Information Communications Technologies (ICT)

Higher Certificate in Network Systems Practice

Study the Higher Certificate in Network Systems Practice online with Boston City Campus.

This NQF Level 5 qualification develops practical skills in networking, cloud computing, systems support, and network administration. Recognised for advanced placement on the Boston Diploma in Network Systems, and considered by the South African Matriculation Board for endorsement of bachelor’s degree study, it prepares students for entry-level roles such as IT Technician, Junior Network Administrator, Cloud Support Associate, and Technical Support Analyst through flexible distance learning with dedicated academic support.

This Higher Certificate is designed for students who want to build practical IT and networking skills used in modern business environments. You will work with networking technologies, Microsoft Azure cloud platforms, troubleshooting processes, routing and switching, WAN infrastructure, and network security concepts while developing the technical and problem-solving skills required in IT support environments.

Whether you want to enter the IT industry or continue into further study in fields such as Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Network Engineering, DevOps, or Systems Administration, this Higher Certificate provides a practical foundation to move forward with confidence.

Higher Certificate in Network Systems Practice

Time to Complete

1 Year (min) – 3 Years (max)

Study Options

Full-time, Part-time or Flexi-time – via online learning (ODeL)

Credits

128

NQF Level

5

SAQA ID

124995

Field of Study

Information Communications Technologies (ICT)
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Entry Requirements

A minimum requirement for admission into the higher certificate is a:

  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), with English as one of the subjects passed and with endorsement for admission to Higher Certificate studies; or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)), with English as one of the subjects passed and with endorsement for admission to Higher Certificate studies; or
  • Prior to 2009, Senior Certificate with English as one of the subjects passed.

This programme is offered by Boston City Campus in the distance mode of education with support provided at Support Centres nationwide. Apply to register at any Boston City Campus Support Centre.

All modules are compulsory and must be passed.

Did you know that Boston does not work on a points system

Although your subjects may be considered, Boston does not use a point system for entry.
Your endorsement says it all.

Career Opportunities Include

  • IT Support Analyst
  • IT Support Specialist
  • IT Technician
  • Junior Network Administrator
  • Junior Network Engineer
  • Junior Systems Administrator
  • Junior Systems Engineer
  • Junior Security Specialist
  • Cloud Support Associate
  • Technical Support Analyst
  • Network Operations Centre (NOC) Technician
  • Help Desk and Infrastructure Support

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Semester 1

  • Computer Literacy (Word, Word Advanced, Outlook)
  • Academic Literacy
  • Technical Systems and Support (A+)
  • Introduction to Business Management

Semester 2

  • Computer Literacy Advanced (Spreadsheets, Spreadsheets Advanced, Database, Presentation Graphics)
  • Network+ Preparation (N+)
  • Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
  • Praxis (Microsoft Azure Administrator, Foundation Project)

On completion of the programme, graduates will have the knowledge and practical skills required to:

  • Communicate effectively using relevant software applications.
  • Interpret general business principles.
  • Conduct basic information technology systems analysis functions.
  • Maintain and administer computer network and telecommunications systems.
  • Develop and maintain basic cloud computing information technology systems.
  • Implement, troubleshoot, monitor, and support cloud and network environments.
  • Apply problem-solving and collaboration skills within IT support environments.

Assessment strategies vary by module and include:

  • Online quizzes and assignments
  • Practical projects and capstone assessments
  • Written examinations
  • Research and reflective assessments
  • Cloud and network administration practical activities

Students require an overall mark of 50% to pass a module.

BOSTON UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME

Upon successful completion of the qualification, students will receive a Higher Certificate in Network Systems Practice (SAQA ID 124995, NQF Level 5, minimum Credits 128) from Boston City Campus.