Information Communications Technologies (ICT)
Higher Certificate in Software Development Practice
Study the Higher Certificate in Software Development Practice online with Boston City Campus.
This NQF Level 5 qualification builds essential skills in coding, object-oriented programming, databases, software engineering, version control, and the software development life cycle. Considered by the South African Matriculation Board for endorsement to bachelor’s degree study, it prepares you for entry-level roles such as junior software engineer, SQL developer, or junior business analyst through flexible distance learning with dedicated academic support.
Software development makes the most sense once you start working with real tools and real tasks, and this qualification is built to help you do exactly that. You will write code, learn database design skills, execute applications, and complete a hands-on development project that consolidates your learning. Along the way, you will also build technical writing and project collaboration skills that employers look for in junior developers.
Whether your goal is to enter the workforce or progress into fields like data science, AI, or further IT study, this programme gives you a practical foundation to move forward with confidence.
Higher Certificate in Software Development Practice
Time to Complete
1 Year (min) - 3 Years (max)
Study Options
Full-time, Part-time or Flexi-time - via online learning (ODeL)
Credits
120
NQF Level
5
SAQA ID
123446
Field of Study
Further Study Options
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 Learner Support Centres. Apply to register at any Boston City Campus Learner Support Centre nationwide.
All modules are compulsory and must be passed.
Career Opportunities Include
- Application Programmer
- ICT Developer
- Entry-level Database Designer
- Entry-Level Programme Analyst
- Junior Application Software Developer
- Junior Business Analyst
- Junior Systems Software Developer
- Junior Software Engineer
- SQL Developer
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.
Your endorsement says it all.
Modules
Semester 1
- Computer Literacy
- Introduction to Business and Information Systems Management
- Software Technical Support
- Database Technology
- Introduction to Programming 1A
Semester 2
- Version Control Systems and Project Management
- Technical Writing Skills for Software Developers
- Software Engineering
- Introduction to Programming 1B
- Praxis (Basic Software Development Project)
Programme Outcomes
On completion of the programme, graduates will have the necessary knowledge and practical skills required to:
- Demonstrate the ability to create basic software applications to enhance business processes.
- Demonstrate an understanding of computer applications using the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
- Demonstrate the ability to function effectively as part of a software development team on coding projects.
- Demonstrate the ability to manage a database system.
- Demonstrate the ability to communicate business solutions in written form.
- Demonstrate an understanding of computer networking basics to develop and support client-server applications.
How you'll be assessed
Visit the comprehensive Fact Sheet for assessment information.
Programme Category
BOSTON UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME
Upon successful completion of the qualification, students will receive a Higher Certificate in Software Development Practice (SAQA ID 123446, NQF Level 5, minimum Credits 120, from Boston City Campus.