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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Advanced Certificate: Graphic Design 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
90511  Advanced Certificate: Graphic Design 
ORIGINATOR
East London Management Institute 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Advanced 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 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 091/21  2021-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

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 purpose of the Advanced Certificate: Graphic Design qualification offered at the East London Management Institute is to provide the Print and Design industry with Graphic Designers who are able to successfully sustain a career in the following sectors:
  • Designers, Web or Animation Designers.
  • Packaging and Layout Designers.
  • Set Designers.
  • Interior Space Designers.
  • Advertising and marketing.

    The unique features and elements utilised in the qualification design process as well as its content contribute to its ability to achieve the stated purpose.

    The qualification is fundamentally positioned in specialised communication skills which should be achieved by all learners at all times.
    The other essential features which are encouraged in the learners are:
  • Critical and creative independent thinking.
  • The ability to be a self-starter.
  • Having an enquiring mind.
  • Having the ability to transfer skills to unfamiliar and new contexts at an advanced level.

    Rationale:
    Market studies have necessitated the design of a local qualification to better meet the needs of the region. The Print and Design industry is vast, providing ample opportunities for successful Design candidates to enter into the market as Designers, Web or Animation Designers and Layout Designers. Rapid staff movement is a characteristic of the Print and Design industry. This feature opens up and provides continuous gaps for positions of Graphic Designers, with reference to qualifying at the intermediate level of the Higher Education Qualifications Framework. The profile of the general student who studies Graphic Design lends itself aptly for entry and successful exit from the qualification as currently designed. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the student entering this qualification is:
  • Competent in the language of instruction of the provider.
  • Computer literate.
  • Has communication and learning skills at NQF Level 5.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:
    The institutional Prior Achievement and Learning Policy addresses the criteria for the application of these types of assessment in terms of articulating students into the programme.

    Access to the Qualification:
    Access into the qualification is granted to learners who have successfully completed the Higher Certificate: Graphic Design at NQF Level 5.

    External applications will be governed by the institutional Prior Achievement and Learning Policy. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    All the modules are compulsory and are at NQF Level 6.
    The modules are offered concurrently throughout the academic year. All modules should be successfully completed to be awarded the Advanced Certificate: Graphic Design.

    Modules:
  • Professional Practice, 15 Credits.
  • Visual Communications, 10 Credits.
  • Ideas Development II, 10 Credits.
  • Corporate Identity I, 15 Credits.
  • Animation I, 15 Credits.
  • Web Design I, 15 Credits.
  • New Media Studies II, 15 Credits.
  • Desk Top Publishing II, 10 Credits.
  • Project Design, 15 Credits.

