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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Applied Fashion Retail 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125277  Higher Certificate in Applied Fashion Retail 
ORIGINATOR
FEDISA (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  Visual Arts 
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 0637/26  2026-01-30  2029-01-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-01-30   2033-01-30  

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

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

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Higher Certificate in Applied Fashion Retail is to provide a gateway into the fashion industry for learners who may not have achieved a bachelor's pass in matric or the international equivalent. The qualification also offers learners who have met the minimum requirements for admission to a bachelor's degree an opportunity to experience the foundations of both the Bachelor Arts in Fashion and the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Fashion Retail degrees, before choosing their selected academic stream for their bachelor's studies.

All aspects of the qualification are designed to enhance an understanding of the fashion industry and also prepare qualifying learners for further studies, either on the Bachelor Arts in Fashion or the Bachelor Arts in Applied Fashion Retail Degree at the institution. All areas between the creation of the fashion product and the fashion retail environment are covered at a preparatory level.

The qualification provides an accessible entry point into the fashion industry for a diverse range of learners. It is particularly beneficial for candidates who have not achieved a Bachelor's pass in the National Senior Certificate or the international equivalent, but who demonstrate potential and passion for a career in fashion. The qualification also serves those who have achieved a Bachelor's pass but are undecided about their specialisation, offering them the opportunity to explore the foundational elements of both our BA in Fashion and BA in Applied Fashion Retail before committing to a chosen degree pathway.

Qualifying learners will develop a broad introductory understanding of the fashion industry, including applied fashion design principles, retail operations, trend awareness, fashion communication, and the value chain linking creation to retail.

They will also develop the ability to apply foundational knowledge in creative and retail-focused tasks; use digital tools for research and presentation; work effectively in teams; manage time and projects; and communicate ideas using appropriate industry terminology.

Their understanding of the structures, functions, and ethical considerations of the fashion industry; awareness of current industry trends; and the ability to reflect on their own learning to make informed academic and career decisions will be sharpened

Typical graduate attributes for this qualification include curiosity, adaptability, and a professional work ethic. They will be digitally literate, collaborative, and capable of problem-solving in applied contexts. They will embody industry readiness at an introductory level and possess the confidence and motivation to either enter entry-level roles in fashion or progress to further studies at NQF Level 6 and beyond.

The Exit Level Outcomes of this qualification are aligned to NQF Level 5, preparing learners for both entry-level roles in the fashion industry and further studies at NQF Level 6 and above. On completion, graduates will be able to apply foundational knowledge and skills to perform tasks in creative and retail-focused fashion environments; demonstrate awareness of current industry trends and ethical considerations; and communicate effectively using appropriate industry terminology. The programme emphasises applied competence through practical projects and assessments, ensuring readiness for either direct employment or academic progression to qualifications such as the BA in Fashion or BA in Applied Fashion Retail.

Upon completion of this qualification, a qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Discuss the historical and theoretical context of fashion and its influence on contemporary design.
  • Conduct basic evaluations of fashion trends to predict future developments in the industry.
  • Apply foundational fashion design principles and concepts to develop innovative design solutions.
  • Communicate fashion design ideas effectively and coherently through drawing and illustration techniques
  • Select and apply appropriate textiles and fabrics for standard fashion design purposes.

    Rationale:
    Over the past 16 years, the institution has delivered learners to the broad fashion industry of an exceptionally high quality. The high-level industry collaborations and the arrival of many industry bursaries to the institution attest to the high regards in which the institution's qualifying learners are held by this economic sector.

    Learners from the institution are highly sought-after and frequently head-hunted for a range of career opportunities available in the fashion industry, both locally and internationally. With the arrival of international fashion retailers, who have engaged with the institution regarding recruitment and collaboration, along with stakeholder engagements as well as qualifying and current learners, it is evident that future qualifying learners and the fashion industry will benefit from this qualification. This is because the fashion retail industry is offering many opportunities that do not require the skills and knowledge typically associated with existing qualifications in the field, which primarily focus on developing the skills to conceptualise, create, and manufacture new fashion products.

