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There is no evidence-based single “best” photography course in South Africa: the right choice depends on whether you want an introductory certificate, a full diploma or postgraduate study. Official South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) records identify three NQF Level 5 Higher Certificates, a Level 6 diploma and a Level 8 honours qualification. Compare the level and course focus first, then confirm current admissions, delivery, costs and equipment requirements with the provider.
Photography courses in South Africa at a glance
The qualifications below are different study pathways, not interchangeable versions of the same course. NQF level and credits help describe their scale; they do not establish which provider has the best teaching, facilities or employment outcomes.
| Provider and qualification | Level and credits | What the SAQA record says | Best fit to investigate |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Open Window — Higher Certificate in Photography and Videography | NQF Level 5; 120 credits | Introductory preparation for work in the photography and videography sector. Registration shown through 18 April 2027. SAQA qualification record | Beginners interested in both still photography and videography. |
| Oakfields College — Higher Certificate in Photography | NQF Level 5; 120 credits | Covers theory and practical photographic skills in contexts including fashion photography and photojournalism. Registration shown through 21 November 2027. SAQA qualification record | Beginners seeking a broad introduction across different photographic contexts. |
| Stadio — Higher Certificate in Photography | NQF Level 5; 120 credits | SAQA says the qualification is offered by Stadio, formerly Prestige Academy, effective 29 September 2020. Named modules include Practical Photography, Photographic Techniques, Ways of Seeing, Applied Photography, Digital Photography, and Research and Writing Skills. Registration shown through 30 June 2027. SAQA qualification record | Learners who want to compare the named module mix with their interests and preferred delivery. |
| Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) — Diploma in Photography | NQF Level 6; 360 credits | Registered diploma; reregistration shown through 30 June 2027. SAQA qualification record | Those looking for a larger diploma-level course rather than an introductory certificate. |
| Durban University of Technology (DUT) — Bachelor of Applied Arts Honours in Photography | NQF Level 8; 120 credits | Registered honours qualification; SAQA describes assessment as coursework-based. Reregistration shown through 10 July 2028. SAQA qualification record | Advanced learners considering postgraduate photography study. |
The dates in the table are the registration or reregistration dates shown in the cited SAQA records, not confirmation that a particular intake is currently open. SAQA cautions that records may lag notifications from quality assurance bodies, so check the course and provider status directly before applying.
Which qualification level should you choose?
Higher Certificate: introductory study
The three listed Higher Certificates are NQF Level 5 qualifications worth 120 credits. They are the relevant options to compare if you are starting out. Their recorded emphases differ: The Open Window’s qualification includes videography; Oakfields’ description mentions fashion photography and photojournalism alongside theory and practical skills; and Stadio’s record names practical, technical, digital, visual-analysis, and research modules.
Diploma: a larger qualification
CPUT’s Diploma in Photography is a 360-credit NQF Level 6 qualification. That makes it a different-scale pathway from the 120-credit Level 5 certificates. The SAQA record establishes its level and credits, but you should ask CPUT for current duration, curriculum, entry requirements and campus arrangements.
Honours: postgraduate study
DUT’s Bachelor of Applied Arts Honours in Photography is a 120-credit NQF Level 8 qualification. It is postgraduate study for an advanced learner, not a beginner’s substitute for a Level 5 certificate. Ask DUT about current eligibility and the program’s detailed coursework before deciding whether it fits your goals.
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How to compare courses before applying
- Set your study stage. Decide whether you need introductory training, a diploma-level pathway or postgraduate study. Ask each provider for the entry requirements for your intended intake; the cited records do not supply a complete current admissions comparison.
- Request the current curriculum. Match modules to the work you want to do, such as videography, fashion, photojournalism, practical or digital photography. Ask for the full module list and examples of student portfolio work rather than relying only on a short qualification description.
- Verify course and provider status. Check the qualification’s SAQA record, the provider’s current registration and accreditation, and whether applications are open for the named intake. DHET’s register dated 8 May 2026 includes photography offerings as well as cancellation and phase-out notices for institutions, so verify the specific provider and course rather than assuming an old listing guarantees current availability. DHET register
- Check practical learning access. Ask about studio and fieldwork time, equipment access, class size, instructor feedback and portfolio development. Also ask whether software or printing creates extra costs. The records describe practical learning for some qualifications but do not compare facilities across providers.
- Get the full cost and logistics in writing. Request current tuition and additional fees, and confirm schedule, campus, travel requirements and delivery format. The cited records do not provide comparable current fees or delivery details.
Do you need to buy a camera before starting?
Do not buy a camera until your chosen provider confirms its equipment policy. The course records support practical and technical image-making as part of some study, but they do not say that students must own a camera or specify an approved model. Ask whether the course provides equipment access, requires particular capabilities or lists additional gear separately.
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