National Qualifications Framework Act, 2008 (Act No. 67 of 2008)

Type specifications

NQF Exit Level: 4 (The NQF Level allocation will be as per the SAQA level descriptors)

Minimum total credits: 120

Type

National Occupational Certificate

Descriptor

As per the requirements of the occupation. Example: National Occupational Certificate: Strata Control Practitioner: Electrician, NQF Level 4

Abbreviations

Example: Nat. Occ. Cert.: Electrician

Purpose and characteristics

This is an equivalent qualification to the National Senior Certificate or to the National Certificate (Vocational) 4 where similar theoretical subjects have been covered. Additional theoretical competence may be required where a learner wants to use the Occupational Certificate for admission to other subframeworks. This is an occupational qualification, with a strong industry-oriented focus. The qualification also serves to provide learners with the knowledge/theory and application techniques for occupational studies in their chosen occupations. It emphasises selected general knowledge/theory together with a more specific application.

This qualification signifies that the learner has attained a certain level of knowledge/theory and application in a particular occupation, is capable of applying such knowledge and competence in an occupation or role in the workplace, and supervise other learners with similar or lower qualifications. The National Occupational Certificate includes simulated or actual work experience and practical experience.

Minimum admission requirements

The minimum entry requirement is stipulated in each registered National Occupational Certificate.

Progression

Completion of the National Occupational Certificate meets the minimum entry requirement for admission to an appropriate Higher Occupational Certificate. Accumulated credits may also be presented for admission into a cognate Higher Occupational Certificate or similar qualification in the HEQSF.