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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Arts in Language Studies 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
121197  Bachelor of Arts in Language Studies 
ORIGINATOR
Akademia NPC 
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 04 - Communication Studies and Language  Language 
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
Registered  EXCO 0920/23  2023-11-14  2026-11-14 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2027-11-14   2032-11-14  

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 Language Studies is to equip learners with current knowledge, skills and competencies to analyse and solve problems within a global language and associate discipline context, as well as prepare learners to use research methodology and techniques to conduct research and write a research report in the field of languages and its cognate disciplines.

This qualification is intended to be a comprehensive study of modern languages, literature, and culture, while offering learners the opportunity to study related fields, such as journalism and philosophy. The qualification further aims to equip learners with knowledge and skills that pertain to the concepts and research methods necessary for employment in these fields or for further study at master's or doctoral level in these subjects or related subject areas.

The qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Demonstrate the acquisition of knowledge on and engage with different areas at the forefront of languages and cognate disciplines and understand how to apply this in a particular context and within the broader integrated organisation.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify, critically review, analyse, and solve complex and abstract problems related to languages and cognate disciplines with tasks and functions to develop creative responses.
  • Demonstrate the skill to identify and address ethical issues in the languages and cognate disciplines arena based on critical reflection on different ethical value systems' suitability to specific contexts.
  • Demonstrate the ability to produce research in various functional languages and cognate disciplines areas and to communicate effectively to a range of audiences.
  • Demonstrate a keen understanding of social and human complexity and diversity and a sense of civic responsibility both as professionals in the field of languages as well as private citizens and members of communities.

    Rationale:
    Contemporary society is characterised by a need for employees who are multi-skilled, able to perform a wide variety of tasks and who are knowledgeable about recent developments in their field of interest. This is especially true of learners in languages and related disciplines.
    The qualification has been developed to empower learners with theoretical and practical knowledge that is essential to succeed in professional (public and private) and academic contexts. Learners in this qualification specialise in languages, but they are also exposed to a spectrum of related and interconnected subject areas, each providing them with in-depth knowledge and the skills necessary to excel in practice.

    The qualification will equip learners with knowledge and skills that pertain to the concepts and research methods necessary for employment in these fields or for further study at masters or doctoral level in these subjects or related subject areas. The qualification entails a systematic study of aspects of representative literary texts and periods and linguistic analyses and issues in Afrikaans and Dutch and other languages in its national and international context. The study of literature and linguistics in the various languages will be complemented by related subjects in the human and social sciences.

    In the different literatures, the emphasis will be placed on a systematic overview of the history of languages such as Afrikaans & Dutch, English, German and French and their national and international context. Representative texts and authors of the three main genres (poetry, prose, drama) will be studied with an emphasis on literary theories, concepts, close reading, interpretation, and criticism. Texts will be placed within their historical context. The periods on which these subjects will focus include the Renaissance, the 18th and 19th Centuries, Modernism and Postcolonialism. The course will include the principles of analysing text types and the development of academic analysis, critical and evaluation skills, as well as academic writing.

    In linguistics, the emphasis will be placed on the descriptive components of the linguistics of the various languages: morphology (the study of word formation), syntax (the arrangement of words in the sentences and phrases of language), phonetics and phonology (pronunciation and the sound systems of language), semantics (the study of word meanings and changes) and sociolinguistics (how a language is influenced by its various speaker communities). A study of the linguistics of a language necessarily includes reflections on the history of the language (for example the history of Afrikaans and its relationship with Dutch), on its politics (multilingualism and language politics), as well as on its appropriate use in a variety of contexts (normative linguistics) and texts (text linguistics).

    Apart from the literature and linguistics in the different languages (as indicated above), learners could also study the academic fields of comparative literature and linguistics together and interdependently with their choice of languages in this degree programme. Finally, other elective subjects such as philosophy, history, journalism, and language practice equip learners with a solid and interdisciplinary foundation to function in all fields of language studies in both a South African and international context. In short: The learner will be equipped with analytical, critical, and general research skills as preparation for the world of work as well as further study in the subjects of the qualification. 
    		•

    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 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 advance standing 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 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 from 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, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelors studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelors studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in a cognate field of study. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 70 Credits:
  • Afrikaans and Dutch I, 30 Credits.
  • Theory of Literature I, 20 Credits.
  • Linguistics I, 20 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 5, 30 Credits (select one module):
  • English I, 30 Credits.
  • German I, 30 Credits.
  • French I, 30 Credits.
  • Sepedi I, 30 Credits.

