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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
119485  Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice 
ORIGINATOR
Stadio (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Physical Planning, Design and Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  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 
The Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice is an "entry-level higher education qualification" (HEQSF, 2013:21). The purpose of the qualification is to equip learners with the skills, competencies, and academic knowledge required to practice in the Built Environment as a Candidate Architectural Draughtsperson. The qualification is intended for learners who want to obtain an expeditious professional qualification; learners who are curious about the profession and who want to spend a year constructively and/or learners who do not yet meet the requirements to enter a degree or Diploma qualification. Awareness of practicing architecture with social and environmental consciousness, practicing collaboratively, responding to all aspects of context, and operating with an entrepreneurial mindset are emphasised. An environment that encourages inquiry and exploration into innovative building technologies sets the learning context. Learners will be equipped to enter architectural practice and meaningfully contribute at the Draughtsperson level; or pursue further education in architecture or a related field.

The curriculum of the Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice comprises six modules and will be delivered through contact teaching. Learning will be informed by a flexible, blended methodology and supported by online and hands-on, practical experiences. The curriculum structure and learning design will enable a learner to study full-time or part-time. This allows any learner, but especially those who cannot afford full-time studies, the opportunity to learn while they earn. It also enables mid-career development, career change, and lifelong learning.

The required SACAP competencies for a Draughtsperson are embedded in the six modules. In the Studio module, the knowledge and skills obtained in the other five modules are applied in the creation of fundamental design and contract documentation that a Draughtsperson is required to master. Design underpins all processes in the architectural discipline and design thinking, creative thinking, and critical thinking skills, as well as basic problem-solving skills, are made explicit in the modules that introduce spatial and architectural design principles and creativity. The other modules facilitate the development of the necessary literacy skills, basic knowledge of sustainable construction, and the professional knowledge and skills required for a Draughtsperson.

Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Produce design drawings and local authority and contract documentation for simple, double-storey buildings, under supervision and as part of a professional team.
  • Employ graphic, software, mathematical, verbal, and written literacy skills required to practice as an architectural draughtsperson.
  • Identify and apply appropriate construction methods, materials, and services for the development of simple, sustainable double-storey buildings.
  • Participate in the architectural profession with an awareness of the social and environmental obligations, entrepreneurial potential, and the professional and operational responsibilities required of an architectural Draughtsperson.
  • Appreciate appropriate spatial design principles applicable to simple double-storey dwellings as informed by contextual, social, functional, and technological precedents.
  • Demonstrate awareness of creative and innovative solutions for spatial design practice. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable with regard to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules, and credits for or towards the qualification.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal, and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

