Occupational Certificate

Artificial Intelligence Software Developer

SAQA ID: 118792 - NQF Level: 5 - Credits: 209 - Duration: 18 Months

Course Overview

The Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer is designed to equip learners with the skills to develop AI software solutions, addressing the growing demand for professionals in artificial intelligence, digital customer experience, Internet of Things, and cloud computing. The qualification emphasizes practical application in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, and problem-solving using AI algorithms.

Course Structure

The qualification consists of Knowledge Modules, Practical Skill Modules, and Work Experience Modules.

Purpose

This qualification prepares learners to manage cloud infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance, security, and reliability. It aligns with the needs of South Africa’s technology-driven economy, supporting digitization, data management, and information security in line with the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Entry Requirements

Minimum Qualification: NQF Level 4 qualification.

Knowledge Modules (86 Credits)

KM-01 Overview of Artificial Intelligence, Level 4, 2 Credits.
KM-02 Introduction to Mathematics and Statistics, Level 4, 10 Credits.
KM-03 Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving, Level 4, 3 Credits.
KM-04 Data, Databases and Data Visualisation, Level 4, 8 Credits.
KM-05 Computing Theory, Level 4, 8 Credits.
KM-06 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Level 4, 5 Credits.
KM-10 Introduction to Governance, Legislation and Ethics, Level 4, 1 Credit.
KM-11 Fundamentals of Design Thinking and Innovation, Level 4, 1 Credit.
KM-12 4IR and Future Skills, Level 4, 4 Credits.
KM-07 Artificial Intelligence, Level 5, 12 Credits.
KM-08 Machine Learning, Level 5, 16 Credits.
KM-09 Deep Learning, Level 5, 16 Credits.

Practical Skill Modules (63 Credits)

PM-01 Mathematics and Statistics for Programming, Level 4, 8 Credits.
PM-02 Problem Definition, Analytical Thinking and Decision-Making, Level 4, 2 Credits.
PM-03 Access, Analyse and Visualise Structured Data Using Spreadsheets, Level 4, 4 Credits.
PM-04 Use SQL to Communicate with a Database, Level 5, 4 Credits.
PM-05 Build a simple AI solution using Python, Level 5, 8 Credits.
PM-06 Use Python Data Scraping to Populate Database Table in SQL, Level 5, 4 Credits.
PM-07 Use Machine Learning to Build an AI solution in Python, Level 5, 6 Credits.
PM-08 Use Deep Learning to Build an AI Neural Network Architecture in Python, Level 5, 10 Credits.
PM-09 Use Deep Learning to Build an AI Neural Network Architecture in TensorFlow, Level 5, 10 Credits.
PM-10 Function Ethically and Effectively as a Member of a Multidisciplinary Team, Level 4, 3 Credits.
PM-11 Participate in a Design Thinking for Innovation Workshop, Level 4, 4 Credits.

Work Experience Modules (60 Credits)

WM-01 AI Solution Design Interpretation and Development, Level 5, 20 Credits.
WM-02 AI Solution Performance Testing, Level 5, 20 Credits.
WM-03 AI Solution Deployment, Modification and Improvement, Level 5, 20 Credits.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, learners will demonstrate:

Interpret solution design documentation and develop AI solution.
Train the AI model through a machine learning process and test the performance to ensure that model accuracy is strictly maintained within the selection framework.
Deploy the AI solution and maintain the solution to ensure model accuracy is strictly maintained.

Industry Relevance

Research indicates a strong demand for AI professionals, with businesses increasingly seeking expertise in:

Artificial Intelligence
Digital Customer Experience
Internet of Things
Cloud Computing

This qualification prepares learners to meet these industry needs by providing comprehensive training in AI software development.

Comparison to Other Certifications

The Occupational Certificate covers similar topics to programs like the Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals but is distinct in its focus on the South African National Qualifications Framework and practical occupational skills. The Microsoft certification leads to a specific exam, while this certificate emphasizes broader AI software development competencies.