    And
    Elective Modules, Level 5, 20 Credits (select one module):
  • Philosophy I, 20 Credits.
  • History I, 20 Credits.
  • Journalism I, 20 Credits.
  • Language Practice I, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 100 Credits:
  • Afrikaans and Dutch II, 30 Credits.
  • Language Major II, 30 Credits.
  • Theory of Literature II, 20 Credits.
  • Linguistics II, 20 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 6, 20 Credits (select one module):
  • Philosophy II, 20 Credits.
  • History II, 20 Credits.
  • Journalism II, 20 Credits.
  • Language Practice II, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 80 Credits:
  • Afrikaans and Dutch III, 40 Credits.
  • Language Major III, 40 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 7, 40 Credits (select one module):
  • Theory of Literature III, 40 Credits.
  • Linguistics III, 40 Credits. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Exit Level Outcomes
    1. Develop a broad knowledge base of the sub-disciplines of two languages as majors respectively and the relatedness of another major subject.
    2. Develop generic language skills including a broad general knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to innovate and to work across disciplines.
    3. Demonstrate all the basic academic competencies and technical skills required to practice as a language-skilled graduate across genres and platforms.
    4. Demonstrate the ability to analyse own work in contemporary contexts (South African and African) regarding specific issues and/or problems.
    5. Demonstrate the ability to interpret topical issues using perspectives in the languages using contemporary contexts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse the theoretical and systematic approaches within the fields of language studies including literature, linguistics, and related subjects in the human and social sciences.
  • Reflect on the correct use of associated terminology, concepts, theories, and principles.
  • Apply the knowledge of the most important theoretical and systematic approaches within the different fields of language studies including literature, linguistics, and related subjects in the human and social sciences.
  • Analyse, evaluate and synthesise the recent and relevant research findings.
  • Analyse any given problem within the field of language studies and related disciplines by means of communication and literary theory and propose appropriate solutions.
  • Apply the acquired competencies as reflected in literature and language theory by means of participation in language-related activities through scholarly discourse and discipline-specific conventions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Examine the theoretical foundations of literature and linguistics by using the cognitive skills of analysing, comparing, and contrasting, represented in critical appraisal of the relationship among concepts and principles of different languages.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Recommend the solutions using theory-driven arguments and relevant modes of inquiry to show competence with the elementary modes of inquiry.
  • Write the strategies that keep writing focused, coherent, and readable for professional and academic environments are employed.
  • Use and apply knowledge of various writing, reading, and interpreting skills to contemporary circumstances.
  • Employ communication, writing and language skills to communicate effectively, reliably, coherently, and appropriately in professional and academic environments.
  • Think conceptually within various workplace contexts through considered, well-targeted projects is demonstrated.
  • Complete tasks required of a language-proficient person and thereby identify own abilities and challenges and adapt learning strategies accordingly.
  • Critically analyse language, argumentative and interpretative strategies in the public and private sectors.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse any given problem within the field of language studies, and by applying fundamental language research methods compile strategies and plans to address said problems.
  • Apply theoretical approaches and perspectives as well as practical skills associated with language studies to communication problems in the South African context.
  • Analyse and understand the traditional and digital South African language landscape to function by applying theoretical and practical language skills in an ethical and responsible manner.
  • Analyse and understand the role of traditional and digital language use in professional and academic environments, as well as developing and managing internal communication channels, in a coordinated and strategic manner.
  • Synthesise theoretical knowledge and practical ability to create appropriate feedback for language-related requirements in professional and academic environments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate a keen understanding of social and human complexity and diversity that results in a questioning attitude regarding existing language use and practices.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of a sense of civic responsibility both as a professional in the field of languages as well as a private citizen.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of moral awareness regarding the role of languages in safeguarding democratic principles in an emerging democracy and a transitioning society. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification was designed in such a way that it conforms to international best practices and conventions in the practice of language. In achieving that it was comparable with international qualifications of similar purpose from reputable institutions.

