Diploma of Arts and Design (Advanced)

The principal aims of the Diploma of Arts and Design (Advanced) course are to: Reinforce students identities as creative individuals; Equip students with professional skills and knowledge in visual communications, theory, practice and principles; Provide students with a balance of specialisation, flexibility, and technical skill, which will enable them to enter the workplace as productive professionals; Instil students with an appreciation of the need to be life long learners; and Provide research and study skills to equip students for further study; and Provide students with direct exposure to the practices and standards of practising artists and designers.

Whitecliffe College is New Zealand’s highest-ranked and most awarded institution in the private education sector. Established in 1984, it is a long-standing Category One Private Training Establishment (PTE), recognized for its excellence and innovation.

Whitecliffe stands as a cornerstone of New Zealand’s private education landscape, with a rich combined legacy of over 130 years dedicated to outstanding teaching and academic excellence across the fields of Fine Arts, Design, Fashion Design, Information Technology, and Creative Arts Therapies.

The merger of three of New Zealand’s oldest PTEs has strengthened Whitecliffe’s position as a leading force in tertiary education. Offering a comprehensive range of programmes — from certificates and undergraduate degrees to master’s qualifications (Levels 4–9) — Whitecliffe is synonymous with academic distinction and is deeply committed to shaping students into global citizens and future leaders in their chosen professions.

At Whitecliffe, we actively collaborate with industry partners to ensure work-integrated learning, deliver high-quality academic programmes, and prepare our graduates for successful, fulfilling careers.

Our graduates are innovators and trailblazers, confident in their skills and ready to lead the future.