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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Arts in Sound Technology and Production 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118639  Bachelor of Arts in Sound Technology and Production 
ORIGINATOR
Cape Audio College (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Film, Television and Video 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0333/25  2025-07-10  2028-07-10 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-07-10   2034-07-10  

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 purpose of the Bachelor of Arts in Sound Technology and Production is to develop candidates for a vocation in the field of music and audio engineering and/or for further learning in higher education within a related field. This qualification provides a depth and specialization of knowledge, together with practical skills and experience in the workplace, to enable successful candidates to enter the world of work as an employee or entrepreneur and specialize in audio engineering for live events, radio production, music production, audio postproduction or a number of other career paths within the music and audio industry in South Africa and abroad.

A successful candidate will be able to plan, manage and apply the relevant technical and creative sound engineering processes, using industry-standard equipment and technology. They will be able to evaluate the principles of audio engineering and apply the knowledge and creative skills required to critically analyse and solve the client brief requirements in a wide variety of contexts.

Upon completion of the qualification, the qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Evaluate and apply the principles of sound when using audio technology.
  • Plan, manage and apply the processes required to produce a creative radio advertising campaign using industry-standard technology.
  • Plan, manage and apply the processes required to creatively engineer a professional music track using industry-standard technology.
  • Research, evaluate and apply the principles of audio postproduction when producing a post-mix using industry-standard technology.
  • Design, plan and manage live events and select and operate optimum sound systems in a variety of performance circumstances.
  • Evaluate and apply acoustic principles when producing the design for a commercial recording facility.
  • Evaluate and apply the principles and functions of a small business within the music and sound industry.
  • Understand the role and possible specializations of the audio engineer and the responsibilities associated with the profession
  • Conduct oneself professionally within the workplace and take responsibility for one's own decisions and actions when working independently and as a member of a team.

    The structure of the qualification is designed to balance the theoretical and practical aspects of audio engineering and to facilitate a logical progression towards the achievement of the exit level outcomes and critical cross-field outcomes. Each module aims to develop specific abilities, tools and bodies of knowledge and the assessment opportunities are designed to evaluate the learner's ability to integrate the acquired knowledge and skills.

    Rationale:
    The South African sound and music industry has shown dramatic growth over recent years and is competing favourably with the international market. Based on extensive industry research, the need for individuals who are highly educated in Sound Technology and Production has been identified. For the sound and music industry to compete locally, on the African continent and internationally, there needs to be a wide variety of experienced and knowledgeable people who understand the specialised technologies, the diverse market segments and how to take their product to market.

    Most learners enter the qualification with a passion for music in some form, whether it is creating music or producing other musicians' music. As music is enjoyed across social, cultural and economic levels in society, the range of learners is extremely diverse. This diversity allows for an incredible environment for learning within the institution, and once learners graduate, the interactions continue into their chosen area within the audio and music industry.

    This qualification has been developed to equip the qualifying candidate with the knowledge, skills and attitude required to enter the industry with an advanced set of knowledge and skills. The qualification aims to produce a calibre of Sound Engineer who can bring innovation and forward-thinking into the development of this industry in the fields of radio, audio postproduction, live sound, or music production.

    On completion of the qualification, qualifying learners may find employment in:
  • Live sound for gigs, theatres, and events.
  • Theatre sound design.
  • Recording studios as producers and engineers.
  • Sound for film and television and in video game audio.
  • Broadcast engineering and audio mastering.
  • Set up own companies as entrepreneurs. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable with regards to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules and credits for or towards the qualification.

    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.

