Higher Certificate in Software Development

A software developer’s role involves more than just knowing how to code! The Higher Certificate in Software Development aims to equip anyone wishing to enter the software development field with sufficient skills to do so. The main objective of this programme is to provide the student with a broad knowledge of the most important aspects of software development, including understanding hardware and software interaction, software analysis and design (focusing on the object-oriented paradigm), database management and use, software implementation, testing and maintenance, as well as the security issues impacting the entire development cycle. The student will be equipped with problem solving and programming skills, ranging from algorithm development to the more advanced skills of programming using the Python scripting language. This programme will equip the student with the basic
knowledge and skills needed to develop a reasonable-sized software application to automate the solution of a business problem of medium complexity, by participating in a 20-credit software development project. Moreover, students will be taught to consider legal, social and ethical implications in all aspects of the software engineering process, encompassing both existing and potential future technologies. This programme will equip learners with a sound theoretical foundation in respect of the software development discipline and develop the application skills required for entry into the IT job market.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR CONTACT LEARNING

• C4SS - CENTRE FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

The Centre for Student Success supports students with academic, psychological and financial wellness.

• SAS - STUDENT ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT

Student Administration & Support is the first port of call for all student queries and requests, they can channel your requests to the right individuals.

THE ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR THE HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT ARE:

• a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 30% in English Home Language or English First Additional Language; and a minimum of at least 40% for either Mathematics or Information Technology, or a minimum of at least 70% for Mathematical Literacy; OR

• a National Senior Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)) at Level 4, with a minimum of 30% in English Home Language or English First Additional Language; and a minimum of at least 40% for either Mathematics or Information Technology, or a minimum of at least 70% for Mathematical Literacy; OR

• a Senior Certificate (SC) with a minimum of 30% (F) in English First Language(HG) or English Second Language (HG); and a minimum of at least 40%(E) for either Mathematics (HG) or Computer Studies (HG), or a minimum of at least 70%(B) for Mathematics (SG); and in addition

• a minimum of 50% for the compulsory non-credit bearing entry/access module Computational Thinking, which is offered at the start of the programme, and which includes a provision for students to write an early test in order to fulfil this requirement.

STADIO is committed to achieving inclusion and to overcome barriers to access and success in higher education. Applicants who do not meet the stated admission criteria, but who have relevant work experience and/or prior learning may apply for admission under the policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). STADIO admits a maximum of 10% per cohort via RPL. The implementation of RPL is context-specific, in terms of discipline, programme and level.  Further information may be obtained from your Student Recruitment Advisor.