Have you ever dreamt of sketching your own building, designing the next fashion trend, or crafting visually stunning digital experiences? The University of Johannesburg's Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) might be the perfect place to turn those creative visions into a reality. For the 2026 intake, FADA offers a wide array of undergraduate programmes designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive creative industries. Whether your passion lies in visual arts, communication design, or the built environment, this faculty could be your launchpad to a rewarding career.
What FADA Offers: A World of Creative Disciplines
UJ's Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) is home to a diverse range of dynamic undergraduate disciplines. These include:
- Bachelor of Architecture
- Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design
- Diploma in Fashion Production
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Design (Graphic Design)
- Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Design
- Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design
- Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture
- Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Design (Multimedia)
- Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art
The faculty is committed to nurturing talent and developing students into professionals recognised globally. For those seeking advanced studies, the Graduate School of Architecture (GSA) offers postgraduate opportunities at a separate campus.
Is UJ FADA the Right Fit for You?
Deciding if FADA is the right fit involves understanding your academic strengths and the faculty's admission policies. Each programme has specific entry requirements, primarily based on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or IEB subjects and achievement levels. While meeting the minimum requirements is essential, it doesn't automatically guarantee a place. It's crucial to check the specific requirements for your chosen course, as most FADA programmes require a portfolio submission and/or an entrance assessment after you've met the initial academic prerequisites.
UJ FADA Programme-Specific Academic Requirements
Architecture
Bachelor of Architecture: Requires a minimum APS of 28. Compulsory subjects are English and Mathematics (Mathematical Literacy is not accepted). Recommended subjects include Art, Physical Science, or Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD).
Diploma in Architecture: Needs a minimum APS of 25 with Mathematics or 26 with Technical Mathematics. Compulsory subjects include English Level 5 and Mathematics Level 4 (or Technical Mathematics Level 5).
Fashion & Design Programmes
BA in Fashion Design: Minimum APS of 25 (with Maths) or 26 (with Mathematical Literacy). Compulsory: English Level 5, Mathematics Level 4 or Mathematical Literacy Level 5. Recommended: Art, Design Studies, Business Studies, and Mathematics.
Diploma in Fashion Production: Requires a minimum APS of 22 (with Maths) or 23 (with Mathematical Literacy). Compulsory: English Level 5, Mathematics Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy Level 4. Recommended: Design Studies, Business Studies, and Mathematics.
BA in Communication Design (Graphic Design): Needs a minimum APS of 25 (with Maths) or 26 (with Mathematical Literacy). Compulsory: English Level 5, Mathematics Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy Level 4.
Industrial, Interior & Jewellery Design
BA in Industrial Design: Minimum APS of 25 (with Maths) or 26 (with Mathematical Literacy). Compulsory: English Level 4, Mathematics Level 4 or Mathematical Literacy Level 5. Recommended: Mathematics, EGD, Design, Mechanical Technology, Consumer Studies, and History.
BA in Interior Design: Requires a minimum APS of 23 (with Maths) or 24 (with Mathematical Literacy). Compulsory: English Level 4, Mathematics Level 4 or Mathematical Literacy Level 5. Recommended: Art and Mathematics. An entrance assessment and portfolio are required.
Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture: Needs a minimum APS of 20 (with Maths) or 21 (with Mathematical Literacy) or 22 (with Technical Maths). Compulsory: English Level 5, Mathematics Level 3, Mathematical Literacy Level 4 or Technical Mathematics Level 5. An entrance assessment and portfolio are mandatory.
Multimedia & Visual Art
BA in Digital Media Design (Multimedia): Minimum APS of 25 (with Maths) or 26 (with Mathematical Literacy). Compulsory: English Level 5, Mathematics Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy Level 4. A portfolio is required.
BA in Visual Art: Requires a minimum APS of 23 (with Maths) or 24 (with Mathematical Literacy). Compulsory: English Level 5, Mathematics Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy Level 4. An entrance assessment and portfolio are needed.
UJ FADA 2026 Application Process and Key Dates
Planning your application for the 2026 intake at UJ's Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture is crucial. Applications open on April 1, 2025, and close strictly at noon on October 31, 2025. It is highly recommended to apply well before the closing date. Late applications are not guaranteed and are subject to space availability, potentially opening again in January 2026.
For a seamless application, apply online as there is no application fee. Paper applications incur a R200 fee. Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, including certified copies of your ID, Grade 11, and Matric results. Be prepared to submit a portfolio and/or complete an entrance assessment as required by your chosen programme.
Beyond Academics: Portfolio and Entrance Assessments
A significant aspect of applying to many UJ FADA programmes involves showcasing your creative potential beyond academic scores. Most courses require a portfolio submission, which is a curated collection of your best work, demonstrating your skills, creativity, and artistic vision. Additionally, some programmes may require an entrance assessment to gauge your aptitude for the specific field. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements for your desired course well in advance to prepare adequately.
Choosing a creative career path through UJ's Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture is an exciting prospect. By understanding the specific course requirements, application deadlines, and the importance of portfolio submissions and entrance assessments, you can confidently navigate your journey towards a fulfilling career in the dynamic creative industries. Explore your passion and let FADA help you shape your future.
