SOFTWARE TESTER – NQF Level 5
QCTO LEarnership
Course overview
The Occupational Certificate: Software Tester is a part-qualification of the Occupational Certificate: Software Engineer (NQF Level 6). It is designed to prepare learners to function as professional Software Testers, with the ability to assess the functionality of software applications against client specifications.
This programme equips learners with practical, theoretical, and workplace-based skills in software testing and debugging, enabling them to contribute effectively to the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. It addresses the industry’s need for qualified testers while creating a pathway for career growth in software engineering and related ICT fields.
Learning Outcomes
- Plan and prepare to test and debug source code.
- Test and debug source code against client specifications.
A Qualified Learner Will Be Able To:
Entry Requirements
- A minimum of any NQF Level 4 qualification (or equivalent).
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be applied for learners with relevant work experience in ICT or Systems Development.
The qualification compares favourably with international offerings:
- New Zealand: Compared with the Diploma in Software Development (Level 6, 240 Credits). Similarities exist in testing components, target learners, and workplace relevance. The South African qualification differs in its modular design and credit structure, being a part-qualification with stronger focus on testing and debugging.
- Australia: Compared with the Certificate IV in Information Technology (ICT40120). Overlaps exist in learner profiles and testing-related content. The South African qualification offers a more specialised focus on software testing, whereas testing in the Australian qualification is included as part of broader ICT units.
Occupational Trainer – NQF Level 5 Certification
- Occupational Certificate: Software Tester (Part-Qualification)
- NQF Level 5 | 70 Credits
- Parent Qualification: Occupational Certificate: Software Engineer (NQF Level 6)
- Learners must also meet Foundational Learning Competence (FLC) requirements where applicable.
Potential Career Opportunities
Graduates of this qualification may pursue career opportunities such as:
- Software Testers
- Quality Assurance Technicians
- Junior Test Analysts
- System Testers
- Entry-Level Software Engineers (with further study)
Opportunities exist within software development companies, ICT consultancies, corporate IT departments, and as independent service providers offering testing solutions.
Learning Options
This programme is offered through:
- Knowledge Modules (theory-based learning in software engineering, project management, and digital mathematics).
- Practical Skills Modules (hands-on testing and debugging).
- Workplace Experience Modules (structured workplace exposure in software testing environments).
Course Details:
