fbpx

your questions answered

Fashion Design Studies FAQs

Explore comprehensive answers to your fashion design queries at Design Academy of Fashion’s FAQ page. Discover details on course fees, entry requirements, and specialized subjects, guiding your journey into the vibrant world of fashion design in South Africa.

Course fees vary based on the institution and the type of course. At our institution, costs for full-time diplomas range from R95,000 to R105,000. The non-accredited short courses and part-time courses range from R4,000 to R18,000.

As a private institution, we solely rely on fees and receive no other funding. This impacts the price of fees. Additionally, full-time students should consider additional expenses for sewing machines, laptops, Adobe Suite software, fabrics, and sewing kits. We do actively negotiate with suppliers to provide discounted rates and seek sponsorships where possible.

DAF Diploma Fees

We collaborate with fashion retailers where possible to sponsor bursaries, although they typically consider applicants in their second year of study. Additionally, our partnership with W&RSETA extends to registered and accepted students already in the program. For those seeking financial aid, we work with Student Hero to facilitate student loans.

The full-time accredited qualification takes 3 years, while the shorter courses or certifications might range from a few weeks to a 5 months.

For full-time study purposes, choosing the right institution is crucial, considering it’s a significant commitment of 3 years. We highly recommend attending open days, meeting the faculty, and engaging with current students to ensure the institution is the right fit for you.

For entry requirements into the accredited full-time qualification, you would need a matric pass with a minimum to enter studies for a diploma.

A candidate must pass at least 6 out of 7 subjects and obtain:
  • At least 40% for your Home Language
  • At least 40% for three other subjects excluding Life Orientation
  • At least 30% in the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) of the tertiary institution (Higher Education Institution)

If you are 23 years and older, access to the qualification is allowed via Recognition of Prior Learning. (RPL) 

 
 

For accredited qualifications, a Matric/Grade 12 qualification with an appropriate pass rate is typically required. However, individuals over 23 years old may apply through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programs. It’s important to note that non-accredited short courses may not require a Matric certificate for enrolment.

While having a background in art or creative subjects can provide a good foundation, it’s not a mandatory requirement. At our institution, we offer comprehensive courses that cater to individuals from diverse academic backgrounds. We teach from scratch, ensuring that all students, regardless of their prior experience, gain a solid understanding of fashion design fundamentals.

At Design Academy of Fashion (DAF), while we don’t offer a specific course exclusively in fashion buying, our comprehensive fashion qualification covers retail planning and buying throughout most of the program. Our curriculum includes collaborative projects with retailers, providing our students with hands-on experience in the field. Many of our alumni have gone on to become successful buyers at prominent retailers across South Africa, showcasing the strength and relevance of our fashion program.

Studying fashion can indeed be an excellent choice for individuals passionate about creativity and the industry itself. Fashion designers and buyers are currently listed as scarce skills, reflecting the diversity and opportunities available in this field. However, it’s important to understand that fashion education is demanding. It encompasses a broad spectrum, from honing computer skills and mastering practical techniques to delving into consumer psychology and theoretical aspects. Contrary to common misconceptions, fashion education involves more than just creative activities; it requires a deep understanding of various aspects of the industry, making it a rigorous and multifaceted pursuit.

Fashion designers require a multitude of skills, extending beyond technical expertise. While creativity and design proficiency are pivotal, successful designers exhibit a profound curiosity about the world and a genuine passion for clothing, textiles, and color. They possess a unique perspective and an understanding of consumers, designing with empathy and relevance. Effective storytelling and presentation skills are crucial, accompanied by an acute attention to detail. Moreover, proficiency in textiles, pattern making, and trend analysis forms the foundation of a well-rounded fashion designer.

Yes, but formal education often provides valuable industry insights, networking opportunities, and structured learning.

  1. Fashion designer
  2. Retail buyer
  3. Fashion Entrepreneur
  4. Pattern engineer
  5. Stylist
  6. Textile designer
  7. Trend forecaster
  8. Costume designer
  9. Brand manager
  10. Sourcing 
  11. Accessory designer
  12. Fashion marketing & Media
  13. Fashion Blogger / Journalist / Editor

Internship or entry-level positions at major retailers in South Africa can offer salaries ranging from R16,000 to R22,000. At smaller brands, initial salaries can vary between R10,000 to R15,000, depending on the specific role. Keep in mind that these figures are indicative of starting salaries, and actual compensation may vary based on experience, qualifications, and the company.

NEED MORE INFO? REACH OUT AND WE WILL CONTACT YOU

available from 9:00 – 16:30

Monday – Friday

Address The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7926

Email info@daf-academy.co.za