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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Graphic Design 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
122315  Higher Certificate in Graphic Design 
ORIGINATOR
OAKFIELDS COLLEGE 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
Higher Certificate  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 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0724/24  2024-06-04  2027-06-04 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-04   2031-06-04  

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 purpose of the Higher Certificate in Graphic Design is to equip the learners with the basic skills and competencies in various theoretical, practical, and technical (digital and print-based) aspects of graphic design as a creative vocation. The qualification also aims to equip the learners with the relevant knowledge and skills needed to successfully enter and navigate the design and media industry both locally and internationally.

The combination of more traditional print-based and digital design projects that learners complete gives them the cutting edge and what markets need from a current graphic design project. The support of the theoretical subject ensures that learners understand the context, business, and professional practice of design to prepare them for a position in the world of commercial art. The qualification will equip learners with the knowledge and skills necessary for an entry-level position either as a graphic designer or to study further at a degree level.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate a systematic and well-rounded knowledge and understanding of important theories and concepts of Graphic Design, for both print-based and digital design.
  • Recognise basic principles, terms, concepts, rules, and theories of Graphic Design.
  • Display a fundamental understanding of the effects that historical, socio-political, and cultural forces have had on graphic design as both an art form and a professional vocation.
  • Establish the importance and relevance of visual culture in the media and how it impacts graphic design as a field.
  • Find and organize information from a variety of sources, to critically analyze and apply it in various contexts within Graphic Design.
  • Display the ability to critically analyze the various theoretical and practical elements pertaining to Graphic Design as a field or profession.
  • Use the principles of the Graphic Design cycle and/or production pipeline to plan, create and present a variety of designs from conceptualisation to creation to finalization and presentation.
  • Communicate and visually interpret an idea or design using basic drawing skills and conceptualisation techniques.

    This is an entry-level qualification that will equip learners with the relevant knowledge, skills, and values to enter the design industry as an intern or junior designer. The qualification is designed in such a way that a learner can either further their studies in graphic design or venture into related fields such as illustration, animation design, motion graphics, or web design.

    Rationale:
    Graphic design is an ever-growing and changing industry. There is a constant demand for trained graphic designers in the graphic design industry. The graphic design industry

    plays an important part in the development of the South African economy and neighbouring countries. Strong design industries enable South Africa to become more competitive in the international markets. This, in turn, contributes to solving social problems such as poverty and the need for employment opportunities. The qualification intends to address the human resource development needs of the country.

    The South African media and commercial industries are currently lacking the skills of well-trained professionals. The qualification will provide learners accessibility to a career within the design sector, as well as into the broader commercial sector where design plays a role. The qualification will help learners extend their creative thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills that underpin a successful design solution whilst building on their experiences in handling the relevant media, techniques, and technologies. Learners will be able to work innovatively within the constraints of brief, available resources and technology and the demands of the graphic design industry. It will help learners to prepare for employment in this industry, including advertising agencies, design studios, publishing houses, video and TV production houses, and any company that employs graphic designers.

    South Africa needs problem solvers and thinking designers who can meet national and regional challenges by identifying, defining, and solving problems by means of innovative design. This qualification will provide learners with foundational knowledge of the various elements of the design cycle and process for both print-based and digital design. In this qualification, the learners are exposed to the theory and application of both print-based and digital design, with exposure to the various design software tools. The qualification will provide learners with theoretical and practical design skills both for print and digital design as well as the necessary problem-solving, creative, and thinking skills needed to navigate the various elements of the design industry. This is done by the integration of theoretical knowledge, with practical application and 'real-life'/industry learning through work-integrated learning. The qualification can also provide access to further study in Graphic and Web Design at NQF level 6 or 7. 
    		•

    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 applicable 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 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.

