SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Graphic Design 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
48438  Diploma in Graphic Design 
ORIGINATOR
Inscape Education Group (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
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Design Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Level 5  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0733/25  2024-06-30  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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Diploma in Graphic Design provides a vocationally oriented qualification that develops graduates or learners capable of solving real-world communication challenges through visual design. Learners acquire focused disciplinary knowledge in branding, typography, digital media, and strategic communication, combined with practical design skills applied through simulated and industry-based projects.

The qualification integrates Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) and applied professional practice, enabling learners to gain first-hand experience of industry workflows, client briefs, and collaborative design processes. By combining theoretical principles with practical application and workplace exposure, graduates develop the creative, strategic, and technical competence required to operate effectively in professional contexts from the outset. They exit with a portfolio demonstrating readiness for employment in studios, agencies, digital media companies, or freelance practice, as well as for progression into advanced design studies.

On completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Solve complex visual communication problems through research, design thinking, and concept development.
  • Apply design principles, aesthetics, and theory to create meaningful graphic solutions across print and digital media.
  • Use industry-standard digital tools and production techniques to deliver professional outcomes.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the graphic design industry, including ethical, social, and business considerations, including pricing and operations.
  • Work collaboratively and manage projects to meet client needs, deadlines, and quality standards.

    Rationale:
    The graphic design industry is a driver of economic, social, and cultural innovation in South Africa and globally. As businesses, communities, and organisations increasingly rely on visual communication, there is a growing demand for graduates who can deliver professional, socially conscious, and digitally fluent design solutions. This Diploma equips learners with the technical, strategic, and creative capabilities to respond to these demands while preparing them for diverse career opportunities in studios, agencies, digital media companies, or independent practice.

    This qualification addresses national and industry priorities by:
  • Employability: Developing graduates who can conceptualise, execute, and deliver graphic design solutions across media platforms, with immediate readiness for professional roles.
  • Entrepreneurship: Supporting the development of freelancers and SMMEs within the communication design sector, strengthening South Africa's creative economy.
  • Professional practice: Embedding Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) and real-world projects that simulate client briefs, agency dynamics, and collaborative workflows.
  • Access and inclusivity: Broadening participation in the design industry, enabling learners who may not yet be ready for degree-level study to enter higher education and industry simultaneously.
  • Innovation and social relevance: Cultivating designers who are not only technically competent but also socially conscious, able to address issues of sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural relevance in their work.

    Through the integration of disciplinary expertise, workplace experience, and applied impact, the Diploma in Graphic Design develops graduates who are work-ready, society-ready, life-ready, and challenge-ready, while also providing articulation opportunities into advanced design studies. 
    		•

    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 allows applicants to gain access to or receive credits for the qualification based on prior formal, informal or non-formal learning. RPL may be applied for access, module exemption, or full/partial credit. Evidence must demonstrate achievement of learning outcomes equivalent to the qualification requirements.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification 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:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 without endorsement.
    Or
  • National Vocational (Certificate), NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Visual Communication, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 132 Credits.
  • Digital Navigation, 4 Credits.
  • Communication Fundamentals, 4 Credits.
  • Design Thinking Fundamentals, 4 Credits.
  • Global Citizenship, 4 Credits.
  • Critical Thinking, 4 Credits.
  • Personal Development, 4 Credits.
  • Leadership Programme, 6 Credits.
  • WIL, 6 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Computer Applications 1, 12 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Skills Application 1, 12 Credits.
  • Design Principles, 9 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Influences, 9 Credits.
  • Typography, 9 Credits.
  • Visual Studies 1, 9 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Applications 1, 12 Credits.
  • Image Making 1, 6 Credits.
  • Conceptual Studies, 6 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Industry 1,12 Credits

