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

Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97808  Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design 
ORIGINATOR
Prestige Academy (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
Advanced Certificate  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Design Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  125  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 06120/18  2018-07-01  2020-09-29 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2021-09-29   2024-09-29  

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 is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
117896  Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  120  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The primary purpose is to equip learners with relevant knowledge for a career in graphic design. Generally, the qualification focuses on establishing a sound knowledge base together with an understanding of procedures and skills applied to this field of work. It includes the key skills and techniques essential to developing computer-generated designs. Learners will become familiar with specific equipment, software and design processes common to industry practice today.

The qualification is based on a realistic balance between theory and practice. Learners will have ample opportunity to prepare creative work, hand-rendered and computer-generated, suitable for print. They will learn about all aspects of design including digital graphics, print, pre-press, packaging, drawing, technical and commercial illustration and typography. In addition they will develop professional skills needed to work successfully in any business environment including interpreting briefs and project management. They will also develop the ability to work independently, but also as part of an organisation, or in a team. Complementary to this, the qualification offers opportunities for learning through exposure to the real world of work through compulsory experiential learning, which will add learning value and improve their chances of employability at the exit point.

Rationale:
This qualification is directly relevant to a career in the design and applied arts industry. It addresses the human resource development needs of the country. There is need for professionals to have the necessary knowledge, conceptual understanding and practical abilities within the rapidly developing visual communication, advertising and other related industries such as book publishers.

More specifically, this qualification enables learners who:
  • wish to be equipped with specialised knowledge and skills to pursue a career in graphic design.
  • seek a learning programme for developing knowledge in involving the combination of technical, interpersonal skills and creative abilities.
  • were previously disadvantaged or who were denied access to formal learning programmes in this particular field.
  • have worked as a graphic artist in industry for many years but have no formal qualification, which limits job promotion and security of income.
  • wish to get recognition for relevant prior learning and achieve a formal qualification that makes it easier to move up the value chain.
  • wish to acquire an advanced qualification that will enable them to continue with a further qualification at a higher level.

    Once qualified, the learner will be able to pursue a range of career options, for instance as a graphic artist, brand designer, illustrator, packaging designer, typography designer, or corporate ID designer. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The qualification ensures provision is made for prior learning to be recognised so that learners have the opportunity to gain access to the qualification or obtain the qualification in part through the RPL process. Learners must demonstrate competence in respect of certain specified knowledge, skills and/or attitudes pertaining to this programme.

    The specific form of assessment to determine the extent of recognition of prior learning will depend on evidence produced by each individual applicant. Part of the requirements in case of application for RPL is that the learner must formally apply for RPL. All particulars are included in the RPL Guide and Credit Exemption Guide respectively.

    Entry Requirements:
    Learners must meet the following minimum admission requirements:
  • Higher Certificate in Graphic Design or equivalent at NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 6, totalling 125 Credits.
  • e-Image Manipulation (IM23), 25 Credits.
  • Applied Advertising and Promotion (AA22), 20 Credits.
  • Advanced e-Page Layout and Typography (LTD23), 25 Credits.
  • Interactive Media Design (ID22), 15 Credits.
  • Advaced e-Graphics and Illustration (GE23), 25 Credits.
  • e-PDF Editing (PE22), 5 Credits.
  • Work-based Learning (WL21), 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply the key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories of graphic design in different contexts, areas of specialisation and areas of practice.
    2. Evaluate, select and apply appropriate methods, procedures and techniques within the field of professional graphic design.
    3. Understand the ethical implications of decisions and actions within a professional graphic design context, based on an awareness of the complexity of ethical dilemmas encountered.
    4. Select information from different sources appropriate to specific graphic design tasks, and apply well-developed processes of analysis, synthesis and evaluation to that information.
    5. Present and communicate complex information reliably and coherently using appropriate academic and occupational conventions, formats and technologies within professional graphic design context.
    6. Evaluate performance against given criteria, and accurately identify and address task-specific learning needs pertaining to professional growth in the graphic design discipline.
    7. Work effectively in a team or group, and take responsibility for own decisions and actions that include decisions and actions of others regarding the use of resources for professional graphic design practice. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories of graphic design are comprehended.
  • The critical features and fundamentals of typography are understood and applied to graphic design.
  • The application of graphic design principles and rules are understood in different contexts, including different areas of specialisation.
  • The different schools of thought, knowledge production processes, practices and forms of expression are understood within the field of professional graphic design.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The processes regarding key issues such as creativity, colour, conceptualisation, design and creation of graphics are applied for a variety of visual and print media.
  • The key stages and processes of an advertising campaign considering the common possibilities and constraints are explained.
  • The professional and dynamic graphic design work environment is understood.
  • A high level of knowledge of the technical features and operations of professional graphic design equipment and associated materials, including digital image creation and its manipulation are displayed.
  • Suitable methods, design software, and techniques are selected, evaluated and applied to perform graphic design tasks such as creating, authoring, manipulating and exporting images for different media applications.
  • Problems in different contexts are identified, analysed and solved based on evidence and procedures appropriate to professional graphic design.
  • Effective procedures are applied in dealing with graphic design challenges and solutions to problems are generated in different contexts such as advertising, sales and publication.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Ethical norms and principles are comprehended and applied within different professional graphic design contexts, including marketing and advertising.
  • The social, legal and ethical responsibilities of graphic designers as visual communicators are explained.
  • Appropiate decisions are made and a proper conduct is maintained in familiar and new graphic design contexts.
  • The relationships between systems, of how actions, ideas or developments in one system impact on other systems are understood.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The Internet is used as a powerful resource for information gathering.
  • A portfolio of practical work from assignments for marketing and client recruitment purposes are compiled.
  • The suitability and impact of different graphic design products in different contexts are analysed and evaluated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • A personal graphic design style is developed and displayed.
  • Effective communication is used by means of the graphic design and digital images.
  • Ideas by way of different photographic styles and techniques are communicated appropriately to a given need and situation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Current graphic design practices are reflected upon and evaluated against new trends in industry.
  • A degree of professionalism in own graphic design practices is analysed and critically evaluated accompanied by effective and relevant actions for improvement and professional development.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • effective teamwork within an organisation when executing graphic design assignments is demonstrated.
  • Responsible actions in planning and executing graphic design assignments, including responsible use of resources materials and equipment are displayed.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment will be conducted in line with the institution's Assessment Policy, which states that assessment of competence is an integral part of the qualification. Assessment is conducted throughout the duration of the qualification as a mechanism to monitor learning progress, identify areas for remedial intervention, or guidance to individual learners towards further learning (formative assessment). This is complemented by summative assessment to evaluate competences in terms of achieving all outcomes at the end of the qualification as a whole.

