opportunities, demonstrating a deep understanding of each phase of the design thinking process - Immersion, Sensemaking, Alignment, Emergence, Imagining, and Learning in Action.
  • Illustrate a focused understanding in addressing human interaction, emotions, and empathy in the context of business innovation, resulting in solutions that resonate with users and stakeholders.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:
  • Apply knowledge of the popular programming language and web technologies, to write code, understand syntax, and implement algorithms effectively to develop IT software and online web-based projects.
  • Apply web technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and relevant frameworks to create interactive and dynamic web applications, demonstrating practical skills in front-end and back-end development.
  • Develop IT software and online web-based projects from conception to deployment, including tasks such as project planning, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance, ensuring functionality, usability, and scalability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 14:
  • Evaluate information security concepts and show understanding.
  • Analyse concepts of information systems security, policies, principles and security models.
  • Apply understanding of best practices in the management and Governance of computer systems and processes.

    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:
  • Assignment.
  • Project.
  • Written Test.
  • Constructive classroom activities.

    Summative Assessment:
  • Class test weighing 20%
  • Written Assignment/ Project weighing 20%
  • Written Examination weighing 60%

    Final Mark will be 100%, 40% of the DP mark and 60% of the written examination is combined to produce the final total. Qualifications that require continuous assessment, practical assessment and external written examinations by relevant accreditation authorities - as per the criteria the rules will apply.

    Moderation of Assessments:
    All formative and summative assessments of non-exit level modules will be internally moderated by either the Qualification Co-coordinator or Module coordinator. In the case of the exit level modules, external experts from industry (provided they have the requisite academic qualifications at NQF 8), private and public higher education institutions with relevant academic qualifications (NQF8) as well as experience, will be appointed to serve as external examiners. The Institute will develop a database of highly qualified experts who will be called upon from time to assist with the moderation of the assessment tools as well as the learners' responses/scripts.

    This qualification does not have any WIL. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was internationally compared with qualifications from the following countries.

    County: Tallinn, Estonia
    Institution: University of Applied Sciences (EUAS)
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science (BSc) Software Development and Entrepreneurship
    Duration: 3 Years

    Purpose/Rationale:
    This Software Development and Entrepreneurship qualification is for learners who want to have the software development, design, and teamwork skills to begin a career as a software developer in Estonia or anywhere in the world. It gives a solid foundation in IT and business upon which to build one's software company or startup.

    The qualifications focus on the following topics:
  • Programming (Java, HTML, CSS, SQL).
  • Information systems' analysis and design.
  • Software development processes.
  • Software testing.
  • Business process automation.
  • Web and mobile applications.
  • Entrepreneurship and communication psychology.
  • Projects and internships, your portfolio.

    Qualification structure:
    Modules:
  • Algorithms and data structures.
  • Discrete mathematics and logic.
  • Computers and networks comparable to Introduction to Computer Networks.
  • Operating systems and maintenance.
  • Basics of computer programming.
  • Software product and service management.
  • Social and ethical issues in IT, comparable to IT Governance and Compliance.
  • Academic writing and self-expression.
  • Research methods.
  • Computer software monitoring.
  • Software development processes, comparable to Software Development Methodologies.
  • Object-oriented programming, comparable to Fundamentals of Object-oriented Programming.
  • Data security.
  • Analysis and engineering of information systems.
  • Databases.
  • Software development team project, comparable to Business Information Systems Integrated Project.

    Similarities:
  • The University of Applied Sciences (EUAS) and the South African qualification are both offered over three years.
  • Both qualifications focus on modules such as accounting, business administration, Business analysis, Business processing modelling, and strategy of Business information systems occupy a big chunk of the curriculum, especially in the initial year.
  • Both qualifications weigh much towards the business and system analysis skills set, with in-depth exposure to statistical techniques and software development methodologies.
  • The SA qualification's focus on career orientation for graduates is very similar; both aim to produce Techno-entrepreneurs, Business and system analysts, IT Auditors, IT consultants, Management Consultants, Business Process Managers.

    Differences:
  • EUAS qualification offers a module on software development at the advanced level of the qualification, whereas the SA qualification module offering is evenly paced to accommodate both Business and Information system content.
  • The SA qualification content focuses on Analytic and system Programming and Software Development.

    County: Kenya
    Institution: Africa Nazarene University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Business and Information Technology
    Duration: 4 Years

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The Bachelor of Business and Information Technology qualification is structured with an aim of developing information technology professionals who are equipped with business tools and whose orientation is in management. The course is aimed at equipping learners with the capacity to critically analyse, design, implement and manage information technologies with a focus on overall business productivity and strategic objectives.

    Upon completion of this qualification, a learner will:
  • Have a solid theoretical background and strong practical foundations in information technology and business management
  • Be prepared for careers in the management of information systems.
  • Be well prepared with minimal orientation to be professionally useful in many business and technical positions
  • Possess the necessary academic background for pursuing post-graduate studies

    Qualification structure Modules:
  • Digital Literacy.
  • Computer Organization and Architecture.
  • Mathematics for Society.
  • Financial Accounting.
  • Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
  • Public Speaking, writing and analysis.
  • Encountering Christian Scriptures.
  • Introduction to Web Design and Development.
  • Hardware & Software Practicum.
  • Computer Programming I.
  • Business Economics.
  • Business Studies.
  • IS Project (Incorporates Cat5 GEU).
  • Networking.
  • Software Engineering.
  • E-commerce.

    Similarities:
  • The Africa Nazarene University (ANU) and the South African (SA) qualification both aim to provide a career in the management of information systems.
  • The pitching of modules and the knowledge area is similar, in that both qualifications provide fundamental business principles and basic information concepts in the first year of study.
  • Both qualifications offer modules such as Business Principles, Business Communication, Financial Accounting, Fundamentals of Computer networks, Fundamentals of programming and Principles of databases.
  • The focus area in the second year is based on analysis and data interpretation using statistics as well as quantitative techniques, understanding of eCommerce and digital economy.
  • Both qualifications aim at offering an integrated business information project, where learners are expected to integrate the knowledge gained during the qualification.

    Differences:
  • The major difference between these two qualifications is the duration of the qualifications. The ANU's qualification is offered over four years as compared to SA qualification which is offered over three years.
  • The ANU's qualification offers electives at the 3rd and 4th year of studies and SA qualification is a straightforward curriculum with no electives. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides for the following articulation options:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Information Science, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Business Innovation, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Digital Marketing, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Management Information Systems, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Occupational Diploma: Chief Information Officer: Cybersecurity, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Administration Honours in Information Systems, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Business Information Systems, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Knowledge and Information Systems Management, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Data Science Practitioner, 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.
     
    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.