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Overview Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Fuel Your Fashion Design Ambitions

In the capricious fashion industry, fundamental design skills well mastered will give you longevity in your fashion career. NAFA’s Diploma in Fashion Design is designed to help you acquire and perfect these key design skills, gain knowledge of the industry both locally and globally, and put them to good use in creative and research projects.

Over three years, you will progressively develop skills in 2D and 3D design, gain an understanding of fabrics, fashion communication and garment construction, and eventually, put it all together in a fashion show to demonstrate all you have learnt.

There are also abundant opportunities to gain industry experience through projects, visits, networking with guest speakers, and competitions both national and international.

If you wish to further your career as a Ministry of Education (MOE) teacher, you may apply to the MOE when you are in Year 1 of your Diploma programme. Find out more about the Art and Music Teacher Training Sponsorship here. Upon completion of your diploma programme at NAFA, you will continue with a 2-year Diploma in Education at the National Institute of Education (NIE) at Nanyang Technological University to acquire further skills in classroom management and teaching strategies.


Acquire Fashion Knowledge and Skills Incrementally

Our progressive curriculum will equip you with the knowledge and design skills you will need to be an adroit fashion designer. This includes covering the latest technology and 3D skills needed to thrive in the ever-changing industry.

Up Your Game with Research and Analytical Skills

Develop and learn invaluable research skills over the programme of the diploma by analysing both trends and the fashion landscape on a global scale, presenting your findings effectively and formulating a range of fashion products for your generation.

Gain Opportunities to Showcase Your Eye for Fashion

Our unique industry-led and practice-led diploma will give you multiple platforms to showcase your design skills and personal style. Participate in local and international competitions as well as fashion shows to put your talent on the stage where it belongs.

Modules

The following programme modules are applicable to students enrolled in August 2021 and after. NAFA students enrolled in AY2020/2021 and earlier are to refer to the Diploma Programme and Module Information Booklet on the StudentNet for the programme modules in your respective years of enrolment.

Code Title Semester Credits
VAF1001

Drawing Fundamentals

This module introduces the principles in drawing, developing an awareness of composition, observation skills, and builds familiarity with contemporary drawing practice.
1 4
VAF1011

2D Fundamentals

Be introduced to the fundamental elements and principles of two-dimensional design, including typography, colour theory, and spatial organization.
1 4
VAF1021

3D Fundamentals

Be introduced to making and thinking in 3D and gain experience working with a diverse range of materials, techniques and processes.
1 4
VAF1031

Creative Thinking

This module focuses on cultivating and exploring a plethora of approaches to generate ideas, with the aim of creating more original and integrated options.
1 2
VAF1041

Introduction to Visual Arts

This module is designed to provide students with a sound working knowledge of the key historical concepts that inform the discussion of art and design in contemporary culture.
1 2
VAF1061

General Studies 1

This is a basic core module that establishes a foundation that we want to imbue our students with – living a productive life and being a perceptive, reflective and intellectually self-conscious citizen in this diverse and rapidly changing world. It will introduce to the students the basic skills and knowledge that they need to have as a responsible artist or designer.
1 2
VAF1062

General Studies 2

This module will further strengthen the foundation that is needed for our students to become responsible artists and designers. It will cover areas that will prepare them professionally, and equip them with knowledge of their rights and its application in this new digital world.
2 2
DFS1210

Design Studio 1

Students will be exposed to basic fashion design principles and the construction of garments using pattern making techniques and draping on a stand.
2 10
DFS1202

Fashion Illustration

This module introduces the study of proportion and structure in the human figure. A range of fashion figure drawing styles are explored.
2 2
DFS1205

Textile Design & Innovation 1

Students will be introduced to various techniques of textile decoration, such as screen-printing and laser cutting to develop their own decorative textiles and prints.
2 2
DFS1216

Textile Studies

This module introduces students to the characteristics of various textile and the techniques to identify and differentiate fibres.
2 2
DFS2120

Design Studio 2A

Exploration of the fundamental processes and different aspects to fashion design and the construction of garments.
1 10
DFS2105

Textile Design & Innovation 2

This module explores the manipulation of fabrics through dyeing, shibori, bonding, embossing and weaving to create distinctive textiles.
1 2
DFS2106

Historical Studies of Fashion

Students will be exposed to the historical aspect of western fashion from 1900 to present.
1 2
DFS 2114

