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: Architecture 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
90617  Diploma: Architecture 
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg 
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 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Physical Planning, Design and Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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   2033-06-30  

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 the Diploma: Architecture is to develop learners' attitudes and understanding that result in the production of architecture of the highest quality. The qualification aims to produce learners with a balanced range of core skills who are expected to engage with both practical and intellectual agendas.

The purpose is achieved by providing the learners with knowledge, skills and judgment to enable them to contribute responsibly to the quality of the built environment and to the general advancement of architecture through a career within the architectural profession. Furthermore, the learner should develop a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems relevant to the profession of architecture. The qualification encourages a questioning and receptive attitude which enables learners to construct an informed theoretical and ethical position in relation to architectural design and its appropriate relationship to a wider social, cultural and environmental context.

The qualification should develop learners with advanced skills in architectural design and enable them to develop specialist knowledge and skills in related subject areas and introduce them to a wide range of key and transferable skills with an emphasis on creativity, adaptability, independent thinking, constructive and creative dialogue with others, ingenuity and originality in problem solving and the effective exposition of ideas.

Lastly, the qualification should encourage self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and promote an independent and research-led attitude to learning.

Rationale:
The Diploma: Architecture offers learners an exciting platform to explore and experiment with architectural design. The qualification is fully integrated with course assessment and offers learning opportunities in architectural design and technology within the regional and global context. Learners are exposed to design primers and year-long projects.

The qualification aims to create architects who are well prepared for a subsequent career in the architectural profession. The qualification aims to entails both the development of a core range of key skills and also engagement with some of the diverse specialist skills and knowledge that are often required for modern architectural practice.

This qualification is an entry level qualification that addresses all the knowledge fields in Architecture. It focuses on technological design development and documentation and prepares learners for further study and employment to practice as candidate Architectural Technologists. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The learner is assumed to be familiar with the architectural environment either through his/her employment in such an environment or through the successful completion of an appropriate qualification at NQF Level 4.

Competence in Mathematics, Accounting and English equivalent to NQF Level 4 is expected.

Recognition of Prior Learning:
Recognition of Prior Learning can be used to award learners with credits which include formal, informal and non-formal learning and workplace experience, in terms of the criteria laid out.

Access to the Qualification:
Access to the Diploma: Architecture is granted to applicants who meet the minimum entrance requirements or who follow the available alternative route of entry. Applicants who are in possession of:
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC), granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • A National Certificate Vocational (NCV), at NQF Level 4.
  • A foreign qualification that is equivalent to the NSC as determined by SAQA.
  • Any Further Education and Training Certificate (FETC) at NQF Level 4.
  • Learners who have successfully completed Engineering Graphics and Design or Mechanical Technology. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    All modules are compulsory:

    Modules at NQF Level 5:
  • Architectural Design 1, 20 Credits.
  • Architectural Technology and Detailing 1, 44 Credits.
  • History and Theory of Architecture 1, 12 Credits.
  • Interdisciplinary Design and Presentation 1, 16 Credits.
  • Computers in Architecture 1, 12 Credits.
  • Communication in Architecture 1, 8 Credits.
  • Architectural Practice 1, 8 Credits.

    Total Credits NQF Level 5 = 120

    Modules at NQF Level 6:
  • Architectural Technology and Detailing 2, 32 Credits.
  • History and Theory of Architecture 2, 12 Credits.
  • Architectural Design 2, 20 Credits.
  • Interdisciplinary Design 2, 8 Credits.
  • Computers in Architecture 2, 8 Credits.
  • Sustainable Design 2, 8 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning 2, 32 Credits.

    Total Credits NQF Level 6 = 120.

    Modules at NQF Level 7:
  • Architectural Design 3, 24 Credits.
  • Architectural Technology and detailing 3, 28 Credits.
  • Interdisciplinary Design 3, 8 Credits.
  • History and Theory of Architecture 3, 12 Credits.
  • Computers in Architecture 3, 8 Credits.
  • Architectural Practice 3, 8 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning 3, 32 Credits.

