Master of Arts in Graphic Design

Purpose

The primary purpose of this Master of Arts in Graphic Design by coursework and mini-dissertation is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge in the field of Graphic Design at an advanced level. Learners will be trained to reflect critically on the praxis Graphic Design and to be able to deal with complex issues within the field both systematically and creatively, design and critically appraise research, make a sound judgement using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Through this qualification, learners who have already acquired a 4-year or Honours Degree in the field of professional graphic design, or equivalent qualification, will undertake advanced study towards an industry-based Master's Degree in the field of graphic design.

Rationale

This qualification will create opportunities for continued personal intellectual growth, valuable economic activity and contributions to the community in the fast-developing design industry in South Africa through advanced education and study.

The qualification will supply South Africa with developing graphic designers who have the necessary theoretical background and are capable of practical skills, with specialisation and craftsmanship in a recognised sub-discipline within the design industry. This will further contribute to the expansion of the leadership base for innovative and knowledge-based economic and scholastic activity in the country.

This qualification is further intended to educate and train researchers to actively and appropriately contribute to the development of new knowledge in the field of Graphic Design as it provides an opportunity for the articulation to doctoral studies in the field.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualifications. RPL will be applied according to the Recognition of Prior Learning, credit accumulation and transfer, and assessment (CHE 2016) and the institution RPL policy. The process will be managed by the Faculty of Humanities.

The Faculty of Humanities will ensure that quality assurance processes that address the specificities of the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems) are implemented; and that administrative and support systems, both prior and after RPL assessment, are in place. Learners will be assessed against NQF Level 8 competencies.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Four-year Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Arts Honours in Graphic Design or related field, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Graphic Design or related field, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 180 Credits

• Design Theory and Research Methodology, 36 Credits.
• Graphic Design: Process, 36 Credits.
• Graphic Design: Practical Portfolio, 48 Credits.
• Mini-dissertation, 60 Credits.

1. Demonstrate a depth of knowledge and high levels of theoretical understanding and the ability to apply knowledge and skills to the solution of abstract and complex problems in the field of Graphic Design.
2. Advanced understanding of research methodologies and the logic of the scholarly argument.
3. Collect, synthesise and evaluate information and concepts at highly abstract levels and make sound evaluations based on independently generated criteria.
4. Demonstrate mastery of the literature and state of research in a specific area, and the ability to analyse, present and challenge scholarly positions.
5. Plan, resource and manage and optimise all aspects of a research process.
6. Show high levels of responsibility, self-reflexivity, and adaptability, to the ethical implications of research, as well as professional standards of conduct.
7. Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
8. Work in a disciplinary and/or inter-disciplinary manner as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
9. Demonstrate the effective utilisation of technology for strategies aimed at the development of knowledge and problem-solving in the field of graphic design.
10. Communicate effectively with people of all target groups, using visual and linguistic skills.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner against Exit Level Outcomes

• Identify a research topic and conduct basic research using applicable qualitative, quantitative or a combination of both research methods and submit a research report in a mini-dissertation format.
• Apply in research, the advanced, subject-oriented and theoretical paradigms that inform the visual arts and design disciplines.
• Identify a research problem (or the analysis of visual or design artefacts) and develop a research proposal under the supervision of a supervisor.
• Select appropriate and subject-oriented philosophical themes within a specific field of specialisation in graphic design and apply both orally and in written form.
• Present both a visual and written report that reflects practice-led research methods.
• Successfully and independently complete the design process and the resolution of the design problem from its conceptualisation up to the final reproduction, which in effect, would imply the analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the creative process.
• Apply and verbally communicate the theoretical aspects of the skills required in design practice.
• Compile a final, professional portfolio that represents a variety of design products.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment will be undertaken through written assignments and seminar presentations during the year in the modules. In some modules, Formative Assessment will include portfolios, practical evaluations and a research proposal.

Learners will be assessed summatively at the end of their study by submitting a practical portfolio, process documentation regarding the practical portfolio, as well as a mini-dissertation on discrete research that was conducted under supervision.