SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Diploma in 3D Animation

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
98031	Diploma in 3D Animation
ORIGINATOR
Oakfields College (Head Office)
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 02 - Culture and Arts		Film, Television and Video
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		EXCO 0324/24	2024-07-01	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2033-06-30

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 Diploma in 3D Animation is to develop qualifying learners who can integrate theoretical knowledge, creative practice and technical skills to conceptualise, develop and execute 3D animation and digital art projects. Qualifying learners will apply appropriate tools, techniques and methodologies to interpret briefs, solve creative and technical problems, and produce work that meets relevant professional standards across a range of industry contexts.

This qualification has a vocational orientation and therefore integrates practical learning throughout its duration. This combination develops qualifying learners who can apply theory in practical production contexts, interpret and execute briefs, solve creative problems, communicate complex information, work independently and collaboratively, and evaluate their own performance. These transferable capabilities prepare learners to function effectively in professional and academic contexts.

Upon successful completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:

Identify, analyse and solve problems, and make decisions in relevant contexts using an evidence-based approach and appropriate methods and procedures.

Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of the fundamental theories, scholarly positions, schools of thought, forms of knowledge and methodologies of visual arts and communication, film and media, and their relationship to 3D animation and design.

Evaluate, select and apply appropriate techniques, methods and procedures across a variety of relevant theoretical and practical contexts.

The qualification aims to develop versatile, disciplined and professional 3D animation practitioners with sound knowledge of the technical and artistic requirements of animation. Qualifying learners will acquire competencies required for animation, modelling, digital arts, and related work in fields such as video game development, gaming, tourism, education, mobile telecommunications, multi-media production, advertising, television and video production, digital special effects, 3D and visual effects production.

Rationale:
South Africa's entertainment and creative industries require digital artists and animators who can work across advertising, product design, multimedia design, film, television, marketing and entertainment. Who Owns Whom reported in December 2023 that 155 films were released in South Africa in 2021 and that box-office revenue reached R325 million, an increase of R95 million from 2020. This activity, together with demand for locally relevant creative content, supports the need for practitioners from diverse South African contexts who can produce technically sound and culturally relevant animation and digital art. The qualification responds to this need by developing the disciplinary knowledge, practical techniques and professional capabilities required for entry into the industry.

The qualification addresses industry demand by enabling qualifying learners to develop, coordinate and execute creative concepts in a range of 3D animation and digital art contexts. It also provides an accessible vocational pathway for applicants who may not yet be prepared for direct entry into more advanced qualifications. By developing the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and academic literacy required at this level, the qualification supports progression to further study in digital arts, animation and related fields at NQF Level 7.

The qualification is intended for individuals seeking careers in 3D animation and related areas across marketing, advertising, film, television and the broader creative industries. Potential occupational pathways include storyboard artist, animator, render artist, digital artist and related production roles. By preparing qualifying learners for these fields, the qualification contributes to skills development, participation in South Africa's creative economy and the production of locally relevant creative content.

Although no relevant professional body has been identified, the qualification is informed by current industry practices, technological developments and the competencies required in 3D animation and related creative fields. These considerations guide the qualification's outcomes and support the development of well-rounded qualifying learners who can respond to changing professional requirements.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

RPL for Access:

Applicants may gain access to the qualification through the recognition of relevant prior formal, non-formal or informal learning. Evidence of prior learning is assessed against the qualification's admission requirements in accordance with SAQA's national RPL principles, the CHE policy, and the institution's approved RPL policy and procedures.

Admission through RPL is not automatic and is subject to institutional assessment, quality-assurance requirements and the applicable 10% admission limit.

RPL for Credit:

Credit may be awarded where an applicant demonstrates, through a valid, reliable and transparent assessment process, that the relevant learning outcomes have already been achieved.

A maximum of 50% of the qualification's credits may be awarded through RPL, subject to the institution's approved RPL policy and procedures and applicable national requirements.

