New Zealand Diploma in Animation

Summary

Animation is found in pretty much every piece of visual media we lay our eyes on. It’s huge.

Games, film, TV, art... The more you learn about this dynamic industry, the more you’ll want to be a part of it.

Gain an introduction to the computer-generated techniques currently used in the animation industry, including 3D modelling, CGI lighting, real-time visualisation and motion capture.

Walk away with a Diploma in Animation with this year long programme or pathway onto the Level 6 New Zealand Diploma in Animation(external link) or the Bachelor of CGI(external link).

It provides a broad introduction to animation and game design, letting you get a taste for the different areas that you can shine in. 

You get to create your own CGI project, benefitting from working in a collaborative environment whilst having the creative freedom to suit your interests. 

See ‘What Will I Learn’ below for a more detailed description of what this programme covers.

Entry requirements Academic requirements

University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at Level 3 and 20 credits at Level 2 or higher) which must include:

• 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three approved* subjects

as well as

• Literacy* - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing

and

• Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)

OR

A qualification on the NZQF at Level 4 or above in a related discipline

OR

A qualification or examination recognised as being equivalent to achievement of NCEA Level 3 (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination)

*NZQA approved subjects: see https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/(external link)

Alternative Requirements

Applicants who are unable to evidence that they meet Academic entry requirements, but who can demonstrate acquired skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, may be approved for alternative entry by the Curriculum Manager (or delegate)

English language requirements

If English is not the applicant’s first language, applicants will need to provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Table(external link):

• IELTS 6.0 Academic (no lower than 5.5 in each band),

Note: Applicants who do not have evidence of English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, may contact NMIT for an assessment

Applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance requirements are not required to provide evidence of English language skills

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

Additional requirements

Please see the Supporting documents section for more information and form templates.

What will I learn? Professional Practice

The Professional Practice courses prepare you for work in professional and commercial CGI studios, and as an independent contractor. Content includes business acumen appropriate for freelance work, legal considerations, statutory regulations and tax obligations and an understanding of the implications of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi for animation in Aotearoa New Zealand. A vital element for a CGI professional is the understanding of the CGI production workflow and pipeline and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-based professional environment.

3D Modelling

Modelling is a fundamental skill in CGI. The products of modelling are 3D geometric assets, which can resemble anything from creatures, characters, environments, props and abstract forms. There are two types of general approaches to modelling: soft-body and rigid-body. Soft-body modelling is for organic forms, such as creatures, characters, vegetation and other natural forms. Rigid-body...