School of Architecture & The Built EnvironmentHigher Occupational CertOpen for enrolment

Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson

NQF Level 5SAQA ID 121692120 credits18 MonthsFull-time

Programme Overview

Develop the technical drafting skills needed to produce architectural drawings, plans, and models using CAD software and traditional techniques. Covers building regulations, construction methods, and design principles.

SAQA & Registration

SAQA Qualification ID121692

NQF LevelNQF Level 5

Total Credits120

Qualification TypeHigher Occupational Cert

Quality CouncilQCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations

Accreditation / Quality AssuranceCBE — Recognised

This qualification is registered on the National Qualifications Framework. Highbury programme availability and intake status are confirmed by Admissions. Detailed regulatory evidence is published on the Accreditation page.

Frame of Learning

Knowledge Modules

34credits

5 modules

Theory and subject knowledge that underpins the occupation.

Practical Skills Modules

41credits

6 modules

Hands-on skills developed in simulated and supervised settings.

Workplace Experience Modules

45credits

3 modules

Structured experience completed in an approved workplace.

Admission Requirements

Official Minimum Entry Requirement (SAQA)

An NQF Level 4 qualification with Mathematics.

Highbury Application Documents

Certified copy of ID or passport
Certified copies of highest school results
Proof of residential address

Curriculum

Office Practice and Legal Requirements311801-001-00-KM-016 cr
Architectural History and Theory311801-001-00-KM-034 cr
Architectural Design311801-001-00-KM-046 cr
Contract Documentation and Administration311801-001-00-KM-056 cr
Architectural Technology311801-001-00-KM-066 cr

Assessment Criteria

Internal Assessment

Continuous formative assessment and practical tasks are conducted throughout the programme, supported by a portfolio of workplace evidence and a logbook completed under supervision. Internal assessment follows the criteria and weighting stipulated in the official curriculum.

External Assessment

The qualification concludes with an External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) conducted through the relevant assessment quality partner. Learners must complete all modules and internal assessment requirements before admission to the final external assessment.

Delivery Mode and Duration

Highbury Delivery Arrangement

Study ModeFull-time

Highbury Duration18 Months

CampusPretoria Campus, 378 Pretorius Street, Pretoria, Gauteng

Learning PlatformHighbury Digital Campus

Learning ArrangementClassroom + practical + workplace

IntakesConfirmed by Admissions

Delivery combines structured classes and practical sessions with a compulsory workplace component arranged with approved employers, supported online through the Highbury Digital Campus. The duration above is Highbury’s delivery schedule and is separate from the official SAQA credit value.

Articulation and RPL

Articulation

Horizontal: Occupational Certificate: Project Manager, NQF Level 5. Vertical: Occupational Certificate: Quality Manager, NQF Level 6.

Recognition of Prior Learning

RPL may be used for access to the programme and, where applicable, for credits or exemption against completed modules, as well as for access to the final external assessment, in line with official RPL policy. Contact Admissions for an RPL evaluation.

Career Pathways

Architectural DraughtspersonCAD TechnicianBIM ModellerArchitectural Technologist

Workplace Experience

Workplace experience is compulsory: 3 modules totalling 45 credits, completed in an approved workplace under supervision with a logbook and portfolio of evidence. Highbury supports learners with placement arrangements through its employer partnerships.

Processes and Procedures for Applying Computer Applications in the Execution of a Project
Processes and Procedures for Creating Compliant Contract Documentation
Processes and Procedures for Applying Detailing and Architectural Drafting Techniques and Calculations

Certification

Highbury College may issue permissible institutional records, statements and completion documents. The official occupational qualification certificate is issued by the responsible quality council or certification authority after all prescribed requirements have been met.

Certification follows successful completion of all modules and the final external integrated summative assessment.

Ready to apply?

This programme is open for enrolment. Start your application online — our admissions team will guide you through every step.

Apply Now Contact Admissions

Official qualification information sourced from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Highbury-specific delivery, fees, intake and campus arrangements are maintained separately by Highbury College.

Programme availability and intake dates are confirmed by Highbury Admissions.

View official SAQA record Last verified: 2026-07-12Factsheet v1.0