Higher Certificate in Information Communication Technology in User Support
Dr Motselisi Chere
Programme Co-ordinator
Programme Description
The HCert (ICT User Support) curriculum will empower graduates with the practical, professional and soft skills that are necessary to be competitive in the field. The purpose of the HCert (ICT User Support) is to enable the students to acquire knowledge and skills that will enable them to use Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and computing skills to provide user support services as technicians and helpdesk practitioners. Graduates will possess appropriate competencies, knowledge and technical skills related to the service desk environment. The HCert (ICT User Support) will provide students with sufficient theoretical, analytical and practical knowledge in emerging ICTs to allow for professional and academic growth in careers such as support services and communication networks, so as to make a constructive contribution to industry and society at large. The skill sets presented by the programme also allows the graduates to develop as holistic practitioners with creative and innovative skills, and applied and cognitive competences in the acquisition, interpretation and application of ICT principles in a professional and ethical manner. It further aims to equip them to become life-long independent learners who are capable of undertaking basic research in order to solve routine problems in the help desk environment.
Sites of delivery
Higher Certificate in Information Communication Technology in User Support is offered at both campuses of the University of Mpumalanga.
Admission requirements
Candidates with a National Senior Certificate
- Diploma and / or Higher Certificate Endorsement
- APS of 20 with Maths and 22 with Maths Literacy
- NSC achievement rating of at least 2 (30-39%) for Mathematics or 4 (50-59%) for Mathematical Literacy.
- English (Home Language or First Additional Language on at least NSC level 4 (50-59%).
- NSC achievement rating of at least 2 (30-39%) for any other three content subjects
Applicants with a National Certificate (Vocational)
- A Level 4 NC (V) in an Information Technology and or a Computer Science/Studies discipline
Recognition of Prior Learning
The University accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and the University accepts the challenge to assess prior learning that is aligned to programmes and award credit (through CAT) to promote lifelong learning. The purpose of the University of Mpumalanga’s RPL and CAT policies is to recognize prior learning in order to provide for admission to programmes, grant advanced placement in programmes and grant credits for modules using the principles and processes that serve as basis for RPL practices.
Duration
The Higher Certificate in Information Communication Technology in User Support is at exit level 5 on the HEQSF, with a requirement of 120 credits. It is offered over 1 year, full time. Teaching will by contact, practical, virtual sessions and blended learning modes.
Curriculum and Credits
| Year |
Code |
Description |
Credits |
NQF LEVEL |
Core
Elective |
| 1 |
ITS 101 |
Information Technology Services Theory 101 |
15 |
5 |
Core |
| 1 |
ITS 102 |
Information Technology Services Practical 102 |
15 |
5 |
Core |
| 1 |
MIT 102 |
Mathematics for ICT |
15 |
5 |
Core |
| 1 |
ALP 101 |
Academic Literacy and Professional Development for ICT |
15 |
5 |
Core |
| 1 |
ICT 101 |
Information and Communication Technology Fundamentals 101 |
15 |
5 |
Core |
| 1 |
ICT 102 |
Information and Communication Technology Fundamentals 102 |
15 |
5 |
Core |
| 1 |
CNT101 |
Communication Networks Fundamentals 101 |
15 |
5 |
Core |
| 1 |
CNT102 |
Communication Networks Fundamentals 102 |
15 |
5 |
Core |
Articulation
The HCert (ICT User Support) will create opportunities for progression for graduates who intend to further their studies and careers by acquiring further qualifications. Students who complete this qualification will be able to progress to Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Postgraduate Diploma and thereafter to further postgraduate studies if they meet the entrance requirements