    Country: Ireland
    Institution: The University College of Dublin
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts Humanities in Languages, Linguistics and Cultures.
    NQF Level: National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level:8
    Credits: 205
    Duration: Four years full-time

    Entry Requirements:
  • National Senior Certificate

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The qualification is an innovative, interdisciplinary qualification that combines multiple subjects to provide coherence and depth to learner learning within nine carefully structured pathways. The qualification offers both intensive training in particular disciplines and unique skill sets that are developed by bringing together subjects that relate closely to each other. Learners will gain essential life and employment skills, including critical, analytical, and creative thinking, and expert communications, while learning how to be adaptable and flexible in preparation for employment in a dynamic work environment.

    This qualification prepares learners for a variety of career paths, including careers in education, media, translation, public service, cultural institutions, research, editing and publishing, and a wide range of private-sector employment opportunities that require intercultural competencies. Regarding the Irish language, one of the main aspects of this programme is to address the status of Irish as a modern working language in the European Union.

    Learning is fostered and assessed in a variety of ways such as oral, written, and aural examinations, peer assessment, hands-on small-scale research projects, essays, and presentations. Learners are strongly encouraged to spend their third year abroad and/or doing an internship.

    Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Understand, express and communicate ideas clearly, fluently and accurately in spoken and written form in a register appropriate to the context in the chosen language and English.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of cultural diversity and an ability to effectively manage exchanges in intercultural contexts.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of general linguistic and discursive strategies and grammatical structures in the chosen language, English and languages more generally.
  • Demonstrate an ability to use appropriate methods of academic enquiry to formulate pertinent questions about, and to build knowledge of, the cultures to which the chosen language is associated and about the interaction of culture and language more generally.
  • Demonstrate the ability to understand, apply and critically evaluate secondary literature and theoretical frameworks and writing about it.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the ethical implications of research, actions and ideas.
  • Abstract and synthesize information; collecting, analyzing, and manipulating data of diverse kinds.
  • Develop the ability to ask theoretically and empirically motivated questions about language structure and use, a diverse range of cultural products and their relationships.
  • Evaluate ideas, challenge assumptions, and develop creative solutions to problems including through the independent pursuit of knowledge and making connections between different disciplinary approaches and methods.
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills, digital expertise, collaboration and leadership skills to convert decisions and commitments into action.> Understand the relevance and contribution of the Humanities to contemporary society and cultural practice including an ability to articulate the links between past and present as well as the influence of the past on shaping community and societal structures and beliefs.
  • Demonstrate an ability to manage time and to work effectively, both as part of a team and independently.
  • Develop research skills through a hands-on research project and/or actively apply academic skills to a range of domains through an internship.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules.

    Similarities:
  • The University College of Dublin (UCD) and the South African (SA) qualifications require learners who completed the National Senior Certificate.
  • Both qualifications share the same exit-level outcomes.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules.

    Differences:
  • The UCD qualification takes four years of full-time study whereas the SA qualification takes three years to complete.
  • The UCD qualification is registered at Level 8 on the NFQ whereas the SA qualification is registered at Level 7 on the NQF.
  • The SA qualification has 360 Credits while the UCD has 205 Credits.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: King's College London
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy and Modern Languages with, among others, French and German as majors.
    Credits: 360 credits
    Duration: Four years full time

    Entry Requirements:
    A Level in French, German, Spanish or Portuguese at grade B or equivalent is required.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The qualification broadens learners' knowledge base and strengthens their interdisciplinary profile, challenging narrow, monocultural assumptions, thus preparing learners for the challenges of multicultural and global realities.

    Studies of graduate employability repeatedly stress the career value of language degrees, which provide graduates with international experience and enhance cultural awareness, helping them to develop flexibility, resilience, and resourcefulness. Employers value foreign language ability, not just as a specialist skill, but as a personal quality that develops relationship-building, teamwork, and the capacity to move easily in international contexts. Typical destinations of graduates from this qualification include international business, the press and media, Information Technology, marketing and public relations, public administration, international development, law, finance, teaching and lecturing, interpreting, and translating.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification includes an exceptionally wide range of compulsory and elective modules in both Philosophy and Modern Languages, covering language, literature, film, history, critical and philosophical thought, and political and social theory. In Modern Languages, learners will attain a high level of proficiency in speaking, writing, and reading the language, whilst developing knowledge and critical understanding of its culture and society.

