Top 7 Graphic Design Courses In South Africa

In South Africa, there are several institutions offering graphic design courses, ranging from diploma programs to degree courses. Here are some examples of these courses, along with their typical entry requirements.

Graphic Design Courses In South Africa

1. Bachelor of Arts in Design (Communication Design)

At: University of Johannesburg
Duration: 3 years
Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with admission to bachelor’s degree.
- Minimum APS (Admission Points Score) of around 24-26, depending on the specific requirements.
- A portfolio of creative work.
- English language proficiency.

2. BA in Visual Communication Design

At: Stellenbosch Academy of Design and Photography
Duration: 3 years
Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent with a minimum APS score.
- A portfolio showcasing the applicant’s creative abilities.
- Interview and/or a written assignment may also be part of the admission process.

3. National Diploma in Graphic Design

At: Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Duration: 3 years
Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate with a minimum score.
- Subjects like Visual Arts or Design are often advantageous.
- A portfolio of work is usually required.
- Additional selection tests may be conducted.

4. Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design

At: Vega School (A Part of The Independent Institute of Education)
Duration: 3 years
Requirements:
- NSC with a bachelor’s degree pass.
- Minimum APS of 24-27.
- Portfolio submission.
- Vega Creative application assessment, including an interview.

5. Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design

At: Inscape Education Group
Duration: 3 years
Requirements:
- NSC with a minimum of 50% in four subjects.
- Submission of a portfolio.
- A creative thinking assessment.
- English language proficiency.

6. Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication Design

At: Open Window Institute
Duration: 3 years
Requirements:
- NSC or equivalent with admission to a bachelor’s degree.
- Portfolio showcasing creative work.
- APS of around 24-28, depending on the specific program.
- An interview or assessment may also be part of the admission process.

7. Bachelor of Arts in Information Design

At: University of Pretoria
Duration: 4 years
Requirements:
- NSC with a bachelor’s pass.
- Minimum APS of around 30.
- Portfolio submission.
- English Home Language or First Additional Language with a minimum of 5 (60-69%).
- Successful completion of an admission examination.

Requirements Of Graphic Design Courses In South Africa

Graphic design courses in South Africa generally have the following requirements:

Educational Background: Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some may have specific subject requirements, such as art or design.
Portfolio: A portfolio showcasing your previous work or creative projects is often needed, especially for more advanced or competitive programs.
Entrance Exam or Interview: Some institutions may require you to pass an entrance exam or attend an interview to assess your aptitude and passion for graphic design.
Software Skills: Familiarity with design software like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) might be expected, though some programs offer training in these tools.
English Proficiency: As courses are typically conducted in English, proficiency in the language is essential. Some institutions might require proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
Application Form: You’ll need to complete and submit an application form, which might include personal information, academic history, and details about your interest in graphic design.

Each institution may have its own specific requirements, so it’s a good idea to check the details of the program you’re interested in.

Fees Of Graphic Design Courses In South Africa

The fees for graphic design courses in South Africa vary depending on the institution, the level of study (certificate, diploma, or degree), and the course duration. Here is a general overview:

Short Courses/Certificates:
- Offered by private institutions or online platforms.
- Duration: A few weeks to a few months.
- Fees: R2,000 to R15,000 (approx. $130 to $1,000 USD).
Diploma Courses:
- Offered by colleges and universities.
- Duration: 1 to 3 years.
- Fees: R30,000 to R80,000 per year (approx. $1,900 to $5,200 USD).
Degree Courses (Bachelor’s in Graphic Design):
- Offered by universities and some art schools.
- Duration: 3 to 4 years.
- Fees: R40,000 to R120,000 per year (approx. $2,600 to $7,800 USD).
Advanced Courses/Postgraduate Studies:
- Offered by universities.
- Fees vary significantly based on the program and institution, ranging from R50,000 to R150,000 per year (approx. $3,300 to $9,800 USD).

These fees can vary based on additional factors like materials, software, and registration costs. It’s advisable to check the specific institution’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information

Career Opportunities Of Graphic Design Courses In South Africa

Graphic design courses in South Africa open up various career opportunities, given the growing demand for visual communication across industries. Here are some potential career paths:

Graphic Designer: Create visual content for print, digital media, advertising, and branding.
Web Designer: Focus on designing user interfaces and experiences for websites and applications.
UX/UI Designer: Specialize in user experience and user interface design for websites and apps.
Art Director: Oversee the visual aspects of projects, including layouts, color schemes, and imagery.
Brand Identity Designer: Develop and maintain brand identities, including logos, typography, and style guides.
Illustrator: Create custom illustrations for books, magazines, advertising, and other media.
Motion Graphics Designer: Work on animated graphics for videos, advertisements, and online content.
Print Designer: Design materials for print, such as brochures, posters, and packaging.

Additionally, opportunities exist in advertising agencies, design studios, corporate marketing departments, and freelance work. Networking, building a strong portfolio, and staying updated with industry trends can also enhance career prospects.

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Conclusion

Requirements can vary depending on the institution and program, so it’s advisable to check with each specific institution for their current admission criteria.