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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
85167  Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering 
ORIGINATOR
Richfield Graduate Institute Of Technology (Pty) Ltd. (previously known as PC Training And Business College (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
Advanced 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  Level 6  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0733/25  2024-06-30  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

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 Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering is designed to equip learners with a deeper technical understanding and practical skills required to analyze, design, implement, and maintain complex systems within Information Communications Technology (ICT), engineering, or industrial environments. This qualification provides an integrated approach to hardware, software, networking, systems integration, and engineering processes.

It builds on foundational knowledge such as from a Higher Certificate in Systems Engineering or similar and prepares graduates to:
  • Solve real-world engineering problems using systems thinking.
  • Analyze and interpret system requirements and specifications.
  • Integrate and maintain Information Technology (IT), network, or embedded systems in an organizational context.
  • Apply structured methodologies in systems design and performance evaluation.
  • Support cross-functional teams in infrastructure deployment and optimization.

    This qualification supports career advancement, further academic progression, and national economic needs related to digital infrastructure, engineering, and smart systems.
    The Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals who can understand, design, and support complex technical systems. As modern organisations increasingly rely on integrated technology infrastructure, the need for systems engineering expertise has become critical across industries such as manufacturing, information technology, telecommunications, energy, and defence. This qualification provides a combination of computer and networking skills, equipping learners with a wide scope of IT-related competencies.

    Rationale:
    The qualification responds to the growing demand for professionals capable of integrating and maintaining complex technology systems in modern industrial and ICT environments. In an era where manufacturing, telecommunications, IT services, energy, and defence industries rely heavily on integrated infrastructure and digital technologies, there is a critical need for technicians and technologists with multidisciplinary systems engineering expertise. This qualification, therefore, addresses the national and sectoral skills shortage in IT infrastructure, industrial automation, and cyber-physical systems.

    From a societal and economic perspective, the qualification enhances South Africa's ability to participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by producing graduates who can work with both legacy technologies and emerging systems such as the Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing, and virtualized infrastructures. It benefits the economy by strengthening digital infrastructure capacity, supporting technological innovation, and enabling competitiveness in industries where reliable systems engineering is fundamental. For society, it promotes digital inclusion and ensures that organisations across sectors have access to skilled professionals who can design, secure, and optimise integrated systems.

    The typical learners for this qualification include those who have completed a Higher Certificate in Systems Engineering or an equivalent NQF Level 5 programme in IT, engineering, or electronics. It also serves technicians, IT support staff, or early-career engineers seeking specialisation and career progression.

    Graduates of this qualification are prepared to enter occupations such as Systems Technician, Network Support Engineer, PC/Server Engineer, Cybersecurity Support Specialist, or Industrial Systems Technician. These graduates may find employment across diverse sectors, including ICT, telecommunications, industrial automation, energy utilities, and government.

    The qualification also provides clear progression pathways. Learners may articulate vertically into Diplomas or Bachelor's Degrees in Information Technology, Computer Systems, or Engineering. Horizontally, they may pursue advanced certificates in related fields such as Network Engineering, Cybersecurity, or Industrial Automation. Diagonally, graduates can progress into qualifications such as Diplomas or Bachelor's Degrees in Network Engineering or Cybersecurity, thereby supporting career mobility and lifelong learning.

    Modern industries - including manufacturing, telecommunications, IT services, energy, and defence are increasingly reliant on the integration of multiple technologies and subsystems to function efficiently. This demand has created a need for technicians and technologists with multi-disciplinary systems engineering expertise who can understand and support complex environments.

