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: 

Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97193  Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems 
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  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  396  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  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 is to develop professionals in the Information Systems discipline to have the necessary capabilities when entering the full-time workforce. This capability set recognises the change in the nature of the jobs IS learners are likely to have by focusing on business analysis, organizational processes, enterprise architecture, sourcing options, and security/risk management. The curriculum acknowledges explicitly the contribution that the Information Systems discipline can make to domains outside business and, therefore, the high-level capabilities are not limited to a specific domain.

Upon qualifying the learner will be able to:
  • Identify and design opportunities for IT-enabled organisational improvement using information technology.
  • Design and compare solution and sourcing alternatives in a way that takes into account various sources of risks and dimensions of feasibility.
  • Demonstrate the knowledge and skills to design and implement information systems solutions.
  • Manage the ongoing information systems operations within the organisation, including the management, operation, and securing of IT infrastructure.
  • Perform professional collaborative roles and assume leadership positions at various levels.
  • Systematically analyse complex systems and situations, break them down into manageable components, understand deep connections within systems, and create solutions based on the results of a systematic analysis.

    Rationale:
    The rationale for the development of this qualification is to replace the current Bachelor of Commerce in Information Technology Management. The Industry Advisory Board suggested that a generic Information System (IS) degree must be pursued by our learners so that learners can specialise in Information Technology Management in their post-graduate studies. The purpose of the qualification is to strengthen and deepen the learner's knowledge and to develop the learner's applied competence in analysing, interpreting and understanding of information systems development processes, principles and methods. It further develops the intellectual independence, research and professional skills of the learner. The qualification prepares learners to meaningfully contribute to organisations' information systems development, acquisition, utilisation and quality thereof. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL will be done according to National and institution's policies.

    The institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of the academic programme and as an initiative to support transformation of the education and training system in South Africa. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and the University accepts the challenge to assess prior learning and award credit that is aligned to University programmes to promote lifelong learning. This is reflected in the vision and mission of the University.

    Two types of assessment are used at the University:
    1. Module-match assessment:
  • RPL is conducted mainly on a subject/module/course-match basis. This is where an applicant qualifies for RPL for certain modules in a subject/module/course/programme. This applies to all qualification levels.
  • Assessment is conducted by matching prior learning with the learning outcomes of individual subjects/modules/courses.
  • Assessment mechanisms may be supplemented by means of an interview.

    2. Qualification status:
  • Granting of status is applicable where a candidate complies with all the exit level outcomes of a course/programme e.g., unit standard, Certificate, Diploma or Degree.
  • A letter of status is only issued and not a qualification. The letter of status allows access to the next level of study.

    The presentation of evidence should be in accordance with the criteria set in the institution's assessment policy. All evidence, but mainly primary sources and direct evidence, will be accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
    To be admitted to a Baccalaureus Degree a learner must be in possession:
  • Senior Certificate with endorsement.
    Or,
  • National Senior Certificate granting access to bachelor studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of the following modules totalling 396 Credits.

    Modules:
  • Information Systems 1A, 24 Credits.
  • Information Systems 1B, 24 Credits.
  • Development Software 1A, 24 Credits.
  • Development Software 1B, 24 Credits.
  • Business Management 1A, 16 Credits.
  • Business Management 1B, 16 Credits.
  • Information Systems 2A, 24 Credits.
  • Development Software 2B, 24 Credits.
  • Development Software 2A, 24 Credits.
  • Information Systems 2B, 24 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship 2A, 16 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship 2B, 16 Credits.
  • Information Systems 3A, 24 Credits.
  • Information Systems 3B, 24 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship 3A, 16 Credits.
  • IS Project, 60 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship 3B, 16 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Identify and design opportunities for IT-enabled organisational improvement using information technology.
    2. Design and compare solution and sourcing alternatives in a way that takes into account various sources of risks and dimensions of feasibility.
    3. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills to design and implement information systems solutions.
    4. Manage the ongoing information systems operations within the organisation, including the management, operation, and securing of IT infrastructure.
    5. Perform professional collaborative roles and assume leadership positions at various levels.
    6. Systematically analyse complex systems and situations, break them down into manageable components, understand deep connections within systems, and create solutions based on the results of a systematic analysis. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment criteria Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Alignment between IT strategy and organisational strategy is ensured.
  • Organisational processes are improved with information technology solutions.
  • The role of information systems in managing organisational risks and establishing controls are understood and designed.
  • Opportunities created by emerging technology innovations are identified and exploited.
  • Information requirements are understood and documented.
  • Various stakeholders' experience in interacting with the organisation, are improved including issues in human-computer interaction.

