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 and Communication Technology in Applications Development 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93728  Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Applications Development 
ORIGINATOR
Sol Plaatje University 
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  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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   2033-06-30  

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 the Diploma is to provide a career-focused professional qualification featuring industry-referenced skills transfer with regard to knowledge skills, technological competencies, critical cross-field skills and attitudinal skills. A learner who completes will be knowledgeable and competent in the discourse and practice of the ICT discipline; but also have specialist knowledge of a particular sub-discipline of ICT; and would have been subject to a range of professional and personal development initiatives relevant to the ICT industry and lifelong learning respectively.

The knowledge area emphasises general principles and applications. Further the Diploma will develop learners who can demonstrate focused knowledge and skills in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry.

A qualifying learner will have proficient knowledge of the ICT industry in general and will have specialised knowledge in a field of specialisation, that will enable them to demonstrate initiative and responsibility in an academic or professional context.

The goal of the Diploma is to satisfy the industry needs locally, regionally and nationally for ICT, with specific reference to the area of Applications Development.

Rationale:
This qualification is a new Diploma in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), which has been designed to incorporate the latest ICT industry requirements.

It was formulated with input from all Universities of Technology as a combined qualification that can be shared between the Universities, creating consistency across the whole of South Africa.

The qualification has also been formulated so that it reflects the latest workplace-based needs of the ICT industry, to ensure that qualifying learners will have accessibility to employment within the industry. The qualification may be acquired in the traditional way of formal study as well as in the workplace, either through Learnerships or by Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

The qualification provides the learner with the flexibility to articulate within the ICT industry into a wide variety of specialisations and to operate in other industries where ICT is a key component.

The Applications Development area of specialisation (as one of seven) was established through extensive research, international benchmarking and national discourse involving the ICT industry and the academic institutions within the HEICTA consortium. This specialisation expands the purpose of the qualification by enabling learners to conceptualise, design, implement and test application development solutions to address industry related ICT initiatives. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Learners who do not meet the minimum criteria can apply for access into the qualification through the PRL process. Learners will have to provide evidence of any additional courses completed or relevant workplace experience. Learners will follow the institutional RPL procedures.

Entry Requirements:
Learners must have either one of the following as minimum requirement for admission:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), granting access to a Diploma studies.
  • Senior Certificate, with matriculation exemption.
  • National Certificate (Vocational), at NQF Level 4 granting access to a Diploma studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Applications Development consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 5, 6 and 7, totalling 360 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 5 (120 Credits):
  • Applications Development Foundations I, 20 Credits.
  • Communication Networks Foundations I, 20 Credits.
  • Multimedia Foundations I, 20 Credits.
  • ICT Fundamentals I, 15 Credits.
  • Project I, 10 Credits.
  • Professional Communications I, 10 Credits.
  • Business Practice I, 10 Credits.
  • Programming I, 15 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 6 (170 Credits):
  • Application Development Fundamentals II, 10 Credits.
  • Communication Network Fundamentals II, 10 Credits.
  • Multimedia Applications Fundamentals II, 10 Credits.
  • Applications Development Theory II, 10 Credits.
  • Applications Development Practice II, 20 Credits.
  • Information Management II, 15 Credits.
  • Project II, 15 Credits.
  • Information Systems II, 10 Credits.
  • Professional Communication II, 10 Credits.
  • ICT Electives II, 10 Credits.
  • Project III, 20 Credits.
  • Information Systems III, 20 Credits.
  • Professional Practice III, 10 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 7 (70 Credits):
  • Applications Development Theory III, 20 Credits.
  • Applications Development Practice III, 20 Credits.
  • Project Management III, 15 Credits.
  • Project Presentation III, 5 Credits.
  • ICT Electives III, 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate effectively with all role players related to the ICT field the learner will operate in.
    2. Analyse the role of ICT and its ethical conduct in modern business environments.
    3. Produce a suitable programming solution for a small business problem in a programming language of choice.
    4. Solve problems and demonstrate creativity in the application of ICT concepts.
    5. Demonstrate an understanding of project management principles by applying these principles in a project based or work integrated learning modality within the specialisation.
    6. Demonstrate knowledge and application of current technical concepts and practices in the ICT industry.
    7. Demonstrate an understanding of security concepts applicable to the ICT industry in general.
    8. Collaborate in teams to accomplish a common goal by integrating personal initiative and group cooperation in ICT projects.
    9. Engage in a capstone project (independently or as part of a team) that demonstrates an understanding of the knowledge, techniques and skills covered in the relevant specialisation area.
    10. Demonstrate an understanding of best practices and standards in the area of specialisation. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The assessment criteria maybe applied in an integrated way across one or any combination of the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • The software engineering cycle is analysed.
  • A test bed for testing intended software is designed.
  • The concepts of "maintainability" and "economic feasibility" as applied to software development are effectively communicated.
  • Software artefacts are analysed and developed using various development methods.
  • Appropriate data and memory structures are designed and implemented.
  • Software artefacts that are based on well grounded theoretical principles are designed and developed.
  • Portfolio evidence of the appreciation of future developments in the ICT arena is demonstrated.
  • Applications that use different platforms and frameworks are designed.
  • Data definition, data manipulation, and data control language components of SQL are applied in the context of one widely used implementation language.
  • Procedural programming artifacts are implemented.
  • A software system which is integrated across different platforms is developed.
  • An understanding of the elements of Distributed Systems Design is demonstrated.
  • The effectiveness of Middleware design is successfully communicated by means of a presentation.
  • Network security policy is effectively communicated through formal written correspondence.
  • The elements of the design process of a large-sized organisation in a simulated environment are analysed.
  • The effect of voice and video on the network and Quality of Service are analysed.
  • Various wireless protocols and standards are analysed by comparing wireless and wired networks.
  • The ability to secure network devices and configure a virtual private network is demonstrated.
  • Media elements are analysed and evaluated within the context of electronic media.
  • Digital and other media outputs, while considering purpose and communication principles, are conceptualised.
  • Creative personal and group attempts are critically analysed and appraised at themed design for various interfaces.
  • Appropriate unit tests for web application are developed and implemented.
  • Key concepts in managing and deploying test driven web development applications are identified and critically analysed.
  • Typical 2D and 3D media editing and creation tools to produce static media elements at an intermediate level are employed.
  • A variety of frameworks for enterprise architecture analysis and decision making are analysed.
  • A report of the outputs and outcomes of an IT Services Project is prepared.

