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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Information Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125421  Bachelor of Information Technology 
ORIGINATOR
Stadio (Pty) Ltd 
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  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0638/26  2026-03-10  2029-03-10 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-03-10   2035-03-10  

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 primary purpose of the Bachelor of Information Technology qualification is to lay the foundation for developing well-equipped Information Technology professionals in the fields of software development, software testing, web design, databases, programming, computer networking, and computer systems. Learners will be able to meaningfully contribute by applying their skills to performing tasks related to the field of Information Technology. Learners will be equipped to participate effectively in the planning, design, implementation, configuration, and maintenance of an organisation's computing infrastructure, and eventually take responsibility for the overall planning of IT systems, their development, installation, and maintenance.

The qualification is intended to lay a solid foundation in programming, databases, computer and network hardware, and related systems software, as well as in processes and methods for designing information Technology (IT) infrastructure and applications. In the subsequent two years, the primary focus will be on network infrastructure and network-based applications. All relevant topics will be treated in the context of networked environments, encompassing network design, implementation and management, network programming; developing application software for the Web and for mobile devices; application development in the Cloud; data handling and transactional and analytical processing in the internet environment; the creation of special purposes databases on the Web; implementing virtualisation for network platforms; and information security and cybersecurity. Information Technology Development Project will also be network-based. Moreover, the curriculum has been designed to include commerce-related modules to better equip learners in developing corporate skills required for integration into the industry.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of Information Technology in the broader sense, and insight regarding the diverse contexts (application domains).
  • Analyse complex, real-world problems in order to identify and define computing requirements and plan an appropriate computing infrastructure.
  • Demonstrate the ability to take responsibility for the design and implementation of a computing infrastructure that utilises the latest technology developments, such as the ability to support cross-platform applications and real-time web implementation, and the use of video in the design, implementation, and evaluation of user interfaces.

    Rationale:
    A lack of Information Technology (IT) and software-related skills has been cited as one of the biggest challenges facing South Africa as the country attempts to heed President Cyril Ramaphosa's prioritised request to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) to kick-start the economy. Information Technology is a very integrative discipline. By pulling together the IT pillars of databases, human-computer interaction, networking, programming, and web systems, this qualification will provide learners with a solid background that enables them to solve all types of computing and informational problems, regardless of their origin. In particular, learners will be equipped to play a leading role during the planning, implementation, configuration, and maintenance of an organisation's computing infrastructure.

    The aim of this qualification is to address the shortage of IT-related skills in Southern Africa by providing a three-year degree qualification for IT specialists that will enable them to function effectively in the workplace. The degree is aimed at those in the information technology (IT) field who want to develop specialist skills in order to advance their position, as well as those from other fields who wish to prepare for a new career in IT. The qualification will thus contribute to the number of IT specialists working in Southern Africa who can effectively communicate and apply their understanding of the theory, principles, purpose, role, methods, and techniques of developing and maintaining an organisation's computing infrastructure.

    The qualification will prepare learners for the roles and skills needed in the workplace and equip them with sufficient problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and practical information technology experience to play a meaningful role in the South African economy.
    This qualification is intended to prepare learners for employment in a variety of business contexts, by developing their ability to identify problems in a wide variety of disciplines and apply appropriate information technology and networking, tools, and techniques to solve these problems. This is particularly relevant in the South African context, where the technical skills needed to support the envisaged 4th Industrial Revolution are perceived to be some of the scarcest skills in South Africa. Board members of the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) claim that skills shortages are the single biggest challenge facing the South African IT sector in the next ten years. According to the 2021 ICT Skills Survey, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this situation, leaving nearly 10,000 vacant positions in the ICT sector.

    The prospective learners identified to benefit from the qualification are individuals who have completed an NSC/equivalent and have met the qualification entry requirements, and the relevant work experience and skills. Additionally, the qualification is designed to accommodate learners from other disciplines, either in the world of work or not, who wish to move into the Information Technology industry. Individuals who do not meet the entry requirements of the degree may gain admission to the Bachelor of Information Technology by first completing a Higher Certificate or Diploma in a cognate field.

    Upon completion of the qualification, learners will have developed analytical and logical skills that can be applied to solve unusual or challenging problems within the IT industry. The theoretical and practical foundation provided by the qualification will equip them to evaluate current and new technologies and to understand the complexities involved with technologies within the current and future IT industry. The practical skills acquired will enable them to manage activities across a wide range of areas, including programming for a range of platforms, software development in general, including the Web, and network engineering or development. Moreover, learners upon completion will be equipped with the relevant skills to assume related management roles, which include taking responsibility for an organisation's computing infrastructure.

