WHERE TO STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN IN SOUTH AFRICA [2024] | GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDIES | GRAPHIC DESIGN COURSES & DEGREES

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WHERE TO STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN IN SOUTH AFRICA

So you want to be a graphic designer and don’t know where to start? Well back in the day when I decided to study graphic design, there weren’t many design schools to choose from, but today you have a choice of independent schools, colleges, universities,  universities of technology and even online courses such as UDEMY. You can do a short course, diploma or even a degree. With all these options it’s not an easy task to decide where to study graphic design, so hopefully, we can clear that up for you a little.

Many People assume that New Perspective Design is in fact a design school of some sort, we are however a graphic & web design agency. With the ever-increasing website visits from students and parents looking to enroll themselves in graphic design courses, we thought we would write up a list. Graphic design is a great occupation! So to help you begin, here is a list of graphic design schools & courses in South Africa.

STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN AT INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS & COLLEGE’S

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS & COLLEGE'S THAT OFFER GRAPHIC DESIGN DIPLOMAS AND COURSES
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS & COLLEGE'S THAT OFFER GRAPHIC DESIGN DIPLOMAS AND COURSES

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS & COLLEGE’S THAT OFFER GRAPHIC DESIGN DIPLOMAS AND COURSES

AAA SCHOOL OF ADVERTISING

  •  Cape Town and Johannesburg
  •  BA in Creative Brand Communication
  •  3 Years
  • www.aaaschool.co.za

 

ARTSHUB INSTITUTE


CAPE TOWN CREATIVE ACADEMY (CTCA)


CITYVARSITY

 

CTU TRAINING SOLUTIONS

 

DADA


ELMI COLLEGE

  •  East London
  •  Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design
  •  1 year (Full Time)
  • www.elmi.co.za
 
 

FRIENDS OF DESIGN

  •  Cape Town
  •  Higher Certificate Graphic Design & Visual Communication
  •  1 year (Full Time)
  • www.friendsofdesign.net
 

GREENSIDE DESIGN CENTER

Greenside Design Center

Greenside Design Center is an internationally acclaimed, specialist design college focused on nurturing creative and innovative thinkers. Our philosophy is based on being Different by Design in order to train graduates to bring fresh ideas and new thinking to design tasks. GDC offers a range of degrees, honours degrees and higher certificates in various design disciplines including graphic design, multimedia design and interior design.

Foundation Programme (Digital Design & Arts)

The Foundation Programme (Digital Design & Arts) serves as a necessary bridging course between high school and tertiary education. The programme introduces learners to a number of artistic and professional disciplines required for admission to a practical undergraduate higher certificate program or above. The programme is aimed at assisting students who did not meet the minimum requirement for admission into Higher Education, or to act as a skill-strengthening course.

The programme has 3 foundational goals

To create a sound learning foundation by expanding the knowledge base and skills of the student in the relevant subject areas.
To assist the student in building a strong portfolio of work.
Supporting students by introducing and exploring the various areas of specialisation within the relevant field of study.
The primary purpose of the Foundation programme is to provide a suitable foundation for further studies in one the various subject areas covered. The programme will provide students with a strong foundation of art and drawing techniques, design production and management; and digital design and computer applications across industries. At the end of the programme, students are equipped with the foundational knowledge, skill-set and information to further their studies and choose an area of specialisation in one of the related fields.

Who are they designed for?: If you plan to study a practical undergraduate higher certificate without meeting the entry requirements, we recommend completing a foundational programme first. It is important to note the following:

The foundational programmes are meant as a bridge into our NQF5 programmes, it is not meant as an exit level
The foundational programmes are not accredited by any education quality committee, nor does it carry any NQF level
The foundational programme’s structure and content follows all moderation and quality assurance policies to ensure a aligned and solid foundation for articulation.

Higher Certificate in Design: Graphic Design, NQF5

GDC offers a Higher Certificate in Design Thinking with a focus on Graphic Design, NQF5.

