National Certificate
(Information Technology and Computer Science) Qualification

What is the National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science) Qualification?

The National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science) is a new Information Technology and Computer Science qualification at each of Levels 2, 3 and 4 of the NQF. This qualification is designed to provide both the theory and practice of Information Technology and Computer Science. The practical component of study may be offered in a real workplace environment or in a simulated workplace environment. It will provide students with an opportunity to experience work situations during the period of study.

What are the minimum entry requirements to the qualification?

For entry into the National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science) at NQF Level 2, you require:

• A year end school report fro grade 9 or higher, or
• An NQF Level 1 qualification, or
• An approved bridging programme designed for the specific purpose to access NQF Level 2, or
• A recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment to meet the basic requirements for access to NQF Level 2.

How long is the Qualification?

The National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science) qualification is a full year programme at each of the NQF levels of study. A student is issued with a certificate on the successful completion of each level of study, that is, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4.

Which subjects make up a National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science)?

In order to obtain a National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science), a student is required to take a total of 7 subjects. These include 3 fundamental subjects and 4 vocational subjects, of which 3 are compulsory and I is optional.

Which are the fundamental subjects?

The 3 fundamental subjects are:

• Language – which must be the language of teaching and learning
• Mathematics
• Life Orientation

What are the Vocational subjects in Information Technology and Computer Science?

The 4 vocational subjects in Information Technology and Computer Science are:

• Introduction to Information Systems
• Introduction to Systems Development
• Computer Hardware and Software
• System Analysis and Design

These subjects are offered at each of the different NQF Levels of study in the National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science) qualification.

What vocational activities would this give you access to?

The holder of the National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science) will be able to:

• Test programmes and software applications
• Write computer programmes
• Install network cables for computer systems
• Process computer data

What career opportunities do I have after completing the National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science)?

The National Certificate (Information Technology and Computer Science) provides an opportunity to access careers in any of the sectors listed below:

• Computer programming
• Information Technology Management
• Computer Systems Engineering
• Data processing