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Overview Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Important Update on Diploma in Design (Furniture and Spatial): This programme is currently undergoing updates to its curriculum to maintain its relevance and alignment with industry demands. While we continue to welcome applications, we seek your understanding during this process. All applicants will be informed of the programme updates by August 2024.


Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Design the Furniture and Spaces of the Future

Furnish yourself with all the skills you need to be an expert in furniture and spatial design. Creating intelligent furniture and spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional requires more than just technical skill—you will need to cultivate crucial skills in critical analysis and design synthesis too. The Diploma in Design (Furniture and Spatial) will teach you to approach the design of furniture and spaces in a comprehensive and multidisciplinary manner, preparing you to lead the way in the world of furniture and spatial design.

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.


Develop a Multidisciplinary Approach to Design

2D and 3D design fundamentals, spatial design, photography, and visual merchandising are but some of the many disciplines you will learn in the process of designing furniture fit for purpose that will enhance any environment.

Expand Your Design Repertoire

Work with a wide range of materials including metals and wood, and learn for yourself the actual production techniques to better understand the intricacies of turning sketches into visionary furniture pieces.

Stay on Top of Technologies and Trends

Stay up to date with the latest technologies and trends in the world of furniture and spatial design and how they impact the design process, to face the design needs of the future with your best foot forward.







More Information
Graduation Requirements
In order to graduate from a diploma programme, students are required to attain at least 120 credits (including exempted modules, if any), pass all school/programme/elective requirements, as prescribed by the respective schools, and have no more than 3 modules completed with the provisional pass Grade E.
Mode of Instruction
Lessons may be delivered face-to-face on campus or facilitated online. Lecturers employ a variety of teaching strategies and methods according to the needs of each module. Students are expected to attend every lesson as scheduled, either in the form of lectures, tutorials, discussions, demonstrations, case studies, practical exercises, field activities, classroom practice or e-learning.
Assessment Methods
Each module is assessed by either class participation, written assignments, practical performances, portfolio presentations, projects, examinations, or any of these combinations. Assessment methods may vary according to individual module requirements.

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
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
DTD1205

Design Theory and History

This module examines design work and discusses sense of place and its built environment. Students will study design theories that encourage them to explore their creativity.
2 2
DTD1206

Design Communication 1

Students will be introduced to various freehand and measured drawing techniques as well as model-making to communicate their ideas.
2 8
DTD1227

Design Studio 1 (Furniture and Spatial)

As an introductory studio, Design Studio 1 (Furniture and Spatial) familiarizes students with design fundamentals in the context of a studio project.
2 10
DTD2100

Design and Culture

This module provides an overview of art and design history from the 20th century to the present time, and the role design plays in national and cultural identity.
1 2
DTD2106

Design Communication 2

This module develops 2D & 3D computer-aided digital skillsets to support the presentation of design proposals.
1 4
DTD2127

Design Studio 2 (Furniture and Spatial)

This module explores the possibilities of using different materials and processes in furniture design whilst developing competency in spatial design.
1 12
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.
1 & 2 2
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.
1 and 2 2
DTD2040

Visual Merchandising*

This module enables students to understand and apply design principles in visual merchandising, and emphasizes the importance of effective displays.
1 and 2 2
DTD2041

Stage and Set Design*

This module provides an overview of the various aspects of stage and set production. Students will be introduced to artistic, technical and logistical considerations in the staging of events and performances.
1 and 2 2
DTD2044

Creative Lighting*

Students learn about the art of lighting for indoor and outdoor environments, and introduced to various artistic approaches in atmospheric/ mood lighting.
1 and 2 2
DTD2200

Contextual Studies

This module seeks to develop knowledge and critical awareness of concepts and themes relating to 3-Dimensional Design. And in doing so, seeks to apply research skills to contextualize their practice within a broader cultural and professional framework.
2 2
DTD2206

Design Communication 3

Students will further hone their visual presentation skills in the areas of infographics and visual communication.
2 4
DTD2227

Design Studio 3 (Furniture and Spatial)

Through the Design Studio project, students practice their knowledge and techniques by means of prototyping designs.
2 12
DTD3206

Design Communication 4

This supporting module allows students to explore the various methods of presenting their studio projects both in the academic context of a report and a presentation.
2 4
DTD3227

Design Studio 4 (Furniture and Spatial)

This module enables students to demonstrate independence in research, analysis and conceptualization, through the development and execution of a major project.
2 12
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.
1/2 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.
1/2 4
DDM2902

