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: 

Diploma in Information Technology in Software Development 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
74651  Diploma in Information Technology in Software Development 
ORIGINATOR
The Independent Institute of Education (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
Diploma (Min 360)  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  368  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  SAQA 1141/23  2021-07-01  2024-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2025-06-30   2029-06-30  

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 this programme is to qualify students to follow a successful career in Software Development. This 3-year diploma is structured in accordance with the new NQF guidelines with the total minimum of 360 credits of which a minimum of 60 are at NQF Level 7 and a maximum of 120 are at NQF Level 5.

The skills required by students to enter the workplace, either as self-employed individuals or within an existing organisation, together with industry requirements have been considered within this qualification. A good combination of information technology theory and practical skills, with strong emphasis on software development, has been embraced through specific modules and outcomes selection.

The Diploma: Software Development will equip students with the required competence to apply Information Technology skills and knowledge to gain competitive advantage in business. Basic software knowledge together with progressive development of programming techniques, programming languages and some web programming knowledge are the important aspects learned in this programme. The concepts of basic mathematics, business communications and business practice are included to provide a balanced perspective and to fully equip students for industry.

Rationale:

Information Technology has been featuring on the Department of Higher Education and Training list of scarce skills for some time, and was highlighted again on the Information Technology Web's Information Technology Skills conference held in 2009. This qualification considers a potential lack of significant computer experience and makes provision to lead students into this field of study, providing access to higher education in software development where such an opportunity might not otherwise exist. It introduces programming concepts from a very basic level and progresses into more sophisticated concepts in the second and third year of study.

Students progress along a well defined programming track covering programming languages currently most in demand. This track is supported by several modules which add progressive support in terms of logical thinking, problem solving and logical deduction to formulate a set of exit level outcomes focussed on the application of software development skills which are aimed to solve business problems. These modules, combined with database knowledge as an essential part of modern businesses, form a solid basis for graduates to establish a career in this field and help address this specific area of scarce skills in South Africa.

The Diploma: Information Technology: Software Development will help to address this specific need identified in South Africa and present students with the opportunity to enter higher education and prepare them to take up positions such as:
  • Computer Programmer.
  • Analyst Programmer.
  • Junior Software Developer.
  • Software Developer.
  • Junior Programmer
  • Project Management.
  • Web Developer.

    The qualification takes into consideration the need to improve the Communication and Computer Literacy skills of students, given the digital nature of the information age in which graduates need to operate. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the student is competent in the language of instruction (English) at NQF Level 4.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    Students can achieve this qualification in part or in whole through recognition of prior learning. The Independent Institute of Education Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and the Independent Institute of Education Academic Credit Policy guide this process. Students may apply for credits or exemptions for subjects already passed, in-house or at other recognized institutions.

    For Recognition of Prior Learning through informal and non-formal learning processes, the Independent Institute of Education Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and the Independent Institute of Education Academic Credit Policy guide the process whereby skills, knowledge and experience in respect of competence acquired through formal and non-formal learning are assessed. All Recognition of Prior Learning submissions are centralized at the National Offices of each educational brand and sent to the Independent Institute of Education Registrar and the academic Head of Programme at the Central Office for evaluation.

    Access to the Qualification:

    The qualification is for all students who meet one of the following:
  • Are in possession of a National Senior Certificate with English with rating of 2 (30-39%) coupled with an achievement rating of 3 (40-49%) in four recognised 20 credit subjects.
  • Are in possession of a Senior Certificate completed prior to 2008.
  • Have reached the age of 23 years at registration and have acquired three years of appropriate work experience.
  • Are in possession of a Higher Certificate or Advanced Certificate in a relevant area.
  • Comply through Recognition of Prior Learning. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Diploma: Information Technology: Software Development consists of 27 modules at the following NQF Levels, all of which are compulsory:

    NQF Level 5:
  • 9 Modules totalling 107 credits:
    > End User Computing A; 20 Credits.
    > Business Communication; 10 Credits.
    > Business Practice and Entrepreneurship; 05 Credits.
    > Analytical Techniques; 10 Credits.
    > End User Computing B; 12 Credits.
    > Programming Logic and Design A; 10 Credits.
    > Programming 1A; 20 Credits.
    > Web Development Introduction; 10 Credits.
    > Programming Logic and Design B; 10 Credits.

