Samoa Qualifications Framework

One of the functions of the Samoa Qualifications Authority is to:

Determine a national qualifications structure for Samoa, including the definition of terms to ensure and maintain the national and international credibility of qualifications and the good standing of post school education and training institutions [Samoa Qualifications Authority Act 2006 Section 4(h)]

The Samoa Qualifications Framework [SQF] is a coherent structure encompassing all quality assured qualifications offered in Samoa.

The Samoa Qualifications Framework has the following characteristics

a. Ten Levels comprising:

1. Four Levels of Certificates [Level I to IV];
2. Two Levels of Diplomas [Level V and VI];
3. Bachelor degrees, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates at Level VII;;
4. Bachelor degrees with Honours,Post Graduate Certificates and Post Graduate Diplomas at Level VIII;
5. Masters Degree at Level IX;
6. Doctoral and Post Doctoral degrees at Level X.



b. Each level is characterised by level descriptors that define the learning outcomes of the qualification in terms of knowledge and understanding, competence, skills and responsibility.




c. Each qualification is also defined in terms of its purpose, outcomes, credit value, components, entry criteria and how it relates to other qualifications.

The Samoa Qualifications Framework:

• Provides a structure for establishing national equivalence and comparability of qualifications;
• Facilitates international comparability of qualifications awarded in Samoa;
• Facilitates the understanding of the skills, processes and competencies graduates have achieved through clear level descriptors;
• Facilitates the matching of skills demanded by industry and the supply of skilled workers;
• Provides opportunities for career development and clear and flexible pathways;
• Facilitates the recognition of prior learning, previously acquired skills and current competencies;
• Provides opportunities to facilitate the pursuit of lifelong learning;
• Where necessary, distinguishes between provider and national qualifications;
• Enables the development of a register of quality assured qualifications.

The SQF is responsive to and accommodates a diversity of individual, academic and workplace needs. It recognises regional and local differences, without losing transparency at the national level. It is robust and flexible and improves understanding and acceptance of all qualifications through reinforcing dialogue within providers, between providers and with employers and other relevant stakeholders.

SQF Outcome Level Descriptors and SQF Policies

Samoa Qualification Framework (SQF) Policies

Samoa Qualification Framework (SQF) Outcome Level Descriptors

For more information please contact Mrs Kovi Aiolupotea kovi.aiolupotea@sqa.gov.ws