Computerised Apparel Design*

This module deals with technical line development and execution. Students use CAD systems to create digital presentation boards, woven fabric designs and printed fabric designs.
1 4
DFS2124

E-Commerce for Fashion Business*

This module introduces students to basic internet technology and the enhancement to create business opportunities via the web.
1 2
DFS2123

Fashion Branding and Marketing*

This module introduces the importance of branding and marketing in a constantly changing lifestyle and marketplace.
1 2
DFS2214

Digital Fashion

This module equips students with knowledge in advanced computer software ‘V-Stitches’ which allows for efficiency and accuracy of toiling/prototyping samples and sustainability of material consumption. This software is also in sync with Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop which allows seamless graphics editing in Adobe to be reflected in real time.
2 4
DFS1219

Introduction To Fashion Eco-System

This module is an introductory to the World of Fashion Business. The contents provide students with exposure of the eco-system, the environments of global fashion business, challenges, value chain processes, product development, supply chain, merchandising, marketing, distributions and financial analytical in examining the profitability of a fashion business.
2 2
DFS2220

Design Studio 2B

Exploration of fashion design and the construction of garments from 2D to 3D within the context of a self-directed theme.
2 10
DFS2208

Career Development 1

Students’ exploration in the creation of CV, resume and portfolio in preparation of internship.
2 4
DFS2207

Research Methods

This module focuses on analysis and evaluation through investigative research work.
2 2
DFS2204

Forecasting Fashion*

This module examines the principles and applications of trend forecasting, in terms of fashion themes, colours, fabrication, trimmings, accessories, silhouettes and more.
2 2
DFS2206

History of Asian Costume*

This module will expose students to Asian elements relating to fashion. Countries and topics covered include Malaysia/Indonesia (Kebaya), India (Sari), China (Cheong Sam and Qi Pao), Thailand (Traditional Court Uniform), Japan (Kimono) and Korea (Hanbok).
2 2
DFS2209

Costume Design*

This module allows students to gain knowledge in designing the styles and costumes in theatre, film or television productions. They will be exposed to topics such as reading and analysis of scripts, creation of the mood and style for a production, communication with the Director, distinguishing of characters, and planning of costume plot.
2 4
DFS 2211

Computerised Techniques – Pattern design, Gerber AccuMark*

Students learn about advanced pattern design techniques and development with the introduction of the Gerber pattern design system.
2 2
ADE2002

Overseas Immersion

This module allows students to complete a 2-4 weeks overseas attachment with one of our overseas university partners. These cultural exchanges serve to broaden experiences and understanding of different art and design approaches.
1 4
ADE3001

Internship*

This practical training attachment exposes students to work environments where they can gain a more hands-on understanding of professional practices.
1 20
ADE3002

Industrial Attachment*

This practical training attachment exposes students to work environments where they can gain a more hands-on understanding of professional practices.
1 10
ADE3003

Industry Project*

This is a project-based module which provides students the opportunity to conceptualise, plan and execute a project. It will be a real life client project that will allow students to put their studies into practice and help them develop a sense of responsibility as well as interpersonal skills in a professional environment.
1 10
ADE3004

Community Project*

This is a project-based module with the aim of improving the lives of the community at large. Students will work collaboratively with non-profit organisations, NGOs, etc. to find solutions for issues identified.
1 10
DFS3220

Design Studio 3

This module combines research and experimentation from a self- determined theme for students to produce a graduation collection.
2 12
DFS3208

Career Development 2

Students are exposed to various communicating approaches in relation to presentation and development of Portfolio, E-presence and career progression.
2 4
DFS3210

Fashion Styling*

This module allows students to explore ways to creatively and effectively present garments via the production of a look book.
2 2
DFS3212

Fashion Accessories*

This module introduces students to creatively use alternative non-conventional materials to develop fashion accessories.
2 2
DFS3234

Visual Merchandising*

Introduction to basic principles and practices of Visual Merchandising and the ways to distinguish one brand from another.
2 4
DTD2010

Gemmology*

This module explores the science of gems: formation, history, physical properties, practical applications, and the methods and instruments used in the basic identification of the stones, colours and values.
  2
DTD1001

Metalsmithing*

Students are introduced to the basic principles of handling raw materials. They will also learn various methods and materials employed in the fundamental techniques of object making.
  2
DTD2020

Introduction to Furniture Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the design principles, ergonomic studies and material application in furniture design with the help of workshop practice, concept ideation and presentation.
  2
DTD2043

