Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyNew Zealand Certificate in Digital Media and Design (Level 4)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
19 weeks
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
Tell me about this areaPeople 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
- 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 criteria
Academic Requirements10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits
OR New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4) or equivalent
Alternative RequirementsStill 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 RequirementsWhat 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.
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