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Top 10 Graphic Design Courses in South Africa |2025 Fee Structure

Top 10 Graphic Design Courses in South Africa |2025 Fee Structure
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Graphic Design Courses in South Africa: The ability to create something out of nothing is extraordinary, especially when that can become stunning visuals and engaging logos that can impact your business.

No wonder Thomas Watson, Jr., 2nd President of IBM, said, “Good design is good business.”

This is why business owners in South Africa, who do not have expert graphic design skills would hire designers firsthand or use third-party design tools that make graphic creation easy.

Our article will also focus on graphic design courses in South Africa because we understand that Graphic design is an extraordinary talent and skill set that experts work years to develop.

We will also discuss everything there is to know about graphic design courses in South Africa, including the cost of studying them, career opportunities for those who take them, and so much more.

Table of contents

Top 10 Graphic Design Courses in South Africa

Below are some of the best graphic design courses in South Africa offered by the best schools:

#1. Bachelor of Arts Degree Honours in Visual Communication

You can major in photography, illustration, graphic design, multimedia, or art direction and create a self-directed body of creative practice work throughout the one-year intensive Honours program.

In addition to Creative Practice, your degree includes Visual and Contextual Studies.

The course is an on-campus full-time course that ends with a Bachelor of art degree.

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Read Also: Higher Certificate courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

#2. BA in Communication Graphic Design

Communication designers are innovative problem solvers and creative thinkers who work alone or in groups to produce professional communication designs for books, magazines, websites, corporate identity programs, posters, packaging, and other materials.

The BA in Communication Graphic Design is a three-year, on-campus, full-time course, and it is one of the best graphic design courses in South Africa.

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#3. BA Information Design

Candidates who complete this program are eligible for entry-level jobs in broadcast design, branding, advertising, and graphic design, among other mass communications fields.

The curriculum integrates design methods, design applications, and design products in print, ambient, and screen-based media and technologies, all with a strong social foundation.

Four years will pass during the full-time, on-campus BA in Information Design program.

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#4. BA Hons in Design Graphic Design

The Bachelor of Arts Honors in Design (Graphic Design) program prepares students for research-based postgraduate study and entry into a design career by allowing them to conduct and report research under supervision and to devise innovative solutions to challenging problems in a specialized field of design.

You must complete a one-year full-time, on-campus course to get the BA Hons degree in Design.

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#5. MA in Design

The MA in Design (Graphic Design) program aims to educate and train researchers who can make advanced contributions to knowledge advancement.

One advanced research project, which culminates in the creation and approval of a dissertation, is required to acquire a master’s degree. This is a full-time course that will span for a year, and it’s on campus.

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Read Also: 10 Best Business Management Courses in South Africa

#6. BA Graphic Design

The BA Graphic Design program at Greenside Design Center aims to provide students with the practical knowledge and abilities necessary to formulate, produce, and defend theoretical and design arguments.

Anyone interested in producing creative visual compositions using typography, illustration, photography, and hand- or computer-generated graphics across media should enrol in our BA graphic design course.

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#7. Bachelor of Design Specializing in Design

Graduates are well-versed in the newest software, typography, image creation, photography, interactive design, motion graphics, 3D design, and basic/animation. Graduates tell stories visually.

They are prepared to dive into the exciting fields of art direction, branding, advertising, social media, graphic arts, and information design. This program is offered on campus and lasts for three years full-time.

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#8. Graphics: Design Foundation L4

A part of the Jeppe Adult Education Center, which won the Guinness UDV Adult Literacy Award in 2001 for providing a distinctive and independent adult literacy program in Johannesburg’s inner city, is Jeppe College of Commerce and Computer Studies.

Students studying graphic design at Jeppe College have a great chance to network with top businesspeople both domestically and internationally as well as potential employers.

Students participate in a variety of research projects during their classes, which sufficiently equips them for the workforce.

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#9. National Diploma: Graphic Web Design and Multimedia

The student is ready for the ever-evolving field of design, which is impacted by our perceptions of fonts, colors, images, and illustrations. As marketing changes and technology advances, the sector offers students a variety of opportunities.