    RPL for credit:
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal, and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 without endorsement.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate Studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate Studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5,120 Credits:
  • Architectural Studio, 20 Credits.
  • Introduction to Spatial and Architectural Design Principles, 20 Credits.
  • Introduction to Sustainable Construction, 20 Credits.
  • Literacies for Architecture Practice, 20 Credits.
  • Creativity for Architectural Practice, 20 Credits.
  • Professional Development for Architectural Practice, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Produce design drawings and local authority and contract documentation for simple, double-storey buildings, under supervision and as part of a professional team.
    2. Employ graphic, software, mathematical, verbal, and written literacy skills required to practice as an architectural draughtsperson.
    3. Identify and apply appropriate construction methods, materials, and services for the development of simple, sustainable double-story buildings.
    4. Participate in the architectural profession with an awareness of the social and environmental obligations, entrepreneurial potential, and the professional and operational responsibilities required of an architectural draughtsperson.
    5. Appreciate appropriate spatial design principles applicable to simple double-story dwellings as informed by contextual, social, functional, and technological precedents.
    6. Demonstrate awareness of creative and innovative solutions for spatial design practice. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply production design drawings and local authority and contract documentation for simple, double-storey buildings, under supervision and as part of a professional team.
  • Evaluate graphic, software, mathematical, verbal, and written literacy skills required to practice as an architectural Draughtsperson.
  • Identify application of appropriate construction methods, materials, and services for the development of simple, sustainable double-storey buildings.
  • Recognise and appreciate appropriate spatial design principles informed by the contextual, functional, technological, and social precedent of simple double-storey buildings.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify and employ appropriate graphic techniques and media for a variety of applications, including the recording of information and various forms of communication and documentation.
  • Apply software programs for building modelling, presentation, documentation, and administration.
  • Execute basic mathematical calculations related to the design and documentation of a simple double-storey.
  • Apply appropriate vocabulary in all communication related to architectural practice at draughtsperson level.
  • Develop a basic but comprehensive academic research project.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Apply fundamental rules of thumb to explore structural solutions in simple double-storey buildings.
  • Illustrate knowledge of a variety of basic construction methods, materials, and services to solve construction challenges for simple double-storey buildings.
  • Identify environmental and passive design principles for the design of sustainable external and internal building environments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Define the architectural professional's position in the broader built environment and the different types of architectural practice.
  • Recognise the impact of the architectural profession and the role of a Draughtsperson in South African society.
  • Explain the operational systems of an architectural office.
  • Develop a career plan and course of action for the future.
  • Describe the attributes and skills of an entrepreneur in architectural practice.
  • Participate in an organised community engagement project.
  • Participate in a simulated office project.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply basic design theory.
  • Identify historic patterns of African human habitats.
  • Identify spatial design and organisation principles for residential buildings.
  • Organise a simple residential building diagrammatically.
  • Apply basic precedent analysis skills.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Explain creativity in architectural practice.
  • Employ innovation and abstract reasoning in relation to solving simple design problems.
  • Participate in the design process through the exploration of simple design problems.
  • Contribute to individual and collaborative design conversations with lecturers and peers.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    Formative Assessment:
    Projects, and the process of completing the projects, form the primary assessment instrument for all modules. A project may contain multiple milestones that represent different assessment tasks (writing, drawing, quiz, discussion, etc.) to be successfully completed towards the final project outcome. Each milestone provides an opportunity for feedback and formative assessment, but not all milestones are graded. Feedback can be verbal, written, synchronous or asynchronous. In the studio formative assessment (feedback) is provided by means of the design critique or "crit", a learning conversation through which learning is facilitated. In all cases, rubrics are provided to guide learning and facilitate grading.
    Projects are the Community Engagement Project and simulated Office Experience Project in the module "Professional Development for Architectural Practice", which are assessed in the same manner as any other projects, with milestones, feedback and a final project outcome guided by an assessment rubric.

    Summative Assessment:
    A portfolio review is used as the summative assessment instrument for each module. In architectural education and the architectural profession, a portfolio refers to a coherent and curated body of work. The portfolio may contain assignments, drawings, reflections, essays, and any other assessment outcome generated by the learner. A portfolio review is an accepted architectural assessment instrument. In the portfolio review learners individually present their work to a panel of examiners.
    Learners can improve their work for their final portfolio review, and they are required to curate the portfolio to best represent their work. The portfolio can also be presented as part of a job application or towards applying for further studies.
    In all cases, rubrics are provided to guide learner learning and facilitate grading. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification has been compared with the similar qualifications offered by the following international countries.
    The Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice compares favourably with similar qualifications offered at higher education institutions of good standing in other parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States of America.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: Architectural Association School of Architecture (AASA).
    Qualification: AA Foundation Award in Architecture Foundation Course.
    NQF Level: Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) Level 4.
    Credits: 120
    Duration: One-year Full Time

    Similarities:
    The Architectural Association School of Architecture (AASA) qualification is compared to the South African (SA) qualification in the following criteria.

    Duration:
    Both the UK and SA qualifications are offered over a period of one-year full-time study.

    Credits:
  • Both qualifications carry the same weight of 120 Credits.