    NQF Level 6:
  • 12 Modules totalling 171 credits:
    > Business Information Systems; 12 Credits.
    > Programming 1B; 15 Credits.
    > Systems Analysis and Design; 16 Credits.
    > Human Computer Interaction; 17 Credits.
    > Database Introduction; 15 Credits.
    > Programming 2A; 20 Credits.
    > Database Intermediate; 12 Credits.
    > Programming 2B; 15 Credits.
    > IT Project Management; 15 Credits.
    > Experiential Learning; 10 Credits.
    > Information Security; 10 Credits.
    > Software Quality and Testing; 14 Credits.

    NQF Level 7:
  • 6 Modules totalling 90 credits.
    > Software Development Project; 20 Credits.
    > Open Source Coding Introduction; 15 Credits.
    > Wed Development Intermediate; 10 Credits.
    > Advanced Databases; 15 Credits.
    > Applied Programming; 15 Credits.
    > Open Source Coding Intermediate; 15 Credits.

    Total Credits for the Qualification: 368. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate applied competence in the analysis and design of software solutions to meet specific business requirements.

    2. Integrate programming, database and web development techniques in creating applications for a business environment.

    3. Demonstrate an ability to use a variety of programming tools and techniques to develop secure computer applications for a business.

    4. Apply generally accepted coding best practice in the development of secure software solutions.

    5. Test and quality assure software applications.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    All the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are addressed in this qualification. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

    1.1 Business requirements are analysed and a basis for the software and coding is designed.
    1.2 Software-related problems are identified and solutions are designed to meet the business requirements.
    1.3 The principles of analysis and design of software solutions are implemented to ensure requirements are met.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

    2.1 Applications that integrate the techniques and practices from programming, database and web development frameworks, are developed.
    2.2 Web sites are created using specific software packages and database coding.
    2.3 Databases are developed, managed and maintained using a query language.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

    3.1 Computer applications are created using various programming tools and techniques for a business environment.
    3.2 Simple and complex coding using an object-oriented programming language is applied to develop software solutions.
    3.3 Programming constructs in an object-oriented language is implemented for application development.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

    4.1 Generally accepted good practice strategies and techniques are applied to ensure the security in programming code.
    4.2 Secure software solutions are constructed by applying strategies and techniques identified as common best practice.
    4.3 Coding best practices are implemented in solution development to ensure the product is secure for the environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

    5.1 Software quality and testing techniques and approaches are used to ensure quality in software applications to accepted best practice.
    5.2 Software quality in applications are assured through software quality and testing techniques and approaches.
    5.3 The assurance of quality user and computer interaction is analysed and tested using common strategies and techniques.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Formative Assessment:

    Learning and assessment are integrated. Continual formative assessment is required so that students are given feedback on their progress in the achievement of learning outcomes. The scheme of work includes assignments based on the learning material and students are given feedback. The process is continuous and focuses on smaller sections of the work and limited numbers of outcomes.

    Summative Assessment:

    Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit- Level Outcomes of the qualification and tests the student's ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, skills and attitudes that are represented by the Exit-Level Outcomes as a whole. Methods include examinations, projects, laboratory reports or equivalent assessment such as portfolios of evidence. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This Independent Institute of Education qualification was compared with qualifications in software development and computer science in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. It shows similarity to qualifications in the Australia and United Kingdom, especially with the Open University in the United Kingdom and the University of Adelaide in Australia. The concept of a single qualification with the potential to be used across a range of sectors, i.e., public, private and non-governmental, is common in the qualifications investigated.

