New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5)

Programme outline

The project-based learning approach in the diploma places you at the centre of the learning experience. The programme allows for the embedding of theory and practice within the project context. You will gain skills and knowledge using Abode Creative Suite Industry standard software including Photoshop, Illustrator, and other software dependent on your project. This programme is one year full-time (part-time options available) and your study time will be made up of contact time (class times, tutorials) and non-contact time (self-directed individual time). There are four 30 credit compulsory courses and to pass each course students are required to submit every assessment within the evidence portfolio and achieve a cumulative minimum of 50% across all assessments.

More detail about this qualification

This programme can be studied full-time or part-time and is taught in our design studios and classrooms. The programme is made up of four compulsory projects (courses), each worth 30 credits, with a total of 120 credits to complete the diploma.

Courses

DAD5001 Creative Practice Foundations 1

This project will introduce students to the core knowledge of skills in visual art and design practice and creative processes.

DAD5002 Creative Practice Foundation 2

This project further develops technical skills and conventions, including digital 2D and 3D.

DAD5003 Studio Workshop Practice

This project aims to consolidate students’ core knowledge of skills in visual art and design practice.

DAD5004 Manage an Evolving Project

This project will allow students to further expand their professional skills.

Students must pass all four Projects to successfully pass the programme. 

Course-related costs

Some drawing resources may need to be purchased.

Entry requirements

The academic entry criteria for the New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5) is either:

• University Entrance, as defined by the NZQA; or
• Evidence regarded as sufficient by the Programme Manager of the capability to undertake and complete the programme of study; or
• At the discretion of the Head of School, where the applicant is over 20 years of age and demonstrates the capability to undertake and complete the programme of study.

All applicants are required to attend an interview (and may bring whānau support).

Applicants must provide a hand-written letter of application and portfolio of work that represents their level of achievement at the interview.

International

All applicants must demonstrate an acceptable level of English language fluency prior to acceptance in the programme.

For International applicants, ways in which English language fluency may be demonstrated include the following:

• Successful study of a programme in which English was the language of instruction.
• Completion of a New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 4 with any endorsement).
• IELTS Academic score of 6, with no band score lower than 5.5, achieved in a single test within the two years preceding enrolment.
• Accepted international equivalents to the above IELTS scores, achieved in a single test within the two years preceding enrolment.

Further study options

The NZ Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5) can lead you to apply for entry into the Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 6). The portfolio content completed during the programme can be used to support an application for further study or look for an entry level job in New Zealand’s fastest growing industry.