Introduction to Interior Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the basic principles in interior design, with an emphasis on programming, space planning, colour scheme and furniture arrangement for residential design.
  2
DTD2011

Introduction to Rapid Prototyping*

Students will learn about the basics of rapid prototyping which can assist or aid them in the realization of ideas.
  2
DDM2900

Design and Brand Strategy*

This module allows students to discover the framework and strategies of developing a successful brand expression through case studies and analysis. Students will develop a critical understanding of the social (cultures of consumption) and psychological (emotions in marketing) aspects integrated within the context, which will allow students to develop the ability to make good design decisions.
  4
DDM2901

Digital Photography and Publication*

In this module, students will learn to use photography as a medium of expression and communication. Students would explore the different perspectives of story-telling through images, and be equipped with the skills to compile them into a publication.
  4
DDM2902

Packaging Design*

This module allow students to explore the different forms and functions of a packaging design to provide packaging solutions that are appealing, functional and sustainable.
  4
DFA1001

Introduction to Painting*

Students are introduced to the basic tools, materials and techniques in watercolour and acrylic painting. Topics covered include still life and landscapes.
  2
DFA1003

Introduction to Printmaking*

Students are introduced to the basic tolls, materials and techniques in ink printmaking. Topics covered include mono-print, woodcut and simple stencil printing technique.
  2
DFA1006

Introduction to Photography*

Students learn basic camera operations, and study the basics for creating fascinating imagery.
  2
DFA1008

Introduction to Gong Bi*

This module covers fundamental principles involved in bird and flower compositions, and the line drawing and painting techniques specific to Gong Bi.
  2
DFA1011

Figure Drawing*

This module helps students develop the visual and technical skills necessary for portrait and figure drawing. Students work in a variety of media, with an emphasis on charcoal.
  2
DAM2094

Arts Management Fundamentals*

This cross-disciplinary elective allows non-Arts Management students to explore management concepts and practices that are relevant to the arts and culture industry. Basic yet essential knowledge and skills in management, including skills unique to arts management, are explored in this module, and students are encouraged to observe, analyse and apply these skills in the day-to-day practice of the arts. Students will learn essential arts management skills and apply them in planning and decision-making within the context of running an arts company or organising an arts event.
  2
DAM2095

Introduction to Arts Marketing*

This cross-disciplinary elective aims to equip students with basic marketing knowledge and skills essential to all artists. Students will be introduced to the key concepts of marketing and how it is applied to the arts. Students will also learn what motivates audiences to support the arts as well as the basic skills in how to market and promote their artworks.
  2
DMU 1041

Instrumental Studies: Guitar*

This module provides a foundation on classical guitar technique, with emphasis on effective hand positioning and a strong grasp of the rudiments of music.
  2
DMU 1042

Instrumental Studies: Gamelan*

This module provides students with the practical skills of playing Javanese Gamelan, from simple to slightly complex pieces, up to the level of Irama II.
  2
ACE1001

Speech Presentations*

Speech Presentations is a programme in writing a speech and presenting it. It will impart skills that students need to present their ideas effectively in public. In a supportive classroom environment, students will learn to communicate their ideas effectively using verbal and written techniques.
  2
ACE1101

Business Communication*

This module will cover the full spectrum of communications in the workplace; this ranges from effective online correspondences, to report writing, and verbal communication skills.
  2
ACE1102

Entrepreneurship in the Arts*

This module will cover the different models of entrepreneurship in the arts industry, and strategies to succeed independently. Students are guided to create personal value and build a productive start-up in the arts with available resources (e.g., intelligence, insight, ethics, initiative and influence).
  2
ACE1103

Starting Your Own Business*

This module informs students with essential knowledge in setting up a business. Students develop business literacy through learning basic business principles and processes such as licensing, financial management, start-up operations, and consumer behaviour.
  2
ACR2000

Singapore Arts Scene*

This module creates awareness in students of issues and trends in the arts scene, and develops critical thinking skills through problem-based learning.
  2
IDP2001

Interdisciplinary Project 2A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2 2
IDP2002

Interdisciplinary Project 2B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2 4
IDP3001

Interdisciplinary Project 3A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2 2
IDP3002

Interdisciplinary Project 3B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2 4

*Electives

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entry requirements

Find out about the specific entry requirements that apply to you.

NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:

  • Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity
  • Educational Qualification
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor

Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.


Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity

All applicants are to demonstrate their artistic potential through portfolio submission/admission test/audition as specified in each programme, in order to be considered for admission.

Applicants may select either (A) Portfolio Submission or (B) Admission Test.

(A) Portfolio Submission

You are to submit 10-15 images of recent art or design work, which should include a range of finished artwork as well as development work in preparing the finished artwork (sketches, mood boards, etc). Portfolios are assessed with the aim of identifying your creative and technical potential to undertake a programme in art and design.

(Allowed file types: .pdf,.jpg,.jpeg,.png,.gif,.tif,.tiff,.bmp. Maximum image file size: 5 MB)
(Allowed video file types: .mpeg,.mp4,.mov,.m4v,.avi,.wmv,.flv,.asf,.mpg,.mp3. Maximum image file size: 200 MB)

The work submitted should preferably be not more than two years old. It may be the result of assigned class projects or independent exploration. It is recommended that the selected examples of work reflect your interests, experience and competencies in art and design.

While compiling the contents of the portfolio, you may concentrate on a single medium or show work in a breadth of media. The portfolio may include, but is not limited to the following: drawing, prints, photography, painting, film, video, animation, sculpture, ceramics, digital work, etc.

You are also expected to write a statement of intent - in about 100 words - stating your reasons for pursuing a programme of study in art and design. Please include your goals, interests and aspirations for the future.

Submit Portfolio and All Required Application Documents by
29 December 2023
22 January 2024
12 February 2024
4 March 2024
22 March 2024
15 April 2024

Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

(B) Admission Test

The test consists of three sections:

  • Drawing from observation - where you will be tested on your ability to draw an actual object or a scene in front of you
  • Creative visualization - where you will be tested on your creativity and imagination to visualise an object or a scene
  • Written essay - where you will be tested on your ability to write and express your views on art and design

(Test Duration: 2.5 hours)

Admission Test Date
24 January 2024
28 March 2024
30 May 2024

Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

Please note that you will be notified of the confirmed admission test date upon submission of your application, all supporting documents and application fee payment.

Educational Qualifications - Singapore

Minimum Educational Qualifications Required

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: Aggregate score of 25 points or better in 4 GCE ‘O’ Level subjects, excluding English.

    Applicants who are active in their Secondary Schools’ Co-curricular Activities (CCA) may gain up to 2 CCA points. The CCA points can be used to improve their EQ aggregate score for admission consideration.

    Types of bonus points No. of bonus points awarded
    Grades of A1–A2 2 points
    Grades of B3–C6 1 point
  • Singapore Integrated Programme: Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • School of The Arts (SOTA): Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • Institute of Technical Education (ITE): Full-time Higher Nitec or Nitec.
Educational Qualifications - International
Successful completion of at least 10 years of education.

Eligible international students will be able to use their mid-year examination results to apply for diploma programmes at NAFA. Applicants will be given conditional offer if they are successful in their portfolio interview/audition selection. Applicants are still required to submit their year-end examination results and meet the admission requirements of the respective programmes. Any applicant who does not meet the admission requirements will have his/her conditional offer revoked.
English Language Proficiency 

The minimum English Language proficiency requirement:

  • Grade C6 at GCE O-Levels
  • TOEFL iBT 50
  • TOEFL 500
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 80
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above
Special Factor

Recognition is accorded for prior achievements in areas relevant to intended studies.

Early Admissions Exercise
The Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) allows applicants to apply for and receive conditional admission to NAFA prior to receiving their final grades. The application will commence in June for the following year’s intake.

The EAE is open to graduating GCE O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education, IP or IB Year 4 students.

Applicants applying via Diploma EAE will go through the following process and timeline:

Process

Applicants to:
  • Submit Portfolio for programmes under the Faculty of Art & Design (3D Design/Design & Media/ Fashion Studies/Fine Art) (No Admission Test for EAE)
  • Submit Personal Statement and Testimonial for Diploma in Arts Management
  • Attend Audition for programmes under the Faculty of Performing Arts (Dance/Music/Theatre)

Please refer to the section ‘Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity’ under each programme for more information about the above.