    Integrated Assessment:
    This qualification will incorporate the following assessment approaches: written and practical tests, portfolio assessment and assignments/projects (individual and team), within a continuous assessment model, to assess the learning that has taken place.

    Underpinning the assessment strategy is not only the evaluation of knowledge, competencies and skills from an academic perspective, but places a particular emphasis on evaluating the application of learning in the 'world of work' or working environment, through the various modalities of work integrated learning.

    Learners enrolled for this Diploma will be required to register for a project based offering at each year level, i.e. year one, two and three, of the qualification. This project based subject or module offering is intended to provide learners with an opportunity to integrate learning across each year of the curriculum and deliver an integrated project consistent with industry practice within a particular specialisation. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Eastern Institute of Technology in New Zealand offers a Diploma in Information and Communication Technologies.

    The subject areas of study include:
  • Business communication.
  • Hardware.
  • Web site development.
  • Ethics and professionalism.
  • Business applications.
  • Software packages.
  • Programming.
  • Operating systems.

    The Institute also offers a Diploma in Multimedia and Web Development. The focus of the qualification is to prepare learners to be effective in multimedia and web development with expertise in technical components of the discipline. Possible job and career opportunities can include:
  • Software Development.
  • Systems Development.
  • Multimedia Development.
  • Web Development.
  • E-Learning Support.
    This qualification equips learners in all aspects of 2D and 3D technologies including the integration of different digital media into communication processes.

    The University of Western Sydney (UWS), Australia, offers a Diploma in Information and Communications Technology. The Diploma provides learners with a skills and knowledge base in networking and IT applications areas of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the ability to apply practical solutions across ICT. It allows learners to develop skills in application development, programme design, systems analysis and design, networks, web-design and the implementation of technology. For learners to be awarded the qualification they are required to successfully complete the following eight units:
  • Computer Networking.
  • Database Design and Development.
  • Information Systems in Context.
  • Object Oriented Analysis.
  • Principles of Professional Communication 1.
  • Programming Design.
  • Programming Fundamentals.
  • Statistics for Academic Purposes.
  • Systems Analysis and Design.
  • Tertiary Study Skills.

    The University of South Wales offers a HND Information and Communication Technology. The qualification covers practical and vocational aspects of the development and application of information and communications technology systems for commerce and industry. Learners must complete the following modules:
  • Computer Systems and Networking Concepts.
  • Developing Business Applications.
  • Information Systems Analysis and Design 1.
  • Professional and Business Skills.
  • Web Design and Development.
  • Problem Solving for Computing.
  • HND Individual Project.
  • Systems Architecture.
  • Information Systems Analysis and Design 2.
  • Rich Internet Application Development.
  • Mathematics for Computing.
  • Strategic Business Analysis.
    Optional:
  • Database Development.
  • IT Service Management.

    A qualification offered by the Asia Pacific University (APU) in Malaysia, covers an academic aspect as well as the vocational aspect of the wide area of Computing and Information and Communications Technology. The Diploma in Information and Communication Technology also assists learners with academic and professional skills to develop solutions requiring the application of technology in a business and organisational context, so as to facilitate response to continuous future changes in technology and industry practices.

    The INTI International University, Malaysia offers a Diploma in Information and Communications Technology which is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency. The qualification prepares learners with a thorough understanding of the principles, theories, and current practices in the Computer Science and Information Technology field.

    Conclusion:
    The Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Applications Development is compared to other qualifications globally with similar focus. The duration of the qualification differs, though the modules learners must complete are similar in most instances. The common factor about these qualifications is their emphasis to current practice in Information and technology. There is a clear indication that Information Technology is vital for sustainable development in developing countries. Education systems and the marketplace are all influenced by advances in information and knowledge, and through these qualifications important skills are developed. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Learners enrolled for this qualification may articulate horizontally to a:
  • Diploma in Information Technology in Network Design and Administration at NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Business Information Technology at NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Computer Programming and Information Systems at NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Information Systems at NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Information Technology in Programming at NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Information Technology in Software Development at NQF Level 6.

    Learners holding this qualification may articulate vertically to either of following:
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences at NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology in Computer Systems at NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology: Information and Knowledge Systems NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Management in Information Technology at NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    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 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. Sol Plaatje University 


    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.