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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate: Art and Design 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
90555  Higher Certificate: Art and Design 
ORIGINATOR
The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Design Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  122  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to assist learners access a Higher Education qualification at NQF Level 5, in the Art or Design field, or enter into learnerships or entry-level positions within the art industry. The qualification therefore focuses on knowledge and skills in design, drawing, communication, creative writing and conceptual development.

This qualification offers a balanced combination of theory and practical skills which are incorporated throughout the qualification. The qualification introduces learners to creative thinking, visual conceptualisation, theory and basic research and communication abilities; then requires them to apply the knowledge through practical projects. The ability to develop concepts that are unique, creative and applicable is central to any field of Art and Applied Arts.

The curriculum has been designed to support the achievement of the outcomes related to this qualification by the incorporation of the different skills learned in different modules in the various practical projects. All theory and practical work completed is presented in a portfolio which will be submitted at the end of the qualification.

Rationale:
To provide learners with little or no prior experience in the Arts, with an opportunity to embark on studies in this field and to pursue a career in the Arts or Applied Arts; this foundation qualification on art and design will provide learners with the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in Art or Applied Art. The module combination assists learners in developing their skills in art design, creation, communication and visual studies which will provide them with the appropriate skills and foundational knowledge to enter into tertiary studies in art and design. Qualifying learners would be able to take up entry-level positions or learnerships in the art industry in a variety of creative art, design or visual communication jobs, or enter into further tertiary studies in Art or Applied Art.

The admission requirements to art qualifications in Higher Education institutions in South Africa necessitate prior knowledge in art, which knowledge is presumably obtained at secondary education level. However, many learners wanting to study art or applied arts at tertiary institutions without formal art tuition at a secondary level do not have access to this field. Public and private providers of qualifications in Art and Applied Art will, in general, accept learners into their qualifications based on art skills and National Senior Certificate results. If any or both of these two requirements are not met, the learner may not be afforded the opportunity to further their studies in the selected field. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
It is assumed that the learner would be competent in the language of instruction (English at NQF Level 4) and the theoretical knowledge and understanding accomplished at that level.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Learners can achieve this qualification in part, through RPL. The institution's RPL policy and Academic Credit and Qualification Completion policy guide this process. Skills, knowledge and experience in respect of competencies acquired through informal and non-formal learning are also assessed in the RPL process. The learner can then be given access to the qualification and can acquire credits for some of the modules.

Access to the Qualification:
Access to this qualification is granted to all applicants who meet the minimum entrance requirements or through the alternative routes of entry. Applicants who are in possession of:
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to a Higher Certificate.
    Or
  • A National Certificate Vocational (NCV).
  • Learners who have attained the age of 23 and have three years work experience in the Art and Design industry and are competent in English can access the qualification.
    OR
  • Have achieved access through Recognition of Prior Learning. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification requires six compulsory modules and one elective module, totalling 122 Credits, at NQF Level 5.

    Compulsory Modules (totalling 116 Credits):
  • Foundation Communication, 10 Credits.
  • Foundation Drawing, 10 Credits.
  • Conceptual Development Techniques, 6 Credits.
  • Foundation Art and Design Theory and Research, 18 Credits.
  • Foundation Design, 36 Credits.
  • Visual Studies, 36 Credits.