    Total: 120 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Know and understand a wide variety of visual art principles, media, a range of techniques and methods and translate this knowledge into a product or service within a graphic design context.
    2. Apply appropriate integrated verbal, visual, auditory and social skills within a graphic design context.
    3. Interpret and meet client needs through research and the use of relevant software.
    4. Apply innovative and creative thinking, conceptualisation and problem solving in product and service design and delivery.
    5. Apply industry related professional and ethical business practices.
    6. Plan, implement, manage, evaluate and present graphic design project(s).
    7. Evaluate own and peer products and services.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
    All the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are addressed in the qualification. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    1.1 The student has determined and evaluated all the factors affecting corporate identity.
    1.2 The student has identified the visual statements which can contribute to corporate identity.
    1.3 The student has understood and discussed the manifestation of corporate core values.
    1.4 The student has understood and discussed the factors contributing to the overall effectiveness of corporate identity through Graphic Design.
    1.5 The student has analysed technical requirements for 3D computer modelling and animation.
    1.6 The student has researched various approaches to using interactive software.
    1.7 The student has created HTML code using a text editor/HTML editor.
    1.8 The student has edited HTML code to allow inclusion of Advanced HTML features.
    1.9 The student has edited HTML code to allow the inclusion of JavaScript/Flash or Java applets.
    1.10 The student has identified file formats and fundamentals required to process image data.
    1.11 The student has identified various sources for digital images.
    1.12 The student has explained the historic origins and manifestations of corporate identity.
    1.13 The student has created HTML code using a text editor/HTML editor.
    1.14 The student has identified file formats and fundamentals required to process image data.
    1.15 The student has identified various sources for digital images.
    1.16 The student has understood and selected own use of digital images in meeting Graphic Design requirements.
    1.17 The student has accurately prepared image files for output.
    1.18 The student has identified key roles within the selected industry and the personal qualities required for success.
    1.19 The student has adapted and applied contemporary practices and technologies to enhance personal promotion.
    1.20 The student has analysed and developed a range of opportunities and strategies for self-promotion.
    1.21 The student has evaluated the uses of time and sequence in time-based media communications.
    1.22 The student has evaluated meanings, messages and information communicated by visual imagery.
    1.23 The student has critically reflected on effectiveness of visual communication in own work and evaluated in terms of future development.
    1.24 The student has determined and evaluated the appropriate techniques of the specialist subject for developing and adapting ideas.
    1.25 The student has determine and applied the methods and strategies involved in promoting an efficient creative team working environment.
    1.26 The student has identified and demonstrated how corporate identity is communicated through different applications.
    1.27 The student has developed a diverse range of corporate branded identities in the appropriate layout and structure.
    1.28 The student has produced a show reel of 3D animation used in a Graphic Design commercial context.
    1.29 The student has modelled and animated a logo in 3D animation software.
    1.30 The student has produced effective animation work that combines scenic and character elements.
    1.31 The student has combined different elements into interactive software.
    1.32 The student has produced a web page using HTML code.
    1.33 The student has enhanced a web page to include tables, forms, frames and targets and CGI scripts.
    1.34 The student has produced a web page using JavaScript/Flash or Java applets.
    1.35 The student has uploaded HTML and related files to web server.
    1.36 The student has evaluated own technical use of industry-standard software packages and proposed improvements.
    1.37 The student has analysed the Design Brief to determine potential for image manipulation.
    1.38 The student has applied professional digital data management techniques to store imagery.
    1.39 The student has created digital images from various sources for specific purposes.
    1.40 The student has evaluated others' use of digital images in meeting specified purposes.
    1.41 The student has used integrated software tools to manipulate images.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    2.1 The student has determined and evaluated all the factors affecting corporate identity.
    2.2 The student has communicated a variety of corporate messages.
    2.3 The student has explained how the internal and external values and mission of an organisation are demonstrated.
    2.4 The student has developed a diverse range of corporate branded identities in the appropriate layout and structure.
    2.5 The student has sourced examples of 3D computer modelling and animation in a commercial context.
    2.6 The student has created an animated sequence using 3D animation software.
    2.7 The student has produced effective animation work that combines scenic and character elements.
    2.8 The student has researched various approaches to using interactive software.
    2.9 The student has produced a web page using HTML code.
    2.10 The student has enhanced a web page to include tables, forms, frames and targets, CGI scripts.
    2.11 The student has produced a web page using JavaScript/Flash or Java applets.
    2.12 The student has accessed web servers in order to upload HTML and related files.
    2.13 The student has identified technical factors to be considered when selecting software for a specified brief.
    2.14 The student has evaluated own technical use of industry-standard software packages and proposed improvements.
    2.15 The student has demonstrated a creative approach to interpreting a self-commission.
    2.16 The student has produced an outline career plan based upon targeted research and critical self-evaluation.
    2.17 The student has identified key roles within the selected industry and the personal qualities required for success.
    2.18 The student has presented and supported a portfolio of work that supports the proposed career direction.
    2.19 The student has produced a creative self-promotion campaign which includes written and visual marketing strategies.
    2.20 The student has shown the power of abstract imagery as a means of communication within different cultures.
    2.21 The student has applied time and sequence concepts in narrative and storytelling.
    2.22 The student has applied visual imagery creatively to communicate meanings, messages and information cross-culturally in a 3D environment.
    2.23 The student has produced creative and imaginative visual communications aimed at a variety of audiences.
