Are you a creative thinker with a passion for visual storytelling, digital design, or branding? A degree in Graphic Design, Communication Design, or Multimedia Design equips you with the technical skills and creative vision to shape the world through compelling visuals—whether in advertising, publishing, animation, or user experience.
Here’s your 2026 guide to the top South African universities offering Graphic, Communication, and Multimedia Design degrees:
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) – Eastern Cape
Programmes Offered:
- Diploma in Graphic Design
- Advanced Diploma and BTech in Graphic Design
- BA in Media, Communication & Culture (with visual communication focus)
Why Choose NMU?
NMU blends creative practice with design theory, offering practical training in branding, typography, layout design, digital illustration, and print production. Students also explore critical design thinking and media culture.
2. North-West University (NWU) – North West
Programmes Offered:
- BA in Graphic Design
- BA in Communication Studies with Visual Design components
Why Choose NWU?
NWU’s Graphic Design programme focuses on conceptual development, digital tools, and real-world application in areas such as packaging, brand identity, and motion graphics. It also encourages portfolio development and industry readiness.
3. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Gauteng
Programmes Offered:
- BA in Design (Communication Design)
- BTech and Advanced Diplomas in Graphic and Multimedia Design
Why Choose UJ?
UJ is a creative hub with a strong industry reputation. The Communication Design programme covers visual branding, editorial design, user interface (UI), motion design, and design entrepreneurship—ideal for the modern creative professional.
4. University of South Africa (UNISA) – Distance Learning
Programmes Offered:
- Diploma in Visual Multimedia Arts
- BA in Visual Multimedia Arts
- Short Learning Programmes in Creative Arts and Design Principles
Why Choose UNISA?
UNISA offers flexible learning for aspiring designers across South Africa. Their multimedia design degrees emphasize both visual communication and new media, making it suitable for students interested in interactive design, animation, and digital storytelling.
5. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Gauteng
Programmes Offered:
- BA in Digital Arts (includes design, animation, interactive media)
- BA Fine Arts (with electives in communication and visual design)
Why Choose Wits?
Wits School of Arts offers a contemporary programme in Digital Arts, which combines visual design, animation, and user interaction. Perfect for creatives who want to explore the intersection of art, tech, and storytelling.
Key Subjects You’ll Study:
- Typography and Layout Design
- Branding and Identity Systems
- Digital Illustration and Animation
- Motion Graphics and UI/UX Design
- Visual Communication Theory
- Multimedia and Interactive Design
- Portfolio and Professional Practice
Career Opportunities in Graphic & Multimedia Design:
- Graphic Designer
- Communication Designer
- Multimedia Artist or Animator
- UI/UX Designer
- Creative Director
- Brand Strategist
- Motion Graphics Designer
- Illustrator or Visual Content Creator