GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The Higher Certificate in Applied Fashion at FEDISA is a one-year entry-level programme designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the fashion industry. It serves as a gateway for candidates who may not have achieved a bachelor’s pass in matric or a international equivalent, while also offers qualifying students an opportunity to explore aspects of both the BA: Fashion and BA in Applied Fashion Retail degrees before selecting their academic pathways. Covering essential aspects of both fashion creation and retail, the programme equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue further studies or entry-level roles in fashion-related fields.
This programme is ideal for individuals with a passion for fashion, creativity, and retail who seek to develop their skills and expand their understanding of the industry. Emphasis is placed on personal and professional development, ensuring that graduates acquire a versatile skill set applicable to various career paths in the fashion industry. Prospective students who are eager to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of fashion and retail will find this programme an excellent starting point for their journey.
DURATION
CREDITS
NQF LEVEL
1YR
120
NQF5
THE STRUCTURE
The Higher Certificate in Applied Fashion programme consists of four major non-elective courses, namely, Fashion Theory, Fashion Design, Fashion Construction and Fashion Business. All components of this
programme are accommodated on a weekly rotation. Certain components of this programme may be
presented online in conjunction with on-campus studies.
Note: All courses of the programme are compulsory and credit bearing as indicated. No electives are offered.
3YRS
360
NQF6
VISUAL MERCHANDING,
MARKETING & MEDIA
FASHION THEORY
Develops an understanding of fashion within a historical and cultural context while equipping students with essential research, communication and presentation skills. This course covers key moments in fashionhistory through a comprehensive timeline, explores the evolution of trends and introduces students todigital fashion communication, including social media platforms like instagram.
Emphasis is placed on refining writing skills, mastering the foundations of academic referencing and developing effective presentation techniques to ensure that students can critically engage with fashion discourse and
communicate their ideas clearly within industry.
FASHION DESIGN
Develops an understanding of the fundamentals of fashion design, including silhouette and
balance, while exploring creative expression through various design techniques.
This course introduces
students to fashion rendering, encouraging experimentation with mixed-media and template-based
sketching to enhance their illustration skills.
Additionally, students gain hands-on experience with computer-aideddesign, learning to create basic mood boards and style/trend boards that translate their creative vision into industry-ready presentations.
FASHION CONSTRUCTION
Develops an understanding of fundamental techniques in fashion construction, from textiles and drapery to pattern drafting and garment construction.
This course introduces students to textiles, where they will explore basic fabric manipulation techniques such as tie-dyeing, beading, and re-fabrication. Pattern making covers essential principles such as interpreting patterns and understanding seam allowances.
Students are also introduced to the basics of sewing which will provide them with experience with stitching samples and constructing basic garments and building a strong foundation in garment creation.
FASHION BUSINESS
Develops an understanding of the business side of fashion, covering key aspects of marketing,
merchandising, retail management, and ethical industry practices. This course introduces students to creating engaging displays to target various markets, provides insight into the structure of the retail industry.
All course components are facilitated in the most subject appropriate manner within the academic environment and contextual framework. There is a strong focus on structured group sessions, in order to maximise student-centric peer-learning opportunities, as well
as elements of independent knowledge development and online learning.
FIRST YEAR FEES
SECOND YEAR
TRANSFERS
WELCOME
Want to transfer to FEDISA Fashion School? Now you can.
Students that will successfully complete their first year fashion studies and wish to transfer to FEDISA Fashion School may now apply for second year transfer consideration.
Mail info@fedisa for your second year application pack or visit the FEDISA Cape Town campus to discuss your transfer options, today!