    Total Credits NQF Level 7 = 120

    Total Credits = 360. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Identify and take cognisance of contextual and environmental imperatives and use historical and theoretical precedents in the technological design development and documentation of uncomplicated buildings, as defined by South African Council for Architectural Profession (SACAP).
    2. Apply architectural design processes and principles creatively in designing construction details for uncomplicated buildings, as defined by SACAP.
    3. Select and incorporate appropriate structural systems, construction methods, materials, building services and systems for uncomplicated buildings in consultation with various other professions (where appropriate).
    4. Apply professional architectural office management practices and procedures within the framework of standard professional documents, guidelines, legal and ethical prescriptions.
    5. Use professional standard computer programmes for and solve problems pertaining to the production of standard documentation.

    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:
  • Describe architecture as a manifestation of beliefs existing in particular communities at a specific time.
  • Develop a vocabulary of architecture through investigation of architectures of different cultures, beliefs, places and historical periods.
  • Discuss the principles of architectural cultures and identify the differences between cultures.
  • Describe and apply the elements and principles to show an appreciation of architecture.
  • Identify the structures, technology and history of the Architectural profession.
  • Describe environmental influences on architecture.
  • Analyse buildings and their physical and cultural environments.
  • Develop a vocabulary for design.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Describe and discuss the construction process of a building.
  • Discuss relevant documentation for a complex process.
  • Research architectural administration procedures.
  • Assess the importance of computer applications in the architectural industry.
  • Research the legal and ethical aspects of architectural practice.
  • Resolve a range of technological design considerations at an appropriate level for a Candidate Professional Architectural Draughts person.
  • Research the relationship between the natural and the built environment.
  • Use actual building experience to explain building processes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Analyse the loads relevant to a variety of structural types.
  • Explain the principles of structural behaviour.
  • Use diagrams to analyse and illustrate how various loads are distributed throughout a given structure.
  • Present an overview of the materials used to make structures.
  • Understand the implication of structural grids.
  • Design an appropriate framed structure to suit the application.
  • Compile relevant information regarding physical conditions on the site.
  • Record site conditions.
  • Assess site-specific conditions and their influence on building type.
  • Research the methods and mechanical equipment required for the creation of the formation level.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Describe and discuss legislation relevant to the practice of architecture.
  • Range: Built Environment Act 43 of 2000; Architectural Professions Act 44 of 2000; SACAP regulations regarding Reservation of Work for Architects.
  • Write a report on the central concepts of managing an architectural practice.
    > Range: Record keeping; Time control; Staff management; Fee structures and schedules; Client-architect agreement.
  • Outline the basic elements of the JBCC contract and state its significance within the architectural field.
  • Discuss the application of Principal Building Agreement and the Minor Works Agreement in the building contract.
  • Apply basic project management principles to a design project in the office.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of computer technology presently in use in architectural practice.
  • Apply computer technology in the execution of work.
    > Range: Computer software to include web browsers and communication programs, word processing, spreadsheets, architectural drawing.
  • Edit graphic and image programmes.
  • Produce a set of working drawings as part of a set of contract documents of a simple building to acceptable practice standards.

    Integrated Assessment:
    All modules will include eight summative assessment opportunities per year. Where indicated, this will include a portfolio assessment that will include a panel of at least one (three for studio-based modules) external assessor/s drawn from other universities and/or the architectural profession.

    Lastly, all assessment must be comprised of both formative and summative assessments and be conducted on a continuous basis throughout the learning experience. Both types of assessment are therefore integral components of all the modules within the Qualification. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This Qualification compares with the following international qualifications in terms of the range of competencies in the learning content offered.

    The University of Nottingham offers a Diploma in Architecture:
    This Qualification aims to develop the attitudes and understanding that result in the production of architecture of quality. Nottingham also aims to produce learners with a balanced range of core skills and learners are expected to engage with both practical and intellectual agendas.