    These opportunities are focused on the application of knowledge required in the merchandising, marketing, and media applications that drive the fashion product cycle from conception to consumer in the fashion retail environment. These include careers such as Fashion Buyers, Range Planners, Visual Merchandisers, Trend Analysts and Forecasters, Fashion Media Strategists, Fashion Journalists, and Online Media Content Developers.

    The qualification addresses a clear gap in the South African fashion industry for graduates trained in the broad application of business, marketing, and communication methods specific to fashion. Many career opportunities in the sectorsuch as fashion buying, range planning, visual merchandising, trend analysis, fashion media strategy, journalism, and online content developmentrequire expertise that drives the fashion product cycle from conception to consumer, without necessitating advanced technical skills in garment production. By equipping graduates with these applied skills, the qualification will contribute to improving the employability of young professionals, addressing the skills shortage, and enhancing South Africa's competitiveness in the global fashion economy.

    This qualification will contribute to the national goals articulated in the Education White Paper pertaining to the development of higher-order thinkers, both in South Africa and the global arena. This qualification was designed in consultation with the major South African fashion retailers to meet the industry demand for learners who possess formalised education in the fashion retail-related fields. The qualification will complement the institution's current academic qualifications. The existing qualification focuses on developing learners' ability to conceptualise, create, and manufacture fashion products such as garments and accessories. This qualification will, therefore, focus on developing learners' understanding of these products and the ability to bring them to the point of sale through the application of various business, marketing, and communication methods.

    The qualification will contribute to the broadening of access to learners wishing to further their studies in fashion, without the technical skills of conceptualising, creating, and manufacturing fashion products from inception. The qualification will also address the growing demand for highly qualified, competent, and strategic fashion retail management professionals in the fashion industry, with its numerous interrelated disciplines. This will address the shortage of skills and the growing unemployment rate in South Africa. 
    		•

    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 to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification.

    RPL for access:
  • RPL for access is applicable to mature applicants, and evaluated by means of a practical assessment, portfolio submission and interview.
  • Mature age applicants may be approved for entry by the Registrar and in compliance with the admission policy for this qualification
  • Up to 10% of the intake in any year may be approved through the recognition of prior learning, whether as the result of formal or non-formal learning (incorporating experiential learning) or a demonstrated functional equivalent.

    RPL for exemption from modules:
  • Candidates with extensive prior knowledge in certain aspects of the proposed qualification may apply for RPL for exemption from modules where applicable, keeping in mind that no more than 50% of the proposed qualification outcomes may be achieved in this manner.
  • RPL status is only achieved through a strong presentation of competency, together with an appropriate portfolio of evidence and after thorough deliberation by senior academics, in consultation with industry experts where necessary, and members of the institution Academic Advisory Council.
  • The RPL applications will be evaluated by means of practical assessments, portfolio submission and an interview process conducted by a panel of suitably qualified academic and industry professionals, led by the institution's Academic Director.

    Entry Requirements:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 without endorsement. 
    		•