    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.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV), NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Sound Technology, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 110 Credits:
  • Radio Production I, 10 Credits.
  • Music Production I, 50 Credits.
  • Audio Post Production I, 30 Credits.
  • Live Sound I, 20 Credits.
  • Academic Literacies, 0 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Radio Production II, 10 Credits.
  • Music Production II, 40 Credits.
  • Audio Postproduction II, 40 Credits.
  • Live Sound II, 20 Credits.
  • Audio Technology Fundamentals I, 10 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 110 Credits:
  • Music Production III, 30 Credits.
  • Audio Postproduction III, 30 Credits.
  • Live Sound III, 20 Credits.
  • Audio Technology Fundamentals II, 10 Credits.
  • Experiential Learning, 10 Credits.
  • Music Business Principles, 10 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 20 Credits:
  • Acoustic Principles and Studio Design, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate integrated knowledge of the central areas of specialisation of Radio Production, Music Production, Live Sound, Audio Post Production and Audio Technology Fundamentals.
    2. Ability to evaluate and explore various areas of the specialisations especially regarding genres of music/audio production and business models.
    3. Demonstrate an understanding of a range of methods and the practical application of this within the audio fields to resolve problems and introduce change within the outputs that they produce.
    4. Ability to identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect on, and address complex problems by applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments.
    5. Demonstrate the ability to make decisions and act ethically and professionally, and the ability to justify those decisions and actions drawing on appropriate ethical values and approaches within a supported environment.
    6. Demonstrate the ability to gather and process appropriate information for the given context, and validate the sources of information.
    7. Ability to produce and communicate information using their authentic voice both through sound and in writing as forms the foundation of the qualification.
    8. Demonstrate the ability to manage processes in unfamiliar and variable contexts through critical thinking, and develop problem-solving principles that include both context and system-bound principles.
    9. Ability to identify, evaluate and address their learning needs in a self-directed manner, and to develop collaborative learning scenarios.
    10. Ability to take full responsibility for own work, decision-making, effective use of resources and limited accountability for the decisions and actions of others in varied or ill-defined contexts. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply and evaluate key terms, concepts and facts relating to the area of specialisation.
  • Explore subject matter in writing and various audio platforms such as digital music, live music, and audio postproduction.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explore and evaluate sound technology and production to develop critical thinking.
  • Develop a critical lens towards the workplace in their experiential learning module.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Ability to develop and apply problem-solving skills within the audio production field.
  • This is demonstrated through learners submitting variations of the same project.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Identify, analyse, evaluate, and critically reflect on complex problems relating to the audio production field.
  • Identify, analyse, and apply industry praxis and technical specifications through all practical assessments, including radio, live music, sound production and postproduction.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Ability to make decisions in an ethical and professional manner within the audio production environment.
  • Ability to interact and perform professionally through experiential learning.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Develop appropriate processes of information gathering for both practical production and theoretical research
  • Ability to research and apply correct referencing in part of multiple projects.
  • Independently validate the sources of information and evaluate and manage the information as copyright infringement is a large part of the audio industry and therefore a valuable learning output.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Produce and communicate information throughout all subjects and include both sound production products and theoretical written arguments especially related to professional industry-based contexts.
  • Develop business plans, narratives, and marketing strategies related to the sound and music technology field at an intermediate level.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Recognise and critically reflect on complex problems relating to the context of the audio industry.
  • Develop the understanding of how to manage processes found within the details of audio production and the broader context of the profession.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Analyse and apply a historic perspective through written assignments, case studies, and practical assessment.
  • Apply self-advocacy with regards to owning learning and development.
  • Participate in collaborative projects to develop learning scenarios that go beyond the brief.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Demonstrate personal development and analysis through theoretical assessment.
  • Explore the theoretical study of societal constructs and related philosophy through theoretical assessment.
  • Explore the application of personal development praxis through contextual comparisons. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Bachelor of Arts in Sound Technology and Production compares with the following international qualifications in that they all take a similar approach towards best practice and an industry-based professional methodology towards their curriculum design, teaching and learning. The digital platforms used are the same or similar making for closely comparable qualifications. As the actual learning is comparable, the articulation possibilities across institutions are credible.