    Diploma Structure and content:

    Optional Modules:
    Practice based modules:
  • Record of architectural practice.
  • Personal critical Evaluation.
  • Building Case Study.
    Or
    University Based Modules:
  • Architectural Design 1.
  • Architectural Design Seminars 1.
  • Architecture Research Methods.
    Or
  • Modules taken abroad U21 Exchange.
    Or
  • Erasmus Exchange.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Comprehensive Design Project.
  • Material Design and Technology.
  • Professional Practice and Management.
  • Design Research Studies.
  • Architectural Design.
  • Architectural Design Seminars.
  • Thesis Research Project.
  • Design Thesis.
  • Design Dissertation.

    The school of Architecture and Building Environment at Singapore also offers a Diploma in Architecture.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Architectural Design Studio I.
  • History and Theory of Architecture I.
  • Material and Architectural Technology I.
  • Environmental Science I.
  • Computer-Aided Design and presentation.
  • Report Writing and presentation.
  • Oral Communication.
  • General Education 1.
  • General Education 2.
  • Architectural Practice.
  • Architectural Design Studio II.
  • History and Theory of Architecture II.
  • Material and Architectural Technology II.
  • Environmental Science II.
  • Communication Skills for work.
  • Social Innovation Project.
  • General Education 3.
  • General Education (SPOT).
  • Material and Architectural Technology III.
  • Environmental Science III.
  • Internship Programme.
  • Architectural Design Studio III.

    Electives:
  • Detailing for sustainable Design in Architecture and landscape.
  • Active, Beautiful, Clean Water Design.
  • Advanced Computer- Aided and presentation.
  • Elective I.
  • Elective II.

    Acharya Institute in Bangalore, India also offers a Diploma in Architecture.

    The Qualification equips the student in basic skills of architecture such as modelling, drawing, CAD, visual art, graphics and survey practice and enables learners to be ready for professional challenges.

    Content:
  • History of Architecture.
  • Materials of Construction.
  • Engineering Mathematics.
  • Architectural Graphics.
  • Visual Art and Drawing.
  • Applied Science.
  • Basic Computer Skills.
  • Model Making.
  • Building Construction and Drawing.
  • Estimation and Costing.
  • Building Services.
  • CAD.
  • Presentation Technique and Model Making.
  • Mechanics of Structures.
  • Visual Presentation.
  • Architectural Drawing.
  • Surveying Practice.

    Conclusion:
    There is a great deal of similarity between this Diploma: Architecture and the qualifications used for comparison in the learning content and the range from theoretical to technological and environmental issues. The qualifications enable students to design with a creative mind in balance with the practical aspects of Architecture. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification articulates vertically with:
  • Bachelor of Architecture at NQF Level 8.
  • Advanced Diploma: Architecture at NQF Level 7.

    This Qualification articulates horizontally with:
  • National Diploma: Architectural Technology at NQF Level 6.
  • National Diploma: Interior Design at NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Moderation processes and procedures ensure that all learners are assessed in a consistent, accurate and well designed manner. It verifies that assessments are fair, reliable, valid, practicable and transparent and also evaluates assessor performance. The following principles apply for the moderation of learner evidence:
  • In a 28-week (year) module, at least two assessment opportunities (including the special assessments or supplementary thereof) are moderated.
  • Moderated assessment opportunities are weighted in the calculation of the final module mark and are determined by the assessor.

    All NQF Level 5 and Level 6 modules are internally moderated while all NQF Level 7 modules externally moderated.

    External moderators are either academics or practicing architects. Internal moderators assess the bulk of modules at NQF Levels 5 and 6. Compulsory modules such as Design and Construction are usually moderated by external examiners. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors and moderators must hold a qualification at least one level higher than the qualification being assessed. A quality track record of teaching experience and/or relevant managerial experience may be considered in lieu of higher qualifications.

    They must also comply with the requirements stipulated in the Assessment, Learner Support, policies of the institution. 

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

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 74069, "National Diploma: Architectural Technology", Level 6, 360 Credits. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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. University of Johannesburg 


    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.