    The qualification will allow learners career progression in the following Information Technology areas of specialisation:
  • Architecture of Information Security,
  • Programming,
  • Systems, Networking,
  • Analyst,
  • Project Management, and Information Systems Management.

    The current need within the Information Technology industry for a skilled workforce has not yet been fulfilled effectively and sufficiently. The industry requires learners who are well-prepared to operate within the envisaged 4th Industrial Revolution with analytical skills, critical problem-solving abilities, and expert information technology knowledge that will render the industry (and organisations within the industry) relevant, profitable, and sustainable. It is this graduate who will share in the development of society and the economy at both a macro and micro-level.

    The qualification provides progression to a Postgraduate Diploma or an Honours Degree in a field related to Information Technology at NQF Level 8. Learners will be employable in the Information Technology sector, locally or internationally. Learners would have acquired the analytical and technical skill sets required to contribute meaningfully to the current and future IT Industry, supported by their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Learners will be positioned to provide society and the economy with some of the scarcest skills in South Africa, as specified by the Critical Skills List of the South African Department of Home Affairs. Learners will be eligible to become employable for the following critical jobs within South Africa. ICT Project Manager, Data Management Manager, Application Development Manager, Information Technology Manager, ICT Systems Analyst, Software Developer, Programme Analyst, Developer Programmer, Applications Programmer, Database designer and Administrator, Network Analyst, and Information Services Manager.

    Upon completion, learners will be eligible to become a member (within the specified member grade) of the Institute of Information Technology professionals (IITPSA) and can use this professional body to align their career towards becoming recognised and accredited IT professionals. Importantly, we aim to inculcate the IITPSA code of ethics within our qualification. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

    RPL for access:
  • Applicants who do not meet the stated admission criteria, but who have relevant work experience/prior learning may apply for admission under the policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
  • The institution admits a maximum of 10% per cohort via RPL. Procedures and forms are available from the School Administration.

    RPL for Exemption from modules:
  • In specified circumstances, qualifying applicants may also engage in the RPL exemption process, where any form of informal, formal, or non-formal learning will be assessed for relevance towards possible module exemption.

    The implementation of RPL is context-specific, in terms of discipline, programme, and level.

    Entry Requirements:
  • National Senior Certificate NQF Level 4 granting access to bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4, granting access to bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate (SC) NQF Level 4 with endorsement.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Information Technology, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5, 6, and 7, totalling 365 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 125 Credits:
  • Fundamentals of Information Technology, 10 Credits.
  • Technology and Society, 10 Credits.
  • Computational Thinking and Introduction to Programming, 20 Credits.
  • Software Development, 10 Credits.
  • Introduction to Databases,10 Credits.
  • Object-Oriented Programming, 15 Credits.
  • Mathematics and Statistics for IT, 10 Credits.
  • Networking 1, 10 Credits.
  • Computer Hardware and Operating Systems, 10 Credits.
  • Introduction to Business Management, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Web Systems and Technology, 20 Credits.
  • IT Project Management, 10 Credits.
  • Information Management, 10 Credits.
  • Networking 2, 20 Credits.
  • Virtual Systems and Services, 20 Credits.
  • Cloud Computing, 20 Credits.
  • Applied networks, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Research and Literature Review: Principles and Practice, 15 Credits.
  • Information Technology Development Project, 25 Credits.
  • Network Analysis and Design, 20 Credits.
  • Human-Centric Design, 10 Credits.
  • IT Governance, 10 Credits.
  • Cybersecurity, 20 Credits.
  • Risk Management and Disaster Recovery, 10 Credits.
  • Business Process Management, 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an understanding of Information Technology in the broader sense, and insight regarding the diverse contexts (application domains).
    2. Analyse complex, real-world problems in order to identify and define computing requirements and plan an appropriate computing infrastructure.
    3. Demonstrate the ability to take responsibility for the design and implementation of a computing infrastructure that utilises the latest technology developments, such as the ability to support cross-platform applications and real-time web implementation, and the use of video in the design, implementation, and evaluation of user interfaces.
    4. Apply informed decisions about the selection and deployment of development platforms and the utilisation of recent strategic technology trends.
    5. Communicate technical information effectively to a variety of end users fulfilling different organisational roles. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    ELO 1: Demonstrate an understanding of Information Technology in the broader sense, and insight regarding the diverse contexts (application domains).
  • Use Information and communication technologies to solve problems in a business environment.
  • Illustrate how Information Technology has changed various application domains, in particular the business domain.
  • Illustrate an understanding of the ethical challenges that technology may present to society.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    ELO 2: Analyse complex, real-world problems in order to identify and define computing requirements and plan an appropriate computing infrastructure.
  • Analyse the degree of alignment between an organisation's strategic objectives and its existing computer systems, and identify areas where IT opportunities exist, or where IT-related risks need to be addressed.
  • Evaluate networking topologies in terms of their robustness, expandability, and throughput.
  • Categories cloud service types and demonstrate an understanding of the impact of privacy regulation on cloud application requirements (including legal and design issues).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    ELO 3: Demonstrate the ability to take responsibility for the design and implementation of a computing infrastructure that utilises the latest technological developments, such as the ability to support cross-platform applications and real-time web implementation, and the use of video in the design, implementation, and evaluation of user interfaces.
  • Use storyboarding, wireframes, and prototypes to document and communicate system interfaces and interactions.
  • Perform interface testing with potential users to evaluate the interface design and usability, ensuring product usability and acceptability.
  • Apply problem-solving and programming skills to design solutions to non-trivial problems.
  • Provide support for administrative tasks, including access control, user account management, security controls, and maintenance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    ELO 4: Apply informed decisions about the selection and deployment of development platforms and the utilisation of recent strategic technology trends.
  • Illustrate an understanding of different network standards, components, and requirements of network protocols within a distributed computing setting.
  • Evaluate the impact of architecture on performance, including the use of cloud services and applications.
  • Identify ways in which emerging technologies can increase productivity, improve quality, and add value in different industry sectors.
  • Analyse when to use cloud applications and evaluate the impact of architecture on performance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
    ELO 5: Communicate technical information effectively to a variety of end users fulfilling different organisational roles.
  • Write a project proposal that analyses current needs and recommends an appropriate IT-based solution.
  • Create a detailed design document that specifies the overall architecture, physical topologies, and operational principles and procedures for a project, including the communication protocols used.
  • Participate in the development of a complete set of project documentation.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    The institution uses two assessment models for this qualification: a final summative approach and a continuous assessment approach.

