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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Interior Design 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101986  Diploma in Interior Design 
ORIGINATOR
Design Time (PTY) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Design Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Diploma qualification has a strong theoretical foundation which provides learners with knowledge in the history of design, interior design principles, concept development, space planning, detailed design elements, materials knowledge, technical drawings, hand drawings; computer generated drawings, product, furniture and textile design, visual and verbal presentation skills as well as professional practice.

The theoretical knowledge is tested in practical projects. Learners receive a number of briefs throughout the course targeting specific design problems. Learners are required to identify the problems, and develop a concept, prepare a design solution by using their acquired skills and prepare a visual design proposal together with a verbal presentation in order to solve the design problem and answer the given briefs.

The combination of theory, practical projects, collaborations with past graduates and direct interaction with the industry/clients ensure that our learners obtain the necessary skills and knowledge to confidently enter the working world of Interior Design.

Rationale:
The Diploma in Interior Design provides learners with a strong foundation and empower them with all the necessary knowledge, skills, attitudes and values in order to have a successful career in the field of Interior Design both nationally and internationally.

Furthermore, there is a constant demand for competent highly skilled Interior Designers within the interior design and construction industry. Learners with the qualification can be self-employed or work for a reputable company within the industry. Opportunities include:
  • Interior Designers and interior design firms or at architectural practices.
  • Designers at brand architects.
  • Employees or owners of construction companies.
  • Specialists at design consultancies and showrooms.
  • Freelance interior designers and stylists.
  • Stylists for Interior Design Magazines.
  • Owners of own interior design business.
  • Owners of interior design and decorating shops.
  • Textile designers, lighting designers, furniture designers and manufacturers.

    Exposure to the industry is as important to develop and enhance learner skills. Industry outings, guest lectures, internships in the industry and actual projects where clients brief and interact with learners are included in the qualification. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Learners who complete the RPL requirements will be successfully considered for the Diploma qualification in order to increase access into the qualification.

    The institution has a RPL policy in place to broaden access into the qualification.

    Applicants who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements, but can demonstrate comparable RPL competency may be granted admission into the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum requirements for admission into the qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC).
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV), Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at Levels 5 and 6 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, Credits:
  • Building Construction I, 10 Credits.
  • Building Construction II, 10 Credits.
  • Colour Theory, 5 Credits.
  • Computer packages, 6 Credits.
  • History of Design I, 10 Credits.
  • History of Design II, 10 Credits.
  • Introduction to Professional practice, 5 Credits.
  • Law, 5 Credits.
  • Materials Knowledge, 10 Credits.
  • Materials Knowledge, 8 Credits.
  • Sketching, 6 Credits.
  • Technical Drawings, 8 Credits.
  • Textile Design, 5 Credits.

    Two electives per year to be chosen in year 2 and year 3.

