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: 

Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
9073  Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts 
ORIGINATOR
University of Witwatersrand 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Visual Arts 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  Level 7  NQF Level 08  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 
The purpose of the qualification is to produce a graduate who is professionally and academically qualified for entry into visual cultural practice.

The purpose of the qualification is also to enhance the career of the graduate by enabling him/her to use higher order and lateral thinking, and specialist knowledge in a particular discipline, profession or field of enquiry within the visual arts.

Further, the purpose of the qualification is to produce graduates who can contribute to the economy of South Africa through Art and Culture. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Formally Accredited Learning and Other Qualities
The typical applicant has a qualification equivalent to a matriculation with full exemption, or other University-approved qualification, with English at a particular level of competence plus an ability in the visual arts - consult the application information for the year of study for which application is being made.

Recognition of Prior Learning:

Applicants who fall outside of the normal admissions process who can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the University that they have a qualification or experiential- or work based learning which has taken the learner to an equivalent level of a qualification specified above (under Formally Accredited Learning), may be considered for admission and/or for the recognition of prior accredited and/or prior experiential learning. Applicants who, after such assessment, are deemed to have sufficient potential but are in need of further academic development, may be required to broaden their curriculum to include preliminary programmes prior to admission or parallel programmes after admission. 

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
Y 

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
The qualifying learner is able to:

1.1 Define key concepts and terminology in South African and international literature and professional practice
1.2 Apply specialist research resources, bibliographies
1.3 Define the parameters and criteria for in-depth data base searches
1.4 Use a broader/deeper range of content knowledge
1.5 Decode and understand meanings, arguments, positions in visual and verbal texts
1.6 Understand own position in relation to debates within modes of professional practice.

2.1 Understand written, oral, academic and graphic conventions at this level
2.2 Demonstrate basic computer literacy
2.3 Understand discipline specific writing conventions using accurate English.

3.1 Explain how knowledge is produced and reported within disciplines
3.2 Explain and use conventions of critical analysis of both written and visual texts
3.3 Identify and explain different modes of knowledge and styles of knowledge acquisition
3.4 Develop new knowledge through synthesis and creative practices.

4.1 Explain and use one or more research methods and their appropriate applications
4.2 Apply knowledge of and use the relevant literature and practices in historical and contemporary visual production
4.3 Articulate relationship between theory and practice.

5.1 Demonstrate an increased knowledge of the importance of making the shift to self-directed, independent learning and the development of critical practice
5.2 Identify the demands of new tasks (e.g. reading vs. research and studio practice will require different styles of learning)

6.1 Develop individual and group dynamics and processes
6.2 Apply self awareness of own group role and the role of others
6.3 Recognise individual's role and be able to alter that position creatively in response to prevailing convention
6.4 Recognise and act upon the range of diversity in own and other contexts
6.5 Recognise and work with the construction of diversity in terms of race, class, gender, culture, religion, language, ethnicity, nationality
6.6 Recognise and act upon the kind of result which is achieved through group process.

7.1 Have a knowledge of ecosystems to process an understanding of the world
7.2 Work independently in a complex environment
7.3 Recognise the social context of research and creative work.

8.1 Demonstrate competence, independence and originality in specific disciplinary knowledge and studio practice
8.2 Recognise how new knowledge is generated in the two major disciplines (Fine Art and History of Art)
8.3 Acquire an in-depth understanding and practical knowledge of the chosen discipline or field of enquiry
8.4 Demonstrate wide reading and visual production in a specialised area
8.5 Be aware of contemporary debates in specific disciplines in relation to established knowledge and professional practice.

Critical Cross-field Outcomes:

a) "Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made" - see Exit Level Outcomes (ELO) 3 & 4.

b) "Working with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community" - see ELO 6.

c) "Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively" - see ELO 5.

d) "Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information" - see ELO 1.

e) "Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion" - see ELO 2 & 4.

f) "Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others" - see ELO 1, 2, 4 & 7.

g) "Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts does not exist in isolation" - see ELO 7.

h) "Contributing to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of society at large, by making it the underlying intention of any programme of learning to make an individual aware of the importance of:
  • (i) "Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively" - see ELO 5.
  • (ii) "Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities" - see ELO 7; note also that learners act in accordance with the code of conduct of the University and, where relevant, that of the professional discipline being studied.
  • (iii) "Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts" - see ELO 6.
  • (iv) "Exploring education and career opportunities" - see ELO 5.
  • (v) "Developing entrepreneurial opportunities" - see ELO 7 & 8. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The qualifying learner is able to:

    1.1 Develop appropriate database search strategies and selection criteria
    1.2 Read and carry out critical evaluation of, texts and data, images and artistic practices
    1.3 Represent own position in relation to debates and practices
    1.4 Collect, select, organise and interpret different kinds of data and current forms of professional practice.

    2.1 Use written, spoken and visual language with skill and flexibility
    2.2 Use appropriate written, oral, academic and visual conventions for small scale research project
    2.3 Begin to communicate own lines of inquiry within discipline
    2.4 Synthesise written and visual information to articulate clearly sustained argument
    2.5 Apply appropriate word processing technologies and those appropriate for visual production
    2.6 Use effective oral, written and visual argumentation skills in relation to visual production.

