NZ Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5)

Program Overview

The NZ Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5) is a one-year program that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for a career in the creative industries. The program focuses on the development of creative thinking, technical skills, and practical experience across various creative disciplines, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, graphic design, and 3D design. Through a project-based learning approach, students develop their ability to think creatively, solve problems, and apply research and critical analysis to their creative practice. The program prepares students for further studies or potential internships/employment in related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

The NZ Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5)

is a one-year full-time program (with a part-time option available) designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for a career in the creative industries. The program focuses on the development of creative thinking, technical skills, and practical experience across various creative disciplines, including:

• Painting
• Sculpture
• Printmaking
• Photography
• Graphic design
• 3D design

Program Objectives:

• Develop students' ability to think creatively and solve problems through a project-based learning approach.
• Equip students with a broad range of practical and conceptual skills across various creative disciplines.
• Enable students to apply research and critical analysis to their creative practice.
• Prepare students for further studies in the Bachelor of Creative Practice or potential internships/employment in related fields.

Overview Summary:

This program offers a comprehensive introduction to various creative disciplines, emphasizing hands-on experience and project-based learning.

Outline

Program Structure:

• The program consists of four projects that involve individual and group work.
• Projects are largely prescribed and focus on key foundational skills, techniques, and theories across various creative disciplines.
• The curriculum includes:
• Drawing technology
• Graphic design (using Adobe Creative Suite software)
• 3D design/Sculpture (working with various materials like wood, clay, metal, and plastics)
• Spatial/interior design
• Printmaking (silkscreen and press printing)
• Painting (acrylics, oils, new media)

Project-based Learning Approach:

• The program utilizes a project-based learning approach where students are actively engaged in real-world and in-house projects.
• This approach aims to facilitate the development of knowledge, creative skills, and research abilities.
• Projects begin with questions, problems, or provocations to be addressed or resolved, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Assessment

Assessment methods:

• The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate students' understanding and application of the learned concepts.
• These methods may include:
• Practical assessments
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Written assignments

Assessment criteria:

• Assessment criteria focus on evaluating students' ability to:
• Demonstrate technical skills and proficiency in different creative disciplines.
• Apply critical thinking and research skills to develop creative ideas and solutions.
• Communicate effectively through various mediums, including written, oral, and visual presentation.
• Reflect on their own work and the work of others, providing constructive feedback and analysis.

Teaching

Teaching methods:

• The program employs diverse teaching methods to cater to various learning styles and maximize student engagement.
• These methods may include:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Studio practice
• Guest speakers
• Industry visits

Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced and passionate lecturers who are active practitioners in their respective creative fields.
• The faculty brings real-world expertise and industry knowledge to the classroom, ensuring that students are equipped with relevant skills and insights.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes student-centered learning, encouraging active participation, collaboration, and independent inquiry.
• The project-based learning approach provides opportunities for students to explore their creativity and develop a deeper understanding of their chosen artistic discipline.
• Students are encouraged to experiment, take risks, and develop their unique artistic voice.

Careers

Possible career paths and opportunities:

• Painter
• Printmaker
• Sculptor
• Illustrator
• Spatial/interior design intern
• Furniture design intern
• Graphic design intern
• Web design intern
• Arts administrator
• Gallery or museum curator intern
• Graduates can continue their studies with the second year of the Bachelor of Creative Practice.

Conclusion

The NZ Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5) provides a solid foundation for individuals seeking to pursue a fulfilling career in the creative industries. Through a combination of hands-on learning, project-based exploration, and skilled instruction, this program offers participants the opportunity to develop their artistic talent, hone their technical skills, and gain valuable industry knowledge.