The diploma is a full-time, on-campus course that will be over in 2 semesters.

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#10. IIE Diploma in Computer-Based Graphic Development

​IIE Rosebank College offers a highly sought-after graphic design credential called the IIE Diploma in Computer-Based Graphic Development.

Three distinct skill tracks are developed during this Diploma in Graphic Design course: visual communication, creative thinking, and graphic development, which includes image manipulation, print layout creation, and online design.

In the first year, students are introduced to all three of these knowledge disciplines at a basic level. They then logically advance in complexity to the necessary level.

The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE) at IIE Rosebank College offers a three-year, full-time degree called the IIE Diploma in Computer-Based Graphic Development.

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Read Also: Best 15 teaching courses in South Africa | Fee Structure

Colleges That Offer Short Graphic Design Diplomas and Courses in South Africa

If you are interested in short courses on graphic design in South Africa, the following are the graphic design schools South Africa has. These institutions are your best bet:

#1. BOSTON CITY CAMPUS & BUSINESS COLLEGE

#2. GETSMARTER

#3. CAPE TOWN CREATIVE ACADEMY (CTCA)

Graphic Design online short course is designed for individuals who want to be able to conceptualize and create powerful visuals for the digital world and beyond

#4. CITY VARSITY

Learn the theory, principles, and practices involved in graphic design with this online Graphic Design course.

#5. CTU TRAINING SOLUTIONS

#6. ELMI COLLEGE

ELMI Provides Advanced Certificates In Graphic Design Courses (NQF 6) and (NQF5)

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

Read Also: Top 15 Best Logistics Courses in South Africa| Fee Structure

#7. FRIENDS OF DESIGN

Created specifically to fulfill the skills requirements of this global industry, the Academy of Digital Arts’ Graphic Design Course will equip you with all the creative tools and technical software skills necessary to make your mark from day one.

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

#8. GREENSIDE DESIGN CENTER

#9. INSCAPE DESIGN COLLEGE

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

#10. 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

#11. Open Window School Of Visual Communication

Read Also: Top 15 Vocational courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

#12. PRESTIGE ACADEMY

Universities That Offer Graphic Design Diplomas, Courses, and Honours

Many universities offer graphic design courses in South Africa, and below is a list of the best of them.

You can either go all out and get a full four-year degree that requires you to study full time, or just a diploma in less time, or even an honor cert in graphic design courses in South Africa.

Some of the courses are free graphic design courses South Africa while others are paid for, check out the paragraphs below for more details.

#1. NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Visual Arts (Graphic Design): [Visual Arts – Nelson Mandela University] This four-year degree program focuses on developing your creativity and technical skills, preparing you for a career in various design fields.

#2. NORTHWEST UNIVERSITY

[North-West University Graphic Design] This program offers a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application, with a focus on areas like branding, advertising, and digital media.

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

#3. UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

University of Johannesburg Graphic Design This department offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, equipping you with the skills and knowledge for a successful graphic design career.

Read Also: Best 15 Human Resource Management Courses in South Africa

#4. UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA

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.

#5. UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCH

#6. CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

#7. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

#8. DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

#9. TSHWANE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

#10. VAAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

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

Read Also: Best 10 Interior Design Courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee …

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:

The cost of studying graphic design at a university in South Africa varies by the type of course and the institution. Below are some examples of graphic design course costs in South Africa:

  • Bachelor’s degree: A full-time Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design can cost between R60,000 and R120,000 per year. 
  • Diploma or certificate: A diploma or certificate in graphic design can cost between R20,000 and R60,000 for the entire course. 
  • Online short course: The University of Cape Town’s online short course in Graphic Design costs R14,500 and lasts 10 weeks. 
  • Graphic design course at Web Design Academy: A two-day Graphic Design Course at Web Design Academy costs R3500.00. 
  • Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at Eduvos: The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at Eduvos costs R67,400 per year, excluding hardware and software requirements. 
  • Graphic Design Course at the School of IT: A Graphic Design Course at the School of IT costs R13,900. 

Before getting started it’s advisable to first check out the school you wish to study graphic design courses in South Africa, to know exactly what it might cost you.

