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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
120747  Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design 
ORIGINATOR
EDUVOS (Pty) Ltd (Previously Pearson Institute of Higher Education (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
National First Degree  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 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  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 replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
99332  Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  360  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design is to provide learners with an opportunity to gain valuable and specialised design, technical and software knowledge, skills, and practical experience in the field of Graphic Design. The first two levels of study focus on introducing the learner to the basic principles of Graphic Design and then developing their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in relation to these principles. In Level 3, the emphasis is on the advanced development and application of the learner's previous design and conceptual skills, using specialised high-end software, in a practical environment.

The qualification aims to develop learners to be creative, adaptable, and professionally competent in visual communication and design. The qualification provides learners with specialised design, technical, and software knowledge, as well as practical studio and workplace experience. Learners are introduced to the foundational principles of design at entry level, progress to the development of theoretical knowledge and practical application and culminate in advanced conceptual and technical competence using high-end industry software in a professional context.

The learners of this qualification will be able to conceptualise, develop, and present innovative design solutions across print, digital, and emerging media platforms. They will demonstrate the ability to analyse and evaluate design processes critically, apply creative and problem-solving strategies to communication challenges, and present work effectively to diverse audiences. The qualification also promotes ethical awareness, social responsibility, and cultural sensitivity, enabling qualifying learners to respond to the social, cultural, and economic dimensions of design in South Africa and beyond.

The qualification will produce qualifying learners with appropriate knowledge and skills that will enable them to choose from a range of career options in the field of Graphic Design, including Graphic Designer, Graphic Artist, Layout Artist, Animation Artist, Webpage Designer, Art Director, and Creative Director.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Research, conceptualise, analyse and produce creative and conceptual design solutions to complex design problems, within a traditional print-based context.
  • Communicate design messages critically, using a variety of visual communication methodologies and predominantly print technologies.
  • Create and present a professional print-based design portfolio which critically reflects a personal design philosophy and a socially responsible engagement.
  • Operate graphic design related to computer hardware and software at an industry level.
  • Articulate and represent ideas and arguments, which reflect an understanding of graphic design practices within design discourse.
  • Conduct and evaluate research to create logical design arguments.

    Rationale:
    The qualification responds to the growing demand for skilled design professionals who can combine creative, technical, and critical capabilities in addressing the needs of South Africa's rapidly evolving digital and creative industries. Consultation with stakeholders in the graphic design and visual communication sector, including professional designers, design studios, and industry bodies, has confirmed the urgent need for qualifying learners who are not only proficient in visual and digital design tools, but who also understand broader social, cultural, and business contexts. This qualification was therefore developed to align with both industry requirements and national development priorities.

    The qualification meets sector needs in this discipline by integrating academic theory and practical studio practice, including real-life workplace experiences, ensuring the qualifying learners are work-place ready while also equipped for further postgraduate studies. Moreover, it includes relevant discipline-specific modules and general modules to broaden learners' understanding of Graphic Design, to ensure that qualifying learners possess a broad and critical understanding of the role of design in society. This combination was endorsed during curriculum consultation with external stakeholders, including representatives from the creative industries and higher education experts.

    The qualification is aimed at a wide range of learners such as school leavers seeking entry into the creative sector; working professionals wishing to formalise their experience through recognition of prior learning (RPL); and individuals seeking to develop entrepreneurial opportunities in the creative economy.

    The qualification serves as both an end-point qualification for entry into employment and a foundation for postgraduate study (e.g., Honours or postgraduate diplomas in design, media, or visual communication).

    The qualification benefits learners by providing them with specialised knowledge, applied skills, and professional experience that enhance employability and entrepreneurial potential. It benefits society by producing socially responsible design professionals who are aware of issues of diversity, equity, and representation in visual communication, and who can contribute to the cultural and creative economy. It benefits the economy by supplying adaptable qualifying learners who can meet the demand for innovative communication and design solutions across multiple sectors, including advertising, digital platforms, publishing, education, and public service. Typical occupational roles for qualifying learners include graphic designer, visual communication designer, digital media specialist, branding and marketing designer, junior art director, and related roles in creative agencies, publishing houses, advertising firms, and corporate design environments.

    Continuous consultation with industry stakeholders and professional practitioners will remain integral to curriculum review and renewal, ensuring that the qualification stays aligned with current trends, technologies, and labour market needs.

    Design is a constantly evolving and dynamic discipline. The professionally trained designer applies intent to create the visual, material, spatial and digital environment, cognisant of the experiential, employing interdisciplinary and hybrid approaches to the theory and practice of design. They understand the cultural, ethical, social, economic and ecological impact of their endeavours and their ultimate re-sponsibility towards people and the planet across both commercial and non-commercial spheres. A designer respects the ethics of the design profession.