    New Zealand:

    The qualifications compares positively with the qualification offered at the Computer Power Institute in New Zealand which can be completed full time or part time. This qualification entitled Diploma of Information Technology (Software Development) combines a common core of specialist subjects, i.e. practical foundation in programming techniques and concepts, database development, requirements analysis and design are examined.

    Australia:

    The qualification offered at the University of Adelaide is designed to provide fundamental understanding in various software development structures. The core courses delve into the disciplines of computer concepts, software development and engineering, data structures, algorithms and computer programming. The electives are also streamlined towards computing and programming disciplines.

    The qualification compared favourably to the Open University qualification in that it covers a similar range of disciplines, specialising in the fundamentals of software development, to the practical integration with programming, databases, requirement modelling, web development methods, human computer interaction and system testing. This qualification aligns well with industry related software and development approaches. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates horizontally with other IT Diplomas on NQF Level 6 such as the Diploma: Information Technology: Web development.

    This qualification articulates with any Information Technology Bachelor's degree offered at any other registered private or public institution. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • The Independent Institute of Education which is a multi site provider has a sophisticated system of internal and external moderation to assure quality and ensure equity of provision. Feedback from moderators is used to improve the quality of assessment, material and student support, as well as to ensure fairness and validity in any particular examination cycle. External moderation is also used to ensure that the quality of the programme content and its assessment is comparable to that offered by other providers.
  • All HEQC accreditation criteria in this regard are met and indeed exceeded, because of the additional layer of internal moderation to secure equity across the sites.

    Internal Moderation:
  • The role of internal moderation is to ensure that assessments are conducted appropriately and fairly and are a valid indication of a student's performance. It is also a key element of Quality Management across all Independent Institute of Education campuses. Lecturers who are involved in the assessment of learning outcomes need to be able to account for all levels of assessment such as assignments, examinations, portfolios. Moderation of assessment is formalised within the institution on both an internal and external level through the Independent Institute of Education Quality Management System.
  • Feedback on internal moderation is provided to respective lecturers and academic staff across the campuses through a moderation report.

    Criteria for Appointment of External Examiners and/or Moderators:
  • To date moderators that meet the requirements are approved by the Senior Head of Programme. The Senior Head of Programme holds the position equivalent to a Head of School in a public provider. The moderators` details are then approved by the Director (Academic Head). As of 2009 a list of moderators, their institutional affiliation and qualifications will also be considered by both the relevant Faculty Board and Senate on a semester basis. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    No ETQA registration is required for moderators or assessors of programmes accredited by the HEQC. Assessors and moderators hold a qualification at least one level higher than the qualification being assessed or moderated. Moderators are also required to have more than two years teaching experience. Assessors with less than two years' experience have their assessment work moderated by a peer.

    According to the HEQC, assessors in higher education need not be registered with the ETDP SETA or any other structure as was contemplated in the criteria and guidelines for the registration of assessors. 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    The curriculum will contribute to the achievement of the intended outcomes by introducing simple concepts that provide the foundation for progression within the programme such as knowledge in the effective use of computers and related software packages, basic mathematical and business skills. The programming tools and techniques within a chosen language together with system design and development ensures the required outcomes are met. The work integrated learning activities together with the development of a software project ensures that project and solution development skills are encompassed within the programme.

    The programming and software development modules are followed logically and developed over the three years of study, supported by modules providing the student with skills to think logically and focus on problem solving methodologies. Students learn basic coding techniques and progress on to design code-based business solutions towards the end of their studies. The teaching approach adequately covers both the theory and application components to establish the required balance between these skill sets.

    In the final year, a much stronger emphasis is placed on problem analysis and solution development with students given a larger degree of freedom to formulate solutions for given problems, to promote a greater degree of innovative and creative solution design. 

    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. The Independent Institute of Education (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.