Offer and Acceptance
  • Applicants will receive notification of the application outcome via email. Successful applicants should confirm acceptance of their offers by the deadline stipulated
  • Applicants who accept their offers at this stage will be guaranteed a place, as long as they meet the criteria stated under Entry Requirement for each programme

Withdrawal
  • Should applicants wish to withdraw their acceptance, they must submit their withdrawal notice to [email protected]
  • Applicants who had accepted their EAE offer but fail to make the required payment by the stipulated deadline will have their offers withdrawn
  • Applicants who fail to meet the admission criteria will have their offers withdrawn

Entry Requirements for EAE


For O-Level Students
Students who have registered to sit for the GCE O-Level examinations in the year of Early Admission Exercise (EAE)

For ITE Students
ITE students from full-time Higher Nitec/Nitec courses may apply for early admission. They can use their preliminary examination results (cumulative GPA of up to the 3rd term for a 2-year Higher Nitec/Nitec course or 5th term for a 3-year Nitec course) for application. The minimum cumulative GPA for early admission is 3.0.

For Integrated Programme (IP)/ International Baccalaureate (IB) Year 4 Students
IP and IB Year 4 students may use their mid-year examination results to apply for EAE.


Confirmation of Conditional Offers for Diploma Admission

Successful applicants for the EAE will be given conditional offers and are still required to submit the following document, as applicable:
  • GCE O-Level results with an aggregate of not more than 25 points for 4 subjects excluding English
  • Certificate and Academic Transcript for Nitec or Higher Nitec
  • Completion of IP Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
  • Completion of IB Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
Any applicant who fails to provide documentary evidence of having met the admission requirements by the deadline stipulated by NAFA will have his/her conditional offer withdrawn.
Module Exemption

Applicants may receive module exemption of up to 60 credits, if they have taken and passed the same or similar modules in another institution. The granting of exemption and advanced standing may be subject to applicants passing a Portfolio Interview, Audition or Admission Test. Application for module exemption may be subject to a Portfolio Interview or Audition.

Applicants with GCE A-Level, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and IB Career-Related Certificate (IBCC)

Applicants who have completed GCE A-Level or IB Diploma will be eligible to be considered for module exemption (up to 40 credits) in the relevant programmes. Applicants from SOTA who have completed Year 4 and above are eligible to receive advanced standing (Year 1, Semester 2 or Year 2, Semester 1) in relevant Diploma programmes subject to their final or preliminary examination results.

Applicants with Higher Nitec/ Nitec:

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses are eligible to apply for module exemption:

  • Higher Nitec in Visual Merchandising
  • Nitec in Fashion Apparel Production & Design
  • Nitec in Product Design

How to Apply

Get started on your quest to become an art & design professional today! 

Apply online

Apply online here from 2 October 2023 to 31 March 2024. The application is extended to 15 May 2024.

For all above-mentioned programmes except Diploma in Arts Management ^, select either Portfolio Submission or Admission Test in the application portal.

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents for verification within five working days from the application date at:

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Campus 1 (Admissions counter at level 1)
80 Bencoolen Street
Singapore 189655

Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays

Alternatively, you can email a copy of the required documents to [email protected].

Required documents for verification:
  • NRIC for Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents. Passport and valid Student's Pass (if applicable) for international students.
  • Academic certificates and transcripts (GCE O-Level or NITEC/Higher NITEC and GCE N-Level or other equivalent qualifications). Certificates in a foreign language must be translated to English.
  • CCA record (if any).
  • English proficiency document (if applicable), e.g. TOEFL, TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, SAT, Duolingo or equivalent qualification.

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students. Applicants who are paying online will be required to upload the above documents during application.

Submit your portfolio/personal statement or receive test advisory

Submit your portfolio/personal statement or receive test advisory, according to the option you have chosen in Step 1. 

  • Option A (Portfolio Submission): Submit your portfolio here after completion of the online application.

    Submit Portfolio and All Required Application Documents by
    29 December 2023
    22 January 2024
    12 February 2024
    4 March 2024
    22 March 2024
    15 April 2024

    Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.


  • Option B (Admission Test): Receive a test advisory on the date of the Admission Test from the Student Admissions Office after verification of the required documents and payment of the Application Fee. Attend the Admission Test at NAFA with the required materials as indicated in the test advisory

    Admission Test Date
    24 January 2024
    28 March 2024
    30 May 2024

    Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

    Please note that you will be notified of the confirmed admission test date upon submission of your application, all supporting documents and application fee payment.

  • ^ For Diploma in Arts Management: Submit personal statement and testimonial here. Sents may be asked to attend an interview in person or via the web.

Application outcome

Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.