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 Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
126020	Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner-MICT SETA
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations			OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Higher Occupational Cert	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	183	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	Regular-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0840/26	2026-06-02	2031-06-02
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2032-06-02		2035-06-02

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 the Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer qualification is to prepare the learner to operate as an Embedded Systems Developer.

An Embedded Systems Developer develops and assembles, programs, troubleshoots and deploys embedded systems technology.

Learners who achieve this qualification will expand their skill set and be well-positioned to apply for employment opportunities in the embedded systems sector, information and communication technology and manufacturing sectors. Learners acquire knowledge, skills and a change of attitude to efficiently operate in the ICT manufacturing space as embedded systems developers or technicians with opportunities for employment in the manufacturing sector.

Qualifying learners will be able to:

Assemble and integrate hardware and software into an embedded system complying with safety procedures.

Program the microcontroller of the embedded system using an applicable programming language.

Perform testing, troubleshooting and debugging techniques to ensure functionality according to specifications.

Typical learner attributes:

Analytical.

Precise and Accurate.

Creative and Innovative.

Critical thinking.

Attention to detail.

Rationale:
This qualification provides learners with the needed knowledge and competence to function successfully as Embedded Systems Developers. Embedded systems are used in the information, communication and technology sectors and manufacturing for health equipment, etc. The field of embedded systems is continuously evolving with the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), Industry 4.0 (4IR), smart cities, smart cars and many more, with an increase in demand for embedded systems developers. This enables South Africa to cope with the demand for products that use embedded systems.

Similar Qualification(s), Part-Qualifications/Skills Programmes that are registered on the NQF/QCTO:

Occupational Diploma: Electrical Engineering Technician (Automation), NQF Level 6.

Embedded systems are used in every sector, including banking, health, transport, and manufacturing, and are incorporated into devices that range from lifesaving to pure entertainment. Embedded systems are found in almost all the front-end developments that surface in the market. They are found in electronic toys, pacemakers, electric stoves and washing machines, fire alarms, wi-fi routers, mobile phones and hand-held computers that are used daily. The qualification will contribute to capacity building through the training of new technicians.

Embedded Systems Technology shapes the future by enabling new developments. Industries that are becoming the biggest adopters of embedded systems are healthcare, communications, aerospace, defence, consumer electronics and energy, which improve societies way of life.

The 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) is being catapulted by automation and new technologies are powered by artificial intelligence. Embedded systems development is the building block of all technological developments and advancements. As such it is crucial to economic development and advancement.

Embedded systems technology will shape the 4IR in many ways, such as enhanced manufacturing, futuristic data management, security and compliance advantages, and sustainability through process optimisation.

Typical learners include school leavers, Embedded Systems Developers with no formal recognition and others in the Fourth Industrial Revolution realm wishing to further their careers.

Collaboration with relevant stakeholders:

Skills Development Providers.

Institutions of Higher Education.

Information and Communication Technology Associations.

Information and Communication Technology Employers.

Listing of typical occupations in which the qualifying learner will operate (if relevant):

Embedded Systems Developer.

Embedded Systems Assembler.

Embedded Systems Technician.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for Access to Training:
Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a qualification if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of qualification.

Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors.

For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA):
Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA, confirming that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved.

Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued the QCTO certificate for the qualification. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications is approved by the QCTO.

Entry Requirements:

An NQF Level 3 qualification,
Or

Grade 11 Pass with Maths and Physical Science or Information Technology (Computer Application Technology or equivalent).

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:

Knowledge Modules:

311401-002-00-KM-01, Introduction to Embedded Systems, Level 5, 1 Credit.

311401-002-00-KM-02, Embedded System Technology Building Blocks, Electronic and Mechanical Components, Level 5, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-03, Microprocessors, Microcontrollers and Bus Systems, Level 5, 8 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-04, Occupational Health, Safety, Environment, Risks and Housekeeping in an Electronics Workplace, Level 4, 1 Credit.

311401-002-00-KM-05, Low Voltage Electrical Fundamentals, Level 4, 3 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-06, Electronics Fundamentals, Level 4, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-07, Electronics Essentials, Level 4, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-08, Electronic and Electrical Theory for Embedded System Assembly, Level 4, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-09, PCB Application in Embedded Systems, Level 4, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-10, Testing and Quality Assurance, Level 5, 6 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-11, Tools and Equipment for Electronics, Level 5, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-12, Embedded System Design, Level 5, 8 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-13, Mastering a Programming Language of Choice, Level 4, 18 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-14, Intrapersonal Skills, Level 4, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-KM-15, Technopreneurship: Brief Introduction, Level 4, 5 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 78.