    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:
  • 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.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 without endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 05 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory modules, Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Creative Thinking I, 15 Credits.
  • Professional Development I, 15 Credits.
  • Design Theory, 20 Credits.
  • Graphic Design, 20 Credits.
  • Drawing Techniques, 5 Credits.
  • Drawing for Design, 5 Credits.
  • Digital Design, 20 Credits.
  • Conceptual Design, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate a systematic and well-rounded knowledge and understanding of important theories and concepts of Graphic Design, for both print-based and digital design.
    2. Recognise basic principles, terms, concepts, rules, and theories of Graphic Design
    3. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of the effects that historical, socio-political, and cultural forces have had on graphic design as both an art form and professional vocation.
    4. Establish the importance and relevance of visual culture in the media and the way in which it impacts graphic design as a field.
    5. Demonstrate the ability to find and organize information from a variety of sources, to critically analyze and apply it in various contexts within Graphic Design.
    6. Demonstrate the ability to critically analyze the various theoretical and practical elements pertaining to Graphic Design as a field or profession.
    7. Apply the principles of the Graphic Design cycle/production pipeline to plan, create and present a variety of designs from conceptualisation to creation, finalization, and presentation.
    8. Communicate and visually interpret an idea or design using basic drawing skills and conceptualisation techniques.
    9. Demonstrate a practical understanding of the practices and disciplines used in digital design, the various software programmes, and the role they play in the Graphic Design process as a whole.
    10. Demonstrate competence with his/her critical attitude and communication skills to participate and contribute to the economy and general society
    11. Interact effectively with others, operate in variable and unfamiliar contexts with responsibility, and become increasingly self-directed
    12. Act innovatively and proactively within a career. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Identify, define, and discuss the elements and principles of design.
  • Apply the theory elements and principles of design to various design projects and/or products.
  • Critically evaluate designs, either external or their designs, using the elements and principles of design to improve them.
  • Apply the various theoretical principles and concepts to their design.
  • Critically evaluate and improve the designs based on the knowledge of the various elements, principles, and concepts of design that have been covered in the qualification.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify and apply basic principles, terms, concepts, rules, and theory of graphic design theory.
  • Explain basic principles, terms, concepts, rules, and theories of graphic design using relevant details, examples, and illustrations.
  • Select and apply the correct/relevant principles, terms, concepts, rules, and theories to the relevant context in graphic design practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss the different historical events that have influenced graphic design as an art form and profession.
  • Explore the different socio-political and cultural forces that have influenced graphic design as an art form and profession.
  • Critically analyse various historical, socio-political, and cultural events which took place and determine the extent and impact each event had on graphic design as an art form and profession.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Examine visual culture and its impacts on the Graphic Design industry as well as on a career path.
  • Identify and explain the terms and concepts related to visual studies and its role in Design.
  • Discuss Visual Communication theories and their role in design.
  • Critically identify and analyse stereotypes and biases evident in different forms of visual communication.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Identify different types of information sources.
  • Find and organise information from a range of sources.
  • Determine the validity and authenticity of different sources of information.
  • Critically distinguish between relevant and irrelevant information based on the context and requirements for the information.
  • Use the information to present an informed, well-thought-out argument or piece, for the theoretical and practical contexts within Graphic Design.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Apply various design methods and techniques in the creative and media industry.