    3.1 Interpret and criticise subject matter of a discipline
    3.2 Suggest and apply critical and innovative approaches in the scholarly and professional field
    3.3 Integrate theory and practice to solve problems
    3.4 Recognise limitations of different theoretical models and professional practices.

    4.1 Provide a rationale for a small scale research project
    4.2 Apply an appropriate research method
    4.3 Conduct a small scale research project
    4.4 Produce a body of creative work
    4.5 Assess the findings of research
    4.6 Write up the research using the appropriate disciplinary conventions
    4.7 Draw conclusions arising from research and act upon this data.

    5.1 Classify and categorise information for multiple purposes
    5.2 Develop an increasingly sophisticated ability to assess oneself in oral, written and visual modes
    5.3 Take initiative in shaping own learning situation and direction in studio practice
    5.4 Establish a pattern of goal setting, time management with minimal supervision
    5.5 Be receptive to, and able to respond appropriately to, feedback from peers
    5.6 Match learning strategies to task requirements.


    6.1 Use multiple sources of knowledge
    6.2 Identify, receive and execute tasks responsibly
    6.3 Communicate effectively
    6.4 Work constructively with diversity
    6.5 Work collaboratively and independently
    6.6 Integrate feedback into own and group development
    6.7 Give feedback constructively.

    7.1 Demonstrate the use of materials within an ecosystemic context
    7.2 Act critically and constructively as individuals or in groups within ecosystemic contexts.

    8.1 Identify own lines of enquiry within the discipline and track the necessary information and skills
    8.2 Demonstrate ability to critically engage in using and adapting academic and creative conventions
    8.3 Engage critically at a high level with concepts, texts and images.

    Integrated Assessment:

    A battery of assessment instruments, including written assignments, research projects, examinations, continuous critique of work during studio practice, portfolios and exhibitions.

    ASSOCIATED VALUES:
    The qualifying learner is aware of the importance of the need to:

    1.1 Accurately represent and acknowledge the work of others in research and creative work
    1.2 Commit him/herself to evaluate published research
    1.3 Critically evaluate and execute current forms of professional practice.

    2.1 Produce research, and a body of performance and/or media work which respects and acknowledge the ownership of intellectual and creative property.
    2.2 Work creatively and demonstrate a developed sense of responsibility and integrity
    2.3 Critically evaluate technologies used in the dissemination of visual knowledge.

    3.1 Explain the value of responsible decision-making
    3.2 Demonstrate sensitivity with regard to knowledge and creative practices
    3.3 Recognise the importance of applying knowledge in visual productions in an ethically sensitive manner.

    4.1 Take responsibility with respect to research subjects
    4.2 Conduct research in a socially responsible and creative way.

    5.1 Take responsibility for learning
    5.2 Value the process of life-long learning
    5.3 Value resourcefulness.
    5.4 Value a variety of approaches to teaching and learning.

    6.1 Recognise and value diversity
    6.2 Recognise and value collaborative processes.
    6.3 Value culture, imagination and creativity
    6.4 Work with a consciousness of human rights.

    7.1 Value the interconnectedness of the environment
    7.2 Appreciate and deal sensitively with the multiple perspectives of people
    7.3 Appreciate the impact of visual production on the environment.

    8.1 Take seriously the social consequences of their disciplinary practice
    8.2 Show an open mind to diverse interests at work within the discipline.
    8.3 Show a sense of responsibility to the integrity of the discipline and its implementation in practice
    8.4 Appreciate ambiguity and diversity. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Except at entry level, this section specifies with which other qualifications of the University the qualification was designed to articulate, i.e. formal articulation; therefore the qualification can articulate informally with equivalent qualifications offered by the University, or with other qualifications offered nationally and internationally.

    Further, an applicant registered at the University or another higher education institution for a similar qualification and who has successfully and satisfactorily completed the first? (e.g. half/third) or less of the qualification, may be able to complete the qualification at the University, and may be granted credit for similar courses already completed.

    Entry to the qualification
    The typical applicant has a qualification equivalent to a matriculation with full exemption, or other University-approved qualification, with English at a particular level of competence, plus an ability in the visual arts.

    Articulation during the qualification
    No formal articulation.

    On completion of the qualification
    A qualifying learner may proceed to the Master of Arts in Fine Arts degree, or another appropriate postgraduate qualification provided that he/she has a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts degree, which needs normally to have been achieved with a certain minimum percentage. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Internal University requirements govern how and by whom moderation is performed. For example, external examiners are appointed on an annual basis. Such moderation seeks, inter alia, to ensure that, where appropriate, our graduates will be able to comply with professional and statutory requirements. Further, whether an academic entity has a professional orientation or not, the University ensures that its activities are moderated by internal and external review quinquennially. The moderating body for qualifications of the University is the Higher Education Quality Committee of the Council on Higher Education, currently represented by the Interim Higher Education Quality Committee. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Internal University quality requirements govern how and by whom assessment may be performed to ensure that assessors have the competence required to assess a qualification of this nature. Once the Higher Education Quality Committee of the Council on Higher Education is constituted and ready to pronounce on issues of quality, the University will respond to the HEQC guidance on the registration of assessors. In the interim, the academic staff of the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, are regarded as registered assessors since SAQA has registered the institution as a public higher education provider. 

    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. University of Witwatersrand 


    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.