Postgraduate Diploma in Art and Social Design at Central University of Technology, Free State

Programme overview

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.

Faculty: Humanities | Department: Design and Studio Art | Duration: 1 year (full-time) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa

Career pathways

Career pathways listed by the programme page include Social Impact & Community Design; Advanced Studio & Creative Practice; Strategic & Collaborative Design; Academic & Research Pathway.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry 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.

Tuition is charged per module, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Applications for the 2027 academic year opened in April 2026 and closed on 30 September 2026 for undergraduate, advanced diploma, honours and structured master's programmes; no late or walk-in applications are accepted.

There is no application fee and no residence application fee; applications are made through the online portal.

Apply through the official page: https://www.cut.ac.za/application-process

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