    Purpose:
    The UK qualification provides a broad overview of the design, making and thinking skills required for enrolling in any of the degree qualifications, including interior design, interior architecture, architecture, furniture design and building product design. 'The qualification believes in an intersectional approach which encourages learners to learn across discipline boundaries, evolving an understanding of the interconnected nature of their future professional lives.

    Aim of the qualification
  • To visit various architectural projects and exhibitions with the designers that authored them, to understand the precedents that influenced the design and how that helped articulate design decisions.
  • Identify a series of inspirational precedents that begin to help articulate how individual work might develop to act as an introduction to interests. This is intended to act as a methodology that a learner will continue throughout their studies and beyond.
  • Identify the territory or territories within which the developing work of each learner can be discussed and identify the context of content Architectural Association School of Architecture.

    Qualification structure:
    The AASA qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.
  • Foundation Studio Practice, 70 Credits.
  • Foundation Contextual, 30 Credits.
  • Foundation Technique, 20 Credits.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Both the AASA and the SA qualifications are assessed through formative and summative assessment methods.

    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment is provided weekly at tutorials, periodic studio pin-ups and juries. A more formal formative assessment is provided in the Studio Practice module through the January Progress Reviews in week 13 (week 1 of Term 2) after which written feedback is provided to assist learners in the preparation for their subsequent work.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment of Foundation Studio Practice takes place at 'Tables' in week 30. Portfolios of drawings, images, models, films, and animations are presented either physically or digitally (according to AA direction) to a Review Panel of Foundation tutors and tutors from other areas of the school to ensure parity of assessment. Summative assessment of Foundation Contextual takes place at the end of each term; and Foundation Technique at the end of Term 1 and Term 2.

    Differences:
  • The AASA qualification is registered at NQF Level 4 while the SA qualification is registered at NQF Level 5.
  • The AASA qualification consists of three compulsory modules whereas the SA qualification consists of six compulsory modules.

    Country: Australia.
    Institution: Melbourne Polytechnic.
    Qualification: Certificate IV in Building Design Drafting.
    Duration: One-year Full Time.

    Similarities:
    The Melbourne Polytechnic (MP) qualification is comparable to the South African (SA) qualification in the following criteria.

    Duration:
    Both qualifications are offered over a period of one-year full-time study.

    Entry Requirements:
    Both qualifications have a minimum entry requirement of Grade 12.

    Academic:
    Australian Year 12 equivalency.
    Or
    English:
    Academic IELTS 5.5 overall with no individual band below 5.0, or equivalency.

    Purpose:
    Both the MP and SA qualifications have a predominant focus both on preparation for entry into the architectural profession and on preparing learners for further studies. The MP and SA qualifications provide building design drafters with the competencies required to support building designers and architects. The building design drafter may work on a wide range of building design projects, including high-rise commercial projects, but always under the supervision and instruction of an appropriately licensed or accredited architect or building designer. The role of the drafter includes using building information modelling (BIM)-capable current industry standard building design software to produce drawings and documentation required by clients and stakeholders, and for the planning and building authorisation processes. It also involves researching and applying relevant information, including drawings and reports from other construction professionals and compliance requirements relevant to specific projects. The drafter also provides administrative support to the design team, including data collection and storage, and file management.

    Qualification structure:
    The MP qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules. To achieve the MP qualification, competency must be demonstrated in 15 units of competency made of:
  • 9 core units
  • 6 elective units.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Research and evaluate construction materials and methods for building design projects.
  • Research and apply compliance requirements to technical construction documentation.
  • Collect, apply, and store building design project information.
  • Set up BIM-capable software and files for building design drafting projects.
  • Review and report structural integrity of building designs.
  • Import and transpose information from external sources into digital.
    building design drawings.
  • Store and retrieve building design documentation.
  • Produce digital building design concept drawings.
  • Produce 2-D building design drawings using CAD software.

