Information Technology
Higher Certificate in Hardware and Software Support
Your Launchpad to IT Hardware & Software Mastery
Apply Now
NQF Level:
5
Credits:
120
Minimum Duration:
1 Year
Faculty:
Information, Communication & Future Technologies
Department:
Information & Communication Technology
Accreditation Authority:
Council on Higher Education
Master Hardware and Software Support—Your Gateway to a High-Demand IT Career!
This dynamic one-year programme equips you with the technical skills and confidence to succeed in roles like IT Support Technician, Helpdesk Technician, or Junior Systems Administrator. Gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and troubleshooting hardware and software issues, while building the foundational knowledge to manage IT infrastructure across industries like corporate, retail, and education.
Why Choose This Qualification?
Gain practical skills in diagnosing, troubleshooting, and maintaining hardware and software systems. Learn from modules designed to meet the demands of the Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions. Progress to advanced fields like cybersecurity, network management, or software engineering. Join the ranks of in-demand professionals in IT support roles across diverse industries. Leverage state-of-the-art facilities and digital tools, including AIFT's cutting-edge Moodle LMS.
Admission Requirements.
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): Endorsed for admission to Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Degree programs.
- National Certificate Vocational (NCV): NQF Level 4.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Available to recognize your previous learning.
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): Endorsed for admission to Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Degree programs.
- National Certificate Vocational (NCV): NQF Level 4.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Available to recognize your previous learning.
Qualification Structure.
The qualification consists of eight modules delivered over two semesters:
Semester 1:
- ICT Foundations 500
- Hardware Systems and Maintenance 500
- Software and Operating Systems Management 500
- Networking and Infrastructure 500
Semester 2:
- Hardware and Software Support and Troubleshooting 500
- Ethics, Professional Practice, and Customer Service in ICT 500
- ICT Service Management 500
- Work Integrated Learning (WIL) 500
Semester 1:
- ICT Foundations 500
- Hardware Systems and Maintenance 500
- Software and Operating Systems Management 500
- Networking and Infrastructure 500
Semester 2:
- Hardware and Software Support and Troubleshooting 500
- Ethics, Professional Practice, and Customer Service in ICT 500
- ICT Service Management 500
- Work Integrated Learning (WIL) 500
Learning Outcomes.
Graduates will:
- Diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues effectively.
- Manage IT infrastructure with a focus on network solutions and security.
- Provide high-quality customer support by communicating technical information clearly.
- Implement cybersecurity measures to safeguard IT systems.
- Adapt to emerging technologies in the rapidly evolving ICT sector.
- Diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues effectively.
- Manage IT infrastructure with a focus on network solutions and security.
- Provide high-quality customer support by communicating technical information clearly.
- Implement cybersecurity measures to safeguard IT systems.
- Adapt to emerging technologies in the rapidly evolving ICT sector.
International Comparability.
The Higher Certificate in Hardware and Software Support compares favorably with international programmes, including the Higher National Certificate (HNC) in IT (UK). Like the HNC, our programme blends practical skills with academic rigor, offering graduates global mobility and progression opportunities.
Qualification Modes of Delivery and Support.
Study options include:
- Contact Learning: In-person engagement with industry experts.
- Blended Learning: A mix of interactive online and face-to-face sessions.
- Distance Learning: Study anytime, anywhere with access to AIFT’s Moodle LMS.
- Contact Learning: In-person engagement with industry experts.
- Blended Learning: A mix of interactive online and face-to-face sessions.
- Distance Learning: Study anytime, anywhere with access to AIFT’s Moodle LMS.
Career Opportunities.
Graduates can pursue roles such as:
- IT Support Technician
- Helpdesk Technician
- Network Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Field Service Technician
- IT Support Technician
- Helpdesk Technician
- Network Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Field Service Technician
Articulation Options.
Articulation pathways include:
- Vertical: Diploma in Information Technology (NQF Level 6)
- Advanced Certificate in Information Technology (NQF Level 6)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (NQF Level 7)
- Vertical: Diploma in Information Technology (NQF Level 6)
- Advanced Certificate in Information Technology (NQF Level 6)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (NQF Level 7)
Ensure Compliance, Empower Financial Accuracy.
With the Occupational Certificate in Tax Technology, you’re not just earning a qualification—you’re stepping into a crucial role in maintaining tax compliance and supporting financial accuracy. Gain the expertise to manage tax calculations, ensure VAT and payroll compliance, and navigate complex tax regulations with confidence.
Don’t wait to become an essential part of the financial sector.
Enroll today and build a career where you secure financial integrity and guide clients with precision!
