New Zealand Diploma in Scenic Construction and Properties

Summary

The New Zealand Diploma of Scenic Construction and Properties is a two-year programme that equips students with a comprehensive foundation in constructing sets and properties for the world of live and screen arts. With a limited intake of up to 12 students annually, this programme ensures a rich learning experience to nurture individual growth and professional development. Combining artistic craftsmanship with technical expertise, this programme places a strong emphasis on practical skills and cultivating a creative mindset. Through hands-on experience working on live productions, engaging in skill-based projects and industry internships; students refine their technical abilities, explore their creativity, and gain valuable insights into the construction and crafting processes for live and screen arts.

Course Information

The New Zealand Diploma of Scenic Construction is a two-year program that provides a comprehensive foundation in constructing sets and properties for the live and screen arts industry.

Year 1:‍

• Construction, Materials and Processes: Construction methods and processes, finishing techniques, interpreting design briefs, visual communication, safe working practices.
• Production Practice
• Critical studies – analysis of screen and live arts

Year 2:

• Production Practice
• Advanced Skills workshops
• Industry Internship
• Self-directed research topic

Career Pathways

Possible occupations that Sets & Props can enter include:

• Set or Scenic Carpenter
• Scenic Welder/Metal Fabricator
• Scenic Artist/Paint Special Effects
• Props Maker
• Scenic Sculptor
• Film Art Department – Offset and Stand-by
• Exhibition and Event Display
• Property Construction and Finishing
• Model Maker
• Soft Prop and Costume Prop Maker
• Visual Effects and Prosthetic Special Effects
• Puppet Maker
• Prototyping for Industrial Design