  • Identify various performance methods and techniques used in the past and presently in the creative and media industry.
  • Critically analyse and discuss performance methods and techniques used in the past and present in the creative and media industry.
  • Critically analyse and evaluate various performance methods and techniques used in the past and presently in the creative and media industry are written and presented.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Apply the basic elements and theory of Graphic Design and the Design Cycle/production process through the application of the Design Cycle to various academic and personal design projects.
  • Practically apply the planning, visualizing, and conceptualizing skills to various design projects.
  • Discuss the differences in the creation and production process of traditional print-based and digital designs.
  • Evaluate own designs, using the design cycle/pipeline to identify, critically analyze, and improve areas of weakness in their designs and pieces.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Discuss the different theories, approaches, and drawing techniques for design.
  • Apply a sound knowledge of colour theory, and competently apply colour theory to various design products and projects.
  • Explore the role of drawing in the planning and conceptualization phase of the design cycle/pipeline.
  • Identify, select, and practically apply correct drawing techniques and styles to various print-based design projects.
  • Critically evaluate own drawing pieces and improve on them using the various styles, techniques, and approaches they have learned.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Apply basic tools and techniques in Adobe Illustrator to plan, create, and produce various designs for print, such as posters, flyers, business cards, and letterheads.
  • Confidently navigate the Illustrator workstation to create various types of print pieces.
  • Apply Adobe Illustrator in the development and creation of various graphic design pieces.
  • Apply basic tools and techniques used in Adobe Photoshop to plan, create, and manipulate various images for graphic design purposes, with a specific focus on advertising and marketing designs, such as clothing or product advertisements.
  • Confidently navigate the Photoshop workstation to create and manipulate different types of print pieces.
  • Apply Photoshop knowledge to develop and create different graphic design pieces.
  • Explore basic tools and techniques used in Adobe In-Design to plan, create, and produce various desktop publishing projects for graphic design purposes, with a specific focus on typography and the role it plays in Graphic design.
  • Apply a systematic and well-rounded knowledge of typography different theories, principles, and techniques used in typographical design and art, and explore their role in desktop publishing and Graphic Design.
  • Confidently navigate the In-Design workstation to create and manipulate various types of desktop publishing pieces such as catalogues, book covers, and visual reports.
  • Apply the knowledge of InDesign in the development and creation of various graphic design pieces.
  • Analyse various design software programmes, the correct use for each, and the role that each plays, holistically, in the planning, creation, and production of various Graphic design projects.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Apply communication skills required in the design industry.
  • Examine the attitudes and communication skills to participate and contribute to society.
  • Create the necessary communication documents such as a Curriculum Vitae, memorandum, and business letter for personal and business use.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Make responsible decisions in terms of time management and teamwork.
  • Demonstrate self-direction and ability to self-regulate when managing own time, workload, and stress levels.
  • Consistently meet deadlines and understand the importance of meeting deadlines.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Use own initiative to prepare for careers.
  • Apply communication skills through marketing.
  • Communicate effectively with designers in industry as well as in class and contribute to work done in groups.
  • Use design language effectively when communicating with other designers.
  • Acknowledge contributions made by other designers and incorporate these contributions in their work within the team. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification compares favourably with the following international qualifications in terms of the range of competencies in the modules offered.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: Graphic Design School
    Qualification Title: Certificate IV in Design
    Duration: 12 months

