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 THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Diploma: Sound Engineering 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
83786  Diploma: Sound Engineering 
ORIGINATOR
General SGB 02 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
The individual Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary for each Learning Programme recorded against this qualification is shown in the table at the end of this report.  SFAP - Sub-framework Assignment Pending 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 240)  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Film, Television and Video 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  240  Level 5  NQF Level 06  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 9900/00  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2028-06-30  

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 
The development and growth of the entertainment industry in South Africa has necessitated the need to introduce specialised learning programmes. Certain specialised areas within the entertainment industry in South Africa never had formal training programmes. Therefore we have developed, along with key members of the local Sound Industry, a Sound Recording Engineering course that produces well-rounded professionals, versed in all spheres of sound engineering, thus enhancing a developing industry and promoting the African Renaissance.

Rationale

As the Sound Industry in South Africa has grown tremendously in the past years, it has been noted that there is a serious gap in the industry as far as formal training in the craft of sound design and the understanding of sound as a whole. A niche market has been filled by training learners as sound engineers as opposed to sound technicians, thus helping them to understand and implement the techniques and qualities needed in a professional industry, thereby helping to raise local standards to match international standards. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
All subjects utilise the same teaching and learning strategies. The learners are presented with theoretical classes and are then given the opportunity to apply that theory to a practical application, using the equipment available to them at the relevant institution. They are also given practical assignments and productions that enable them further to apply the theoretical component of the course. Essays and assignments are given to ensure that the learner researches and comprehends all elements of the subject. Exams are given twice a year in each subject that enables the learner to assess his progress and identify areas that the learner may need to give extra attention.

Recognition of Prior Learning

To accommodate various methods of entry to the programme, the STEP (Special Tenure Entry Process) initiative has been formulated. This process assesses previous knowledge and skill levels of a candidate and allows for an individual to be advanced into a 2nd or later year of study, should equivalent competencies be demonstrated. 

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
Y 

QUALIFICATION RULES 
N/A 

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
Component 1: Competencies relating to basic technical skills(computer, electronic, equipment, software and platforms)

This component focuses on achieving technical skills necessary in gaining entrance to a technically based industry. Including the ability to understand and apply the theory essential in utilising the various technical and electronic equipment.

1.1 Understanding the theory and being able to apply the technical skills required to operate audio engineering equipment.
  • Understanding the theory and practical application of a Mixing Desk.
  • Understanding the theory and practical application of Outboard Equipment.
  • Understanding the various properties and applications of Microphones and microphone theory and techniques.
  • Understanding and being able to apply the theory of Public Address (PA) systems.
  • Using and understanding Digital concepts and digital mixing desks.
  • Using and understanding Analogue techniques and the application thereof.Reinforcing varying techniques in a variety of Audio circumstances.

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Apply the theory to all equipment required to enable the candidate to successfully operate all technical equipment relating to the audio field.

    1.2 To demonstrate competence in varying software packages necessary to an international industry.
    The learner must acquire a full comprehension of the following software packages and operating systems:
  • Soundscape
  • ProTools
  • Cakewalk
  • Cubase VST and SX

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Apply the theory to, as well as utilising and operating, software packages utilised internationally in the Sound Engineering field.

    1.3 To demonstrate competence in the basic and advanced use of computers and their varying platforms.
  • A basic understanding of Digital Systems.
  • A comprehension of the operating platforms of Audio.
  • A comprehension of the operating platforms of MIDI.
  • How to optimise technology in the work place.
  • How to manipulate digital audio on a Macintosh.
  • How to manipulate digital audio on a PC
  • Understanding Hubs and networks
  • Importing and exporting Audio Files
  • Comprehension of the actual nature of sound represented in a digital format

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Apply and utilise the theory in operating, with confidence, a computer on any platform.

    1.4 Demonstrating the necessary skills required in basic electronics.
    Understand and apply:
  • Soldering
  • Elementary Electronics
  • Sound desk design
  • Public Address Systems
  • Troubleshooting

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Find and solve basic electronic faults in studio and during live applications.
  • Make and utilise cables and connectors.


    Component 2: Competencies relating to praxis and applied theory elements of sound engineering.

    2.1 Demonstrating the use of theory in a practical environment and application. The learner must have an understanding of the Physics of Sound and be able to utilise the theory whilst applying it to practical applications.
  • Advanced editing and synching techniques:The learner must have a full comprehension of the following:
    - Acoustics
    - Musical Sounds
    - Non-musical Sounds (noise)
    - The Hearing process
    - Hearing sensitivity
    - Stereo & Monophonic Sound
  • A full comprehension of the theory of recording is required including a complete understanding of the following:
    - History of recorded sound
    - Magnetic recording
    - Analogue recording systems
    - Digital recording systems
  • Analysis of pre-exsisting, commercial material.
  • Assimilation of the analogue to the digital domain.
  • Learning and understanding Advanced Sound Engineering Applications.
  • Being able to source problems and troubleshoot concepts.
  • Teaching the learner Auditory Perception techniques such as psycho-acoustic effect.
  • Ear Training: Training the learner to listen effectively and to identify and rectify problems.
  • Taking further the many of the day-to-day aspects of Production, especially as it applies to animation and motion graphics.

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Take part in and manage a full production session in any domain. Including, but not limited to the studio and live environments.
  • Manage a production from pre-production to post-production.


    Component 3: Competencies relating to praxis and applied theory elements of music.