    Elective Modules:
  • Prepare to work safely in the construction industry.
  • Apply WHS requirements, policies, and procedures in the construction industry.
  • Analyse building design drawings and review findings.
  • Prepare documentation for planning approval.
  • Prepare documentation for building approval.
  • Provide support to project building designers.
  • Produce construction detail drawings.
  • Inspect and analyse sites and produce measured drawings for small-scale building design projects.
  • Produce digital models and documentation for interior design projects.

    The content of the Certificate IV in Building Design Drafting includes units of study such as Produce Digital Building Design Concept Drawings, Produce 2-D Drawings for Building Design Projects Using Cad Software, Prepare Documentation for Planning Approval, Prepare Documentation for Building Approval", Produce Construction Detail Drawings, Inspect and Analyse Sites and Produce Measured Drawings for Small-Scale Building Design Projects which is very similar to the sub-topics of the module Architectural Studio, of the proposed Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice.

    The content also includes units of study comparable to the sub-topics of the module Introduction to Sustainable Construction. These units are Research and Evaluate Construction Materials and Methods for Building Design Projects and Research and Apply Compliance Requirements to Technical Construction Documentation.

    Assessment Methods:
    The MP and SA qualifications are assessed using both formative and summative assessments, which include:
  • Projects.
  • Assignments.
  • Written.
  • Oral Questioning.
  • Examinations.
  • Tests.
  • Presentation.

    Articulation:
  • Both the MP and the SA qualifications articulate vertically to Diploma and/or bachelor's degree studies.

    Differences:
  • The SA qualification carries a weighting of 120 credits while the MP qualification carries a weighting of 15 units.
  • The MP qualification consists of both compulsory and elective modules whereas the SA qualification consists of compulsory modules and no electives.

    Country: Australia.
    Institution: Curtin College.
    Qualification: Diploma of Built Environment.
    Duration: 12 months.

    Similarities:
    The Curtin College (CoC) qualification is comparable to the South African (SA) qualification in the following criteria.

    Duration:
    Both the CoC and SA qualifications are offered over a period of one-year full-time study.

    Entry Requirements:
    To be eligible for admission into the CoC qualification, candidates must have completed:
  • Year 11 with 50% or STAT score of 110.
  • Minimum ATAR of 50.
    Or AQF Certificate IV.
  • Or equivalent Foundation Year grades or WAUFP with a CPS of 40 or STAT score of 110 (higher than Quantitative or Verbal scores).
  • Minimum ATAR of 60 or equivalent Foundation Year grades or WAUFP with a CPS of 45.

    Purpose
    In Architectural Science and Interior Architecture learners will learn together about building design and construction, the relationship of architecture to people and how people live, the communication of architectural ideas, how to design quality environments, and how coordinate the design and construction of a diverse range of environments. Graduates will have an improved understanding of the architectural process and be better prepared to take on more advanced roles in the architectural technology sector.

    The qualification is aimed at those already in the construction industry, and who wish to study part-time while they work. The course is ideal for those in junior architectural roles who wish to broaden their knowledge of architectural design and technology to advance their career into more senior positions. Highly regarded by local employers, this regularly revised programme helps learners to develop a sound understanding of the design and detailing required to complete major construction projects. Learners also learn fundamental design principles, health and safety requirements and critical thinking skills.

    The industry-focused curriculum encourages learners to develop practical skills. Our professional facilities include construction-specific laboratories, computer-aided design (CAD) stations, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, Google SketchUp Pro, 3D printers and large format printers and scanners. By using these resources, Solent learners can develop the specific skills required by the architectural technology industry - as well as a range of transferable skills that are applicable in other industries.

    Learners also could work in our architectural design studio. This modern space is developed to mirror the atmosphere of a working professional studio, bringing learners together from various building design courses to collaborate on multidisciplinary projects just as they would in the workplace.

    Qualification structure:
    The Curtin College (CoC) consists of compulsory and elective modules in which a learner must choose one model from the elective modules.