    A combination of appropriate formative and summative assessment methods is used at fundamental, intermediate as well as advanced level. These include orals, written tests, examinations and practical assignments. In addition, the learning progress of learners will be assessed by way of individual presentations during group seminars, and one-to-one consultations between a learner and the lecturer, or study leader supervising the research assignment during the first advanced level (third year) of study.

    Since the execution of job-related tasks require the integration of theory and the application of knowledge as well as skills, assessment practice will as far as possible be conducted along the same line. This means that assessment methods will be suitable to assess mastery of knowledge, on the one hand, the ability to apply knowledge, on the other, or in combination. Different outcomes are thus also assessed in a combined manner.

    At the same time, the Exit Level Outcomes will be assessed jointly (in an integrated manner) using, e.g. creative problem-solving, the ability to organise and the ability to manage oneself responsibly and effectively, to collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information, as well as using computer technology in a responsible manner.

    The institution also offers career-orientated and vocational education and training; therefore all qualifications require some form of industry exposure. According to institutional policy we distinguish between experiential learning, work-based learning (hands-on experience of short duration applicable to Advanced Certificate programs), and work-integrated learning (hands-on experience of longer duration applicable to the final year of Diploma and Degree, also called internship). Since this is an Advanced Certificate qualification, the rules of work-based learning will apply. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification has been compared against two similar international qualifications.

    A Graphic Design Advanced Diploma is offered by the Mohawk College in Canada. This qualification enables learners to:
  • Conceptualise and develop design solutions using principles of design to create visual communications that meet the needs of the project.
  • Employ the design process to create design solutions that meet the project objectives and the needs of the client and/or user.
  • Plan, create and use photography, illustration and typography in design layouts to meet the requirements of the creative brief.
  • Design, develop and create a variety of media products using relevant, current and/or emerging technologies.
  • Communicate ideas, design concepts and opinions clearly and persuasively to others.
  • Complete all work in a professional and ethical manner, and in accordance with all applicable legislation and regulations.
  • Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfills the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    In addition in Sydney, Australia, the Advanced Diploma of Graphic Design is offered.
    This qualification reflects the role of graphic designers who have a command of wide-ranging, highly specialised technical, creative and conceptual skills and knowledge in visual communication. These skills allow designers to conceive, negotiate and realise design concepts for complex projects using sophisticated communication, organisational and project management skills. They may take responsibility for the work of others in terms of establishing and monitoring systems to ensure the effective production of work.

    This qualification is for learners who wish to gain a command of wide-ranging, highly specialised technical, creative and conceptual skills and knowledge in visual communication needed to develop innovative graphic design solutions at an advanced level, with an option to specialise in one or more of the following areas:
  • Print Technologies, Packaging and Publication Design.
  • Corporate Identity.
  • Web Design, Interactive Digital Media and Photo-media.
  • Animation and Visual Effects for Simulations, Film, Television and Interactive Games.
  • Design for Marketing, Advertising and Business.
    These skills will allow learners to conceive, negotiate and realise design concepts for complex projects using sophisticated communication skills.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares favourably with international qualifications in terms of the Exit Level Outcomes. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for articulation possibilities:
    Horizontal articulation:
  • Advanced Certificate in Web Development at NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in 3D Animation and Visual Effects at NQF Level 6.

    Vertical articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication Design at NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Animation and New Media at NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    This qualification is now offered by Stadio (Pty) Ltd, and no longer by Prestige Academy (Pty) Ltd - effective 29 September 2020 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    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. Prestige Academy (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.