Open Window’s Bachelor of Arts Honours in Visual Communication is a focused, research-led qualification designed to deepen your creative and academic practice. Ideal for graduates looking to refine their specialisation or pursue further academic study, this programme offers a structured yet flexible environment to develop a distinctive body of work grounded in critical thinking and research.Â
Positioned at NQF Level 8 and comprising 120 credits, balancing practical production with theoretical engagement through research methodologies, critical discourse, a substantial research essay, and a comprehensive creative portfolio. Â
Built around a research-led practice methodology, the programme encourages exploration of relevant visual communication discourses that inform your creative output, while developing independent research capabilities and a cohesive, industry-relevant body of work aligned to your chosen specialisation.
Campuses & Learning Format
Locations: Stellenbosch & Centurion
View the 2027 Postgraduate subject prerequisites & modes of provisioning here:
Relevant undergraduate qualification (NQF 7 level) that includes a theoretical and practical component relating to Visual Communication fields.
Motivation
A portfolio indicating practical skills
A sample of academic writing (example: A previously submitted essay, a published piece of writing, etc.)
CV
Academic transcripts conveying academic trajectory and marks allocation
A selection interview will take place with the applicant
International Applicants need to:
Obtain a letter from SAQA verifying the NQF level of the relevant qualification held by the applicant.
Obtain at least 55% in the Open Window English Literacy test
OW students applying for the Honours qualification need to obtain a minimum of 65% in either Visual Culture 300 or Film Theory 300, as well as 65% in their practical major.
For students applying from other institutions, an academic transcript conveying similar subjects and marks will be required. Further information may be requested after the selection interview.
Subjects included in the Bachelor of Arts Honours in Visual Communication are:
Research Methodologies (10 credits)
Critical Discourses (10 credits)
Research essay (40 credits)
Creative practice (Structured & Portfolio) (60 credits)
This Bachelor of Arts Honours qualification is intended for students aiming to advance their knowledge in the subject specialisation(s) related to the fields of Visual Communication Design, Creative Technologies, Film Arts or Animation Arts. The research-led approach means that students spend time researching related Visual Communication discourses, which inform the development of a consolidated practical body of work.
Who Is This Programme For?
The BA Honours in Visual Communication is ideal for creatives who seek to:
Deepen their academic and conceptual understanding of their field
2. Engage in independent, research-led creative work
3. Build a portfolio that reflects critical thinking and professional refinement
4. Develop a foundation for future Master’s-level study or academic research
Specialisation Areas
Visual Communication
Communication designs
Illustrator
Photography
Creative Technologies
User Experience Design
Interactive Development
Industrial Product Design
Film Arts
Sound Design
Film & Television
Screenwriting
Screen Acting
Production Design
Animation Arts
3D Animation
Game Design
Motion Design
Possible specialisations include:
Communication Design
Illustration
Photography
Film & TV, Sound Design
Production Design
Screen Acting
Screenwriting
Motion Design
3D Animation
Game Design
User Experience Design
Interactive DevelopmentÂ
Industrial Product Design.
Student Work Showcase
Explore our exceptional postgraduate students’ work in design, film, animation, and digital arts.
