Postgraduate Diploma in Art and Social Design

Career Opportunities & Professional Pathways

Graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in Art and Social Design possess advanced critical thinking, collaborative expertise, and a deep understanding of design's role in society. This qualification prepares professionals to use design as a tool for social impact and community development. Career pathways include:

  • Social Impact & Community Design: Social Design Practitioner, Community Engagement Designer, Design Citizenship Consultant, and NGO Design Strategist.
  • Advanced Studio & Creative Practice: Lead Studio Artist, Senior Creative Practitioner, Exhibition Designer, and Independent Design Entrepreneur.
  • Strategic & Collaborative Design: Collaborative Practice Facilitator, Participatory Design Lead, and Design Researcher, driving co-creation projects with diverse communities and stakeholders.
  • Academic & Research Pathway: Design Researcher, Postgraduate Candidate (Master’s followed by PhD in Design), and Academic Lecturer, strongly supported by the programme’s rigorous Research Project and Critical Studies modules.
Postgraduate diploma : Postgraduate Diploma in Art and Social Design

PD_ASD

Campus

Duration of Programme

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

Bloemfontein Campus

1 year (full-time)

120

8

Minimum Credits Required: 120

Programme-Specific Requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification

An Advanced Diploma in Studio Art or an equivalent Art and Design qualification at NQF Level 7.

Required Academic Performance & Prerequisites

  • An average of 60% in Studio Intensive and Critical Studies.
  • Intermediate knowledge of: Rhino (or similar CAD programme), InDesign, Cinema 4D, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and After Effects.

Selection Process & Additional Requirements

Duration & Award

This is a one-year full-time programme. After successful completion of this qualification, the Postgraduate Diploma will be awarded during an official graduation ceremony of CUT.

Selection Process

Admission is subject to a formal review process. Prospective students may be required to submit a portfolio of their work to ensure readiness for advanced postgraduate studio practice and social design methodologies.


Need the Full Programme Details? Consult the Student Calendar

We know that choosing your future is a big step! While this page gives you the key highlights, the official CUT Student Calendar is your complete, authoritative guide. We highly recommend reviewing it to see full details on this programme, including admission criteria, complete module structures, assessment rules, and what to expect during your studies.

View the Student Calendar →

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