    Further, the qualification contributes to regional and national goals in a variety of ways, including:
  • Broadening access to and success in higher education through flexible entry and fixed exit standards.
  • Recognition of multiple exit points.
  • Recognition of prior learning.
  • Inclusion of certain generic competencies.
  • Encouragement of social responsibility.
  • Ensuring that learners will be employable on graduation, but at the same time will have the knowledge base to continue with further learning. 
    		•

    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 regards 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 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 credits:
  • 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:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's degree studies
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement.
    Or
  • Higher certificate in Graphic Design, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at the National Qualifications Framework Level 5, 6, and 7, totalling 360 credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Typography 1,12 Credits.
  • Visual Literacy 1A, 8 Credits.
  • Applied Colour and Design, 6 Credits.
  • Digital Design 1, 12 Credits.
  • Visual Literacy 1B, 8 Credits.
  • English For Graphic Design, 8 Credits.
  • Drawing 1, 12 Credits.
  • Business English, 10 Credits.
  • Communication Science 1A, 10 Credits.
  • Communication Design 1, 12 Credits.
  • Motion Graphics 1, 12 Credits.
  • Communication Science 1B, 10 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Drawing 2A, 10 Credits.
  • Communication Design 2A, 8 Credits.
  • Motion Graphics 2A, 8 Credits.
  • Drawing 2B, 10 Credits.
  • Communication Design 2B, 8 Credits.
  • Motion Graphics 2B, 8 Credits.
  • Typography 2A, 7 Credits.
  • Digital Design 2A, 7 Credits.
  • Visual Literacy 2A, 10 Credits.
  • Introduction To Research, 10 Credits.
  • Typography 2B, 7 Credits.
  • Digital Design 2B, 7 Credits.
  • Visual Literacy 2B, 10 Credits.
  • 3D Animation, 10 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Communication Design 3A,13 Credits.
  • Visual Literacy 3A, 11 Credits.
  • Motion Graphics 3A, 10 Credits.
  • Visual Literacy 3B, 11 Credits.
  • Communication Design 3B, 13 Credits.
  • Motion Graphics 3B, 10 Credits.
  • Copywriting, 6 Credits.
  • Professional Practice A (WIL), 10 Credits.
  • Web Design A, 10 Credits.
  • Advanced Drawing and Illustration, 6 Credits.
  • Professional Practice B (WIL),10 Credits.
  • Web Design B, 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Research, conceptualise, analyse and produce creative and conceptual design solutions to complex design problems, within a traditional print-based context.
    2. Communicate design messages critically, using a variety of visual communication methodologies and predominantly print technologies.
    3. Create and present a professional print-based design portfolio which critically reflects a personal design philosophy and a socially responsible engagement.
    4. Operate graphic design related to computer hardware and software at an industry level.
    5. Articulate and represent ideas and arguments, which reflect an understanding of graphic design practices within design discourse.
    6. Conduct and evaluate research to create logical design arguments. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Engage with and justify the application of design principles and design elements as they pertain to Graphic design practice.
  • Analyse and integrate precedent into practical graphic design practice, as reflected through an applied design process through concept work, visual diary, critical rationale, etc.
  • Synthesise conceptual and practical application of content-specific design, linking the big idea to meet the demands of the client and target audience.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Produce designs which reflect creative manipulation of two-dimensional print-based and three-dimensional packaging design principles and elements.
  • Refine observational and interpretation skills in illustration, using a variety of media and/or technologies.
  • Demonstrate a practical understanding of the difference between readability and legibility in a variety of graphic design applications, such as typographic application in refining the communicative value of posters, logos and print advertisements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify, modify, and challenge existing graphic design terminology and methodology, through appropriate documentation and application associated with an understanding of established graphic design conventions in image creation and print reproduction.
  • Critique the conceptual and creative abilities and reflect these through a visual diary and/or concept book.
  • Identify, make judgements on, and demonstrate an awareness of socially responsible and sustainable design.
  • Critique and justify experimentation with established print technologies and media, such as specialised inks and papers, to communicate a desired message.
  • Justify and apply appropriate print techniques and print media to communicate relevant subject matter and a developed personal style.
  • Demonstrate a professional attitude towards, and engage critically with, presented print-based design output.
  • Organise, document, and apply resource management strategies such as time management, teamwork, contact with lecturers, use of library facilities and computers developed throughout the year.
  • Locate own design practice within the Graphic design profession and other creative production industries and reflect on its implications on personal development.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Craft and manipulate design output, such as packaging and typographic execution, according to professional-level expectations with special attention to detail in final presentations, including spelling, image quality, grammar, and finish.
  • Demonstrate practical competence in designing applications relevant to the chosen design industry, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Research and apply existing print-based technologies which reflect an understanding of professional design practice (theories and application of print production).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of advanced visual culture theory as it applies to Marxian media studies, feminist, and post-colonial discourses, as well as post-humanist theories in relation to design and visual culture.
  • Demonstrate an internalisation of theory in their design practice.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Source, analyse and implement research data to inform a critical argument.
  • Situate an argument within various discourses addressing design and visual culture
  • Structure and communicate knowledge clearly and logically in writing, following the prescribed referencing style format.

