Diploma in Computer Networking

Career Opportunities & Professional Pathways

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) play a fundamental role in driving socio-economic development. This diploma equips graduates to meet the ever-increasing national demand for highly skilled IT professionals. Uniquely, students gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art Cisco equipment, opening doors to various industry-recognised professional certification pathways. Career opportunities include:

  • Computer Networking & Infrastructure: Computer Network Administrators, Network Technical Assistants, and Routing & Switching Specialists, leveraging practical expertise in Communication Networks and state-of-the-art Cisco environments.
  • Systems Analysis & Software Development: System Developers, Application Designers, Business Analysts, and Information Analysts, applying core competencies in System Software Development, Problem-solving, and Algorithms.
  • Database Development & Management: Business Database Analysts, Database Administrators, and Database Managers, utilising specialised training in Database Systems and System Software Engineering.
  • IT Project Management & Professional Certification: Information Systems (IS) Project Leaders and IT Consultants, supported by comprehensive Work-integrated Learning in Computer Networking and clear pathways to global professional certifications.
Diploma : Diploma in Computer Networking

DP_CMN

Campus

Duration of Programme

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

Bloemfontein Campus

3 years (full-time)

387

6

Minimum Credits Required: 387

Programme-Specific Requirements

Minimum Qualification

A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification.

Required Subjects & Pass Levels

  • Mathematics or Computer Science: Minimum 40% (Level 3)
  • OR Mathematical Literacy: Minimum 60% (Level 5)
  • CUT Scoring Scale (APS): Minimum 27 points

Understanding Your Matric Pass Level

To help you understand your eligibility, here is a quick guide to the National Senior Certificate (NSC) pass levels. This programme requires a Diploma Pass.

Diploma Pass (Required)

Pass 6 of 7 subjects. Four subjects must be at least 40% (Level 3), including Home Language (40%). Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) must be at least 30%. You may fail one subject. This allows enrolment for a diploma course at a university of technology.

Bachelor’s Pass

Pass 6 of 7 subjects. Four subjects must be at least 50% (Level 4), including Home Language (40%). LOLT must be at least 30%. You may fail one subject. This allows application for a degree course.

Certificate Pass

Pass 6 of 7 subjects. Two subjects above 40%, four subjects above 30%, including Home Language (40%). You may fail one subject. This allows study for a higher certificate.


Selection Process & Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP)

Selection Process & Progression

Admission to this learning programme is strictly subject to a selection process. Applicants in possession of a National Certificate Vocational (NCV) will be evaluated according to the specific selection requirements approved by Senate.

Internal Progression: Students who have completed the Higher Certificate in Information Technology (HC_ITC) with an average of 75% may apply for admission, subject to the selection process.

Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) Option

If you are a First-Time Entering (FTE) student and narrowly miss the mainstream requirements, you may be considered for the ECP stream if you meet the following:

  • You achieved a CUT scoring scale (APS) of 22 to 26.
  • You achieved a minimum of 40% in Mathematics or Computer Studies, OR 60% in Mathematical Literacy.

Strict ECP Regulations: Due to DHET funding, studies will be terminated if the core foundation programming modules are failed. Students must complete the Diploma within a maximum 6-year period and may not transfer to the mainstream programme.

Note for candidates who matriculated in 2007 or before: Please refer to the official CUT Student Calendar for the specific Senior Certificate (SC) scoring scale and admission requirements applicable to your qualification.


Need the Full Programme Details? Consult the Student Calendar

We know that choosing your future is a big step! While this page gives you the key highlights, the official CUT Student Calendar is your complete, authoritative guide. We highly recommend reviewing it to see full details on this programme, including admission criteria, complete module structures, assessment rules, and what to expect during your studies.

 View the Student Calendar →

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