Entry Requirements:

National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies.
Or

National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies.
Or

Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, without endorsement granting access to Diploma studies.

Higher Certificate in 3D Animation Modelling and Design, NQF Level 5.
Or

Higher Certificate in Animation and Visual Effects, NQF Level 5.
Or

Higher Certificate in Graphic Design, NQF Level 5.
Or

Higher Certificate in Visual Communication, NQF Level 5.
Or

Higher Certificate in Digital Media Arts, NQF Level 5.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

The qualification consists of compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5, 6 and 7, totalling 365 credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 125 Credits:

Professional Development, 15 Credits.

Creative Thinking, 10 Credits.

Media Studies I, 10 Credits.

Drawing I, 10 Credits.

Illustration I, 10 Credits.

Visual Communication I, 10 Credits.

Animation Discourse, 10 Credits.

Character Design for Animation, 10 Credits.

Art History I, 10 Credits.

Animation Practice I, 25 Credits.

Creative Development, 5 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 180 Credits:

Animation Practice II, 30 Credits.

Media Studies II, 10 Credits.

Drawing II, 10 Credits.

Life Drawing, 10 Credits.

Visual Communication II, 15 Credits.

Stop Motion, 10 Credits.

Art History II, 10 Credits.

Pre-production project, 20 Credits.

Professional and Ethical Development, 5 Credits.

Visual Communication III, 10 Credits.

Art Direction, 20 Credits.

Film Studies, 30 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 60 Credits:

Animation Practice III, 30 Credits.

Work Directed Theoretical Learning, 10 Credits.

Final production project, 20 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Identify, analyse and solve problems, and make decisions in relevant contexts using an evidence-based approach and appropriate methods and procedures.
2. Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of the fundamental theories, scholarly positions, schools of thought, forms of knowledge and methodologies of visual arts and communication, film and media, and their relationship to 3D animation and design.
3. Evaluate, select and apply appropriate techniques, methods and procedures across a variety of relevant theoretical and practical contexts.
4. Work effectively independently and in relevant group settings; evaluate one's own performance; identify and address knowledge gaps; and present and communicate complex information in a variety of relevant contexts within the field.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Select and apply the principles, terms, concepts, rules, theories and schools of thought relating to 3D animation correctly in a variety of relevant practical and theoretical contexts to solve design and animation problems.

Integrate and correctly apply relevant theoretical and practical techniques, scholarly positions, methodologies and skills to solve problems and meet project briefs.

Interpret, conceptualise, execute and communicate ideas, concepts and designs appropriately and creatively.

Gather, select and synthesise information from a variety of sources and experiences to address theoretical and practical problems and questions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Research, construct and explain responses to questions and briefs clearly, with reference to the information gathered.

Identify and explain the various scholarly positions, arguments and perspectives in visual arts theory and media studies, and apply them correctly to 3D animation contexts and theoretical problems.

Contextualise concepts and arguments using relevant theoretical knowledge and history.

Analyse and consider the different socio-political and cultural forces that have affected contemporary media, art and animation when developing practical projects.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Apply relevant principles, concepts, rules, theories, techniques, procedures and scholarly positions to the learners' own projects.

Interpret and apply ideas and concepts using relevant visual art techniques and visual communication skills.

Select and use appropriate 3D animation and design software effectively to fulfil design concepts and briefs.

Interpret and apply relevant skills and foundations to develop and present informed, well-considered creative concepts and projects in 3D animation, including character designs, storyboards, concept briefs and other visual products.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Identify, describe and apply the relevant protocols and skills required to communicate competently and navigate a variety of academic and professional contexts.

Illustrate an appropriate level of creativity and independence throughout projects and assessments.

Illustrate an appropriate level of independence, time management and self-direction throughout the qualification and in the execution of projects and assessments.

Evaluate progress and competence independently through written reflections, peer critique sessions and other reflective exercises and assessments.

