What Is The Difference Between Nated And NCV

What Is The Difference Between Nated And NCV

 

When going through the wide range of courses offered at TVET Colleges, you will often notice two common terms: NC(V) and NATED. For many students, these terms may seem unclear at first, which can make it difficult to decide which course to choose. Understanding the difference between NC(V) and NATED is very important, as each qualification is designed with a specific purpose in mind. Both are recognized in South Africa’s education system, but they follow different approaches to learning and career preparation.

The NC(V), or National Certificate (Vocational), focuses on practical, hands-on training that equips students with skills directly linked to certain industries. It is often seen as the right choice for learners who want to gain workplace-ready skills while still completing their studies. On the other hand, NATED courses, also known as National Accredited Technical Education Diploma programs, lean more towards a structured academic path. These courses are made up of different levels that combine theory with some practical elements, preparing students for higher education or specialized careers.

This guide will help you understand the key differences between NC(V) and NATED, so you can make an informed choice about your studies. Whether your goal is to enter the job market quickly with practical skills or to build a foundation for further education, knowing what each program offers is the first step to making the right decision for your future.

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What is the National Certificate Vocational (NCV)

The National Certificate Vocational (NCV) is a new and modern qualification offered at FET Colleges since January 2007. It is offered at Levels 2, 3, and 4 of the National Qualifications Framework, which are equivalent to Grades 10, 1,1, and 12. National Certificate Vocational (NCV) is one of the high skills, high quality, and high knowledge programmes that provide experience of the workplace environment and is intended to directly respond to the priority skills demand of the modern economy. This qualification will also provide an opportunity to enter higher education studies, subject to an appropriate subject combination.

What Are The Minimum Entry Requirements for The Qualification

• A pass in Grade 9 or equivalent qualification.

How long is the Qualification

• NCV is a three-year qualification offered at Levels 2, 3, and 4. Each level takes a full year of study. A student is issued a certificate upon the successful completion of each level of study.

Which subjects make up an NCV

A student is required to take 7 subjects for each level

a. 3 Fundamental Subjects (Level 2 – 4)

• Language
• Life Orientation
• Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy

b. 4 Vocational Subjects (Level 2 – 4)

They offer the following NCV Programmes:

• Business Studies
• NCV: Finance, Economics, and Accounting
• NCV: Marketing
• NCV: Management
• NCV: Office Administration
• NCV: Information Technology and Computer Science
• Engineering Studies
• NCV: Civil Engineering & Building Construction (Masonry/Plumbing/Carpentry)
• NCV: Electrical Infrastructure Construction
• NCV: Engineering and Related Design (Automotive/Fabrication/Fitter and Turner)
• General Studies
• NCV: Education and Development
• NCV: Hospitality
• NCV: Primary Agriculture
• NCV: Tourism

What Is A NATED Course

National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) courses are accredited by QCTO (the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) and SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority). This means that they are recognised as formal qualifications. They are designed by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

Learn more: www.cjc.co.za online application 2026

NATED programmes are delivered under the auspices of the Department of Higher Education and Training and quality assured by Umalusi. These programmes are offered in both Engineering and Business Studies. Engineering is offered as trimester courses (3 months per level) and Business Studies as semester courses (6 months per level). NOTE: A National Diploma (M+3) qualification is awarded to students who have completed their N6 in a specific field and have completed a relevant 24-month in-service training with the organization of their choice.

Engineering Studies

Entry requirement: N3 or Grade 12 with Maths and Physical Science as a passed subject.

Registration: January, May & September.

Business Studies

Entry requirement: N3 or Grade 12

We offer the following Nated (Report 191) Programmes:

Business Studies N4 – N6

• Nated: Financial Management
• Nated: Human Resource Management
• Nated: Management Assistant
• Nated: Marketing Management
• Nated: Public Management
• Nated: Tourism
• Engineering Studies N1 – N6
• Nated: Civil Engineering
• Nated: Electrical Engineering
• Nated: Mechanical Engineering
• Nated: Multi-disciplinary Drawing Office Practice / Draughting

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