    Associated Assessment criteria Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • High-level solution and sourcing options are identified and designed.
  • The feasibility of various options are analysed and documented.
  • Solution options using multiple decision criteria are compared.
  • Capital IT-intensive projects are budgeted for and a financial justification for choosing between alternatives is created.
  • Cultural differences for options that cross geographical boundaries are evaluated.

    Associated Assessment criteria Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Enterprise architectures are designed.
  • Detailed solution and sourcing options are identified, evaluated, and procured.
  • Organisational solutions are configured and integrated using packaged solutions.
  • Solutions that provide a high-quality user experience are designed and implemented.
  • Secure systems and data infrastructures are designed.
  • Applications, application architectures and integrated systems are designed and implemented.
  • Organisational data and information are managed and exploited.
  • Data and information models are designed.
  • Information systems development/procurement resources and systems projects are managed.

    Associated Assessment criteria Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The use of enterprise technology resources is managed.
  • Application performance and scalability is managed.
  • Existing information systems is maintained.
  • Relationships with technology service providers are managed.
  • Data and systems infrastructure is secured.
  • Business continuance is ensured.

    Associated Assessment criteria Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Cross-functional global teams are lead and directed.
  • Globally distributed projects are managed.
  • Work effectively in diverse teams.
  • Organisations are structured effectively.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative and summative assessments are done on a regular basis. Guidelines in learning guides are clear and unambiguous. Learning guides are available via uLink and as a hard copy if requested. Feedback is given regularly and timeously. Moderators give valuable inputs and feedback is received from several organisations. Subject Heads give guidance in terms of course content and mentor junior staff.

    At least one teaching evaluation, according to the institution's policy, is conducted by the Centre for Professional Academic Staff Development. The results of the teaching evaluation are used to determine professional development needs.

    An Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) approach is used. Research being conducted in the department is worked into the modules to ensure that content stays relevant and current. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Deakin University Melbourne offers a Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Information Systems allows learners to combine studies in Information Systems with studies in commerce such as accounting, finance, economics, marketing and management leading to a broad range of technology enabled business roles. Learners with double Degrees in commerce and technology are highly sought after by employers. The Bachelor of Information Systems aims to equip learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to build a career as an information system professional and recognise the value of the contribution they can make to society as a professional. The institution also consider Credit for prior learning where learners need to provide a certified copy of previous module details so that credit can be determined. If learners are eligible, the learner is then allowed to enrol for the qualification.

    University of Canterbury in New Zealand offers a Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems which focuses more of a business perspective compared with Computer Science (BSc) or Software or Computer Engineering (BE(Hons)). Learners completing a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) will take modules across a range of business disciplines, including Accounting, Economics and Management. These modules help Information Systems (IS) learners gain a broad understanding of the world of business. Thus they end up both 'business savvy' and 'tech savvy'. These mix of skills means IS learners are more likely to become business analysts rather than software developers or system designers.

    Conclusion:
    The qualification compares favourably with the one indicated in terms of purpose and the consideration of prior learning. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Both vertical and horizontal articulation for learners to continue studying at the same level or at higher level is presented by this qualification.

    Horizontally this qualification can articulate with:
  • Bachelor of Technology in Business Information Systems at NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in IT Management at NQF Level 7.

    Vertically this qualification may also articulate with:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Systems at NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Systems Management at NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Knowledge and Information Systems Management at NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma Information Systems Auditing at NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    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 Johannesburg 


    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.