The purpose of the qualification is to lay a foundation in the broad principles and practices of design. The programme introduces learners to creative and visual thinking, design thinking and the design process, visual communication methods, professional practice and the analysis and critique of design solutions. It offers an integrated combination of conceptual and applied skills and prepares learners to become flexible, problem-solving thinkers outside the boundaries of a single design discipline. This Higher Certificate is an elective in Design Thinking with a focus on Graphic Design in the second semester.

The elective equips learners with the fundamental toolkit to problem solve and develop creative design solutions within the exciting field of graphic design to develop 2D and 3D design solutions in a print-based environment. Students get to explore designs that might incorporate the fields of corporate identity design and logo design, poster design, editorial design, packaging, typography and type design. Through a variety of problems, Students will learn the necessary software, graphic communication, prototyping and academic writing skills required for future study. In addition, students acquire the academic reading and writing skills required for further study and qualify with a standalone NQF level 5 qualification.

BA Degree: Graphic Design Degree

Are you passionate about design? Love to create a masterpiece with visual elements? Then our graphic design course is for you. The purpose of the programme is to develop students into competent and employable designers that specialise in print-based communication. The programme emphasises the ability to form, create and rationalise both design and theoretical argument; as well as the ability to implement and critique print-based design processes. The programme further provides a theoretical and practical foundation in print-based communication for further study. Our Focus Greenside Design Center’s graphic design courses are made to produce highly-skilled, innovative, and confident designers that can professionally critique and execute any design task.

 
 

INSCAPE DESIGN COLLEGE

  •  Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town
  •  Graphic Design Diploma or Degree
  •  3 Years
  • www.inscape.co.za

OAKFIELDS COLLEGE

  •  East Rand, Pretoria and Somerset West
  •  National Certificate in Interactive Media.
  •  010 591 7314 | 012 361 0416 | 021 850 0383
  •  2 Years
  • www.oakfieldscollege.co.za
 

OPEN WINDOW SCHOOL OF VISUAL COMMUNICATION

 

PRESTIGE ACADEMY

 

RED AND YELLOW GRAPHIC DESIGN

 

ROSEBANK COLLEGE

 

RUTH PROWSE SCHOOL OF ART

 

STELLENBOSCH ACADEMY OF DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

 

VEGA SCHOOL OF BRAND LEADERSHIP

  •  Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town
  •  BA Graphic Design
  •  3 Years
  • www.vegaschool.com
 

STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN AT UNIVERSITIES

Universities offering graphic design courses, diplomas and honours

Universities offering graphic design courses, diplomas and honours

UNIVERSITIES THAT OFFER GRAPHIC DESIGN DIPLOMAS, COURSES AND HONOURS

NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY

 

NORTH WEST UNIVERSITY

  •  Potchefstroom
  •  Degree in Graphic Design
  •  4 Years
  • www.puk.ac.za
 

UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

 

UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA

 

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graphic design courses Unisa

The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a variety of graphic design courses for students interested in pursuing a career in the field. These courses cover a range of topics, from design principles and typography to digital imaging and web design. Students have the opportunity to learn from experienced graphic designers and gain hands-on experience through practical projects. UNISA’s graphic design courses are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a competitive industry, whether they are interested in working as a freelance designer, in-house designer, or art director.

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2.7 / 5 ( 3 votes )

UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCH

 

STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN AT UNIVERSITIES OF TECHNOLOGY

CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

 
 

CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

 

 
 

TSHWANE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

 

VAAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

  •  Vanderbijlpark
  •  Department of Visual Arts and Design
  • www.vut.ac.za

GRAPHIC DESIGN SHORT COURSES

Short courses on graphic design and web design.

BOSTON CITY CAMPUS & BUSINESS COLLEGE

 

GETSMARTER


 
We hope this assists you as a potential budding graphic design student or a parent looking into finding out more about what’s on offer out there for your children’s studies.
 