Integrated Assessment
Competence is demonstrated and assessed through a range of integrated assessment methods. Formative and summative assessments are aligned with the Exit Level Outcomes, Associated Assessment Criteria and the NQF level of the qualification. Assessment integrates theoretical, practical and professional learning in 3D animation and design and is conducted in a manner that is fair, valid, reliable, practicable and transparent.

Formative Assessment:
Formative assessment is conducted continuously to monitor learner progress, identify gaps in knowledge and performance, and guide improvement before summative assessment decisions are made.

Formative assessment methods include:

Class and semester tests.

Written and oral tasks.

Research and project-based assignments.

Reflective activities and practical projects.

Demonstrations and work-in-progress presentations.

Peer and self-assessment.

Portfolio submissions.

Formative assessment provides learners with timely, constructive feedback and opportunities to address identified gaps, refine their work and demonstrate improved competence. The evidence generated informs teaching, learning support and learner readiness for summative assessment, but does not independently constitute the final judgement of competence.

Summative Assessment:
Summative assessment is conducted at appropriate stages and at the end of a study cycle to determine whether learners have achieved the relevant Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria.

Summative assessment methods include:

Written and oral examinations.

Research projects.

Portfolios.

Practical examinations and demonstrations.

Individual and collaborative animation and design projects.

Work-directed assessment.

Final integrated assessment requires learners to conceptualise, plan, develop, produce, present and critically evaluate 3D animation and design work in authentic or simulated professional contexts. Assessment decisions are based on sufficient, authentic and current evidence gathered across the qualification and must confirm that learners can integrate and transfer theoretical knowledge, practical skills and professional values in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

This qualification compared favourably with international qualifications; two key examples are provided below.

Country: Australia
Institution name: SAE University College
Qualification title: Diploma of 3D Animation Production
Duration: Seven months of full-time.
Level: Diploma-level higher education qualification.

Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to develop foundational creative, technical and production skills in 3D animation through studio-based learning. Learners apply current tools and production methods to illustration, modelling, lighting, shading, animation and rendering; respond collaboratively to creative briefs; present concepts; and build employability and higher-education study skills.

Similarities:
Both qualifications integrate creative practice, technical production and professional preparation. They develop foundational competence in illustration, modelling, lighting, shading, animation and rendering; use practical briefs and collaborative production; and support progression to further animation study.

Differences:
The SAE diploma is substantially shorter and narrower in scope than the three-year South African Diploma in 3D Animation. The South African qualification provides broader and more sustained theoretical, practical and professional learning across the qualification.

Country: Scotland, United Kingdom
Institution: Edinburgh College
Qualification title: 3D Computer Animation Higher National Diploma (HND)
Duration: Two years full-time.
Level: Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 8.

Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification to develop artistic, storytelling and technical competencies for 3D computer animation. The qualification builds learners' abilities in drawing, animation principles, 3D modelling, rigging, visual effects and real-time production through individual and collaborative projects, preparing them for employment and progression to degree-level study.

Similarities:
Both qualifications combine artistic foundations with technical animation practice, including drawing, visual storytelling, animation principles, 3D modelling, rigging and visual effects. Both use individual and collaborative projects, industry-standard applications and professional-context learning to prepare learners for employment or further study.

Differences:
The HND is completed over two years and is positioned at SCQF Level 8, whereas the South African Diploma is a three-year qualification with 360 credits at NQF Level 6. The South African qualification therefore has a longer duration and a broader qualification-wide scope, while the HND places concentrated emphasis on 2D foundations, 3D production and real-time technologies such as Autodesk Maya and Unreal Engine 5.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options:
Horizontal Articulation:

Diploma in Visual Communication Design, NQF Level 6.

Diploma in Film Production, NQF Level 6.

No possible horizontal articulation between sub-frameworks into OQSF found.

Vertical Articulation:

Advanced Diploma in Film Production, NQF Level 7.

Diagonal Articulation:

No possible diagonal articulation between sub-frameworks into OQSF were found.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

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.	Oakfields College (Head Office)