    The Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering is justified by:
  • Industry demand for skilled practitioners capable of bridging the gap between hardware, software, and systems integration.
  • Skills shortages in key sectors such as IT infrastructure, telecommunications, industrial automation, and cyber-physical systems.
  • The growth of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and digital transformation, which re-quires professionals who can work with both legacy systems and emerging technologies (e.g., IoT, edge computing).
  • The qualification supports career mobility for technicians and support engineers seeking more responsibility or specialization, and for those wishing to pursue a diploma or degree in engineering or applied technology. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Recognition of prior learning is implemented via processes through which the prior knowledge and skills of a person are made visible, mediated, and assessed for formal recognition for the purposes of credits, access to a learning programme, or advanced standing following access to a learning programme, exemption from modules that contribute towards a particular qualification. The prior learning can be informal, non-formal, or formal. Previous learning will be governed by institutional and regulatory policies, procedures and frameworks.

    The qualification cannot be obtained based entirely on recognition of prior learning.

    The RPL process ensures that individuals who possess relevant competencies but may not meet traditional academic entry requirements are provided with a pathway to further their education. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows candidates to gain access to programme based on their previous learning experiences, which may have occurred outside formal education systems. This includes work experience, relevant certifications and informal training that align with the knowledge and skills required for the programme. In cases where prior learning will be recognized for gaining entrance into the programme, no more than 10% of the learner intake for the programme will be from RPL. A maximum of up to 50% of the credits of a completed qualification can be transferred to another qualification at the Institution or from another institution. No final year modules will be credited.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted for modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module. This is only applicable to modules from year one and year two, and no more than 50% of modules overall.

    RPL for credit:
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Higher Certificate in Systems Engineering, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Information Systems Support, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Network Systems Practice, NQF Level 5.
    or
  • Higher Certificate in a related field (e.g., IT, engineering, electronics), NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF 6, totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • System Software, 15 Credits.
  • PC Engineering, 15 Credits.
  • Network Engineering, 15 Credits.
  • Basic Electronics, 15 Credits.
  • Server Engineering, 15 Credits.
  • Network Security, 15 Credits.
  • Internet Security, 15 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Identify and describe the key components of a computer system.
    2. Explain basic computer operations, data processing, and storage concepts.
    3. Apply systems engineering principles to identify, analyze, and solve practical technical problems.
    4. Design and implement integrated systems using hardware, software, and networking technologies.
    5. Evaluate system performance, identify risks or inefficiencies, and propose improvements.
    6. Integrate security, quality, and compliance considerations into systems deployment and support.
    7. Use industry-standard tools and techniques for system modeling, diagnostics, and testing.
    8. Work effectively in teams, manage technical tasks, and communicate solutions clearly to stakeholders. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • System software including device drivers, utility programs, and system tools are installed, configured, and maintained effectively.
  • System performance monitoring and optimization techniques are applied to improve computer efficiency and resolve performance issues.
  • System backup, recovery, and security procedures are implemented to protect data and ensure system reliability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Assemble and disassemble personal computers and peripheral devices.
  • Install, configure, and upgrade PC hardware and operating systems.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot common hardware issues using systematic approaches.
  • Perform BIOS and firmware updates safely and effectively.
  • Maintain PC systems through preventive maintenance and component testing.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Explain key networking concepts, including protocols, topologies, and transmission media.
  • Configure IP addresses, subnetting, and basic network routing.
  • Set up, configure, and troubleshoot LAN and WLAN environments.
  • Identify and implement basic network security practices.
  • Use diagnostic tools to monitor and maintain network performance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Explain the principles of electricity and electronic components (resistors, capacitors, diodes, etc.).
  • Read and interpret basic electronic circuit diagrams.
  • Assemble and test simple electronic circuits using appropriate tools and instruments.
  • Apply Ohm's Law and basic circuit calculations to solve practical problems.
  • Demonstrate safe handling of electronic components and measurement equipment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Understand the architecture and functions of servers in an enterprise environment.
  • Install and configure server operating systems (e.g., Windows Server or Linux).
  • Manage server resources including user accounts, storage, and network services.
  • Monitor server performance and implement backup and recovery strategies.
  • Apply basic virtualization concepts and manage virtual machines.
  • Deploy and manage virtual machines and server clusters.
  • Administer Active Directory and domain services.
  • Implement server-based services including DNS, DHCP, file, and print services.
  • Monitor server performance and troubleshoot server infrastructure issues.
  • Apply backup, recovery, and disaster recovery best practices

