Course Overview
The Bachelor of Furniture Design is a comprehensive qualification that prepares learners for a professional career in the furniture design industry. This programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills and workplace experience, covering the full spectrum of furniture design—from the history of design and global perspectives, through to ergonomics, technology, and contemporary design practices. Graduates will be equipped to conceptualise, develop, and communicate innovative furniture solutions that meet aesthetic, functional, and production requirements, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s growing furniture manufacturing sector.
Knowledge Modules
216302001-KM-01, History of design and furniture: a Global perspective, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-02, History of design and furniture design – an African perspective, NQF Level 6, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-03, History of design and furniture design, NQF Level 7, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-04, Introduction to human factors in furniture design, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-05, Ergonomics and anthropometrics, NQF Level 6, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-06, Furniture design for inclusion, NQF Level 7, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-07, Furniture Technology, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-08, Furniture Technology, NQF Level 6, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-09, Furniture Technology, NQF Level 7, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-10, Workshop Practices, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-11, Presentation through Design Media, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-12, Design media 2, NQF Level 6, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-13, Design media 3, NQF Level 7, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-14, Furniture design business and project management, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-15, Furniture Design Theory 1, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-16, Furniture Design Theory 2, NQF Level 6, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-17, Furniture Design Theory 3, NQF Level 7, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-18, Furniture Design and Ideation 1, NQF Level 5, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-19, Furniture Design and Ideation 2, NQF Level 6, Credits 8.
216302001-KM-20, Furniture Design and Ideation 3, NQF Level 7, Credits 8.
Practical Skills Modules
216302001-PM-01, Determine the objectives and constraints of the design brief by consulting with clients and stakeholders, NQF Level 7, Credits 20.
216302001-PM-02, Apply market research and innovative thinking to formulate design concepts for furniture products according to the design brief, NQF Level 7, Credits 75.
216302001-PM-03, Communicate and render two-dimensional and three-dimensional design solutions visually, orally and written, using appropriate language with reference to culture and style with clients, management, sales and manufacturing staff, NQF Level 7, Credits 75.
216302001-PM-04, Harmonize aesthetic considerations with technical, functional, ecological and production requirements and is within the brief and budget of the client, NQF Level 6, Credits 20.
216302001-PM-05, Produce a production manual for the manufacturing of a furniture product which include all information and documentation ready for sign-off and hand-over, NQF Level 7, Credits 20.
Work Experience Modules
216302001-WM-01, Furniture design brief clarification and project planning process, NQF Level 7, Credits 25.
216302001-WM-02, Design research and development processes, NQF Level 7, Credits 55.
216302001-WM-03, Furniture product rendering processes, NQF Level 7, Credits 55.
216302001-WM-04, Furniture design for mass, batch or once-off production, NQF Level 6, Credits 25.
216302001-WM-05, Furniture design finalization and hand over processes, NQF Level 7, Credits 25.
Entry Requirements
NQF level 4 with mathematics or qualified artisan.
Learning Outcomes
A qualified learner will be able to:
- Communicate with the client to establish the needs of the client and interpret the design brief.
- Research and develop the concept using the design brief as a guideline.
- Prepare and present the concept and design solution to the client for acceptance and adjust/refine/revise the concept and design if required.
- Research and develop the construction methods and drawings of the design for manufacturer approval.
- Develop the production pack for the manufacturing of a viable furniture product (manual, documentation, sign-off, bill of materials [BOM]).
Learning Material
This course includes learning modules and work experience components.