Are there free graphic design courses in South Africa?

Yes, there are free graphic design courses available in South Africa, including online courses and other resources:

  • Alison Online: Offers free certified learning, including a free online course on the core concepts of graphic design and how to use professional design software  
  • Creative Live: Offers free live courses taught by industry experts on a variety of topics, including portfolio building, drawing basics, and book cover design  
  • Baseline: Offers a free design boot camp that includes graphic design courses  
  • Canva Design School: Offers free courses to design anything  
  • Pixel Craft Training: Offers online graphic design courses that cover a range of topics from fundamentals to advanced techniques  
  • University of South Africa (UNISA): Offers graphic design courses that cover topics such as design principles, typography, digital imaging, and web design

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

The recommended subjects for graphic design are art, computer studies, business studies, or EMS and science.

Maths and English are compulsory subjects for graphic design.

What’s the difference between a graphic design degree and a graphic design diploma? 

The degree of schooling and the breadth of knowledge and abilities acquired are the primary distinctions between a graphic design degree and a graphic design diploma. Universities and colleges usually offer undergraduate graphic design degrees as four-year programs.

The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including design principles, typography, branding, and web design, and gives students a thorough education in the philosophy and practice of graphic design. Internships and practical projects give students experience as well.

A graphic design diploma, on the other hand, is typically a shorter degree that takes one to two years to finish. Technical institutes, community colleges, and vocational schools frequently offer it.

The main goal of diploma programs is to give students real-world instruction and experience using graphic design tools and methods.

Although graphic design fundamentals are covered in diploma programs, they might not go as thoroughly into design theory or provide as many possibilities for internships and practical projects.

Can you get both of these through a course?

Indeed, completing a course can lead to both a graphic design degree and a graphic design diploma. A few colleges and institutions include diploma programs in their graphic design degree programs.

In addition to the thorough education that the degree program offers, this enables students to obtain real-world training and experience.

As an alternative, after earning a degree in graphic design or a similar discipline, students might finish certificate programs offered by certain institutions. This enables students to add specific skills and real-world training to their education.

It’s crucial to remember, too, that earning a degree and a credential together could be more expensive and time-consuming than pursuing just one. Before choosing a course of study, it’s critical to thoroughly evaluate job aspirations as well as the degree of education and abilities required.

Read Also: UNISA Courses and Requirements | 2024 Fee Structure

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 Sesigner 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?

For those who appreciate art, technology, and communication and have a creative mind, graphic design is a fantastic career choice.

Every business has design requirements, thus graphic designers have plenty of chances to work on a variety of novel and fascinating projects.

In South Africa, graphic designers typically make R 210 000 a year, or R 108 an hour. Most experienced professionals earn up to R 390 000 annually, while entry-level roles start at R 156 000.

In the more populated areas of South Africa, such as Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Cape Town, there is a steady need for graphic designers.

You could need to find employment if you lived in a less crowded location. 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?

A National Senior Certificate with the endorsement of a bachelor’s degree, diploma, or comparable qualification, and an accomplishment level of at least 4 in English (home language or first additional language) are the prerequisites for admission.

What subjects are needed for graphic design in South Africa?

You must have a firm grasp of graphic design software and principles to succeed as a graphic designer in South Africa. This implies that you will need to know how to use design programs like Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop.

Additionally, you will need to be well-versed in composition, typography, and color theory. User experience design, branding, and marketing are additional crucial topics.

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

While most firms prefer to hire people with relevant skills, there is no official requirement for a specific qualification to become a graphic designer in South Africa.

A bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a similar discipline is usually preferred. But it’s also feasible to earn a graphic design degree or certificate from an accredited school.

Read Also: Top 15 UJ Free Online Courses in South Africa | Fee Structure

Where is the best place to study graphic design?

You can study graphic design in South Africa at several top-notch universities. The University of Cape Town, the University of Johannesburg, and the University of Pretoria are a few of the top universities for graphic design studies.

The Red and Yellow Creative School of Business, Inscape Design College, and Vega School of Brand Leadership are further top choices.

What subjects do I need for graphic design?