    The assessment model for a module is selected based on the nature of its outcomes, as well as its level and function in the overall curriculum. Where a final summative approach is used, the final mark on a module comprises a Semester/Year Mark (SYM) that contributes 50% of the final mark, as well as a Final Summative Assessment Mark (FIS) that contributes 50%.

    Formative assessment:
    The Semester Mark (SYM) is made up of a range of different assessment tasks, each with its own weighting. The Final Summative (FIS) is often in the form of an invigilated examination, but it may also be offered in alternative formats, such as an individual/group project that culminates in a written report, followed by a presentation. In cases where a continuous assessment approach is used, the FIS is replaced by a series of weighted formative and summative assessments (SS1, SS2, etc.) conducted throughout the semester/year.

    Depending on the nature of the subject matter, a range of assessment methods are applied at formative and summative assessment stages in order to facilitate authentic assessment. For panel discussions, presentations, and project work, experts from industry are often invited to provide input into the formal assessment results, with the institution's examiners. During the first year of the qualification, learners will be expected to demonstrate the ability to apply basic concepts and skills, often in relation to a relatively simple IT problem. A greater degree of independent and analytical thinking will be required in the second year of the programme (NQF level 6), with increasingly complex and/or innovative solutions being delivered. In the third year of the programme (NQF level 7), learners will be expected to integrate their acquired knowledge and skills by completing relatively sophisticated IT tasks or by suggesting original solutions to complex IT problems.

    Summative assessment:
    All formal assessment instruments are moderated internally by the subject matter expert to ensure that the key assessment principles are being adhered to. Formal assessments at the exit level of the qualification are also moderated by an external moderator. The assessment of learners' learning achievements is moderated at a rate of 10% internally, as well as 10% externally in the case of exit-level modules. Moderation reports are considered and actioned by the Module Coordinator under the supervision of the Discipline Leader.

    The institution is committed to the principle of access with success, and as such, assessment feedback is recognised as an essential component of the learning process. The institution's Assessment Feedback Norm document provides guidelines to the schools on the nature, extent and turnaround time for the provision of assessment feedback in order to allow the learners to benefit from the feedback. Assessment feedback must be sufficient and individualised in order to enable the student to identify areas for improvement. Where relevant, the feedback will suggest ways in which the learners can improve. The institution subscribes to a tone that is encouraging, sensitive, and professional at all times. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared to similar qualifications from Australia and England.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: Latrobe University (LU)
    Qualification: Bachelor of Information Technology
    Duration: 3 years
    Credits: 120 points

    Entry requirements:
  • Australian Year 12: Typically requires an ATAR around 60-70, with strong performance in English and Mathematics subjects.