    Integrated Assessment
    Assessment in the qualification is designed to ensure that learners demonstrate the applied competence described in the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs) and Associated Assessment Criteria (AACs). Assessment is both formative and summative and is integrated across modules to provide a coherent measure of learner achievement. The formative-to-summative assessment ratio will generally be 50-50% (with a maximum deviation of 10% on either side of the ratio).

    In the assessment strategy, knowledge and skills will be assessed through a variety of options available as self-assessment activities. Continuous Integrated Assessment conducted via self-assessment activities is available in Module Guides and on the Learning Management System (LMS). All learners are given the opportunity to complete formative activities included at the end of each theme in their Module Guides. The Module Guides include a facilitation session following each activity. In the facilitation session, learners are guided to acquire the necessary knowledge, practical implementation, and necessary attitudes to achieve the set outcomes of each theme. Formative assessment is a range of formal and informal assessment procedures employed by lecturers during the learning process to modify teaching and learning activities with the purpose of improving learner achievement.

    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment is continuous and developmental. It provides feedback to learners and supports the achievement of learning outcomes at module and programme level. It includes:
  • Studio-based assignments and design projects (concept development, practical exercises, iterative design work).
  • Class tests and online quizzes (to monitor theoretical and technical knowledge).
  • Oral presentations and critiques (to evaluate communication skills and design reasoning).
  • Workshops, peer assessments, and group projects (to build collaboration and problem-solving).
  • Reflective journals and process documentation (to encourage self-evaluation and critical reflection).

    Formative tasks are aligned to module outcomes and prepare learners for summative assessments by emphasising experimentation, iteration, and applied practice.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment evaluates integrated achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes and is conducted at key progression points. It includes:
  • Major design projects/portfolios (e.g., branding campaigns, interactive media design, publication design) demonstrating conceptual, technical, and professional competence.
  • Written assignments and research reports assessing theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, and the ability to situate design within cultural, social, and ethical contexts.
  • Practical examinations and portfolio reviews (at the end of each academic year) where learners present and defend their design work to assessors and panels.
  • Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) reports demonstrating the application of design knowledge and skills in professional contexts.
  • Final research project/dissertation that integrates design research, conceptual development, and advanced production. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification was compared with similar qualifications from Australia and the United Kingdom.

    Country: Australia
    Institution Name: RMIT University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Graphic Design
    Credits: 288
    Duration: Three years full-time

    Entry requirements:
  • Completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent senior secondary school qualification.

    Purpose:
    The qualification prepares learners to become effective integrated graphic designers who use typography, image, layout, interaction, research, concept development, visual storytelling, and strategic design thinking to shape how people understand, navigate and engage with the world. It emphasises studio-based learning, design judgement, creative thinking, critique, and professional practice across branding, publishing, digital products, services and systems.

    Learning Outcomes:
    Graduates of the Bachelor of Graphic Design develop capabilities in:
  • Typography, visual communication, layout, composition and form.
  • Visual storytelling, narrative, research and concept development.
  • Strategic design thinking and design systems across platforms.
  • Creative thinking, design judgement, critique and iterative studio-based practice.
  • Application of graphic design across branding, publishing, digital products, services and systems.

    Qualification structure:
    Year One:
    Compulsory Modules, 96 Credits:
  • Image and Identity, 24 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Studies, 12 Credits.
  • Colour and Information Design, 12 Credits
  • Studio 1 Communication Design, 24 Credits.
  • Typography in Design, 12 Credits.
  • Introduction to Publication Design,12 Credits.

    Year Two:
    Compulsory Modules, 72 Credits:
  • Studio 2 Communication Design, 24 Credits.
  • Developing Communication Design Expertise, 12 Credits.
  • Studio 3 Communication Design, 24 Credits.
  • Professional Practice in Graphic Design, 12 Credits.
    And
    Elective Modules, 24 Credits:
  • 2x University Electives

    Year Three:
    Compulsory Modules, 72 Credits:
  • Studio 4 Communication Design, 24 Credits.
  • Extending Communication Design Expertise, 12 Credits.
  • Studio 5 Communication Design, 24 Credits.
  • Communication Design Capstone Project, 12 Credits.