    The specialist units for architecture and interior architecture are:
  • Philosophy and Practice which is related to Introduction to Spatial and Design Principles in SA qualification.
  • Cities and Suburbs is related to Introduction to Spatial and Design Principles in SA qualification.
  • Architecture Design I is related to Introduction to Spatial and Design Principles and Creativity for Architectural Practice in SA qualification.
  • Interior Design Studio II is related to Introduction to Spatial and Design Principles and Creativity for Architectural Practice in SA qualification.
  • Graphic Communication I is related to Literacies for Architectural Practice in SA qualification.
  • Graphic Communication II is related to Literacies for Architectural Practice in SA qualification.
  • Technology of Design is related to Introduction to Sustainable Construction in SA qualification.

    Differences:
    Entry Requirements.
    The CoC qualification requires candidates who completed Year 11 whereas the SA qualification requires applicants who completed Year 12.

    Articulation:
    The Curtin College (CoC) articulates to bachelor's qualification in which it prepares learners for entry into various bachelor's degrees related to the architectural profession, while the South African (SA) qualification articulates to Diploma related qualification

    Country: United States of America.
    Institution: Western Technical College.
    Qualification structure: Architectural Technology Associate Degree.
    Duration: Four Semesters.
    Credits: 63 Credit Hours.

    Similarities:
    The Western Technical College (WTC) qualification is comparable to the South African (SA) qualification in the following criteria.

    Entry Requirements:
    To enrol in WTC and SA qualifications, learners must have completed one year of High School Geometry or one term of College Geometry with a grade of C or more.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    Architecture is a blend of art and science, of beauty and practicality. As an architectural technician, learners will learn how to design residential and commercial buildings that are not only functional and fit into their environments, but also how to build them economically. The qualification focuses on using the latest technology to solve problems faced by the architect, the engineer, and building contractor as they apply to the planning and construction of buildings. Heavy emphasis is placed on Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Computer-Aided Design (CAD), with the practical aspects of choosing building materials, estimating, structural principles, and building systems also covered. A capstone project takes the learner from preliminary building proposals through the preparation of construction documents.

    Exit Level Outcomes:
    On completion of the WTC and SA qualifications, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Develop construction documents.
  • Evaluate building materials.
  • Develop building designs.
  • Integrate building systems.
  • Apply structural principles in all phases of an architectural project.
  • Estimate the materials and costs required to construct a building.
  • Correlate significant structures with their architectural precedent.

    The WTC and SA qualifications lay a strong foundation for a career as:
  • Construction planner.
  • Architectural assistant/architectural engineer.
  • Architectural Estimator/Drafter.
  • Architect Designer.
  • Architectural Drafter.
  • Architectural Revit Designer.
  • CAD Designer/Project Manager.
  • Design Engineer.

    Qualification structure:
    The WTC qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.
  • History and Theory of Architecture, 2 Credits.
  • Architectural CAD, 3 Credits.
  • Introduction of Architectural CAD, 4 Credits.
  • Building Science and Materials, 3 Credits.
  • College Mathematics, 3 Credits.
  • Architectural Drafting - Residential, 4 Credits.
  • Structural Drafting - Residential, 3 Credits.
  • Building Estimating, 3 Credits.
  • English Composition I, 3 Credits.
  • Oral/Interpersonal Communication3 Credits.
  • Architectural Drafting - Commercial, 4 Credits.
  • Architectural Detailing, 3 Credits.
  • Structural Drafting - Commercial, 3 Credits.
  • Architectural Practice, 1 Credit.
  • Technical Reporting, 3 Credits.
  • Introduction to Psychology, 3 Credits.
  • Structural Analysis, 3 Credits.
  • Architectural Building Information Management, 2 Credits.
  • Architectural Capstone, 4 Credits.
  • Building Systems, 3 Credits.
  • Economics, 3 Credits.

