New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media and Design (Level 4)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 4 |
|---|
About the course
Tell me about this area
People in this field turn ideas into clear, engaging designs using a mix of creativity and practical problem solving. They might design graphics for brands, edit and enhance images, create motion and animation, build simple interactive experiences or shape how users move through digital content. While roles can be specialised, many share the same core principles, so being able to work across formats is a real advantage.
Would it suit me?
This area suits people who love visual ideas and enjoy turning rough concepts into something polished. You might be creative, detail focused and happy experimenting with different styles. It also helps if you like problem solving, can manage your time, and take feedback well. An interest in both art and digital tools is important.
What will I learn?
- Design process and design thinking
- Core design principles
- Animation and motion principles
- Storytelling for visual communication
- Meaning and symbolism in images and text
- User experience focused design
- Digital media skills across multiple formats
- Project planning, pitching and reflection
How will I learn?
- Industry-style briefs and project work
- Studio based making and production practice
- Project pitches, schedules and progress check-ins
- Feedback from audiences and peers
- Site visits, case studies and exhibitions
- Hands-on use of industry tools and software
Entry requirements
Academic Requirements
10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits
OR New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4) or equivalent
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.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
English Requirements
What if English is not my first Language?
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- 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, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test 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.
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
About the provider
Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level.
Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.
All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.
Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.
It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.