Advanced Diploma in Interior Design
Culture and Arts - Design Studies
Purpose and Rationale
Qualification Overview
Purpose
The purpose of this qualification is to facilitate continuing professional development through the inculcation of a deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory, and methodology in the field of Interior Design. Additionally, this qualification prepares learners for postgraduate study by deepening their knowledge and understanding of theories, methodologies, and practices in Interior Design. It aims to develop learners' abilities to formulate, undertake, and resolve more complex theoretical and practice-related problems and tasks through the selection and use of appropriate methods and techniques in the field of Interior Design.
The core modules align with the qualification outcomes and include:
- Research Methods in Design I: Understanding a range of applied methods of inquiry in design and their application to resolve problems.
- Interior Design IV: Integrated knowledge of planning, design, and detailing of complex interiors.
- Digital Design IV: Understanding methods in Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Virtual Reality (VRAY).
- Interior Design Practice IV: Applying knowledge and principles effectively within the profession.
Further alignment is achieved through elective modules, including:
- Compact Design IV
- Smart and Integrated Technologies IV
- Eco Interiors and Sustainable Design IV
- Healthcare Design IV
Rationale
The Advanced Diploma in Interior Design addresses the need for specialized knowledge and skills transformation in higher education, emphasizing Africanisation of the curriculum, Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS), and local and regional art practices globally. The qualification enhances real-world practice knowledge, employability, and entrepreneurial practice opportunities. Interior design education in South Africa plays a critical role in professional teams, collaborating with various disciplines throughout project cycles.
This qualification combines design flair with technical expertise, including elements such as technical drawings, contract documentation, health and safety, construction oversight, and overall project management. Design is a key differentiator for businesses, adding significant value to products and services as well as enhancing customer experience. Interior design has transitioned from aesthetics to encompass social sciences, business sciences, and professional bodies, reflecting the evolving industry landscape.
The qualification emphasizes skills in materials, space planning, color, technical integration, furniture, and lighting design, fostering innovation and customer-centric design practices. Learners engage in theoretical research, creative design, and historical knowledge exploration, focusing on cultural and traditional influences of furniture and lighting design in a South African context. Core modules and elective options provide a balanced mix of theoretical, practical, and experiential knowledge tailored to diverse interests within the field.
Following completion, learners are equipped to pursue careers in various sectors including residential/commercial design, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and more. The qualification aims to prepare learners for postgraduate studies while ensuring they possess the necessary skills to enter the industry successfully.
By aligning theoretical research with practical design skills, this qualification enables learners to develop expertise in addressing industry needs, contributing to the advancement of the interior design profession.
Outcomes
- Identify, analyse, evaluate and critically reflect on and address complex integrated Interior Design problems in a multidisciplinary context by applying evidence-based and theory-driven arguments.
- Evaluate, select and apply appropriate Interior Design key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules such as planning, design and detailing of complex interiors for residential, commercial, public and private buildings in the field of Interior Design and the built environment.
- Evaluate, select and apply appropriate digital design terms, concepts, facts and principles to demonstrate an understanding of a range of methods of inquiry in the field of building information modelling (bim) and virtual reality (VR) and their suitability to investigate and the benefits of information-rich models to resolve problems.
- Research, evaluate and demonstrate types of knowledge ethically within the profession to a range of audiences offering creative insights and solutions to problems and issues in Interior Design management and practice.
- Identify, analyse, evaluate and demonstrate an understanding of smart materials and technologies and their application potential and installation requirements on a variety of design concepts by changing the way we work and live by saving time and opportunities for growth, innovation and knowledge creation.
- Demonstrate knowledge and an understanding of collaborative, interactive and innovative workspaces and environments in a multidisciplinary context by applying evidence-based, theory-driven arguments to create meaningful relationships between people and the products and services used.
- Visualise, demonstrate and apply in a self-critical manner, learning strategies within the eco-friendly and sustainable design interior environments to effectively address sustainability. Research, synthesise and prototype a solution to healthcare Interior Design.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Communication: Clearly communicate with the target audience using Interior Design as a medium.
- Terminology: Understand and use relevant terminology in the field of Interior Design and the built environment.
- Application of Concepts: Apply theoretical or scientific concepts to practical Interior Design projects.
- Design Brief: Evaluate and answer a creative design brief effectively.
- Presentation: Use a variety of mediums and tools to present a complete Interior Design presentation.
- Professionalism: Demonstrate professional etiquette and communication with industry members and peers.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Problem Solving: Identify, analyze, and solve complex design problems using appropriate methods and techniques.
- Communication: Effectively communicate concepts, ideas, and information visually, in writing, and orally.
- Design Methods: Evaluate, select, and apply appropriate design methods to create Interior Design solutions.
- Impact: Understand the impact of Design on society and the physical environment.
- Workplace Practices: Apply workplace practices to solve design problems in alignment with academic learning.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Digital Visualization: Visualize and manipulate Interior/Architectural environments through virtual reality technology.
- CAD Software: Use advanced Computer Aided Drafting software tools to draw detailed design elements.
- Simulation: Simulate real-world scenarios in design projects.
- Editing Commands: Utilize advanced editing commands in design drawings.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- BIM Software: Document, visualize, and simulate advanced projects using Building Information Modelling (BIM) software.
- Working Drawings: Produce detailed working drawings and contract documentation adhering to drafting principles.
- Construction Methods: Communicate construction methods, materials, and finishes for Interior Design projects.
- Regulations: Apply SABS, SANS, and NBR principles to Interior Design projects.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Smart Materials: Identify and apply smart materials and technologies in Interior Design and the built environment.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Professional Communication: Communicate professionally using Interior Design as a medium.
- Terminology: Use relevant Interior Design and built environment terminology.
- Application of Concepts: Apply theoretical concepts to practical Design projects.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Sustainability: Visualize eco-friendly and sustainable interiors, incorporating smart materials and technologies.
- Community Design: Re-imagine communities as self-sustaining entities with conscious building practices.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
- Behavioral Economics: Understand and apply behavioral economics to design projects.
- Healthcare Design: Recognize the role of design in solving healthcare challenges in society.
- Multi-professional Collaboration: Value collaboration and multi-professional perspectives in design projects.
Integrated Assessment:
- Formative Assessment: Includes individual assignments, presentations, group projects, structured reading questions, practical evaluations, and formative feedback.
- Summative Assessment: Involves theoretical tests, examinations, and practical assessments at the end of each term, focusing on content knowledge and comprehension.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Advanced Diploma
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.