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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. |
| SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
| REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: |
| Postgraduate Diploma in Interior Design |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 118661 | Postgraduate Diploma in Interior Design | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| Cape Peninsula University of Technology | ||||
| PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
| - | HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
| QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
| Postgraduate Diploma | Field 02 - Culture and Arts | Design Studies | ||
| ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
| Undefined | 120 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 08 | Regular-Provider-ELOAC |
| REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
| Reregistered | EXCO 0333/25 | 2025-07-10 | 2028-07-10 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2029-07-10 | 2032-07-10 | |||
| 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 Postgraduate Diploma in Interior Design aims to equip learners to function effectively as a Professional Senior Interior Designer. The scope of work required from senior interior designers includes design development and technical documentation for complex interior fit-outs and adaptive reuse projects in the categories of: The purpose of the qualification is to provide graduates with the knowledge, skills and competencies that will enable entry into an advanced level of practice in the field of study as well as meet the competencies specified by the African Institute of Interior Design professions (AIID) and/or the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP), to enable registration as a Professional Senior Interior Designer. Graduates are expected to meet the requirements as set out by the IAID and future SACAP registration categories, enter the design industry and be able to execute design through all stages from the definition of the brief to design development and documentation through to completion and handover. Graduates will be independent thinkers that can assimilate broad aspects of information, analyse complex problems and compile findings into coherent relevant and appropriate interior design solutions. Graduates are aware of environmental and social sustainability and understand their responsibility in this regard. The qualifying learner will have the competence to apply creativity, problem-solving, specialised knowledge, and management principles to the practical implementation of interior design, after appropriate research, with the support of a well-informed theoretical underpinning. The qualification is designed to equip learners with a deepening of knowledge and skills, and a broadening of the scope of work required and has a strong emphasis on the effective use of technology as the driver for the design process, supported by other aspects such as interior design practice, digital literacy, and environmental design. The teaching and learning strategy are project-based in nature allowing integration and synthesis of knowledge as well as the evaluation of current knowledge, which build skills and competencies across the various aspects of the qualification, hence simulating the workflow in interior design practice. Independent and remote work is encouraged, building learners' ability and confidence in conducting independent research, and communicating their design ideas effectively and succinctly. A variety of digital media is utilised across various platforms, this develops the digital competence required in the workplace, but also contributes a degree of flexibility in the qualification as learners can participate from the workplace if they are registered for the part-time qualification. Qualifying learners will be able to: Rationale: The purpose of the qualification is to provide graduates with advanced entry into the professional practice of interior design through the accumulation of knowledge, skills, and attributes, aligned with the competencies specified by the AIID, The African Institute for the Interior Design Professions, to enable registration as a Professional Senior Interior Designer. Graduates will be independent thinkers that can assimilate broad aspects of information, analyse complex problems and compile findings into coherent, relevant, and appropriate interior design solutions. Graduates are aware of environmental and social sustainability and understand their responsibility in this regard. They can make decisions in the built environment that reflects this awareness. Completion of the qualification will allow progression into a Professional Masters Interior Architecture Degree. Interior Design Professionals can currently register with the African Institute for the Interior Design Professions (AIID), the only professional body representing the Interior Design industry in South Africa The Institute is dedicated to establishing, promoting, and maintaining expertise, professionalism, sound business practice and high standards throughout the industry (IID, 2014). Membership of the IID declares the interior design professional's status as a qualified, experienced, and ethical practicing professional. The IID is a Member of IFI, the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers and a Voluntary Association Member of SACAP. The AIID currently allows for four registration categories which include: The tertiary qualifications levels and related work experience is considered when registering a candidate for one of these categories. The qualification is recognised by the AIID as a level where a graduate may register as a Professional Senior Interior Designer (Advanced Diploma + work experience OR Postgraduate Diploma) and Professional Interior Architect (Professional Masters Interior Architecture). The qualification will benefit learners since the SACAP currently exempts 'interior architectural designers' to enable them to submit drawings and documentation to local authorities related to the interior design of buildings. An interior architectural designer is defined as, "a person who is qualified by education and has recognised experience and skills to design interior spaces, with knowledge of space planning, building and material technology, interior