    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:
  • Fashion History and Theory, 15 Credits.
  • Fashion Trends and Forecasting, 15 Credits.
  • Fashion Design Principles and Concepts, 15 Credits.
  • Fashion Drawing and Illustration, 10 Credits.
  • Textiles and Fabric Technology, 10 Credits.
  • Pattern Making and Garment Construction, 20 Credits.
  • Fashion Marketing and Merchandising, 20 Credits.
  • Ethical & Sustainable Practices in Fashion Business, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate the ability to discuss the historical and theoretical context of fashion and its influence on contemporary design.
    2. Demonstrate the ability to conduct basic evaluations of fashion trends to predict future developments in the industry.
    3. Apply foundational fashion design principles and concepts to develop innovative design solutions.
    4. Communicate fashion design ideas effectively and coherently through drawing and illustration techniques
    5. Demonstrate the ability to select and apply appropriate textiles and fabrics for standard fashion design purposes.
    6. Apply standard pattern making and garment construction techniques to create well-fitted garments.
    7. Demonstrate the ability to effectively market fashion merchandise and brands.
    8. Demonstrate the ability to identify and discuss ethical and sustainable practices in fashion business and production. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Demonstrate a knowledge of significant fashion eras and designers.
  • Conduct a basic assessment of the impact of historical and cultural factors on fashion trends.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of fashion movements by applying relevant theoretical concepts in familiar contexts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify and select current fashion trends through basic research and analysis.
  • Predict and justify future fashion trends in familiar contexts.
  • Develop simple trend forecasting reports.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of fashion design elements and principles.
  • Apply design principles and use standard methods to create cohesive fashion collections.
  • Utilize creativity and originality in applying design concepts to execute original fashion design ideas in familiar contexts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply standard methods fashion drawing.
  • Communicate design ideas coherently through sketches, illustrations, and mood boards.
  • Apply appropriate rendering and colouring techniques to fashion design illustrations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Identify different types of fabrics and their properties.
  • Evaluate fabric suitability for specific fashion designs.
  • Apply standard textile manipulation techniques.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Develop accurate patterns based on given designs in familiar scenarios.
  • Construct basic garments using appropriate techniques and finishes.
  • Demonstrate an informed understanding of garment fitting and adjustments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Develop marketing strategies for fashion products using standard methods and procedures.
  • Create coherent promotional materials and presentations.
  • Demonstrate an informed understanding of the role of effective merchandising in the consumer decision-making process.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Conduct a basic evaluation of ethical and sustainable considerations in fashion.
  • Apply sustainable design and production techniques in familiar contexts.
  • Seek guidance on ethical issues in contributing to the development of strategies to promote sustainable fashion practices.

    Integrated Assessment
    Competences developed in all four courses of the qualification: Fashion Theory, Merchandising, Marketing, and Media, will facilitate the achievement of all ten outcomes stipulated for the qualification. The achievement of these outcomes will be assessed accordingly.

    Formative Assessment
    Learner progress will continuously be assessed on a formal and informal formative basis in the form of class tests.

    Formative assessments are developmental in nature and provide continuous feedback to guide learner's progress. They are ungraded but compulsory, preparing learners for graded tasks.
    Examples on this programme include:
  • Class-based discussions
  • Quizzes and peer evaluations to foster reflective and collaborative skills.
  • Work-in-progress critiques of fashion concepts and garment prototypes to support technical and creative growth.
  • Practice tasks such as design sketches, construction samples, digital research tasks, and short written reflections.

    Summative Assessment
    Detailed feedback will accompany every summative assignment, thus serving as formal formative commentary. Learners will be encouraged to consult with their lecturers frequently to obtain informal formative feedback.

    Summative assessments measure the extent to which learners have achieved the exit level outcomes and are ready for progression into further study or entry-level work. Examples on this programme include:
  • Written assessments (tests, assignments, short essays), evaluating understanding of basic fashion theory and ability to apply concepts.
  • Practical assessments (garments, patterns, construction assignment), assessing technical accuracy, creativity, and execution.
  • Final design portfolio, integrating creative, technical, and theoretical learning into a cohesive body of work that demonstrates applied competence.

    Work-integrated learning is not a formal component of this qualification; however, learners are encouraged to seek casual or part-time retail work opportunities during their studies. While not credit-bearing, such experiences enrich students' understanding of fashion retail environments and enhance their ability to connect classroom learning to real-world industry contexts. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared to the international qualifications from the following countries:

    Country: Netherlands
    Institution name: Amsterdam Fashion Academy
    Qualificatoin title: Foundation Diploma in Fashion
    Duration: One year
    EQF Level 4/5

    Comparative Overview:
    The Amsterdam Fashion Academy's Foundation Diploma in Fashion (Netherlands) spans one academic year, aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF Level 4/5), and requires completion of upper secondary education for admission. It a stimulating and innovative introduction to the fashion industry that lasts for one year. It is aimed at school leavers who wish to study in an intimate, supportive educational environment that has close links to the fashion industry. The Foundation Diploma course is very much activity-based: theoretical knowledge is gained through numerous practical activities. This also means the learners end up with a physical portfolio of their work to demonstrate their progression. Additionally, learners learn a broad range of skills including illustration, print, knit and draping, digital technologies, brand development and marketing. The diploma programme provides a direct pathway to completing a Fashion Design or Fashion Business bachelor's degree and supports students who need to complete a foundation course to progress to other undergraduate degree programmes.