    Elective Modules, Level 5:
  • Building construction, 10 Credits.
  • Photography, 5 Credits.
  • Materials Knowledge, 4 Credits.
  • Product Design, 3 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, Credits:
  • Principles and Theory of Interior Design, 55 Credits.
  • Detailed design, 8 Credits.
  • Principles and Theory of Interior Design, 55 Credits.
  • Professional practice, 8 Credits.
  • Technical drawings, 8 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 6:
  • Principles and Theory of Interior Design, 60 Credits.
  • Professional practice, 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
  • Understand the scope of the interior design discipline within the construction industry.
  • Understand the role and possible specialisations of an interior designer as well as the related ethical, social and environmental responsibilities of a designer.
  • Understand the value and scope of a computer aided drawing programme as a tool to communicate a design proposal.
  • Critically analyse building construction methods.
  • Critically evaluate contemporary design influences.
  • Understand the principles of concept development.
  • Interpret detail design drawings, critically, analysing materials and fixing methods and understanding how to solve detail design problems and competition briefs.
  • Interpret technical drawings, critically analysing the behaviour of structures and understanding how to solve construction problems.
  • Design of textiles and understand pattern repeats.
  • Identify the characteristics of the various historical design periods and evaluating how they influence contemporary interior design.
  • Critically evaluate a client brief, the research methods adopted and the effectiveness of the design proposal.
  • Understand research methods and methodology.
  • Understand the value and scope of various computer software.
  • Explain the properties of materials, furnishings, products and finishes.
  • Evaluate how a design practice can be effectively operated.
  • Explain the project management process.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of principles when designing products/objects, as well as extensive knowledge on detailing when designing products/objects.
  • Compile of data, electrical and lighting layouts.
  • Demonstrate the ability to sketch realistically and accurately in various mediums including pen, pencil and copic markers.
  • Develop and construct accurate detail drawings at 1:5, 1:10 and 1:20 scale.
  • Develop and construct accurate technical drawings for a working drawing package.
  • Research, interpret, solve and communicate a professional design proposal to a client.
  • Research and evaluate materials, fixtures, finishes and technology.
  • Apply knowledge of building services, materials, design influences and structures when answering a client brief.
  • Critically evaluate a client brief, the research methods adopted and the effectiveness of the design proposal.
  • Apply knowledge of professional design practice in order to programme, specify, cost and document a design project successfully.
  • Develop and construct a set of council submission drawings and relevant documentation in accordance with National Building Regulations.
  • Apply knowledge of interior design in the workplace.
  • Communicate a design proposal and SketchUp.
  • Compile a design portfolio in the form of an A3 document.
  • Compile a visual document outlining the characteristics of the various design periods for History of Design.
  • Understand the role and possible specialisations of an interior designer as well as the related ethical, social and environmental responsibilities of a designer. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Demonstrate a range of life skills are developed and integrated to enhance the learning process.
  • Understand ideas researched, structured and communicated, using a range of media, in written and spoken word. The structure and the legal framework of the interior design and construction industry.
  • Understand the structure and the legal framework of the interior design and construction industry.
  • Carry out personal leadership skills identified and planning, monitoring and evaluating group projects.
  • Explain and apply professional ethics, social responsibilities and intellectual property rights within interior design contexts are investigated.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the rights and responsibilities of an employee as they are known.
  • Understand the processes and skills required to secure a position, and develop a professional CV.
  • Demonstrate observational skills and the awareness of edges, spaces, relationships, light and shadows in own sketches.
  • Demonstrate a range of drawing techniques, mediums and explore and apply textural mark making ability.
  • Explain and apply the principles of freehand perspective drawing and axonometric drawings.
  • Master various aspects of perspective drawing using mixed media.
  • Apply compositional requirements in drawing and masters them.
  • Use the computer aided drawing techniques and methods as investigated.
  • Produce scaled and dimensioned technical and detail drawings.
  • Demonstrate the ability to import Drawings or objects are imported from a range of sources and export to a range of programmes for presentation purposes.
  • Use the drawing file that is saved, retrieved and printed out to scale using industry standard 3D computer aided drawing software. 3D Computer aided drawing techniques and methods are investigated in the form of Skechup and its plugins.
  • Understand the systems commands are and use them to produce appropriate rendered perspective views while using computer aided drawing software.
  • Understand the systems commands are and use to produce rendered furniture and furnishings while using computer aided drawing software.
  • Use the drawings or objects imported from a range of sources and exported to a range of programmes.
  • Clarify and respond the functional and aesthetic requirements of a design brief as they are analysed.
  • Develop the construction methods, materials and finishes of a design are accurately explained through professionally presented detail drawings.
  • Select appropriate materials and fixing methods for specific applications.
  • Understand the characteristics of various appropriate materials and fixing methods for specific applications are selected.
  • Explain the current methods of low-rise building construction and the function and performance of a building.
  • Explain the current methods of low-rise building construction.
  • Analyse the purpose and function of the elements of a building.
  • Recognise and apply the appropriate equipment, media and techniques are used in the production of a range of technical drawings.
  • Use the Appropriate drawing standards, technical data and terminology.
  • Plan and execute technical drawings to enable erection or construction of the design.
  • Apply the knowledge of building construction, building elements, services, technology, materials and building regulations.
  • Use a comprehensive design brief is established following a meeting with a client.
  • Use a brief analysed, synthesised and evaluated in order to successfully solve the design problem and answer the client's needs and requirements.
  • Analyse the principles and elements of design, evaluated and applied in designs.
  • Use the principles of conceptualisation during the research development, communication and documentation of the concept development process.
  • Apply the Sound social, economic, cultural and environmental principles to the design process.
  • Design functional and user-friendly environments using considered space planning, the application of sound ergonomic principles and the principle of design for all.
  • Apply knowledge of structures, technology, services and safety.
  • Communicate appropriate materials and select finishes and their application.
  • Planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the design process is conducted independently and as part of a team.
  • Evaluated and apply the appropriate verbal, written, visual, and physical mediums and methods to communicate and document a brief.
  • Compile a design portfolio of a professional standard.
  • Undertake in-depth research using paper-based materials and electronic sources.
  • Use creative influences for the effective interpretation and analyses of information.
  • Assess, interpret and evaluate information effectively and develop a personal view.
  • Identify, research, evaluate and present local and international trends in technology, materials, furnishings and finishes to the whole school.
  • Explain the applications and speciation of a range of technology, materials, furnishings and finishes.
  • Source a range of technology, materials, furnishings and explain finishes and relevant information relating to the delivery or installation and cost.
  • Implement, monitor and evaluate a simulated design project using standard procedures and documentation.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the project management process in terms of the phases, role players, legal and cost implications.
  • Select and apply appropriate mediums and methods of communication.
  • Calculate an appropriate fee according to job size and the standard industry compensation model.
  • Develop contractual documentation according to industry standards.
  • Evaluate the principles and factors affecting comfort levels in buildings.
  • Describe the fundamentals and control of natural sound and the use of audio equipment in contemporary buildings.
  • Evaluate lighting and electrical systems within a building.
  • Address the safety and needs of all users when evaluating access and articulation through a building and investigate the use of automated systems.
  • Investigate drainage and water reticulation systems.
  • Investigate appropriate security systems, mechanisms, standards and strategies for control.
  • Investigate appropriate fire safety and prevention systems, mechanisms, legislation and strategies for control.
  • Investigate appropriate health and safety systems, mechanisms, legislation and strategies for control.
  • Describe and evaluate communication and automated building systems.
  • Meet the requirements of a competition brief creatively.
  • Plan and execute working drawings in accordance with National Building Regulations and local authority requirements.
  • Prepare relevant documentation and specifications and use appropriate technical language.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of zoning, title deed restrictions and contractual agreements when the feasibility of a brief is assessed.
  • Apply interior design knowledge and skills in the workplace.
  • Perform work within an organisation as part of a team member and reflect upon the outcomes of the programme.
  • Understand the function of the industry within the design sector.
  • Evaluate personal and company performance critically.
  • Communicate and present conclusions and effectively.
  • Perform relevant research within the field of design and master appropriate research methods and techniques.
  • Define, analyse and understand the research area clearly and critically.
  • Demonstrate awareness of contemporary social, economic and cultural influences on design.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The institution recognises the fundamental importance of learner assessment for multiple purposes that inform systemic judgments particularly to teaching and learning practices at the institution.

