Program Overview

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New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media and Design

Overview

Gain foundational digital experience for employment or further studies in the creative industries. This programme is designed to give you experience in producing creative and effective outcomes using current digital technology.

What will I study

You'll learn how to apply creative theory to practical, real-world projects. You'll also be given the opportunity to explore your own interests through research and practical application in design and creative contexts.

Pathway

This programme is intended as a pathway to higher level study.

Details

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ2629
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• International application close date: Please enquire
• Credits: 60
• Level: 4
• Additional Equipment/Fees: Advised before enrolment
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ2629-STRU

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $3,475 - $3,930 per year
• International Fee: $13,000 per year
• Valid To: December 31, 2025

Academic Requirements

• 10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits
• If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

Additional Requirements

"Please note: The above additional entry requirements are pending NZQA approval."

Alternative Requirements

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

English Requirements

What if English is not my first Language?

• Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
  • English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
• If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
• If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
• IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
• What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
  • You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic

• 5.0 Listening
• 5.0 Reading
• 5.0 Writing
• 5.0 Speaking

Selection Criteria

A selection process will occur based on application information.

• Where applications exceed places available, you may be waitlisted. The waitlist order will be based on the selection criteria above.

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Core courses

• Creative Digital Skills (DGMD411) - 15 credits
• Creative Online Design (DGMD412) - 15 credits
• Animation and Interactivity (DGMD413) - 15 credits
• Symbolism and Identity (DGMD414) - 15 credits

Elective courses

• Level 4

Career opportunities

This programme is intended as a pathway to higher level study.

Study pathways

This qualification provides a pathway into further tertiary study at diploma or degree level in the fields of design, media and art.

Recommended school subjects

• Design
• Photography
• Art
• Graphics
• English

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.