    Qualification structure
    Modules:
  • Fashion Business Awareness
  • Fashion Media & Visualisation
  • Ideas Exploration for Design
  • Professional Development
  • Go-To-Market/ Branding Basics

    Similarities:
  • The South African (SA) qualification admits learners with a National Senior Certificate or equivalent.
  • The Amsterdam Fashion Academy (AFA) qualification requires a completion of upper secondary education for admission.
  • Both the SA and AFA qualification span one academic year.
  • The SA qualification emphasises understanding the historical and theoretical context of fashion.
  • Similary, the AFA qualification introduces learners to critical thinking and the theoretical underpinnings of design, art, and culture, providing an academic grounding that complements studio practice.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: University of the Arts London (UAL) School of Pre-degree Studies
    Qualification Title: Certificate of Higher Education in International Preparation for Fashion
    Duration: 1 year of full-time study
    Credits: 120
    Entry requirements:
  • An A-level at Grade C or higher pass (equivalent to SA's NSC pass with minimum requirements for admission to a bachelor's degree with 60% +)

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The qualification is designed to prepare learners for undergraduate study at the institution. It provides learners with opportunities to explore their creative potential within a range of fashion-related disciplines. Learners will develop their academic communication skills in visual, verbal, and written forms.

    Qualification structure
    Modules:
    Compulsory Modules:
  • Introduction to Study in Fashion
  • Cultural and Historical Studies for Fashion
  • Writing for Fashion
  • Specialism Studies: Fashion Busines
  • Progression Project

    Elective modules:
  • Specialism Studies: Fashion Business
  • Specialism Studies: Fashion Design and Technology
  • Specialism Studies: Fashion Media and Communication

    Similarities:
  • The University of the Arts London (UAL) and the South African qualifications (SA) require an NQF Level 4 for entry into the qualifications.
  • The UAL and the SA qualifications both weigh 120 module credits.
  • The UAL and the SA qualifications have similar theoretical foundations where they both emphasize an understanding of the historical and theoretical context of fashion.
  • The UAL and the SA qualifications are offered in one year of full-time study.
  • Both qualifications are developed to facilitate learners' entry into the fashion industry and support career progression.
  • Both qualifications offer exposure to both fashion and retail pathways.

    Differences:
  • The SA qualification includes Work Integrated Learning, whereas the UAL qualification does not.
  • The UAL qualification entails a project as part of its qualification structure, whereas the SA qualification does not include a project module.

    Conclusion:
    Practical learning is central to each qualificaton. The SA qualification provides hands-on training in fashion design principles, illustration techniques, textiles, and garment construction. Similarly, the London College of Fashion emphasizes creative exploration and experiential learning in design and making. The AFA qualification integrates studio-based learning, including fashion design, pattern cutting, and illustration, while also encouraging students to develop a personal design identity through projects and practical workshops.

    All three qualifications aim to prepare learners for future careers in the fashion industry. The SA qualificatoin equips learners with knowledge of marketing strategies, ethical and sustainable practices, and business acumen. The UAL prepares international leaerner for undergraduate study with a focus on academic and communication skills within a fashion context. Likewise, the AFA qualification incorporates career preparation and portfolio development, ensuring that students are equipped for both industry engagement and progression into degree-level study. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification offers the following articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Fashion, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Advertiser, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Fashion, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Fashion Design, NQF Level 6.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Advanced Occupational Certificate: Business Intelligence Analyst, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    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. FEDISA (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.