Packaging Design*

This module allows students to explore the different forms and functions of packaging design to provide packaging solutions that are appealing, functional and sustainable.
1/2 4
DFS2006

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.
1/2 4
DFS1205

Textile Design and 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
DFS2105

Textile Design and Innovation 2*

This module explores the manipulation of fabrics through dyeing, shibori, bonding, embossing and weaving to create distinctive textiles.
1 2
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.
1 and 2 2
DFA1003

Introduction to Printmaking*

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

Introduction to Photography*

Students learn basic camera operations, and study the basics for creating fascinating imagery.
1 and 2 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 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.
1 and 2 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.
1 and 2 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.
1 and 2 2
DMU1041

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.
1/2 2
DMU1042

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.
1/2 2
ACE1001

Speech Presentations*

Speech Presentations is a programme in writing and presenting speeches. 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.
1 and 2 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.
1 and 2 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).
1 and 2 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.
1 and 2 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.
1 and 2 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

Show More

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:

  • Portfolio/Admission Test Requirements
  • 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.


Portfolio/Admission Test Requirements

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.

Your portfolio should contain your original works from at least two of the following categories: paintings, drawings, collages, posters, sculptures, digital images (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc), photographs, and/or video clips.

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.

(B) Admission Test

The test consists of three sections (test duration: 2.5 hours):

  • Written Ability
    Ability to express and rationalise in writing
  • Drawing from Observation
    Ability to draw from observation
  • Creative Visualisation
    Aptitude in creativity and visualisation

(Test Duration: 2.5 hours)

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
    • Part-time ITE certificate, with a minimum GPA of ≥ 2.0 for Higher NITEC holders or ≥ 3.5 for NITEC holders
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
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 80
  • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) score of 42
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above

Applicants with Higher NITEC or NITEC qualifications are deemed to have met the English Language proficiency requirement.

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 Diploma EAE application window for the August 2025 intake is from 17 June to 28 June 2024. Please check your application eligibility and apply online here for free.

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

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


Process Period
Application 17 June to 28 June 2024
Portfolio Submission
(for School of 3D Design, Design & Media, Fashion Studies, Fine Art)
By 12 July 2024
Personal Statement Submission. Submission of a Testimonial is optional
(for School of Arts Management)
By 12 July 2024
Audition
(for School of Music, Dance, Theatre)
10 July to 17 July 2024
Offer & Acceptance 31 July to 14 August 2024

Important Update on Diploma Programmes: We are currently undergoing a revamp of our diploma programmes to ensure they remain relevant, innovative, and are aligned with industry needs. While we are still accepting applications, please note that there will be some changes to the curriculum. A number of programme titles will also be refreshed. We appreciate your interest in our diplomas and we seek your patience and understanding. All applicants will be informed of the updates and developments by August 2024.


Process


Applicants to:
  1. Apply online here from 17 June to 28 June 2024 for free. Submit the required documents for verification within 5 working days from the application date or by 5 July 2024, whichever is earlier.

  2. Submit Portfolio for programmes under the Faculty of Art & Design by 12 July 2024 online here (3D Design/Design & Media/ Fashion Studies/Fine Art). There is no Admission Test for EAE

  3. Submit Personal Statementfor Diploma in Arts Management by 12 July 2024 online here. Submission of a Testimonial is optional.

  4. Attend Audition for programmes under the Faculty of Performing Arts (Dance/Music/Theatre). Audition dates are from 10 to 17 July 2024. More information on the audition will be sent to you via email a week before the audition date

Offer and Acceptance
  • Applicants will receive notification of the application outcome via email from 31 July to 14 August 2024. 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 who are in their final year of study of their Nitec or Higher Nitec courses. For the 2025 intake, ITE students who complete their Nitec course in June or December 2024 and Higher Nitec course in September 2024 or March 2025 will be eligible to apply for admission.

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 Architectural Technology
  • Higher Nitec in Visual Merchandising
  • Higher Nitec in Architectural Technology
  • Nitec in Interactive Media Design
  • Nitec in Interior & Exhibition Design
  • Nitec in Product Design
  • Nitec in Architectural Technology
  • Nitec in Interior & Exhibition Design
  • Nitec in Visual Communication
  • Nitec in Visual Effects

How to Apply

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

Apply online

Apply online here. Application for the August 2024 intake has closed. Please visit us on 1 October 2024 to apply for the August 2025 intake.

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 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 (non-refundable) at the cashier counter in NAFA or online

Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) 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.

  • 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

    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.