    Entry Requirements:
    Entry into this program is based on an applicant's study and/or relevant work history with a minimum Year 11 completion (or equivalent).

    Purpose:
    Certificate IV in Design will teach learners emerging design techniques using Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and more. The qualification acts as a foundation year for exploring design diversity from both 2D and 3D perspectives. Learners utilise current and emerging software and technology as they respond to industry-style design briefs.

    The government-accredited qualification is recognised by employers and industry groups Australia-wide. This qualification is part of the national vocational education and training (VET) system, competency-based, and based on training.

    Qualification structure:

    The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules.
  • Introduction to Graphic Design comparable to Graphic Design and Design Theory.
  • Design Basics comparable to Graphic Design and Design Theory.
  • Introduction to Typography comparable to Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9.
  • Colour.
  • Advanced Typography comparable to Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9.
  • Photography comparable to Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9
  • Logotype Design comparable to Graphic Design and Design Theory.
  • Design Systems I comparable to Graphic Design and Design Theory.
  • Layout Design comparable to Drawing Techniques, Conceptual Design, Graphic Design and Design Theory.
  • Design Systems II comparable to Graphic Design and Design Theory.
  • Preparing Portfolio.
  • Refining Portfolio.

    Further education:
  • Diploma of Graphic Design
  • Diploma of Interior Design

    Similarities:
  • The Graphic Design School (GDS) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over 12 months.
  • The GDS and the SA qualification share a similar purpose.
  • Both qualifications consist of the compulsory modules.
  • Both qualifications articulate to the Diploma in a cognate field.

    Difference:
  • The GDS qualification requires learners who completed Year 11 qualification whereas the SA qualification requires learners with Year 12 qualification.

    Country: United States of America
    Institution: Santa Monica College
    Qualification Title: Certificate in Graphic Design
    Credits: 36 units
    Duration: 12 months

    Entry Requirements:
    Learners eligible for regular admission to Santa Monica College must be 18 years of age or older or must possess either (1) a high school diploma from a U.S. regionally accredited high school or a foreign high school; or (2) a GED, California High School Certificate of Proficiency (CHSPE), or the equivalent (e.g., a HiSET score report; a TASC [Test Assessing Secondary Completion] score report).

    Purpose:
    The main goal of the qualification is to prepare the learners for the next step in their design career, whether it's an entry-level design position or a transfer to continue their studies.

    Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to solve a variety of communication problems utilizing imagery and typography, will possess fundamental graphic design skills as well as a working knowledge of current technology, and will have the ability to work successfully as entry-level graphic designers.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Design Foundations comparable to Design Theory.
  • Typography I and II comparable to Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9.
  • Digital Design Tools comparable to Design Theory and Graphic Design
  • Design Methods comparable to Design Theory and Graphic Design
  • User Experience Design I and II.
  • Interactive Advertising.
  • Communication Design is comparable to Design Theory.
  • Industry Project.
  • Information Design comparable to Design Theory.
  • Design Portfolio.

    Similarities:
  • The Santa Monica College (SMC) requires learners who completed Grade 12 similar to the Senior Certificate in the South African (SA) qualification.
  • Both qualifications are offered over one year.
  • The SMC and the SA qualifications prepare learners for a career in graphic design. Graphic Designers are typically responsible for graphic design production and pre-press production.
  • Both qualifications consist of compulsory modules.

    Differences:
  • The SMC qualification has 36 credit hours while the SA consists of 120 credits.
  • The SMC qualification consists of the Industry Project module whereas the SA qualification does not include the Industry Project module.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: University of Calgary
    Qualification Title: Certificate in Graphic Design
    Duration: 240-hour program online and two years part-time

    Entry Requirements:
    To apply, learners must meet the following requirements:
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Grade 12 Diploma (recommended).
  • Relevant work experience (recommended).

    Purpose:
    The qualification combines art principles and industry-standard design software techniques in Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator to provide the essential knowledge and skills required in designing and building professional graphics. This qualification will provide learners with a solid foundation in core design areas such as two-dimensional design, typography, colour, and drawing, as well as digital drawing and design. Learners will create print or web-based effective designs to get the audience's attention and get the intended message across.

    Qualification structure:

    The qualification consists of the following modules:
  • Adobe Photoshop Advanced.
  • History of Design Art comparable to Design Theory.
  • Graphic Design I Art comparable to Graphic Design.
  • Basic Drawing Art comparable to Drawing Techniques.
  • Adobe Illustrator Advanced.

    Similarities:
  • The University of Calgary (UG) qualification requires learners who completed Grade 12 similar to the Senior Certificate in the South African (SA) qualification.
  • Both qualifications have a similar purpose of preparing learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to create effective design solutions for interactive, print, and experiential design projects.
  • The UG and SA qualifications consist of compulsory modules.

    Difference:
  • The UG qualification can be offered online and can take 240 hours to complete whereas the SA qualification is offered over one year of full-time study. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Graphic Web Design, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Game Graphics and Multimedia Entertainment, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Interactive Graphics, NQF level 6.
  • Diploma in Graphic Design, NQF level 6.
  • Diploma in Media and Graphic Design, NQF level 6.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Production, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Communication Design, NQF Level 7.

    Diagonal Articulation:
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    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.
     
    1. OAKFIELDS COLLEGE 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.