    The following compulsory modules are comparable to the South African qualification.
  • Philosophy
  • French Core Language
  • German Language and Culture
  • Texts and Contexts

    Assessment:
    Performance will be assessed through a combination of coursework and written/practical examinations. Forms of assessment may typically include coursework and assessed essays; language assignments (written, oral, aural); individual or group-based presentations; year abroad project work; and examinations. Learners will also have a variety of formative assessments throughout the qualification.

    Similarities:
  • The King's College London (KCL) and the South African (SA) qualifications require applicants who completed the Senior Secondary School qualifications or equivalent.
  • Both qualifications have 360 Credits.

    Differences:
  • The KCL qualification is offered over four years of full-time study whereas the SA qualification takes three years full-time study.

    Country: Namibia
    Institution: The University of Namibia
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts in Humanities
    NQF Level: 7
    Credits: 360
    Duration: Three years full-time
    Entry Requirements:
  • Namibian Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC) or a recognised equivalent qualification.
    The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities equips learners with grounded knowledge and skills in contemporary and historical societal issues. Learners will be trained in future social, anthropological and history professionals with an understanding of multilingual and multicultural societies. The qualification also provides theoretical and technical skills and competencies necessary for future historians, archaeologists, anthropologists, and community, moral and spiritual leaders. As a graduate, learners will be able to express themselves clearly and logically, to understand and tolerate different cultures and to
    communicate and think creatively. Continuous assessment and examinations will be conducted in line with the institution's general examination regulations.

    Exit Level Outcomes:
    Upon completion of the qualification, graduates should be able to:
  • Demonstrate technical skills in conducting archaeological fieldwork including mapping, excavating, artefact classification and analysis.
  • Conduct research, write and evaluate professional archaeological field and laboratory reports.
  • Debate archaeological and historical concepts and theories.
  • Administrate, manage, perform, and conduct elementary research in the domains of religion, ethics, philosophy, history, heritage, archaeology and/or
    anthropology in Namibia and abroad.
  • Facilitate intercultural awareness, understanding, communication and tolerance, thereby contributing to a stable and peaceful society.
  • Plan and conduct training programmes in heritage and/or religious contexts.
  • Access, interpret and apply information for societal development and innovation.
  • Critically reflect on social and socio-economic problems and solutions.
  • Analyse societal problems, and plan and formulate actions to address them from the perspective of their fields.
  • Conduct elementary functional social research in their major fields.

    Qualification structure:
    This qualification will be awarded to candidates credited with a minimum of 364 required credits, and who have met the requirements of the compulsory and elective credits as prescribed in the programme structure.

    The qualification includes a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Afrikaans Studies, a BA in English Studies, a BA in French Studies, and a BA in German Studies. The modules offered in these programmes that are similar to the above, include, among others:
  • Historical Studies
  • Philosophy and Applied Ethics
  • Foundations of Afrikaans Literature
  • Afrikaans Linguistics
  • Text Editing and Translation
  • Fundamentals of the Study of Literature(s) in English
  • Fundamentals of English Language Studies
  • Literary Theory
  • French Language and Literature
  • Contemporary French Literature
  • Modern German Literature and Culture
  • Applied Linguistics in German

    Similarities:
  • The University of Namibia (UNAM) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over a three-year full-time study.
  • Both qualifications are registered at Level 7 on the NQF with a minimum of 360 Credits.
  • Both qualifications require applicants who hold the National Senior Certificate.
  • Both the UNAM and SA qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules.
  • The UNAM and SA qualifications are assessed by means of formative and summative assessment.
  • Both qualifications articulate vertically to Bachelor of Arts Honours in Languages Studies or Honour's Degree in a cognate field of study.

    Differences:
    The UNAM qualification is focused on the archaeological field rather than the Languages studies while the focus of the SA qualification is on the Language Studies. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Language Practice, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Languages and Literary Studies, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts in Language Practice, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Language Practice, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in African Languages, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Ancient Languages, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Applied Linguistics and African Languages, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in African Languages for Professional Contexts, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Applied Language Studies, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Applied Linguistics and African Languages, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Comparative African Languages and Literatures, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in English Language and Comparative Literature, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in English Language Teaching, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Language Technology, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Modern European Language and Literature, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Linguistic Studies, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation:
    Diagonal Articulation options are not available. 
    		•

    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. Akademia NPC 


    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.