    Elective Modules, 24 Credits:
  • 2x University Elective

    Similarities:
  • RMIT University and the Eduvos Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design are both offered over three years full-time.
  • Both qualifications require applicants who have completed secondary school qualifications or equivalent.
  • Both qualifications develop creative, technical, conceptual and professional design competence for visual communication contexts.
  • Both qualifications include comparable areas such as typography, visual communication, studio-based design practice, concept development, design process, professional practice and digital or platform-based design.
  • Both qualifications provide a foundation for further study in a cognate design or visual communication field.

    Differences:
  • The RMIT qualification is structured according to the Australian higher education credit system, while the Eduvos qualification is registered on the South African NQF at 360 credits.
  • The Eduvos qualification consists of compulsory modules only, while the RMIT qualification includes compulsory study and university electives within the programme structure.

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution Name: Media Design School at Strayer
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Media Design - Graphic, Motion and Interactive Design
    Duration: Three years full-time
    Credits: 360 credits
    NZQF: Level 7.

    Entry requirements:
  • Admission requires NCEA Level 3, Cambridge International Examinations, International Baccalaureate University Entrance, or a Level 4 or higher qualification from a related discipline.

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the Bachelor of Media Design qualification is to introduce learners to foundational design principles in the first year before allowing them to major in Graphic Design, Motion Design or Interactive (UX) Design in the second and third years. The qualification is industry-connected and uses live briefs with real companies to support applied, professional design learning. The Graphic Design pathway focuses on using text, image and form to communicate ideas, create visual connections and develop meaningful interactions.

    Learning Outcomes:
    The programme develops learners through foundational design study, major-specific studio practice and industry-connected projects. Learners build creative, technical and professional capability in one of three design pathways: Graphic Design, Motion Design or Interactive (UX) Design.

    Programme learning outcomes:
  • Foundational design principles and essential design practice in the first year.
  • Graphic Design, including communication through text, image, form, typography and visual interaction.
  • Motion Design, including 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, composition, image manipulation and text choreography.
  • Interactive (UX) Design, including preparation for web design, mobile development and user experience design contexts.

    Qualification Structure:
    Qualification Structure:
  • Year 1 introduces learners to core design principles and provides exposure to Graphic Design, Motion Design and Interactive (UX) Design.
  • In Years 2 and 3, learners choose a major in Graphic Design, Motion Design or Interactive (UX) Design and develop specialist capability through studio and project-based learning.
  • Learners work on live briefs with real companies, supporting applied professional practice and industry readiness.
  • A July intake may allow learners to complete the Bachelor of Media Design through an accelerated 2.5-year pathway.

    Assessment:
  • Teaching and assessment are grounded in practical, project-based and studio-based learning.
  • Learners develop and evidence design capability through major-specific projects, portfolios and industry-connected briefs.
  • The official programme information emphasises live briefs with real companies and preparation for professional creative and digital design practice.

    Similarities:
  • Both the Media Design School Bachelor of Media Design and the Eduvos Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design are three-year, full-time, Level 7 qualifications with 360 credits.
  • Both qualifications develop creative, technical, conceptual and professional design competence for visual communication and digital media contexts.
  • Both qualifications include practical studio/project work, portfolio development and industry-oriented learning.
  • Both qualifications include overlapping areas such as graphic design, visual communication, typography, digital design, motion-related design and professional practice.
  • Both qualifications support progression into design-related employment and further study in cognate creative or media design fields.
  • Both programmes utilise and assess studio work and practical assessments.

    Differences:
  • The Media Design School qualification begins with a shared first year and then branches into Graphic Design, Motion Design or Interactive (UX) Design majors, while the Eduvos qualification remains specifically focused on Graphic Design across all three years.
  • Media Design School explicitly includes live briefs with real companies as a core feature of the programme, while the Eduvos qualification includes Work-Integrated Learning modules in the final year.
  • Media Design School offers on-campus and online study options, while the Eduvos qualification is structured as a full-time only programme. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification provides for the following articulation options:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Design, NQF level 7.
  • There are currently no registered horizontal articulation possibilities between Sub-Frameworks for this qualification.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Graphic Design, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Graphic Design, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Motion Graphics Designer, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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.
     
    1. EDUVOS (Pty) Ltd (Previously Pearson Institute of Higher Education (Pty) Ltd) 


    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.