Course description

Welcome to Software Engineering at AIET

Curriculum Code: 251201-001-00-00  |  NQF Level 6  |  240 Credits  |  MICTSETA Accredited

The African Institute of Engineering and Technology (AIET) presents a rigorous, industry-aligned Software Engineering programme designed for the next generation of African technology leaders. Whether you are a physical student at our campus or joining online like Tanatswa Mlambo from wherever you are in the world — this course meets you where you are and takes you where you need to be.


???? What You Will Be Able to Do

Upon completing this qualification, you will be a certified Occupational Certificate: Software Engineer capable of:

  • Designing software systems that meet real client requirements
  • Designing and manipulating professional-grade databases
  • Developing and deploying functional software applications
  • Testing and debugging source code to industry standards
  • Applying project management principles to software projects
  • Using mathematics and logical reasoning in software contexts

???? Programme Structure (240 Credits Total)

Module Type Description Credits
Knowledge Modules (KM)Theory, concepts and principles75
Practical Skill Modules (PM)Applied, hands-on technical skills70
Work Experience Modules (WM)Workplace-based competency95

???? Part Qualifications You Can Earn

This programme contains 4 embedded part qualifications, each recognised in the industry:

  • Software Tester — Assess application functionality against client specifications
  • Systems Designer — Define system components, modules, interfaces and data
  • Database Designer — Design detailed databases including tables, indexes and views
  • Applications Programmer — Design, develop, implement and maintain business applications

???? Career Opportunities After Qualifying

  • Software Engineer / Software Developer
  • Backend / Frontend / Full-Stack Developer
  • Systems Analyst and Designer
  • Database Administrator / Database Developer
  • QA Engineer / Software Tester
  • Applications Programmer
  • IT Project Coordinator
  • Junior Solutions Architect

???? Entry Requirements

Learners must meet one of the following:

  • NQF Level 4 qualification (Matric / Grade 12 equivalent)
  • An ICT-related qualification at any level
  • Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in software development

????‍???? Your Instructors

Mr. Motheo Marutla — Lead Lecturer, Software Engineering
Mr. John Mamba — Assistant Lecturer


This qualification is quality-assured by MICTSETA and complies with QCTO, DHET, SAQA and all relevant South African education and training legislation. Curriculum Code: 251201-001-00-00. Developed in partnership with Artscience Technologies (artscience.co.za).

What will i learn?

  • Design software systems to meet defined client requirements (NQF Level 6)
  • Design and manipulate professional-grade relational databases (NQF Level 6)
  • Develop and deploy functional software applications that add organisational value (NQF Level 6)
  • Test and debug source code to ensure client specifications are met (NQF Level 5)
  • Apply software engineering principles including SDLC methodologies and system documentation
  • Apply programming concepts: data structures, algorithms, syntax and error handling
  • Apply fundamentals of database design including ER modelling and SQL
  • Apply project management principles within a software development context
  • Apply mathematical and logical reasoning relevant to software engineering
  • Earn up to 4 recognised part qualifications: Software Tester, Systems Designer, Database Designer, Applications Programmer
  • Qualify for the external summative assessment administered by MICTSETA

Requirements

  • NQF Level 4 qualification (Grade 12 / Matric equivalent) OR an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) related qualification at any NQF level
  • Minimum of 3 years' relevant experience in Software Development
  • Basic computer literacy and access to a computer with internet connectivity
  • Commitment to complete both theoretical and practical components of the programme

Frequently asked question

This course is for anyone who meets NQF Level 4, holds an ICT-related qualification, or has at least 3 years of software development experience. It suits career starters, upskilling professionals, and those seeking formal QCTO certification.

You will receive an Occupational Certificate: Software Engineer at NQF Level 6 (SAQA Curriculum Code 251201-001-00-00), quality-assured by MICTSETA.

The full programme is designed to be completed over 12–18 months, including Knowledge Modules (theory), Practical Modules (skills) and Work Experience Modules (workplace application).

Yes. AIET offers both physical and online study. Online learners access all lessons, materials, and assessments at study-online.africaninstitute.education.

The curriculum is language-agnostic by design. You will learn programming concepts applicable to multiple languages. Practical sessions use industry-relevant languages as guided by your facilitator.

Assessment includes formative (ongoing class activities), summative (end-of-module assessments), and external assessment — comprising a 3-week project and integrated written assessment conducted over 2 days.

Graduates can pursue roles as Software Engineer, Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Database Designer, QA Engineer, Applications Programmer, and more in any industry.

Mr. Motheo Marutla (Lead Lecturer) and Mr. John Mamba (Assistant Lecturer), supported by Artscience Technologies for compliance and platform delivery.

AIET- Instructor-Assistant

Nthabiseng Mkela

R20000

Lectures

57

Quizzes

7

Skill level

Intermediate

Expiry period

12 Months

Certificate

Yes

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