Career guide

Textile Designer

Aesthetic

Designs printed, woven or knitted fabrics for clothing and interiors - pattern, colour and repeat, increasingly digital.

School subjects

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is generally accepted; Visual Arts, Design and Engineering Graphics and Design help most.

How you qualify

A Diploma or Degree in Fine Art, Visual Arts or the relevant design field (NQF 6-7), 3 to 4 years. In this field a portfolio of your own work is the main currency - most institutions require one for entry, and employers judge on it rather than on marks. Entry requirements differ by institution - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Universities, Universities of Technology and DHET-registered private art and design institutions

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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