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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma: Computer Auditing 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
86246  Postgraduate Diploma: Computer Auditing 
ORIGINATOR
University of South Africa 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Finance, Economics and Accounting 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

The purpose of this qualification is to develop intellectual competencies and practical skills in Computer Auditing, business and IT architectures as well as in the design of controls in a computer information systems (CIS) environment. The syllabus includes the prescribed Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) syllabus which implies that this programme in Computer Auditing will facilitate students' access to the sought-after Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) qualification offered by the ISACA.

Rationale:

This new Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Auditing is a career-focussed qualification that will facilitate students' access to the sought-after Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) qualification offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). The CISA is the global standard for information systems audit, control and security professionals.

ISACA is an international professional association that deals with IT governance. It is an official member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). ISACA currently serves more than 86 000 constituents (members and professionals holding ISACA certifications) in more than 160 countries all over the world. Possessing the CISA designation demonstrates proficiency and is the basis for measurement in the Information Systems Audit profession. With a growing demand for professionals possessing Information System Audit, Control and Security skills, CISA has become a preferred certification programme (in Computer Auditing) by individuals and organisations around the world. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
It is assumed that the learners registering for this qualification:
  • Are able to read and critically evaluate academic texts in English and communicate information.
  • Are able to plan, schedule and take responsibility of the outcomes.
  • Are able to identify, access, retrieve and integrate information from scholarly or professional literature.
  • Are proficient in the use of information technology (Microsoft office applications) to such an extent that they can access, participate and meet the requirements set for the various modules in the qualification that will be presented online.
  • Have knowledge and skills in the discipline of Computer Auditing or Financial Accounting.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through Recognition of Prior Learning. Recognition of Prior Learning can also be used to grant admission to those learners who do not meet the minimum admission requirements.

    The Unisa Recognition of Prior Learning policy details all the processes relating to the assessment and accreditation of learning from prior experiences.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Learners will be admitted to this qualification if they are in possession of one of the following qualifications:
  • B Com (Financial Accounting), NQF Level 7 or an equivalent qualification with average of 60% or more.
  • B Com (Internal Auditing), NQF Level 7 or an equivalent qualification with average of 60% or more. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Learners are to complete five Modules at NQF Level 8. Each module is worth 24 credits.

    The following Modules are compulsory:
  • Auditing in an Information Systems Environment.
  • Information Systems and Control.
  • Information Technology and Governance.

    Learners are to complete two of the following three optional modules:
  • Advanced Auditing.
  • Information Strategy.
  • Internal Audit responsibilities in Risk, Control and Governance.

    Total: 120 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Develop and uphold organisational values and ethics required by corporate governance principles to achieve organisational goals.
    2. Communicate own internal audit skills in a rational and logical manner.
    3. Demonstrate advanced understanding of the theories and practices in Computer Auditing and in related fields.
    4. Deal with complex problems, specifically in the field of Auditing and related fields of business, commerce and management studies.
    5. Demonstrate proficiency in managing computer audit activities and conduct computer audit, assurance and consulting in a diverse business environment.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
  • Identify and solve problems and make decisions using critical and creative thinking.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to apply fundamental auditing principles, methodologies and techniques in order to provide the assurance and consulting services expected from computer auditors to all levels of management in organisations as well as services rendered in terms of statutory audits.
  • Work effectively with others as members of a team, group, organisation or community.
    > Note: The ability and willingness of the candidate to accept work instructions pertaining to Computer Auditing, to interpret these correctly and to request assistance in an appropriate manner as a team member.
  • Organise and manage himself/herself and his/her activities responsibly and effectively.
    > Note: In making the necessary preparations for establishing proper procedure, the candidate must indicate what prerequisites are required and must be able to communicate this in writing.
  • Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to reconcile the information from various sources and examine physical evidence relevant to Computer Auditing and to constantly evaluate the procurement process.
  • Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations.
    > Note: The ability to present and communicate information and opinions related to the field of Computer Auditing in well-structured arguments, showing awareness of audience and using academic and professional discourse appropriately.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to identify varying and diverse contexts in which computer audit engagements are conducted.
  • Show capacity to reflect on own learning.
    > Note: The ability to operate in variable and unfamiliar learning contexts, requiring responsibility and initiative; a capacity to self-evaluate, identify and address personal learning needs and to interact effectively in a learning group. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1:
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of the ethics and values implied by corporate governance principles.
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of the ethics prescribed by ISACA.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the need to act professionally and ethically in all dealings with clients, employees and the world at large.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2:
  • Design and generate internal auditing communication plans.
  • Communicate professionally with clients and team members regarding audit functions and findings.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3:
  • Apply advanced theories and practices in Computer Auditing.
  • Apply advanced theories and practices of auditing in related fields.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4:
  • Identify problems in the Computer Auditing field and related fields.
  • Formulate appropriate responses to resolve both concrete and abstract problems encountered by computer auditors.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5:
  • Conduct Computer Auditing activities in a diverse business environment.
  • Monitor Computer Auditing activities in a range of commercial sectors.

    Integrated Assessment:

    All assessment will integrate knowledge, skills and attitudes. The following types of assessment will be used:

    Formative assessment:

    The study guides contain self-assessment tasks and assignments which learners have to submit and for which they earn year marks. Learners are given feedback in the form of written comments and suggested solutions. The process is continuous and focuses on smaller sections of work.

    Summative assessment:

    Examinations and portfolio of evidence are activities practised and assessed during summative assessment. This form of assessment tests' the learners ability to manage and integrate a large body of knowledge to achieve the stated outcomes of a module.

    No supplementary examinations are available for any of the year modules. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Unisa forms part of an internationally recognised accreditation system whereby university qualifications are evaluated against international comparators and accredited accordingly, for example, UNISA`s qualifications are accredited in the International Handbook of Universities and in the Commonwealth Universities' Yearbook.

    This qualification also includes the components of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) for Certified Information Systems Auditors (CISAs). It implies that this qualification in Computer Auditing is of an acceptable worldwide standard. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:

    This qualification articulates horizontally with any cognate Postgraduate Diploma or Honours Degree at NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:

    This qualification articulates vertically with any cognate Master's Degree at NQF Level 9. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Moderation will be conducted internally and externally:

    Within University internal examiners set and assess assignments and examinations. In the case of assignments, the quality is checked by course co-ordinators or team leaders and by the Head of Department. In the case of examinations, external examiners are used to moderate question papers, marking processes and marked scripts. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    The following criteria are specified for assessors concerning the core aspects of the qualification:
  • Assessors need experience in interpersonal skills, the qualification subject matter and assessment.
  • Assessors need to be competent in the planning and conducting of assessment of learning outcomes and in the design and development of assessment.
  • Subject matter experience must be well developed within the field of Computer Auditing.

    Qualifications:

    The assessor must have an appropriate B Com Honours Degree or Master's Degree in either Computer Auditing or Auditing and should be a Certified Information Systems Auditor, registered as a member of ISACA.

    Mentorship:

    All junior and new members of staff are mentored by senior members as they work together in teams. All assessments conducted by external evaluators are quality-controlled by internal staff. 
    		•

    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. University of South Africa 


    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.