Graphic design can encompass a lot of different areas in our world and there are in fact many types of graphic design that some potential creatives will gravitate to.
 
There is also no shame in taking a freelance role for a while as a graphic designer to see what the industry requires and if it’s something you would really like as a career before committing to tertiary studies.
 
If you have any further questions regarding graphic design, web design, or digital marketing as careers please contact us and we will be happy to offer our experiences.
 

 
We have added a few sections due to common answers surrounding common questions we get around this article:

1. How much does it cost to study graphic design in South Africa?

The cost of studying graphic design can vary greatly depending on where you study such as universities or independent tertiary institutions.

Cost of Studying graphic design at university:

33 000 ZAR – 53 000 ZAR per year:

Cost of Studying graphic design at independent tertiary institutions:

81 000 ZAR – 120 000 ZAR per year.

Cost of Studying graphic design at universities of technology:

33 000 ZAR – 39 000 ZAR per year.

2. What High school subjects do I need to have to study graphic design in South Africa?

 
The recommended subject for graphic design is obviously art, computer studies, business studies or EMS and science.
Maths and English are compulsory subjects for graphic design.

3. Whats the difference between a graphic design degree and a graphic design diploma? 

The main difference between a graphic design degree and a graphic design diploma is the level of education and the depth of knowledge and skills gained. A graphic design degree is typically a four-year program offered at the undergraduate level by universities and colleges. The program provides students with a comprehensive education in the theory and practice of graphic design, covering a wide range of topics such as design principles, typography, branding, and web design. Students also gain experience through internships and real-world projects.

On the other hand, a graphic design diploma is usually a shorter program that can be completed in one to two years. It is often offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes. Diploma programs focus on providing practical training and hands-on experience in graphic design software and techniques. While diploma programs cover the basics of graphic design, they may not delve as deeply into design theory and may not offer as many opportunities for internships and real-world projects.

4. Can you get both of these through a course?

Yes, it is possible to get both a graphic design degree and a graphic design diploma through a course. Some universities and colleges offer diploma programs as part of their graphic design degree curriculum. This allows students to gain practical training and hands-on experience in addition to the comprehensive education provided by the degree program.

Alternatively, some schools offer diploma programs that can be completed after obtaining a degree in graphic design or a related field. This allows students to supplement their education with practical training and specialized skills.

However, it’s important to note that obtaining both a degree and a diploma may take longer and be more costly than pursuing just one. It’s important to carefully consider career goals and the level of education and skills needed before deciding on a course of study.

WHERE TO STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN IN SOUTH AFRICA

So you want to be a graphic designer and don’t know where to start? Well back in the day when I decided to study graphic design, there weren’t many design schools to choose from, but today you have a choice of independent schools, colleges, universities, and universities of technology. You can do a short course, diploma or even a degree. With all these options it’s not an easy task deciding where to study graphic design, so hopefully, we can clear that up for you a little.

Many People assume that New Perspective Design is in fact a design school of some sort, we are however a graphic & web design agency. With the ever-increasing website visits from students and parents looking to enroll themselves in graphic design courses, we thought we would write up a list. Graphic design is a great occupation! So to help you begin, here is a list of graphic design schools & courses in South Africa.

STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN AT INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS & COLLEGE’S

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS & COLLEGE'S THAT OFFER GRAPHIC DESIGN DIPLOMAS AND COURSES

AAA SCHOOL OF ADVERTISING

  •  Cape Town and Johannesburg
  •  BA in Creative Brand Communication
  •  3 Years
  • www.aaaschool.co.za

how much does it cost to study graphic design in south africa

requirements to study graphic design in south africa

high school subjects needed for graphic design in south africa

graphic design courses unisa

graphic design university of pretoria

accredited graphic design courses south africa

graphic design requirements at uj

graphic design courses online south africa

 