    Country: United Kingdom (UK)
    Institution: Point Blank Electronic Music School
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts Honours in Music Production and Sound Engineering
    Purpose/Rationale:
    The qualification will equip learners with the full range of core skills essential to contemporary audio systems, including the physics behind sound production, fundamentals of computer networking and programming, and electrical engineering. Learners will study the tools, techniques, equipment, and theory of modern sound production, from studio to stage, to theme parks and beyond. The qualification will provide learners with the tools such as creative problem solving, and technology to succeed in the complex, sophisticated world of audio technology.

    Learning Outcomes:
    Graduates will be equipped with the following competencies on completion of the qualification.
  • Apply foundational analytical skills to recognize and interpret quality works of art.
  • Apply appropriate tropes, elements of design, and musical structure to the analysis of their own and others' works.
  • Use a focused, methodical approach to answering important questions.
  • Apply foundational elements and principles of design and structure to create sound in varied media.
  • Demonstrate foundational applied skills and techniques in sound and audio.
  • Present the body of their design and technical work in an organized and artistic manner.
  • Demonstrate the ability to modify their work after external and self-evaluation.
  • Apply knowledge of the context and evolution of diverse artistic media to create sound designs:
  • Demonstrate familiarity with benchmark works in the artistic canon of sound, music, theatre, and film.
  • Evaluate works in artistic, cultural, and historical contexts.
  • Apply historical-artistic forms and tropes to their own artistic practices.
  • Apply scientific and technological principles to support work in sound design.
  • Apply informed experimentation as a tool in solving artistic challenges.
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of current technology that supports work in sound and audio.
  • Demonstrate flexibility in the use of new and emerging technologies.
  • Demonstrate professional skills when engaging the arts and entertainment industry:
  • Familiarize themselves with the diverse industries in sound design and related fields.
  • Understand basic structures and organization in the entertainment industry.
  • Communicate using the diverse modes of industry-standard communication.
  • Participate in important industry-related organizations.
  • Evaluate their work within the context of the work of peers and professionals in their field.

    Qualification Structure:
    The qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules:
    Compulsory Modules
  • The Physics Behind Music
  • The Physics Behind Music Lab
  • Introduction to Music Mixing
  • Introduction to Audio Production
  • Sound Technology
  • Sound Systems Design and Engineering
  • Recording
  • Recording Lab
  • Sound Design
  • Transducer Theory
  • Transducer Theory Lab
  • Live Sound Design Intensive
  • Portfolio Development

    Elective Music Modules (Complete 6 credits of any Music modules):
    Learners should choose one of the following paths:
    Production Path, 11 credits
  • Sound Practicum I
  • Sound Practicum II
  • Sound Practicum III
  • Audio Creative Lab
  • Sound Practicum IV
  • Intermediate Acting Practicum
  • Backstage Practicum

    Enterprise Path14 credits
  • Enterprise Project Work IV
  • Senior Enterprise Project Work V Non-Capstone
  • Senior Enterprise Project Work VI Non-Capstone
  • Sound Practicum I
  • Sound Practicum II
  • Sound Practicum III
  • Audio Creative Lab
  • Intermediate Acting Practicum
  • Backstage Practicum Theatre
  • Backstage Technology
  • Readings in Dramatic Literature

    The qualification makes use of industry experts to develop and teach their learners. The qualification uses multi-platforms (Logic or Ableton, Pro Tools, and Native Instruments) and focuses in an intensive and practical manner to develop learners for the Sound industry. The qualification is quality assured by Middlesex University and is comparable through the platforms which are taught and used, and the industry-based approach to curriculum development and teaching as well as the exit level outcomes.

    Differences:
    The structure of the qualification differs slightly from the South African qualification in that it consists of both compulsory and elective modules while the new qualification has only compulsory modules and there are specialisations.

    Similarities:
    Both qualifications have similar compulsory modules such as Sound Technology, Sound Systems Design and Engineering, Music Production I, II and III, as well as the Audio Postproduction, I, II and III.