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Identify common network threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Design and implement secure network architectures using firewalls, DMZs, and access controls.
  • Configure VPNs and tunnelling protocols for secure communication.
  • Deploy and monitor IDS/IPS solutions.
  • Apply network hardening techniques and patch management strategies.
  • Evaluate network security policies and compliance with regulatory standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7
  • Explain how cyber threats exploit internet services and user behaviour.
  • Secure web applications and servers against common vulnerabilities (e.g., SQL injection, XSS).
  • Configure and manage email and web filtering systems.
  • Implement PKI, digital certificates, and secure communications protocols.
  • Analyze internet-based threats and recommend mitigation strategies.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of internet security technologies in organizational contexts.

    Integrated Assessment
    The Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering employs an integrated assessment framework to evaluate learners' theoretical knowledge, practical skills and ability to apply learning in real-world contexts. Integrated assessment combines formative and summative components, assignment-based work, academic examination, work-integrated learning and other integrated methods to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of competencies.
    This structure aligns with the programme's purpose of preparing graduates for the evolving Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by developing technical proficiency, critical analysis and industry-relevant problem-solving skills as reflected in the exit level outcomes.
    Formative Assessment
    Formative assessments monitor learners' ongoing development, integrating theoretical understanding with practical application throughout the programme.

    Written Assignment
    Learners complete written assignments, including case studies, problem scenarios and presentations. Assignments require students to synthesise theoretical concepts with practical applications, fostering interdisciplinary problem-solving and communication skills.

    Continuous Assessment (CA) Test
    The CA Test comprises practical laboratory exercises, system configuration tasks, and technical problem scenarios. Tests integrate theoretical principles with hands-on skills, simulating professional tasks such as database optimization, network troubleshooting, or application debugging, preparing students for real-world IT infrastructure challenges.

    Formative Assessment Contribution:
  • Written Assignment: 50% of formative mark (20% of final grade)
  • CA Test: 50% of formative mark (20% of final grade)
  • Total Formative Assessment Weighting: 40% of final grade

    Summative Assessment
    Summative assessment evaluates students' comprehensive mastery of the programme's core information technology domains. It contributes 60% to the final grade.

    Examination
    A 3-hour online examination conducted via Moodle, including technical case studies, system design scenarios, network configuration challenges, etc. The examination combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, requiring students to demonstrate holistic competency.

    Final Marks Calculation
    The final mark reflects the integrated assessment approach, combining formative and summative components:
  • Formative Assessments: 40% of final mark
  • Summative Assessment: 60% of final mark
  • Total Final Mark: 100%

    Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
    WIL is integral to the qualification as it bridges academic learning with professional practice 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering has been benchmarked against similar international qualifications to ensure global relevance and alignment with best practices. This comparability exercise demonstrates similarities and differences in programme scope, structure, and outcomes, and highlights articulation opportunities across regional and international frameworks.

    This qualification has been evaluated against, and is comparable to core knowledge and specialised knowledge elements found in qualifications in the institution below;

    Country: USA
    Institution One: Georgia Institute of Technology
    Name of Qualification: Advanced Systems Engineering Certificate
    Purpose:
    This is designed for anyone who wants to gain advanced knowledge of how to use an effective and systematic approach to manage and complete projects, from engineers to program and project managers, and more

    Modules:
  • Cybersecurity
  • Fundamentals of Systems Architecture
  • Systems Engineering for Security

    Similarities
    The Advanced Systems Engineering Certificate at the Georgia Institute of Technology program comprises of subjects such as Cybersecurity, Systems Architecture, which relates favourably with the Richfield's curriculum in Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering program such as Internet Security, Network Security.

