ACS ACADEMY | School of Technology

This qualification is a response to Output 3.1.2 of the NSDS III target: Programmes offered to meet industry needs, including those supporting apprenticeships and N-Courses, are reviewed, updated and made available to and accessed by employers.
With the increase in personal computers, home computers, and computers in schools and businesses, it is important that students are trained to be able to maintain and upgrade computers and their components.

The qualification will prepare students to become competent as a computer technician with an understanding of computer hardware and software troubleshooting. Students will also be competent and have hands-on computer repair skills.

Computer technicians provide assistance to computer users by answering questions, resolving technical problems and maintaining a company's network, software and computer equipment. They are also called desktop support technicians or computer support specialists.

Support can be provided in person, over the phone or online. They address issues ranging from network systems to individual desktop computers.

Computer technicians can work for computer software or hardware companies, assisting customers with products. More generally, computer technicians can work in a company's IT department, providing computer support to company employees. These technicians are responsible for maintaining the company's computer services (network and equipment). Their duties can include troubleshooting to detect and solve technical problems, installing or updating required hardware and software. They can also recommend computer products or equipment to improve company productivity.

The qualification presents an opportunity for students, upon completion, to start their own business to repair, upgrade, install, and maintain computer systems.

The qualification does not cover vendor specific programmes, but students will have basic knowledge and skills to work on different kinds of operations and application software.

Learners would have to keep abreast with current technological developments through affiliation with professional bodies or associations.

This is an entry-level qualification to provide the students with an opportunity to progress into the following career paths: Computer Database Assistant, Software Developer, Computer/Network Support Technician, System Administrator, Project Manager and others related occupations. 

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

Entry Requirements:

• An NQF Level 4 qualification.