    Country: Italy
    Institutions: JAM Academy, International Academy of Modern Music and University of Bedfordshire
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts in Music Technology and Production

    Similarities:
    The qualification is comparable in that both qualifications provide the skills, knowledge and expertise to produce both digital and live music of high quality. The subjects offered for both qualifications are extremely similar with there being a focus on live music, digital music, and audio post-production developed over the years of study. The subjects also include business and marketing for the sound industry. The Bachelor, issued by the University of Bedfordshire, as well as indications of the Lisbon Treaty, is at the level European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Level 6 and totals 360 UK credits (three years).

    Country: Ireland
    Institution: Griffith College
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts Honours in Music
    NQF Level: National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 8
    Rationale:
    BA (Hons) in Audio and Music Technology is available on a full-time basis over three years and taught on campus at Pulse College. The qualification will introduce learners to how to record and produce music both in the home studio and in large recording studios where they will learn about live sound from both a performance and technical perspective. Learners will also be trained in the iconic Windmill Lane Recording Studios and will be required to put on live shows and performances throughout the qualification.

    Graduates of the BA (Hons) in Audio and Music Technology may be eligible to advance to progress to postgraduate qualifications. Learners will have a good basis for a future career in an industry-based profession such as a sound engineer, audio editor or music producer.

    Qualification structure:
    Similar to the new qualification, this qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.
  • Music Technology 1.
  • Applications Technology.
  • Recording Studio Principles.
  • Music for Producers 1.
  • Live Music and Performance Technology 1.
  • Computer Basics for Audio Visual Workstations.
  • Sound Reinforcement.
  • Sound Design and Foley FX.
  • Online Portfolio.
  • Music Technology 2.
  • Applications Technology 2.
  • Music for Producers 2.
  • Recording and Mixing 1.
  • Live Music and Performance Technology 2.
  • Research and Presentation.
  • Sound Reinforcement 2.
  • Sound Design and Creative Processing.
  • Client Project 1.
  • Dissertation by Practice.
  • Mixing and Mastering.
  • Professional Practice.
  • Studio Design and Setup.
  • Recording and Mixing 2.
  • Audio Post Production Techniques.
  • Sound Design for Games.
  • Client Project 2.

    Comparison:
    The Bachelor of Arts Honours is a three-year qualification that focuses on both practical applications of the audio and sound industry; and the theoretical development required for professional business applications. The qualification is developed around an approach towards the practical application of all knowledge developed over the three years. Final year learners develop their work-integrated learning through a professional client project.

    Similarities:
    Both qualifications are similar in duration, share similar content, purpose/rationale, and work-integrated learning.

    Differences:
    The structure of the qualification differs slightly from the new qualification in that it has an online portfolio and Dissertation. The qualification is registered at NQF Level 8 while the South African qualification is registered at NQF Level 7.

    Country: United Kingdom (UK)
    Institution: Leeds Beckett University
    Qualification Title: BA (Hons) in Music Production

    Comparison:
    Both qualifications offer knowledge and skills aimed at developing learners into highly qualified music and audio producers. This is done through offering a variety of audio and music-based subjects which include digital platforms and composition for music production. The qualification aligns in terms of the knowledge and skills that are taught throughout the three years.

    Conclusion:
    The comparison revealed vast similarities in these international qualifications with the new qualification and differences are mainly in qualification offerings based on facility resources and access rather than information or direction of study. The strength of the Bachelor of Arts in Sound Engineering and Technology is the integration both between subjects and streams, and the inclusion of other industry disciplines into the learning environment. The new qualification compares favourably with the cited international institutions in terms of purpose/rationale. Exit level outcomes and qualification structure. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Sound Engineering, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Sound and Music Technology, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Media Studies, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Music Technology, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Media Studies, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Multimedia Design, 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.
     
    NONE 


    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.