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 228 Credits:
  • Professional Communication, 6 Credits.
  • Applied Design Thinking, 6 Credits.
  • WIL Preparation, 16 Credits.
  • WIL Practice, 8 Credits.
  • > WIL Preparation, 8 Credits.
  • WIL Practice, 28 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Computer Applications II, 12 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Skills Application II, 12 Credits.
  • Computer Applications III, 12 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Skills Application, II 12 Credits.
  • Reprographics, 8 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Influences II, 8 Credits.
  • Visual Studies II, 8 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Applications II. 24 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Applications III, 36 Credits.
  • Graphic Design Industry II, 24 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Solve complex visual communication problems through research, design thinking, and concept development.
    2. Apply design principles, aesthetics, and theory to create meaningful graphic solutions across print and digital media.
    3. Use industry-standard digital tools and production techniques to deliver professional outcomes.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of the graphic design industry, including ethical, social, and business considerations, including pricing and operations.
    5. Work collaboratively and manage projects to meet client needs, deadlines, and quality standards.
    6. Manage own learning, by identifying, evaluating, and addressing his or her learning needs in a self-directed manner, and to facilitate collaborative learning processes. Take responsibility for his or her work, decision-making, and use of resources, and limited accountability for the decisions and actions of others in varied or ill-defined contexts. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Define design problems using strategic and contextual analysis.
  • Conduct user-focused research and translate insights into design briefs.
  • Generate original, feasible, and relevant design concepts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Select and apply typography, imagery, layout, and colour with intent.
  • Demonstrate understanding of visual hierarchy and information design.
  • Justify design decisions through theoretical and contextual frameworks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Produce technically accurate and reproducible digital artwork.
  • Integrate software tools across platforms for design execution.
  • Apply prepress and digital output standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Evaluate design work against industry standards and target audiences.
  • Integrate sustainability, ethics, and cultural sensitivity.
  • Demonstrate understanding of roles, workflows, pricing strategies, and business operations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Develop timelines and allocate tasks effectively
  • Engage in constructive critique and collaborative development.
  • Document process and outcomes for client communication.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Organise and manage own time and learning, working effectively with others, communicating effectively.
  • Use technology, understanding problem-solving functions within multiple contexts; participating as an ethical and responsible citizen in the life of local, national, and global communities, and being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.

    Integrated assessment
    Assessment is project-based and integrated across modules. Learners demonstrate applied competence through briefs that simulate professional practice. Formative assessments include peer critique, reflections, and reviews. Summative assessments include portfolio reviews, presentations, and capstone projects. Work-integrated learning is assessed via supervisor feedback, student reflections, and evidence of deliverables. Each subject has several assessment opportunities linked to the credits of the subject. Assessments have clearly stated assessment criteria. Learners are given resubmission and supplementary opportunities aligned with the institution's assessment policy.

    Formative assessment
    Formative assessments take place during learning and take the form of individual and group written and practical projects, verbal and visual presentations, and Formative Automated Assessments (FAA).
    Learners receive feedback during and after formative assessments and have an opportunity to implement feedback.

    Summative assessment
    Summative assessments take place at the end of learning and include portfolios, presentations, and capstone projects. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is compared with similar qualifications offered by the following countries.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: Humber College
    Qualification Title: Advanced Diploma in Graphic Design
    Duration: Three years

    Purpose:
    The qualification develops graduates' technical and creative competence through applied projects and industry exposure. The qualification combines core graphic design principles with interactive media, motion graphics, digital and print design, and branding.

    Modules:
    Compulsory Modules:
  • Typography.
  • Image-making.
  • Design thinking.
  • Digital media tools and
  • Professional Practice.

    Similarities:
    Humber College (HC) and the South African (SA) qualifications emphasize portfolio development and practical experience to ensure graduates are industry-ready.

    Difference:
  • The HC qualification takes three years of full-time study, whereas the SA qualification takes one year of full-time study.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: Pearson
    Qualification title: Higher National Diploma in Graphic Design
    Duration: Two years.

    Purpose and structure:
    The qualification combines practical and theoretical study, covering typography, digital output, editorial design, packaging, and motion graphics. Industry engagement is embedded through project-based learning and professional practice modules. Graduates develop both technical proficiency and strategic design thinking, equipping them for employment or further study.

    Difference:
  • The Pearson College (PC) qualification is offered over two years, whereas the SA qualification is offered over one year of full-time study.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: RMIT University
    Qualification Title: Associate Degree in Graphic Design
    Duration: Two years

    Purpose:
    The qualification integrates visual communication, design theory, digital tools, and the business of design. The qualification includes industry placements, portfolio projects, and applied learning, developing graduates who are creative, technically competent, and workplace-ready. Subjects cover communication design, digital media, visual studies, branding, and professional practice.

    Difference:
  • The RMIT qualification is offered over two years, whereas the SA qualification is offered over one-year full time study.

    Conclusion:
    These international benchmarks illustrate a similar approach to the Diploma in Graphic Design in that learners develop disciplinary knowledge, applied skills, and professional readiness. All qualifications integrate theory and practice, with an emphasis on design thinking, digital tools, portfolio development, and industry exposure, ensuring graduates are prepared to respond to the demands of the creative industries locally and internationally. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma in Media Design, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Communication Design, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in User Experience Design, Level 7
  • Advanced Diploma in Visual Communication Design, Level 7
  • Advanced Diploma in Art and Design, Level 7
  • Advanced Diploma in User-Centred Design, Level 7
  • Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design, Level 7
  • Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication, Level 7

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

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2006; 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    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. Inscape Education Group (Pty) Ltd - Stellenbosch 
    2. Inscape Education Group - Cape Town 
    3. Inscape Education Group - Durban 
    4. Inscape Education Group - Midrand (formerly Johannesburg) 
    5. Inscape Education Group - Pretoria 


    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.