    Assessment Strategies:
    Both the WTC and SA qualifications are assessed through formative and summative assessments which include:
  • Research Poster.
  • Portfolio.
  • Written Objective Test.
  • Comparison Paper.
  • Reflection Presentation.
  • Portfolio
  • Skill Demonstration.
  • Research Project.
  • Simulation.
  • Case Study.
  • written essays.
  • Assignments.
  • Oral Presentations.
  • Class Discussion.
  • Tests.
  • Examinations.

    Differences:
  • The WTC qualification is offered over a period of two years whereas the SA qualification is offered over one-year full-time study.
  • The WTC qualification carries a weighting of 63 credits while the SA qualification carries a weighting of 120 credits.

    Country: Ireland
    Institution: Dún Laoghaire Further Education Institute.
    Qualification Title: Architectural Technology and Design.
    NQF Level: Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 5.

    Similarities:
    The Dún Laoghaire Further Education Institute (DFEI) is comparable to the South African (SA) qualification in the following criteria.

    Duration:
    Both the DFEI and SA qualifications are offered over a period of one year of full-time study.

    NQF Level:
    The DFEI and SA qualifications are registered at NQF Level 5.

    Entry Requirements:
    Both the DFEI and SA qualifications require applicants who hold one of the following:
  • School Leaving Certificate (LC Established, LCVP, LCA) or equivalent
  • A Full Level 4 QQI Award (or equivalent)
  • For Mature applicants (aged 21 or over), the appropriate experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.

    Purpose:
    The DFEI and SA qualifications are intended for learners who wish to develop a portfolio of valuable skills, for example, Architectural Drawing, CAD2D and 3D, Architectural Model Making and Design. These skills will equip learners to find employment in the architectural, engineering and design sectors and/or also to progress third-level colleges. Learners achieve a level of competence and confidence in their skills to maximise their abilities and potential for the future. Graduates will be equipped with the skills for employment opportunities in surveying, construction and, 3D design within the architectural, engineering and design sectors.

    Qualification structure:
    The DFEI qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.
    Compulsory Modules:
  • Architectural Drawing.
  • Building Construction
  • Computer Aided Draughting (2D).
  • Design Skills.
  • Mathematics.
  • Spreadsheet Methods.
  • Communications.
  • Work Experience.
  • Introduction to Revit 3D.

    The relevant modules that compare to the SA qualification include Architectural Drawing, Building Construction, Computer Aided Draughting (2D), Design Skills, Mathematics, Communications, and Work Experience. The content of these modules relates to the modules Architectural Studio, Literacies for Architectural Practice, Introduction to Sustainable Construction, Professional Development for Architectural and Introduction to Spatial and Architectural Design Disciplines.

    Work Experience:
    Learners will be required to undertake a period of work placement in an organisation connected to their vocational area during the academic year. Work Experience is mandatory for all our full-time Level 5 courses. Learners are required to source their own work placement but will be assisted in this by the work experience teacher. The work placement is usually for a period of ten days or a minimum of 60 hours. Students usually find the work experience element of the course to be invaluable and should bear in mind that a successful work placement can sometimes lead to further opportunities.

    Assessment:
    Both the DFEI and SA qualifications are assessed through a combination of formative and summative assessment methods. Assessment techniques will be used to assess the knowledge and skills that learners will have achieved on successful completion of modules consisting of:
  • Learner Record.
  • Collection of Work/Portfolio.
  • Assignments.
  • Examination (Written).
  • Projects.
  • Skills Demonstration.
  • Assignments.
  • Tests
  • Case studies.

    Articulation:
    DFEI and SA graduates may progress to the Level 6 QQI Advanced Certificate in Architectural Technology and Design, Diploma, Level 6, and/or bachelor's degree studies in the related field.

    Differences:
    The DFEI qualification consists of a compulsory workplace experience whereas the SA qualification does not have mandatory work-integrated learning. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Architectural Technology, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Architecture, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Interior Design and Decoration, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Design Thinking, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Architecture, NQF Level 6
  • Diploma Architectural Technology, NQF Level 6.
  • Bachelor of Architectural Studies, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    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.