construction, building climate regulations, materials and furnishings and capable of preparing drawings and technical documentation relative to the design of interior spaces for submission to a local authority and purposes of construction." Stakeholders consulted in conceptualising the qualification include curriculum developers in qualifications at other Interior Design/Architecture Learning Sites, specifically at Universities of Technology and comprehensive Universities; professional bodies, South African education researchers, the interior design profession through formal stakeholder meetings and informal discussions, alumni through formal surveys and informal interviews, current learners and full-time and contract academic staff of the Department. Discussions with the professional body AIID and SACAP centred on the professional recognition of the industry, the purpose of the qualification, the extent to which the competencies specified by AIID is embedded in either formal education or industry experience, and what is currently transpiring in the educational realm in interior design/architecture throughout the country and internationally. The agreed formal legislation and the inclusion under the umbrella of SACAP will have a profound influence on the profession and the education of Interior Design/Architecture in South Africa. Postgraduate Diploma in Interior Design enables registration as a Professional Senior Interior Designer (two-year, blended learning, with the option to be full-time employment in interior design practice, or under the supervision of a mentor - registered professional) The strength of the qualification is in building research rigour and allowing a Diploma learner to bridge into a professional Master's degree. Master of Interior Architecture enables registration as a Professional Interior Architect (one year full-time or two years part-time). As part of the conceptualising process, the institution also conducted online questionnaires to obtain feedback from both practitioners and alumni. It was revealed that the Alumni, specifically those that want to study further, indicated that the option of a part-time course was preferred, to enable working learners to study further. 'Learn while you earn', was deemed to be crucial, in the current economic crisis faced by our country, post-COVID 19. The qualification in which research and independent application will be the focus, enabling learners to make a comfortable transition into the Master's Degree. The new professional categories imply that learners can enter the profession as independent practitioners at several exit levels of study. Learners must be equipped with enough professional knowledge through formal studies to enable them to successfully start and manage their own practices. Along with a sense of social responsibility instilled through project work, aspects of entrepreneurship are introduced, through the Interior Practice subject. Learners are taught how to establish their own practices, that focus on work beyond the "traditional" practice. Working and building a continued awareness of the interior design profession within South African communities as part of the interior design curriculum, puts the qualification firmly in line with the innovation drive to find new solutions to the real issues in society; social transformation through advanced social responsiveness in the curriculum and the application of knowledge to solve real-life problems. The qualification is geared to make learners aware of how they can contribute to the country's social needs. |
| LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
| Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part or completely through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal, and non-formal learning and work experience. The RPL process involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement of knowledge and skills obtained through informal, non-formal and/ or formal learning. The RPL is multi-dimensional and multi-contextual in nature, aimed at the individual needs of applicants. The RPL process includes guidance and counselling, as well as the preparation of a body of evidence to be presented by the RPL candidate to meet institutional requirements. RPL in this qualification will relate to gaining access to the qualification and/or credits/ towards advanced standing as described in institutional guidelines in line with the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of RPL (Amended in March 2019). RPL for Access: Learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements of the required qualification may be considered for RPL. There are two options: OR RPL for credits: Learners who do meet the necessary entry requirements for admission to a qualification may be awarded some or all the credits towards the qualification. There are two possibilities: OR Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: or or |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.
Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 96 Credits: Elective Modules, Level 8, 24 Credits (Select any two from the following modules): |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| 1. Develop effective advanced and complex construction solutions for load-bearing interior fit-out systems.
2. Apply relevant contextual, social, cultural, political, aesthetic and environmentally appropriate aspects related to interior design. 3. Demonstrate a working knowledge of professional interior design practice and procedures. 4. Communicate with clients, relevant authorities, contractors, and other professionals, effectively using a variety of appropriate media. 5. Respond to environmental concerns through the application of sustainable building principles to all aspects of a design project. |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| Interior Design/Architecture education centres on the project-based studio model. Internationally there has been a trend towards introducing live projects (real projects) into the studio environment. These projects take the learner into the real world and often deal with aspects of social and environmental improvement projects. These are aspects that the South African institution has been engaged in over the past few years and that have now been circulated into the Postgraduate Diploma, within the electives and the design project-based work.