    Elective Modules (choose one):
  • Creative Writing, 6 Credits.
  • Mathematical Application, 6 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate the ability to observe objects and draw a reasonable likeness of the object.
    2. Demonstrate a basic ability to critique visual art by applying basic analytical concepts and interpreting the findings.
    3. Conduct basic research and extrapolate information in an academically accepted manner.
    4. Demonstrate the ability to develop visual solutions to basic design problems.
    5. Demonstrate the ability to apply traditional artist media in a variety of designs.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
    The Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are addressed throughout the qualification. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Identify and apply drawing principles and elements to given scenarios or examples.
  • Provide evidence where objects and models are accurately represented and identified on a two dimensional surface.
  • Explore different techniques in mark making as a fundamental element of graphic art by using dry monotone media.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify historical art movements up to the 16th century.
  • Classify and compare examples of art objects based on a stylistic analysis.
  • Perform basic analysis and interpretation of visual art according to provenance, context, content and form.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Acquire relevant information on art forms and applications from academically accepted sources.
  • Assess information for validity, reliability and accuracy.
  • Evaluate, synthesise and present information required for the completion of an assignment in an academic manner.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Identify the basic design requirements appropriate to related sub-disciplines such as graphic design, fashion design and interior design.
  • Identify and implement the various steps in the design processes of various sub-disciplines.
  • Develop and explain visual solutions rooted in basic research verbally and via presentations.
  • Use creative techniques to develop unique basic solutions to stated design problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply basic techniques in the use of conventional paint and sculptural media.
  • Identify and describe the characteristics and applications of various artist media.
  • Create basic artwork in both 2 and 3 dimensional media.
  • Produce examples of art works using various traditional and non-traditional artist media.

    Integrated Assessment:
    This qualification will use both formative and summative assessment to assess the competencies of the learners. This integrated assessment will be in the form of tests, assignments, case studies and a portfolio of artwork. All assessment opportunities will be internally and externally moderated. The external moderator will not be affiliated with the Institute and must at least have a relevant art and design Degree or an equivalent qualification. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is compared to other international qualifications to ensure that it meets accepted requirements and standards generally associated with this qualification type.

    The Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand has a Certificate in Art and Design Intermediate offered over a period of one year and focuses on:
  • Basic academic research.
  • Art and Design practices.
  • Visual communication.
    Both qualifications require the development of a portfolio of art work during the course of a year.

    Oxford Brookes University, England, has a one-year foundation qualification in Art and Design with the qualifying learner being awarded with the Edexcel in Foundation Studies and Art and Design Diploma. This is the accepted pathway for entry to all Bachelor of Arts, Arts and Design qualifications in Britain. The foundation qualification comprises:
  • Fine Art.
  • 3-Dimensional Design.
  • Fashion/Textiles.
  • Graphic Design.
    The Oxford Brookes University qualification focuses on building a portfolio of artwork for entry to a higher-level qualification much like this qualification. It also provides learners with an introduction to a range of technical artwork skills and teaches them theory in relation to various art forms.

    The Manchester Metropolitan University, England, offers a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. It provides entry for most degree qualifications in art and design at the University. The foundation Diploma is offered over a period of one year and focuses on introducing learners to a wide range of creative activities to develop their practical and conceptual skills.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification has been designed in a manner similar to relevant international qualifications. The qualification will therefore provide learners with the foundation required to enrol for qualifications (on a higher NQF Level) in the art and related disciplines. 
    		•

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

    This Qualification articulates horizontally with the following qualifications at NQF Level 5:
  • A Higher Certificate: Photography.
  • A Higher Certificate: Event Management.
  • A Higher Certificate: Business Management.

    The Qualification articulates vertically with the following qualifications at NQF Level 6:
  • An Advanced Certificate: Professional Photography.
  • An Advanced Certificate: Accounting and Business Administration.
  • An Advanced Certificate: Business Management.

    The IIE is committed to the principles of lifelong learning and extending access to higher education. A learner who transfers from one qualification to another within the IIE, will be given credit for relevant modules successfully completed. The development of further qualifications in various other specialisations related to art and applied art will improve articulation opportunities from this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    The role of internal moderation is to ensure that assessments are conducted appropriately and fairly and are a valid indication of a learner's performance. It is also a key element of Quality Management. All assessment opportunities will be internally and externally moderated and the feedback from moderators is used to improve the quality of assessment, material and learner support as well as to ensure fairness and validity in any particular examination cycle. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Moderators that meet the requirements are selected by the Senior Head of Programme. The Senior Head of Programme holds the position equivalent to a Head of School in a public provider. The moderators are then recommended by the Academic Manager (Academic Head), approved by the relevant Faculty Board and reported to Senate through the Faculty Board. 

    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. The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 


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