Graphic Design

The Diploma in Graphic Design offers you a diverse practical and theoretical exposure to enable entry into the professional field of graphic design or illustration.

Diploma in Graphic Design- three-year diploma at NQF6 with 360 credits
SAQA Qualification ID No. 49863

You will acquire a wide variety of professional skills and a thorough knowledge of visual communication in order to produce an industry ready professional portfolio in your area of specialization.

Lester van der Merwe reviewing layouts
The curriculum integrates a balanced approach towards both practice and theory within an intimate class environment. The program focuses on:
  • Realisation of your full design and illustration potential
  • Design related computer technology and software
  • Preparation to work as part of a team in a professional studio
  • Skills to also become an independent entrepreneur
  • Exposure to industry with opportunities to work shadow, engage in projects with real clients and freelance
  • Production of a professional portfolio

Time management, meeting of deadlines and the ability to work under pressure are emphasized as being crucial to success within the industry. The Graphic Design programme instills a sound work ethic through professional practice and business management skills and also allows you to establish yourself as a successful, independent designer. 

Staff are united in the common goal of educational excellence within the framework of a friendly atmosphere and are committed to helping students realise their full potential.

Course Content

1st year

Practical

Communication Design (Major)
36 credits NQF5

DTP - Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
18 credits NQF5

Drawing
12 credits NQF5

Illustration
12 credits NQF5

Printmaking
12 credits NQF5

Photography
12 credits NQF5

Theory

Visual Discourse
18 credits NQF6

2nd year

Practical

Communication Design (Major)
36 credits NQF6

Illustration (Second Major)
24 credits NQF6

DTP - Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign,
18 credits NQF6

Techniques that includes-Digital Photography
Print Media and Repro
3D Fabrication
18 credits NQF6

Theory

Design Discourse
18 credits NQF6

Professional Practice
6 credits NQF6

3rd Year

Practical

Communication Design (Major) 
39 credits NQF6

Illustration (Major)
24 credits NQF6

Professional Portfolio and DTP
15 credits NQF6

Theory

Extended Essay
30 credits NQF7

Professional Practice
12 credits NQF7

Pricing

Academic Fees
The Fees for 2025 are R75 915.00 which includes the Registration Fee

Registration Fee
R11 000

The Registration fee is included in the total fee and payable in advance to secure the academic space offered.

FEES

If the student is offered a study place and accepts the study place, the student formally registers.
Registration commits the student to the programme and to pay the applicable fees.
A student is considered to be registered upon receipt of the registration and declaration documentation and payment of the registration fee.
If a student is under the age of 21 years of age then the Registration Form and Declaration and Undertaking Form needs to be signed by a parent or a legal guardian.
All foreign students are required to pay their fees prior to documents being generated for a Study Visa. If the student is not granted a VISA, the fees less the Registration Fee may be refunded. There is a 10% levy added for foreign students.
PAYMENT OF FEES
Student fees may be paid via EFT or directly in person to the admin office. The total student fees are required to be settled in full by the 30 May annually. All students (first, second and third) are required to pay the Registration fee prior to the academic year.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND INTEREST FREE PAYMENT PLANS
Students can apply for an extended payment plan for the balance of fees (after the registration Fee has been paid) which are settled in equal monthly instalments from February to November (10 Months) at no interest. The request must be applied for in writing to the Executive Head egeustyn@ruthprowse.co.za by the 15th January 2025.
R11 000 for Registration by 20 December for 1st year students to secure the academic space.
Second and Third year students must pay the Registration Fee before the 15th February 2025.
DISCOUNTS FOR ALL STUDENTS- SA, SADC and Foreign
The following discounts are granted for the full settlement of the fees less the Registration fee received in the School’s bank accounts. A discount of 10% if paid in full and received by the 15 January of the balance of fees less the Registration Fee. A discount of 5% if paid in full by the 15 February of the balance of fees less the Registration Fee.
There is no discount on the registration fees or the administration fee for foreign students.

Application steps

01

Apply

Complete an application form

02

admission requirements

We'll need a few things from you to evaluate your application.

03

Payment

If your application is successful we'll inform you of our payment options