    3.1 Demonstrating the necessity and need for understanding and utilising basic music skills in the Sound Engineering environment.
  • The learner must have a comprehension of the History of music and its place in the development of Sound Engineering. Including:
    - Instrument identification and the in-depth study thereof.
    - Varying music styles and genres, identifying them and the in-depth study thereof.
    - The development and influence of one genre upon another.
  • The learner is required to have a comprehensive understanding of Music theory and to utilise this theoretical knowledge whilst composing and working with live instruments and musicians.

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Read and write music notation and have an understanding of basic music theory.
  • Compose simple tracks and jingles.
  • Identify genres.
  • Identify the specific, individual instruments and voicings within an arrangement.
  • Liaise with musicians and producers using musical terminology.


    Component 4: Competencies relating to the integration of technical skill and application when working with sound recording equipment, software, systems and platforms.

    4.1 Integrating the theoretical component with practical applications.
    Completing various practical productions in a simulated industry environment to a level acceptable by the sound, music, film, multimedia and broadcast industries. Including:
  • Band recordings in studio and live,
  • Live and recorded Radio,
  • Location and post production for Film and Television,
  • Live audio set-up and application,
  • Outside broadcast for radio and television,
  • Audio for animations,
  • Theatre sound,
  • Studio design and application,
  • Audio design for multimedia applications such as CD-roms and games,
  • Sound for advertisements for film and television.

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Demonstrate competence in complex productions relevant to industry standards.


    Component 5: Competencies relating to utilising theoretical music knowledge to compose and work with live musical instruments.

    5.1 Integrating the theoretical components of music and MIDI with practical applications.
  • To compose and create musical soundtracks for film and television of any genre, including dramatic narrative, comedy, documentary and variety shows.
  • To compose and create jingles and stings for advertisements for film and television.
  • To compose and create soundtracks for animation.
  • To record, manipulate and edit instruments and voices necessary to enhance a composition.

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Compose and create incidental and narrative soundtracks for any production.


    Component 6: Competencies relating to a comprehension of music copyright and contractual law and its applications in the workplace.

    Demonstrating the necessity and need for understanding and utilising contractual and copyright law in the Sound Engineering environment.
  • Copyright law including: ownership, infringement, duration, licensing, performance, internet, composition, South African legislation, International legislation.
  • Contractual law including: publishing agreements, demo agreements, mechanical license, agreements between various parties.

    Competence is evident when candidates are able to:
  • Apply, explain and justify copyright law in a `real world` environment.
  • Show an understanding and ability to comprehend various contracts, including trouble-shooting and problem solving. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Integrated Assessment

    Assessment Methods:
    The assessment methods are varied, but predominantly of an on-going nature focusing on using qualitative, or formative, methods to ensure a "deep approach" to learning. These methods can include some of what Luckett would describe as "Continuous, Peer and Self Assessment". The methods of assessment however include both the summative, such as examinations, as well as formative, including essays with personal feedback, practicals with feedback, both individual, group and written projects with reports critically analyzing an aspect thereof, and presentations with group work. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Sound Recording Engineering Diploma is designed to enable its graduates to achieve successful employment internationally. The course content is geared at international standards and the equipment utilised in practical applications is aimed at international trends. Constant research is undertaken to ensure that this level of compatibility is maintained and constant upgrades and improvements are put in place should they be necessary. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    At present, nationally, there are no places of further study. Upon completion of the qualification process it will further be ascertained as to whether learners from different accredited institutions will be accepted into others and whether graduates will be able to continue their studies at other South African institutions. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    The department appoints moderators and external examiners, in respect of the examination of exit-level subjects, to report on the standard of the examination papers.

    The moderators must be in possession of an applicable qualification, at least one level higher than the level within which the assessment is taking place or the necessary minimum industry experience as determined by the Head of department in consultation with the Governing Body.

    The Moderator checks question papers and memorandums of exit-level subjects only, i.e. final examination at end of year two.

    The scripts of a selection of all exit-level subjects must be handed to the moderator by the first examiner. The moderator moderates the scripts according to the instructions and makes recommendations in respect of the standard and future examination(s), or suggests amendments (adjustments of the marks).

    Practical work is assessed with an External Examiner twice a year, at end of Semester 1 (June) and Semester 2 (December). 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2006; 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    As per the SAQA decision to re-register all provider-based qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework that meet the criteria for re-registration, this qualification has been re-registered from 1 July 2018. As per the SAQA decision to re-register all provider-based qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework that meet the criteria for re-registration, this qualification has been re-registered from 1 July 2018. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    LP ID Learning Programme Title Originator Pre-2009
    NQF Level    		 NQF Level Min Credits Learning Prog End Date Quality
    Assurance
    Functionary    		 NQF Sub-Framework
    48450  Diploma in Sound Engineering  City Varsity (Pty) Ltd  Level 5  NQF Level 06  240     CHE  HEQSF 
    83826  Diploma: Sound Engineering  Academy of Sound Engineering  Level 5  Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L5  256  2018-12-31  CHE  HEQSF 
    83826  Diploma: Sound Engineering  Academy of Sound Engineering  Level 5  Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L5  256  2018-12-31  CHE  HEQSF 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THESE LEARNING PROGRAMMES: 
    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.
     
    LP ID Learning Programme Title Accredited Provider
    48450  Diploma in Sound Engineering  1. City Varsity - Cape Town
    2. City Varsity - Johannesburg  
    83826  Diploma: Sound Engineering  Academy of Sound Engineering  


    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.