Internationally interior design qualifications that align themselves with architectural courses and are more vocationally and hands-on orientated have been investigated. The outcomes, assessment criteria, degree of complexity and the notional learning time of this qualification have been favourably compared to similar qualifications from the following institutions: Country: United Kingdom Institution: Chelsea College of Arts Qualification Title: Graduate Diploma Interior Design Duration: One year (full time) NQF Level: Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications (FEHQ) 6 Credits: 120 Entry requirements: BA (Hons) degree or equivalent academic qualifications Evidence of ability in art or design Alternative qualifications and experience will also be taken into consideration Personal statement Portfolio of work RPL: Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning (APEL) Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases. The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by: Each application will be considered on its own merit but cannot guarantee an offer in each case. Purpose/Rationale: The qualification is equivalent to the third year of an interior design undergraduate course and articulates onto the postgraduate level study. The qualification will also aid the transition into the professional world of interior design. The qualification is intended for learners from many different backgrounds who have already gained a first degree. A supportive environment that advances knowledge of interior design practices through an understanding of the concepts, techniques and debates and discourses which underpin them. The qualification aims to encourage an aptitude for independent learning and an ability to work in teams, to develop the creative, critical, analytic, evaluative and collaborative skills required of the interior design practitioner. Interior Design subject orientation for graduate learners with a background in a related subject at Higher Education level 3. It provides learners with the opportunity to engage critically within the contemporary design context and to create a strong portfolio of interior design work that will enable them to apply for higher degree studies at Masters level or to enhance their current employment and career prospects. The unique features of this qualification are as follows: Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to: Qualification structure: The qualification consists of two compulsory modules: Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits: Unit 1 - Elements of Interior Design, 60 Credits This unit is an introduction to your course Projects that focus on how a client/user inhabits interior space An introduction to the research-led practice You will explore the design of a series of domestic and other residential interior elements before creating a full design proposal. Unit 2 - Comprehensive Design Project, 60 Credits. In this unit, you will initiate your own comprehensive design project in the public realm. You will choose a location, make an analysis of an interior, and establish a design brief for a new programme of habitation or occupation. Mode of delivery: Graduate Diploma Interior Design is offered in full-time mode and consists of 30 teaching weeks over one academic year. Learners will be expected to commit an average of 40 hours per week to your course, including teaching hours and independent study. Learning and Teaching Methods Assessment Methods Similarities: Differences: The international qualification is registered at FEHQ Level 6 while the South African qualification is registered at NQF Level 8. Country: India Institution: JD Institute of Fashion Technology Qualification Title: Postgraduate Diploma in Interior and Spatial Design Duration: Two years Purpose/Rationale: This qualification combines architectural knowledge, project management, and creative design skills. It is aimed at individuals who wish to prove their mantle for the bigger game and understand the ins and outs of everything that goes into designing interiors and be up there with the best. The Post Graduate Diploma Programme in Interior Design aims at developing professionals for the interior industry. The qualification inculcates a comprehensive understanding of space styling and decor through design conceptualization and its application in the interiors by classroom lectures, market study, industry interaction and projects. It is particularly beneficial for candidates looking to start their entrepreneurial journey, whether solo or in collaboration. From non-traditional conceptual developments to complex execution and interpretation processes in terms of spatial expression, the Post Graduate Diploma offered by JD Institute is an excellent choice for candidates willing to further explore the creative spectrum in terms of tangible designs by exploiting the latest advancements in the technological front with innovative ideas. The two-year full-time Post Graduate program helps prepare each candidate with the current advanced level of 3D model making software including AutoCAD, 3Ds max to create industry-standard Realistic visualization of Spaces. This Post Graduate Diploma in Interior Design aims to: Degree course in Interior Design is an ever-growing and widely desired professional field that holds an acute demand for creative professionals who are willing to shape this evolving art in line with the unchecked progress of the Real Estate and Construction Industries. There is a vital scope for interior designing in India. One can work as an Entrepreneur, Interior stylist, Visualizer for Retail and Merchandiser, Exhibition Designer, Event Designer, Interior Project Manager and so on. Learning Outcomes: This Post Graduate Diploma in Interior Design will enable the learners to acquire the skills to communicate in technical drawing language. Learners will achieve knowledge of innovative materials, a sense of space planning, Indian Art & Crafts, Heritage, Design standards & Design projects. Qualification structure: The Postgraduate Diploma in Interior and Spatial Design is a new programme that blends Interior and Spatial Design which ensures the easy way for the learners who wants to do their Diploma in Interior and Spatial Design. This two-year qualification is aimed at providing basic to intermediate training for interior design aspirants in the first year and following three elective directions in the second year for specialisation followed by a rigorous industry training program. This aim is achieved through a well-balanced teaching programme that solidifies the necessary methodological tools for approaching a project. Topics covered in the course are included in the study plan to consolidate historical and cultural backgrounds and provide a conceptual framework to refer to. This includes portrayal techniques, theory, and the physiology of perceived phenomena. General training, on the other hand, aims to provide the mastery of technical and technological instruments, the understanding of operative supports and the vocabulary of Interior and Spatial Design. First Year: Second Year: Electives Modules: Similarities Differences: The international qualification is completed over two years while the South African qualification is completed in one year of study. Comparison: Further comparison is outlined below. The key characteristics of the Bachelor of Interior Design NQF 8 internationally, the Bachelor of Interior Design at the Oxford Brookes University, Queensland University of Technology, Auburn University align, closely with their architecture programs and the alignment becomes less as the learner progresses further along the study path. These qualifications emphasise live projects, hands-on and full-scale exploration with close industry links. Of special interest is the course at the College of Architecture, Design and Construction at Auburn University. The College is a leader in the field with its focus on hands-on experience and user-oriented design. Learners can elect to take part in real community projects in their third year (equal to the Advanced Diploma) as well as in their fifth year, equal to the Postgraduate Diploma. This is in line with real projects that the South African institution introduced over the past few years, and which is now embedded in the projects of the new curriculum. All the schools studied emphasised the introduction of live projects and environmental design, both these are being covered within the Postgraduate Diploma. |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation: Vertical Articulation: |
| MODERATION OPTIONS |
| N/A |
| 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. |