    Differences
    While the Advanced Systems Engineering in Information Systems at Georgia Institute of Technology comprises of similar modules with Richfield's Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering. However, additional modules such as Internet security, Network Security, Server Engineering are integrated in the Richfield's qualification to ensure learners are well rounded and have a deep knowledge and sound understanding of the relevant skills needed to excel in the field of Systems Engineering.
    Further, Georgia Institute of Technology's Advanced Systems Engineering does not include a Work Integrated Learning component (WIL), unlike Richfield's Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering where WIL forms an integral part of the qualification as it bridges academic learning with professional practice by providing first-hand practical experience to students while undertaking the WIL.

    Outcomes
    Both produce graduates with systems-level thinking and technical problem-solving skills. Richfield further develops practical workplace readiness and applied integration capabilities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria
    Georgia Tech uses coursework and project-based assessments, while Richfield integrates examinations, practical tasks, and WIL.

    Modules
    Georgia Tech covers Cybersecurity and Systems Architecture. Richfield adds PC Engineering, Server Engineering, Network Engineering, and Internet Security.

    Entrance Requirements
    Georgia Tech requires a prior engineering or professional background. Richfield requires a Higher Certificate in Systems Engineering or equivalent NQF Level 5 qualification.

    Duration
    The duration of the programme at Georgia Tech is 1 year (part-time certificate); and Richfield is also 1 year (120-credit full qualification).

    Country: UK
    Institution Two: UK School of Management
    Name of Qualification: Certificate in Systems Engineering
    Purpose:
    The Certificate in Systems Engineering is a crucial program for learners looking to advance their careers in the field. This certificate equips learners with essential skills and knowledge in systems engineering, a rapidly growing industry with high demand for qualified professionals.

    Modules:
  • Software Engineering
  • System Safety
  • Systems Architecture

    Similarities
    The Certificate in Systems Engineering contains subjects such as System Architecture, Software Engineering, which relates favourably with Richfield's Higher Certificate in Systems Engineering program, such as Server Technology, PC Engineering, Networks Engineering, and Systems Software.

    Differences
    While the Certificate in Systems Engineering program at the UK School of Management comprises of some similar modules to Richfield's Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering. However, additional modules such as Internet Security, Network Security, and Server Engineering are integrated into Richfield's qualification to ensure learners are well-rounded and have a deep knowledge and sound understanding of the relevant skills needed to excel in the field of Systems Engineering.
    Also, the UK'S School of Management's Certificate in Systems Engineering does not include a Work Integrated Learning component (WIL), unlike Richfield's Advanced Certificate in Systems Engineering, where WIL is an integral part of the qualification, as it bridges academic learning with professional practice by providing first-hand practical experience to learners while undertaking the WIL.

    Outcomes
    Both qualifications prepare graduates for systems engineering roles. Richfield provides a broader foundation for multi-sector employment and articulation into higher-level qualifications.

    Associated Assessment Criteria
    The UK programme emphasises coursework, while Richfield integrates theory, practical lab tasks, and workplace-based assessments.

    Modules
    Shared focus on architecture and systems concepts, but Richfield extends to security, networking, and electronics.

    Entrance Requirements
    UK programme requires completion of A-Levels or equivalent. Richfield requires a Higher Certificate in Systems Engineering or a cognate field (NQF Level 5).

    Duration
    The duration of the programme at UK Certificate is between6-12 months, and Richfield is also 1 year (120-credit full qualification). 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for both horizontal, vertical and diagonal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Certificate in Network Engineering,, NQF Level 8
  • Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity, NQF Level 8
  • Advanced Certificate in Industrial Automation or Mechatronics, NQF Level 8
  • Advanced Diploma in Systems Engineering, NQF Level 8
  • Advanced Occupational Certificate: Cybersecurity Practitione, NQF Level 8
  • Diploma in Information Technology or Engineering Technology, NQF Level 8

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Information Technology, NQF Level 7
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Systems, NQF Level 7
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering, NQF Level 7

    Diagonal Articulation
  • Occupational Certificate: Cybersecurity Analyst, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    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 2012; 2015. 

    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.
     
    1. Richfield Graduate Institute Of Technology (Pty) Ltd. (previously known as PC Training And Business College (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.