    Types of assessment include:
    Case studies, reports, practical exercises, practical projects, project documentation and research, tests, practical examinations, theory examinations, oral presentations, multi-media presentations end of year portfolio.

    Assessment of competence is done through a combination of formative and summative assessment methodologies, tools and procedures, which will not discriminate against learners in an unjust or invalid way. Formative assessment integrates theory with practice, with transfer of skills being conducted in a real or simulated workplace environment. Assessment practices are fair, transparent, valid and reliable.

    The purpose of assessment is to determine whether a learner has met the outcomes of the qualification in terms of theory and practice. Integrative techniques are therefore used to assess applied competence. Learners should be required to demonstrate that they can perform the outcomes with understanding and insight.

    On completion of the assessment process the external and internal assessors, the external moderator, the studio master, the Academic Head and the Head of Institution meet to debate and discuss the general strengths and weaknesses observed, to clarify any discrepancies in the marks and to sign off the final marks. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Diploma in Interior Design can be comparable with diploma qualifications offered at other institutions at Level 6, thus enabling articulation. This is however subject to the chosen institutions admission requirements and policy towards the recognition of prior learning.

    Comparison between the Diploma in Interior Design and the following institutions was conducted:
  • Unitec Institute of Technology New Zealand: Diploma in Applied Interior Design.
  • Inchbald London: Diploma HE Architectural Interior Design and BA (HONS) Architectural Interior Design.
  • The Florence Institute of Design International (FIDI): 1 and 2 year Diploma courses and 3-year Bachelor Degree course.