ARTSHUB INSTITUTE


CAPE TOWN CREATIVE ACADEMY (CTCA)


CITYVARSITY

 

CTU TRAINING SOLUTIONS

 

DADA


ELMI COLLEGE

  •  East London
  •  Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design
  •  1 year (Full Time)
  • www.elmi.co.za
 
 

FRIENDS OF DESIGN

  •  Cape Town
  •  Higher Certificate Graphic Design & Visual Communication
  •  1 year (Full Time)
  • www.friendsofdesign.net
 

GREENSIDE DESIGN CENTER

 
 

INSCAPE DESIGN COLLEGE

  •  Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town
  •  Graphic Design Diploma or Degree
  •  3 Years
  • www.inscape.co.za

OAKFIELDS COLLEGE

  •  East Rand, Pretoria and Somerset West
  •  National Certificate in Interactive Media.
  •  010 591 7314 | 012 361 0416 | 021 850 0383
  •  2 Years
  • www.oakfieldscollege.co.za
 

OPEN WINDOW SCHOOL OF VISUAL COMMUNICATION

 

PRESTIGE ACADEMY

 

RED AND YELLOW GRAPHIC DESIGN

 

ROSEBANK COLLEGE

 

RUTH PROWSE SCHOOL OF ART

 

STELLENBOSCH ACADEMY OF DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

 

VEGA SCHOOL OF BRAND LEADERSHIP

  •  Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town
  •  BA Graphic Design
  •  3 Years
  • www.vegaschool.com
 

STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN AT UNIVERSITIES

UNIVERSITIES THAT OFFER GRAPHIC DESIGN DIPLOMAS, COURSES AND HONOURS

NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY

 

NORTH WEST UNIVERSITY

  •  Potchefstroom
  •  Degree in Graphic Design
  •  4 Years
  • www.puk.ac.za
 

UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

 

UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA

 

2.7 / 5 ( 3 votes )

UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCH

 

STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN AT UNIVERSITIES OF TECHNOLOGY

CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

 
 

CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

 

 
 

TSHWANE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

 

VAAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

  •  Vanderbijlpark
  •  Department of Visual Arts and Design
  • www.vut.ac.za

GRAPHIC DESIGN SHORT COURSES

Short courses on graphic design and web design.

BOSTON CITY CAMPUS & BUSINESS COLLEGE

 

GETSMARTER


 
We hope this assists you as a potential budding graphic design student or a parent looking into finding out more about what’s on offer out there for your children’s studies.
 
Graphic design can encompass a lot of different areas in our world and there are in fact many types of graphic design that some potential creatives will gravitate to.
 
 
There is also no shame in taking a freelance role for a while as a graphic designer to see what the industry requires and if it’s something you would really like as a career before committing to tertiary studies.
 
If you have any further questions regarding graphic design, web design, or digital marketing as careers please contact us and we will be happy to offer our experiences.
 

Quick FAQ about studying graphic design in South Africa.

 
We have added a few sections due to common answers surrounding common questions we get around this article:

 How much does it cost to study graphic design in South Africa?

The cost of studying graphic design can vary greatly depending on where you study such as universities or independent tertiary institutions.

Cost of Studying graphic design at university:

33 000 ZAR – 53 000 ZAR per year:

Cost of Studying graphic design at independent tertiary institutions:

81 000 ZAR – 120 000 ZAR per year.

Cost of Studying graphic design at universities of technology:

33 000 ZAR – 39 000 ZAR per year.

What High school subjects do I need to have to study graphic design in South Africa?

 
The recommended subject for graphic design is obviously art, computer studies, business studied or EMS and science.
Maths and English are compulsory subjects for graphic design.

How long does it take to study graphic design in South Africa?

How long is a graphic design course in South Africa? A typical university program can take four years, while a graphic design course or boot camp can range from a few weeks to a few months.

Where can I study to become a graphic designer in South Africa?

