Diploma in Information Technology

Purpose

The Diploma in Information Technology (IT) focuses on the theory, design, implementation and management of linked systems of computers to maximise efficiency and productivity in an IT environment.

Industrial Exposure is based on the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) policy on co-opt learning. Industrial Exposure has been assigned 60 Credits and consists of one module (Industry Exposure) offered in the final semester of the third year and 5% of the exposure is done internally through simulated environment.

The purpose of the qualification is to produce learners that can demonstrate the following competencies

• Apply the fundamentals of network theory and network computing systems;
• Design and implement networking systems;
• Secure network systems and assure computer-based systems;
• Manage and evaluate network systems;
• Provide IT support services;
• Integrate and apply emerging technologies;
• Apply algorithmic and mathematical techniques and solutions to networking and security domains;
• Apply project management principles to communication network projects.

This qualification will equip the learner with the ability to research, identify, analyse, design and propose expansion, test, maintain, manage an IT project and deploy an application solution for any organisation, thus improving the efficiency of the organisation. Emphasis is also on providing adequate theoretical and practical knowledge on analysis, recommending solutions and deployment of solutions to organisation.

Qualifying learners will have the following attributes

• Applied knowledge of computing and logic appropriate to the discipline; analyse, design, implement, evaluate, secure and manage computer networks;
• Ability to effectively integrate IT-based solutions into the user environment; understand best practices, standards and their applications;
• Create and manage an effective project plan; function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal;
• Communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
• Engage in continuing professional development; understand issues and responsibilities related to professionalism, ethics, legalities, security and society.

Rationale

This qualification was designed based on feedback from industry who indicated the required knowledge and skills. The learner will be provided with the needed knowledge and skills to function as a junior network administrator, junior network designer, junior network technician and junior network support within any organisation. This qualification will also prepare learners to meet the computer technology needs of business, government, healthcare, schools, and other types of organisations.

The Diploma in Information Technology (IT) through theory and practical will equip the learner to work in computer networks, distributed computing systems, information security, and network management and control, and infrastructure support services. Qualifying learners may also occupy work as Network Systems Administrators, Network Systems Architects, Network Security, IT Assurance and Forensics, Infrastructure and User Support. This qualification articulates to an Advanced Diploma (Information Technology). The learners are exposed to internal practical which is in a simulated environment and the workplace.

Qualifying learners would be able to assist any organisation (local or global) to assess their current situation, manage the IT project, propose solutions and assist in the deployment of the solution which shall enhance the organisation's economic and social stance. The qualification aims to provide the necessary skills and depth of knowledge to ensure that learners fulfil the relevant employment markets needs and consist of a combination of learning outcomes that have the defined purpose of capacitating the learner with workplace applicable competencies.

The Exit Level Outcomes of this qualification will allow articulation into Advanced Diploma in Information Technology which will equip learners with adequate knowledge to engage in innovative research and development as well as postgraduate studies.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be used to demonstrate competence for admission to this qualification. RPL may also be used to obtain credits for the Exit Level Outcomes. Evidence of prior learning will be assessed through formal institution policies and procedure.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Senior Certificate without endorsement.

Or

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies;

Or

• National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies.

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

Compulsory Modules at Level 5, 120 Credits

• Introduction to Programming 115R, 15 Credits;
• Discrete Mathematics 215R, 15 Credits;
• Principles of Programming 125R, 15 Credits;
• History of Computing and Information Models 115R, 15 Credits;
• Communication for Academic Purposes, 10 Credits;
• Life Skills, 2 Credits;
• Information Literacy, 3 Credits;
• Computer Networks 115R, 15 Credits;
• Computer Networks 125R, 15 Credits;
• Computer Architecture 125R, 15 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 6, 210 Credits

• Object-oriented Programming 216R, 15 Credits;
• Operating Systems 226R, 15 Credits;
• Advanced Object-Oriented 226R, 15 Credits;
• Computer Networks 215R, 15 Credits;
• Computer Security 215R, 15 Credits;
• Computer Networks 226R, 15 Credits;
• Wireless Networks 316R, 15 Credits;
• Network Management 316R, 15 Credits;
• Industrial Exposure 326R, 60 Credits;
• Computer Networks 316R, 15 Credits;
• Virtual Machines 216R, 15 Credits.

Elective Modules at Level 6, 30 Credits (Choose two)

• Computer Security 226R, 15 Credits;
• Web Organisation 226R, 15 Credits;
• Resource Allocation 316R, 15 Credits;
• Computer Security 316R, 15 Credits.

1. Apply the fundamentals of network theory and network computing systems.
2. Design and implement networking systems.
3. Secure network systems and assure computer-based systems.
4. Manage and evaluate network systems.
5. Provide Information Technology (IT) support services.
6. Integrate and apply emerging technologies.
7. Apply algorithmic, mathematical techniques and solutions to networking and security domains.
8. Apply project management principles to communication network projects.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Network Models and protocols are explained and discussed.
• Fundamental principles of networking components are discussed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Principles of network design are discussed, explained and applied to design optimum networks.
• Network theory is applied to the network design.
• Appropriate network components are utilised in the design.
• Network devices are configured.
• Network is tested for functionality.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Threats and risks are identified.
• Mitigation strategies are implemented.
• Vulnerability and penetration testing of the network are performed.
• Forensic and audit techniques are applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• An existing network is analysed for performance and efficiency.
• Network performance is monitored and problems identified.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Various types of end-users are identified and their possible needs in different Information and Communications Technology (ICT) support environments are explored.
• Diagnostic tools are used to analyse.
• Troubleshoot and fix network problems.
• End users of the network are supported.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Industry practical skills will be integrated with academic training.
• New technologies are investigated and applied as competencies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Security implementation mechanisms - cryptography, crypto analysis, steganography, etc., are explained and applied.
• Discrete network structures are explained and applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Basic project management techniques are applied.
• A suitable project is done to integrate academic training with practical skills.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated assessment will be achieved by a variety of strategies. These assessments will include written examinations (class tests, online, tests, semester tests) presentations group work and individual projects and assignments, practical examinations and a research report. Some of the criteria may be assessed through observation of the learners during their classes when they demonstrate their projects. This will enable qualifying learners to achieve applied competence, foundational competence, practical competence and reflexive competence for furthering their learning.