    The Unitec Institute of Technology in New Zealand offers a Diploma in Applied Interior Design. The Diploma in Interior Design is a 3-year 360 Credit course, opposed to the 240 Credits, 2-year course offered at Unitec. The field of study in South Africa falls under Culture and Art, Design Studies whilst the Unitec diploma falls under Creative Industries, Design and Contemporary Arts. This qualification acknowledges the importance of colour to the interior design field. There is a strong focus on the theory, psychology and application of colour within both residential and commercial spaces. Textiles, material technologies, building construction and environmentally sustainable design are key areas of study in this industry-focused qualification. Students are given opportunities to work within teams on collaborative, 'real-life projects' where they can interact and work alongside architects and business clients. These will stretch and develop your conceptual abilities.

    Comparison between modules and content: Modules that are similar between the two courses:
    The Diploma in Interior Design has 3 modules in The Principals of Interior Design, which Unitec does not have. These modules focus on domestic, commercial and retail design and includes similar course content as the following Unitec Modules: Kitchen and Bathroom Studio, Commercial design Studio 1 and 2, Residential Design Studio, however The Principals of Interior Design Module in this qualification covers more relevant course content, as per the credit breakdown.

    At the end of the Unitec qualification, graduates will have developed the following knowledge, competencies and attitudes, similar to those of this qualification:
  • Understanding the scope of the interior design discipline within the construction industry.
  • Understanding the role and possible specializations of an interior designer as well as the related ethical, social and environmental responsibilities of a designer.
  • Understanding the value and scope of a computer aided drawing programme as a tool to communicate a design proposal.
  • Critically analysing building construction methods.
  • Understanding the principles of concept development.
  • Interpreting technical drawings, critically analysing the behaviour of structures and understanding how to solve construction problems.
  • Identifying the characteristics of the various historical design periods and evaluating how they influence contemporary interior design.
  • Critically evaluating a client brief, the research methods adopted and the effectiveness of the design proposal.
  • Understanding research methods and methodology.
  • Understanding the value and scope of computer programmes.

    At Inchbald in London the Diploma Architecural Interior Design is offered. The Diploma in Interior Design is a 3-year 360 Credit course, opposed to the 1 and 2 year courses offered at Inchbald. Learners at Inchbald obtain a Degree after two years whilst these learners obtain a Diploma in Interior Design in South Africa after three years. When comparing the qualification of Inchbald to the Diploma in Interior Design it is clear that Diploma in Interior Design offers a more comprehensive course outline. The Building construction module of the two courses are very similar and carry a similar weight. This qualification allocates a much larger quantity of its credits to the Theory of Design in order to give learners a solid design foundation. The graphics module of Inchbald is similar in content if one combines the Computer packages and electives from this qualification. Learners in both qualifications complete work internships/experiential learning modules. Learners are counseled on how to present themselves in an interview, deliver their portfolio and approach prospective employers. This is built on with learners interning and furthering their work experience, which allows them to decide where they fit within the interior design industry. However, this qualification is constructed around domestic, commercial and retail interior design and all its components, and also embraces other aspects which relate directly to the design world, not included in the Inchbald courses.

    At the end of the Inchbald qualification, graduates will have developed the following:
  • Core understanding and knowledge of space, proportion, ergonomics, light, colour theory and evaluation of materials/fixtures and fittings.
  • A study of complex residential projects covering planning and alterations.
  • A study of complex retails hospitability and commercial/public spaces.
  • An advanced analysis of the design process and how this is communicated graphically through to the design solution.
  • Lectures on the meaning of design, research and analysis of certain projects.
  • Core technical detailing's exploring plumbing, bathroom and kitchen design, cabinetry, upholstery and lighting design and specification.
  • The costing process/budgets and job administration.
  • Council in construction design management and job administration are supported by work placements prior to graduation.

    At the Florence Institute of Design International (Fidi), the following qualification is offered: Diploma courses in Interior Design. FIDI incorporates a language subject in their first year, which this qualification does not have. FIDI focuses on History of Italian Design in their 2nd year whereas in this qualification, the focus is on the History of Design. FIDI has a Design Research project in their 3rd year, this component is worked into the Principles and theory of this qualification's 3rd year module of this qualification. Also, Colour theory 1, Materials Knowledge 1, 2, 3, Textile Design and Patent and commercial law forms part of this qualification whereas FIDI does not include any of these modules.

    Both courses include an experiential learning module where learners are taught how to present themselves in an interview, deliver their portfolio and approach prospective employers. Learners also work in the industry for 5 weeks to gain invaluable experience in the working world. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for articulation possibilities with the following qualifications.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • A relevant Diploma qualification, Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • A relevant Degree in Interior Design, Level 7. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.