  • The University of the Witwatersrand. Bachelor of Arts: Fine Arts.
  • The University of Johannesburg. …
  • The University of Pretoria. …
  • University of Stellenbosch. …
  • The Cape Peninsula University of Technology. …
  • The Tshwane University of Technology. …
  • Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. …
  • Stellenbosch Academy of Design and Photography.

Is graphic design a good career in South Africa?

Graphic design is a great career for people who are creative thinkers and enjoy art, technology, and communication. There are design needs across every industry, so Graphic Designers have many opportunities to take on a range of new and exciting projects.

The average graphic designer salary in South Africa is R 210 000 per year or R 108 per hour. Entry-level positions start at R 156 000 per year, while most experienced workers make up to R 390 000 per year.

In South Africa, there is a constant demand for Graphic Design in the busier parts of South Africa like Joburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. If you were living in a less populated area then you might have to look for work. Many graphic designers freelance for a period before during and after they have completed their graphic design course. 

Can I study graphic design without matric?

The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate with an endorsement of a bachelor’s degree or a diploma, or an equivalent qualification, with an achievement level of at least 4 for English (home language or first additional language).

What subjects are needed for graphic design in South Africa?

To become a successful graphic designer in South Africa, you’ll need to have a solid understanding of graphic design principles and software. This means that you’ll need to be familiar with design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign. You will also need to have a good understanding of color theory, typography, and composition. Other important subjects include marketing, branding, and user experience design.

What qualifications do I need to be a graphic designer in South Africa?

While there is no formal requirement for a specific qualification to become a graphic designer in South Africa, most employers prefer to hire individuals with a relevant qualification. Typically, a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or a related field is preferred. However, it is also possible to obtain a diploma or certificate in graphic design from a reputable institution.

Where is the best place to study graphic design?

There are many excellent institutions in South Africa where you can study graphic design. Some of the best places to study graphic design include the University of Cape Town, the University of Johannesburg, and the University of Pretoria. Other excellent options include the Vega School of Brand Leadership, Inscape Design College, and Red and Yellow Creative School of Business.

How much is a graphic design course in South Africa?

The cost of a graphic design course in South Africa varies depending on the institution and the type of course you choose. A full-time Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design can cost anywhere from R60,000 to R120,000 per year. A diploma or certificate in graphic design can range from R20,000 to R60,000 for the entire course. It is important to research and compare the fees at different institutions before making a decision.

What subjects do I need for graphic design?

To be successful in graphic design, you will need to have a good understanding of art and design principles. This includes a solid foundation in color theory, typography, composition, and design software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Other important subjects include marketing, branding, and user experience design.

Do graphic designers get paid well in South Africa?

Graphic designers in South Africa can earn a competitive salary depending on their level of experience and the company they work for. The average salary for a graphic designer in South Africa is around R179,000 per year, but this can vary greatly depending on the industry and location.

How long is a graphic design course?

The length of a graphic design course in South Africa depends on the type of qualification you choose. A Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design typically takes three to four years to complete. A diploma or certificate in graphic design can range from one to two years. Short courses in graphic design can also be completed in a matter of weeks.

Is graphic design in demand in South Africa?

Yes, graphic design is in high demand in South Africa. With the rise of digital marketing and e-commerce, companies are investing more in their branding and visual identity. This has led to an increased demand for skilled graphic designers who can create compelling designs that communicate the brand’s message effectively. Graphic design is a vital component of many industries, including advertising, marketing, publishing, and web design. As more businesses shift towards online platforms, the demand for digital designers is also on the rise. Therefore, pursuing a career in graphic design in South Africa can be a promising and fulfilling career path.

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Written By: New Perspective Design

New Perspective Design is a leading graphic and web design agency based in East London South Africa. We also specialize in the fields of search engine optimization and online marketing with over 6 years of experience in the industry. Our agency has a passion for growing business online and thrives on mutually beneficial relationships with our clients.

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