    Purpose:
    This is a 3-year full-time qualification that is designed to build the participant's skills for a digital future across areas including programming, networking, databases, systems analysis and design, and project management. Participants on this qualification will cover the following areas of study:
  • Web and software development (develop and build websites and software. Administer the front-end, back-end, and server-side of websites and IT systems).
  • IT systems analysis and design (understand and analyse IT systems to deliver more efficient and effective IT solutions for an organisation).
  • Design (learn about software, system, and network design so the participant can contribute to making better programmes and infrastructure).
  • Programming and networking (the language of computers and how they communicate with one another to create working code and smarter systems).
  • Project management, estimation, documentation, and report evaluation (project management and effective communication).

    Qualification structure:
    Modules:
  • Data-Based Critical Thinking.
  • Introduction to Cybersecurity.
  • Database Fundamentals, comparable to Introduction to Databases.
  • System Analysis and Design, comparable to Web Systems and Technology.
  • User Interface Design.
  • Professional Practices and Entrepreneurship in Information Technology.
  • Project Management, comparable to IT Project Management.

    Qualification Outcome:
    On successful completion, you will be able to:
  • Apply information technology knowledge and skills, and critical thinking to find practical and innovative solutions for industry problems.
  • Evaluate the suitability of information technology to develop and implement appropriate solution.
  • Work effectively both autonomously and in collaboration with others to complete information technology projects to professional standards.
  • Apply awareness of the ethical and cultural values to shape the complex professional work of an information technology professional.
  • Apply well-developed skills in information technology to find sustainable solutions across diverse business environments.

    Career outcomes:
    Possible roles include:
  • Network administrator: Develop, install, and provide maintenance support across network and computer systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets, and other data communication systems.
  • Web developer: Design, build, and maintain websites using both creative and technical skills to continuously improve safety, performance, usability, and capacity.
  • Network architect: Plan and build data communication networks to provide both local and global connections. Analyse and implement new technologies and provide solutions to maintain and improve technical infrastructure.

    Similarities:
  • Latrobe University (LU) and South African (SA) qualifications are offered on a full-time basis for a period of three years.
  • LU and SA qualifications require learners who completed Australian Year 12/ National Senior Certificate.
  • Both qualifications have a minimum credit of 120.
  • Both qualifications are designed to develop learners' skills for a digital future across areas such as programming, networking, databases, systems analysis and design, and project management.
  • Both qualifications share similar outcomes, enabling learners to apply information technology knowledge and skills, analyse complex real-world problems to identify and define computing requirements, and plan an appropriate computing infrastructure upon completion.
  • Both qualifications share similar modules, such as IT Project Management, Introduction to Databases, and Web Systems and Technology.

    Country: England
    Institution: Birmingham University (BU)
    Qualification: BSc Computer Science
    Duration: 3 years

    Entry requirements:
  • A Level: A*AA to include A-level Mathematics grade A.
    Or
  • 7,6,6 at Higher Level to include 6 in Mathematics, with a minimum of 32 points overall. We also require 5 in Standard Level English.

    English language requirements:
    International learners need to demonstrate a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Processional English course.

    Purpose:
    The BSc Computer Science degree is structured to provide learners with a thorough understanding of a wide range of computational systems.

    Year 1:
  • Artificial intelligence 1.
  • Data structure and algorithms.
  • Full stack application development.
  • Mathematical and logical foundations of computer science, comparable to Mathematics and Statistics for IT.
  • Object-oriented programming, comparable to Object-Oriented Programming.
  • Theories of computation.

    Year 2:
  • Artificial intelligence 2
  • Functional programming.
  • Security and networks.
  • Software development and professional practice, comparable to Software Development.
  • Systems programming in C/C++.
  • Team project.

    Year 3:
  • Computer science project, comparable to IT Project Management.

    Similarities:
  • Birmingham University (BU) and South African (SA) qualifications are offered on a three-year full-time basis.
  • BU and SA qualifications share comparable modules, such as Object-Oriented Programming, Software Development, and Mathematics and Statistics for IT.
  • Both qualifications provide learners with a thorough understanding of a wide range of computational systems, which lay the foundation for developing well-equipped IT professionals in the fields of software development, software testing, web design, databases, and programming. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal articulation:
  • Bachelor of Information Technology in Web Design and Development, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Business Information Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Occupational Diploma: Chief Information Officer: Cybersecurity, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Technology Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computing, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal articulation:
  • Advanced Occupational Certificate: Cybersecurity Practitioner, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    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. Stadio (Pty) Ltd 


    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.