Practical Skills Modules:

311401-002-00-PM-01, Conceptualise an Embedded System Solution and Determine the Requirements, Level 5, 2 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-02, Design the Embedded System and Document Required Details, Level 5, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-03, Develop and Build an Embedded Systems Prototype, Level 5, 12 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-04, Program using a Language of Choice, Level 4, 20 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-05, Program a Microprocessor using a Language of Choice, Level 5, 9 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-06, Apply Electronic and Mechanical Skills, Assembly Methods and Techniques to Assemble a PCB and Embedded System Technology Hardware, Level 4, 6 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-07, Integrate Software with Hardware of Embedded System Technology, Level 5, 4 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-08, Test and Apply Corrections to Make Sure the Embedded System is a Fully Functioning Unit, Level 5, 6 Credits.

311401-002-00-PM-09, Perform Fault finding and Repair Electronic Circuits and Embedded Systems Technology, Level 5, 6 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skills Modules: 69.

Work Experience Modules:

311401-002-00-WM-01, Programming of Microcontrollers for Embedded System Technology, Level 5, 12 Credits.

311401-002-00-WM-02, Embedded System Assembling and Integration, Level 5, 12 Credits.

311401-002-00-WM-03, Embedded System Testing and Quality Assurance, Level 5, 12 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 36.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Deploy hardware for embedded systems according to specifications, using embedded systems technology.
2. Perform an analysis of the embedded systems hardware.
3. Program the microcontrollers of the embedded system.
4. Integrate hardware, circuits, software and user interface (UI) into an embedded system.
5. Adhere to occupational health and safety rules and regulations as well as quality standards.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
ELO 1: Deploy hardware for embedded systems according to specifications, using embedded systems technology.

Select, inspect and prepare hardware components for assembling.

Construct and test circuits for accurate functionality.

Assemble and commission hardware.

Test instruments e.g., oscilloscopes (testing output and input signals) and use digital multimeters for testing electrical voltages and continuity on the cables.

Perform testing and troubleshooting using testing and measuring equipment to ensure accurate functionality.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
ELO 2: Perform an analysis of the embedded systems hardware.

Conduct a functional analysis to ensure that the main function can be completely performed.

Conduct a performance analysis, ensuring its reliability, efficiency, and functionality.

Conduct a power analysis to establish power consumption.

Conduct a signal integrity analysis to determine suitability for transmitting data, communicating between devices and controlling various electronic systems.

Conduct an interoperability analysis to ensure that seamless collaboration, efficient data exchange, cost and time savings, flexibility and integration of legacy systems will be enabled.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
ELO 3: Program the microcontrollers of the embedded system.

Use an appropriate programming language, and program the microcontrollers, taking the limitations of the embedded system into account.

Troubleshoot, debug and deploy technology.

Enable machine learning for self-healing.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
ELO 4: Integrate hardware, circuits, software and user interface (UI) into an embedded system.

Integrate hardware such as sensors, microcontrollers, actuators, power supply, cabling, wiring, etc.

Finalise software and firmware integration by deploying the software modules to control hardware components.

Finalise user interface development and integration to facilitate communication and data exchange, using protocols such as SPI, Ethernet, I2C, Wireless protocols (Bluetooth or WiFi).

Integrate new developments into an embedded system.

Test and debug the solution.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
ELO 5: Adhere to occupational health and safety rules and regulations as well as quality standards.

Follow all prescribed or related OHS and standard SAFETY regulations to mitigate risks and hazards associated with electronics.

Compile electrostatic discharge (ESD) protocols.

Review electrical engineering plans and assemblies to ensure adherence to design specifications and compliance with applicable electrical/electronic codes and standards.

Integrated Assessment:
Formative Assessments conducted internally:
Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities is used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment.

Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weaknesses and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills and workplace experience gained.

Formative Assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP) and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play and interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

Integrated Summative Assessment conducted internally:
Integrated Assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed.

An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant and final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements of each module of the relevant components of the qualification.

Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g. applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc.

The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the final result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA.

External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA):
The Quality Partner is responsible for the management, conduct and implementation of the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), in accordance with QCTO set standards. Competence in the EISA is a requirement for certificating a learner.

For entrance into the EISA, the learner requires a valid Statement of Results issued by the accredited institution indicating the attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

This qualification was compared to the following international qualifications:

Country: United States of America:
Institution Name: Colorado State University.
Qualification Title: Certificate in Embedded Systems.
Duration: One-year.
Qualification Level: Not indicated.
Credits: Not indicated.

Entry requirements:

Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) course.

Purpose/ Rationale:
It introduces embedded systems, including hardware design and software engineering principles. Learners learn to apply electrical engineering, computer engineering, and computer science principles in real-world embedded platforms.

Learners who qualify through the qualification are able to:

Think critically about embedded and Internet-of-Things (IoT) computing,

Communicate effectively both with technical experts in their field and with experts from related fields who do not have specific backgrounds in embedded and IoT computing,

Assimilate advanced knowledge from disciplines of science and engineering to broaden their expertise in Embedded and IoT computing.

The following are additional courses that may be required due to prerequisites:

Machine Learning,

Foundations of Fine-Grain Parallelism,

Parallel Processing,

Embedded Systems and Machine Learning,

Computer Architecture,

Manycore System Design Using Machine Learning,

Hardware / Software Design of Embedded Systems and,

Advanced Topics in Embedded.

Similarities:
Both qualifications are delivered over one year, include electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science principles, and have knowledge and work integrated learning, and soft skills.

Differences:
The Graduate Certificate in Embedded Systems requires an Electronics Communication Engineering Certificate as entry, whereas the Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer requires NQF Level 3 in Information Technology / Computer Application Technology or Equivalent. The Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer is vendor agnostic, offers learners hands-on practical tasks to foster dexterity and practical skills and includes soft skills related to interpersonal interaction and entrepreneurship awareness. The minimum number of credits for the USA qualification is not specified.

Country: Canada.
Institution Name: Ontario College.
Qualification title: Diploma in Electronics Engineering Technician.
Duration: Two years.

Entry requirements:
Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, including grade 12 English credits and Grade 11 or 12 maths credits.

Purpose/Rationale:
The qualification prepares learners for the challenging electronics engineering manufacturing industry that integrates leading-edge technology and techniques in the creation of electronics systems. The qualification requires strong problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as solid understanding of maths and computers in relation to electrical and electronics devices.

Learners gain strong technical knowledge and hands-on experience through a combination of theory and practical courses. The qualification covers the following course subjects:

Electrical circuits.

Electronic devices.

Instrumentation.

Microcontrollers.

Analog.

Digital conversion.

The qualification has the following specialisations as electromechanics, industrial controls, computer programming or broadband cable.

Similarities:
Similarities between the Canadian Electronics Engineering Technician Diploma Program and the Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer are mostly in the content of the two qualifications; both require grade 12 for entry and have knowledge and practical components.

Differences:
The Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer differs from the Canadian Electronics Engineering Technician Diploma Program in duration since it is a one-year course and includes work experience component. In terms of the content, the Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer differs substantially as it covers broader scope.

Conclusion:
It can be concluded that there are similarities in the course content and entry requirements. However, the presentation mode differ, the duration is incomparable, and the credits and levels are not specified, thus a full comparison is not possible.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification has the following articulation options:

Horizontal Articulation:
Within OQSF -

Higher Occupational Certificate: Computer Technician, NQF Level 5.

Between sub-frameworks -

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Electrical Engineering, NQF Level 5.

Vertical Articulation:
Within OQSF-

Advanced Occupational Certificate: Electrical Engineering Draftsperson, NQF Level 6.

Between sub-frameworks -

Diploma in Computer Systems Engineering, NQF Level 6.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A.

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A.

NOTES

Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:

Good eyesight, be able to differentiate colours and dexterity.

Criteria for Accreditation:

Accreditation requirements, against which Skills Development Providers (SDP) and Assessment Centres, will be accredited, are found in the Curriculum Document, as listed below.

The curriculum title and code is: Higher Occupational Certificate: Embedded Systems Developer: 311401-002-00-00.

Encompassed Trades:

This is not a trade qualification.

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