National Certificate Level 3 in Art and Design
Course Overview
The National Certificate Level 3 in Art & Design is an interdisciplinary vocational qualification that lays the groundwork for creative development across the art and design spectrum. Designed to reflect the dynamic landscape of the contemporary creative industries, this programme bridges the foundational principles of fine art, graphic design, and fashion and textile practices, offering learners an integrated, studio-based learning experience that nurtures both conceptual thinking and technical execution.
At the heart of the course is a commitment to design literacy - the ability to research, interpret, and visually communicate ideas through traditional and digital means. Learners are introduced to a diverse range of materials, media, and technologies, enabling them to explore processes such as illustration, digital imaging, surface embellishment, typographic experimentation, printmaking, manipulating textiles and photographic documentation. This cross-disciplinary approach cultivates creative flexibility, originality, and problem-solving abilities that are essential for emerging designers and visual artists.
The programme also places strong emphasis on cultural and contextual understanding, situating learners' creative practice within global art and design histories, contemporary trends, and sustainable methods. As students progress, they will develop a critical and personal voice while refining their ability to translate creative concepts into tangible outcomes — from experimental sketches and textile samples to digital compositions and curated installations.
Delivered through a blend of technical workshops, guided studio practice, portfolio development, and collaborative projects, this certificate equips learners with the professional mindset and applied skills required to enter the design industry with confidence or to advance into higher levels of education in the arts.
Graduates of this course are well-positioned to pursue roles such as junior graphic designers, studio assistants, textile and surface designers, freelance illustrators, fashion product developers, or visual arts practitioners. More broadly, the qualification fosters entrepreneurial thinking, encouraging learners to shape their own creative identities and pathways within the expanding fields of art, design, and visual culture.
Entry requirements
- At least 16 years old
- Completed Form III / 9th Grade of the NYCBE.OR
National Certificate Level 2 in Art and Craft.OR
An alternative Qualification pitched at Level 2 of the NQF.OR
Any other equivalent qualification and experience acceptable to the Academy.
AND
Course Content
- Concepts & Contexts
- Investigation in Art & Design
- Drawing & Illustration
- Colour & Painting
- Printmaking Techniques
- Sculpture & Ceramic Techniques
- Graphic Design
- Textiles & Fashion
- Photography Skills
- Collaborative Learning
- Creative Practices Project
Fees
Full Time
.Administrative Fees: Rs. 7,000
.Deposit (Refundable) - one off: Rs. 2,000
.Examination Fees - one off: Rs. 8,500
.Tution Fees per year: Free or Rs. 28,500 for students who are not eligible for Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) / SADC Countries
International Studens (Full Time)
.Administrative Fees: Rs. 7,000
.Deposit (Refundable) - one off: Rs. 2,000
.Examination Fees - one off: Rs. 8,500
.Tution Fees: Rs. 95,000
Note
1. As announced in the Budget Speech 2025/2026, the Free Tertiary Education Schemes (FTES) has been reviewed to cover only full-time students as from academic Year 2025-2026.
The scheme covers tuition fees for Full-Time Registered Students of Mauritian Nationality enrolled in a recognized first award certificate, first diploma and first undergraduate programme. This exemption will apply for payment of tuition fees only, administrative fees and registration fees will be paid by the students
2.** Fees are subject to change without Prior notice
Job Prospects
learners can acquire a post as junior assistants to artists and designers, visual merchandising assistants, and arts and crafts assistants as well as benefitting from opportunities in freelancing.
This course also serves as a pathway corresponding to the National Certificate Level 3 and allows the learner access to further studies.
For more information
Send email to registry@adi.ac.mu or Call on Direct line : +230 467 6460 or +230 467 6277
Key Information
Mode of Study
Full-Time
Face to Face Course Delivery
Duration : 1 Year (2 Semesters)
Location
Ebene, Reduit
Intake
March/October
Awarding Body
Academy of Design and Innovation (ADI)
How to Apply
click here for more information