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

Do Graphic Designers get Paid well in South Africa?

Depending on their experience level and the organization they work for, graphic designers in South Africa might command high compensation. In South Africa, a graphic designer typically makes R179,000 a year, though this can vary significantly based on the sector and region.

How Long is a Graphic Design Course?

The sort of qualification you select will determine how long a graphic design course in South Africa lasts. The average time to finish a graphic design bachelor’s degree is three to four years. The duration of a graphic design diploma or certificate might be one to two years. In just a few weeks, students can also finish short graphic design courses.

Is Graphic Design in Demand in South Africa?

Indeed, there is a great need for graphic designers in South Africa. Businesses are spending more on their branding and visual identity as a result of the growth of e-commerce and digital marketing.

As a result, there is a greater need for talented graphic designers who can produce eye-catching designs that successfully convey the brand’s message.

Advertising, marketing, publishing, and web design are just a few of the businesses that depend heavily on graphic design.

The need for digital designers is growing as more companies move their operations online. As a result, working in graphic design in South Africa can be a rewarding and exciting career choice.

Are there Online Graphic Design Courses in South Africa?

Yes, there are online graphic design courses in South Africa, including courses offered by educational institutions and online platforms: 

  • University of Cape Town: Offers an online short course in graphic design that covers Adobe Illustrator, working with digital images, and creating a professional portfolio  
  • Digital School of Marketing (DSM): Offers a variety of online graphic design courses, including a principles of graphic design course, an intermediate graphic design course, an advanced graphic design course, and a graphic design and intermediate digital marketing course  
  • Pixelcraft Training: Offers online graphic design courses that teach students how to create graphic designs, websites, and commercial print layouts  
  • Learnfast Training Centre: Offers graphic design short courses at their Midrand and Cape Town campuses, or at client premises anywhere in South Africa  
  • Eduvos: Offers a part-time online Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design  
  • Damelin Online: Offers an online short course in principles of graphic design

Read Also: UNISA Diploma Courses | Requirements and Fees

FAQs

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

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

Entry requirements
You’ll usually need a foundation diploma in art and design. 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma. 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree.. At School of IT we offer short courses and international certifications that are internationally accredited and recognized!

Which course is best for learning graphic design?

Interactive Computer Graphics: The University of Tokyo.
Graphic Design Elements for Non-Designers: University of Colorado Boulder.
Innovation Through Design: Think, Make, Break, Repeat: The University of Sydney.
Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce: Google.
School of IT: Graphic Design Course.
Kadenze: Introduction to Graphic Design.
Udemy: Introduction to Graphic Design.
Coursera: Graphic Design Specialization by CalArts.
SkillShare: Great Graphic Design.
Udemy: Logo Design Fundamentals.
Coursera: Graphic Design Course by University of Colorado Boulder.
Will Paterson’s Graphic Design Tutorials.

Do you need matric to be a graphic designer?

You must have a valid Matric certificate or NQF4 equivalent. You will also need to complete all the questions and creative pieces requested in the enrolment application form, as well as provide your portfolio.

Can I learn graphic design online?

Yes, you can learn graphic design online through various courses and programs offered by educational institutions and online platforms, allowing you to gain skills and knowledge.

Can you become a graphic designer online?

Becoming a graphic designer online is entirely feasible, with numerous comprehensive courses available that cover the necessary software, creative techniques, and design principles. UCT’s Graphic Design short course is a self-paced, online course.

Is graphic design hard?

Graphic design can be challenging, as it requires a blend of creativity, technical skills, and an understanding of design principles and software, but with practice and dedication, it can become a rewarding and engaging career path.

What are the four types of graphic design?

The four main types of graphic design are visual identity graphic design (branding and logos), marketing and advertising graphic design (ads and promotional content), user interface graphic design (web and app design), and publication graphic design (books, newspapers, and magazines).

Conclusion

There are many Graphic design courses in South Africa and our article has highlighted the best places to study any graphic design-related course in South Africa.

We have also discussed the difference between a graphic design degree and a graphic design diploma, to help prospective design students make the best choice for their career journey.

References

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