    2.24 The student has identified and evaluated clear visual arts objectives.
    2.25 The student has responded to the functional, conceptual and aesthetic imperatives in Design applications defined by clients brief.
    2.26 The student has determine and applied the methods and strategies involved in promoting an efficient creative team working environment.
    2.27 The student has presented and communicated visual ideas professionally using appropriate layout and structure.
    2.28 The student has communicated a variety of corporate messages.
    2.29 The student has understood and discussed the manifestation of corporate core values.
    2.30 The student has developed a diverse range of corporate branded identities in the appropriate layout and structure.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    3.1 The student has applied and differentiated visual languages and codes within different cultures.
    3.2 The student has produced creative and imaginative visual communications aimed at a variety of audiences.
    3.3 The student has identified and evaluated the overall efficacy of the art and Design proposals defined in the client brief.
    3.4 The student has determined and evaluated the appropriate techniques of the specialist subject for developing and adapting ideas.
    3.5 The student has evaluated the structure, features and operation of creative teams in the field of Design.
    3.6 The student has presented and communicated visual ideas professionally using appropriate layout and structure.
    3.7 The student has identified the visual statements which can contribute to corporate identity.
    3.8 The student has identified and demonstrated how corporate identity is communicated through different applications.
    3.9 The student has developed a diverse range of corporate branded identities in the appropriate layout and structure.
    3.10 The student has produced a show reel of 3D animation used in a Graphic Design commercial context.
    3.11 The student has created an animated sequence using 3D animation software.
    3.12 The student has created an inventive animation that meets all the requirements of a client's brief.
    3.13 The student has presented and evaluated final outcomes clearly.
    3.14 The student has enhanced a web page to include tables, forms, frames and targets, CGI scripts.
    3.15 The student has edited HTML code to allow the inclusion of JavaScript/Flash or Java applets.
    3.16 The student has accessed web servers in order to upload HTML and related files.
    3.17 The student has identified technical factors to be considered when selecting software for a specified brief.
    3.18 The student has produced a variety of digital images that show experimentation in developing a personal style, within the digital environment.
    3.19 The student has evaluated own technical use of industry-standard software packages and proposed improvements.
    3.20 The student has presented outcomes that fulfil the Design Brief and made necessary improvements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    4.1 The student has understood and discussed the factors contributing to the overall effectiveness of corporate identity through Graphic Design.
    4.2 The student has created an inventive animation that meets all the requirements of a client's brief.
    4.3 The student has combined different elements into interactive software.
    4.4 The student has enhanced a web page to include tables, forms, frames and targets, CGI scripts.
    4.5 The student has produced a web page using JavaScript/Flash or Java applets.
    4.6 The student has accurately prepared image files for output.
    4.7 The student has evaluated own technical use of industry-standard software packages and proposed improvements.
    4.8 The student has demonstrated a creative approach to interpreting a self-commission.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
    5.1 The student has debated and justified choices and conclusions relating to proposed career directions.
    5.2 The student has identified and mapped own qualities and skills relating to career opportunities.
    5.3 The student has conducted themselves in a mock interview, orderly, personable and professionally.
    5.4 The student has produced a specification for the agreed project.
    5.5 Make recommendations and justify areas for further consideration.
    5.6 Use an agreed format and suitable media to present the outcomes of the project to an audience.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
    6.1 The student has produced a realistic project plan for the agreed project.
    6.2 Make recommendations and justify areas for further consideration.
    6.3 Produce a record of all project procedures used.
    6.4 Use an agreed format and suitable media to present the outcomes of the project to an audience.
    6.5 The student has formulated and recorded possible outline project specifications.
    6.6 The student has matched the relevant resources efficiently to the project.
    6.7 Use appropriate project evaluation techniques.
    6.8 Produce a record of all project procedures used.
    6.9 Produce a record of all project procedures.
    6.10 The student has worked independently and within a Design team to plan and develop ideas using appropriate forms and methodologies.
    6.11 Produce a record of all project procedures used.
    6.12 The student has produced a realistic project plan for the agreed project.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
    7.1 The student has determine and applied the methods and strategies involved in promoting an efficient creative team working environment.
    7.2 The student has produced a realistic project plan for the agreed project.
    7.3 Undertake the proposed project in accordance with the agreed specification.
    7.4 Make recommendations and justify areas for further consideration.
    7.5 The student has presented a critical justification of own work in the context of the selected discipline.
    7.6 The student has demonstrated in-depth knowledge of the industry related to their specialist area through a personal database.
    7.7 The student has integrated supporting information into portfolio work in order to enhance and justify career direction.
    7.8 The student has analysed and developed a range of opportunities and strategies for self-promotion.
    7.9 The student has evaluated and quantified the social, cultural and commercial agenda embedded in visual arts objectives.
    7.10 The student has determined and evaluated the appropriate techniques of the specialist subject for developing and adapting ideas.
    7.11 The student has determine and applied the methods and strategies involved in promoting an efficient creative team working environment.
    7.12 The student has explored a variety of sources when accessing and manipulating images to produce experimental work.
    7.13 The student has assessed others experimental work in terms of creativity and provided feedback.
    7.14 The student has presented outcomes that fulfil the Design Brief and made necessary improvements.
    7.15 Organise, analyse and interpret relevant outcomes.
    7.16 Make recommendations and justify areas for further consideration.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative assessment takes the form of assessment of submitted design briefs and tests completed throughout the period of learning.

    The summative assessment consists both of a theory assessment and a practical assessment.
    The theory assessment takes the form of an examination paper and assesses the students on their knowledge and comprehension attained throughout the year.
    The practical assessment takes the form of a practical Design Brief and assesses the students' ability to work under pressure and satisfy all the necessary requirements with limited preparation time. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification has been compared to two similar qualifications offered in the United States of America.

    Mercyhurst University, Erie, Pennsylvania, offers the Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design.

    The modules include:
  • Introduction to Graphic Design.
  • Digital Imagery.
  • History of Modern Art.
  • Type and Publication Design.
  • Computer Illustration Techniques.
  • Introduction to Web Design.
  • Corporate Identity and Branding.
  • Portfolio Development.
  • Information Architecture and Interactive Design.

    Sessions College for Professional Design an online Design School - offers the Graphic Design Advanced Certificate.

    Modules include:
  • Photoshop Basics.
  • Color Theory.
  • Illustrator Basics.
  • Fundamentals of Typography.
  • Design and Composition.
  • Indesign Basics.
  • The study of Graphic Design (or fundamentals of logo design).
  • Graphic Design I.

    Although the titles of the modules from the two American institutions generally differ, the content of these is similar to that of this qualification, thus indication that this qualification compares favourably with what is available internationally. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates horizontally with any other Advanced Certificate or Diploma in a related field, at NQF Level 6.

    This qualification articulates vertically with a first Degree in Graphic Design or a related field at NQF Level 7. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    In the case of the Graphic Design programme all assessments (Design Briefs, tests and exams) are moderated internally by an internal moderator. Internal moderation takes place after the first semester and is executed by means of a representative sample from which the quality of the students' work can be determined with the largest possible margin of accuracy.
    External moderation takes place at the end of the year where the internal and external moderator will jointly assess and moderate all aspects of the programme delivery. The programme coordinator manages the moderation process and records which are incorporated into the electronic document and student records management system maintained on site. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors and moderators must:
  • Hold a qualification at least one level higher than the qualification being assessed or moderated.
  • Have more than two years' teaching experience relevant to the qualification being assessed. Assessors with less than two years' experience have their assessment work moderated by a peer. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 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. East London Management Institute 


    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.