Creative Industries
How to Apply Te Tuku Tono
Applying for a programme is super easy - just follow these five steps. Before applying, make sure you have your certified ID documents (passport or birth certificate) handy.
1
Decide on the right programme for you and click ‘Apply Now’
Search the programme you’re interested in studying on the Unitec website, unitec.ac.nz, and click Apply Now.
2
Complete your application
You’ll need to create an account with Unitec by entering your personal details and academic history into the system.
3
Complete your enrolment tasks
When you’ve finished your application, you’ll be transferred to an enrolment portal. Here you’ll need to complete some tasks such as uploading supporting documents to support your application.
4
Accept your ‘Offer of Study’
If all goes well you’ll receive an offer of study. You can accept this offer via your enrolment portal.
5
Finish off remaining tasks
If your offer is conditional, you may be required to complete additional tasks. Wrap these up as quickly as possible so we can finalise your place in the programme.
Funding Your Studies Te Tahua Akoranga
Studying is an investment in your future and a great way to ensure you remain work-ready in today’s ever-changing world. Here are some of the options for funding your studies:
Fees-Free
Fees Free supports eligible learners by covering the final year of their first qualification, helping to ease financial barriers to completion. When enrolling in tertiary education, it’s important to plan for the payment of your fees. You may choose to apply for a student loan through StudyLink or explore other financial support options. Unitec may ask for your IRD number, which helps link your qualification completion to your entitlement claim.
From 2026, you will be able to confirm your eligibility and claim your Fees Free after finishing your qualification through myIR on Inland Revenue’s website. You will have 12 months to claim your entitlement once you complete your qualification or programme.
For up-to-date information on fees-free study including eligibility criteria, visit feesfree.govt.nz
Checking your eligibility
To check whether you’re eligible for fees-free study, follow these steps:
1. Go to feesfree.govt.nz and enter your National Student Number (NSN). If you don’t have this handy, there are additional instructions on the website.
2. Make sure you choose the eligibility criteria for provider-based study.
3. Then, you’ll receive one of the following results: Yes – you’re eligible for fees-free No – you’re not eligible for fees-free
Maybe – not sure if you’re eligible for fees-free
4. Once you’re eligible with TEC, you can apply to study at Unitec. If you get a maybe, you’ll need to submit a statutory declaration form at feesfree.govt.nz as soon as possible, so there are no disruptions to your studies.
Youth Guarantee Scheme
If you’re between the ages of 16 and 24, a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident and enrolled in an eligible 6 or 12-month Level 3 programme, you might be able to apply for funding under the Youth Guarantee Scheme to cover your compulsory tuition fees.
Here’s how it works:
1. Apply online for an eligible course or programme.
2. If your application is successful, you’ll have an interview with the Youth Guarantee team to talk about funding.
3. Youth Guarantee-funded places of study are limited, so apply as early as possible.
Student Loans and Allowances
StudyLink is the best place to start when looking for help to pay for your study. What you’re eligible to apply for depends on your residency status, age, income and course type.
StudyLink may be able to help with:
• Compulsory tuition fees
• Course-related costs
• Living costs
• Other costs (e.g. disability or childcare)
Student Loan
A student loan can help with paying for your tuition fees (compulsory fees charged by us), study materials (e.g. books, computer, travel) and living costs. Because this is a loan, you’ll have to pay it back once you start working.
Note: if you’re eligible for fees-free study, you might not need a loan for your tuition fees but you may still need one for course-related and living costs.
Student Allowance
A student allowance is a weekly payment to help you with your living expenses while you’re studying. If you’re eligible, you don’t have to pay this one back.
To find out if you’re eligible to apply for a student loan and/or allowance, visit studylink.govt.nz
Getting your application ready
The application process for a student loan and/or allowance can be quite complicated, so we do have drop-in sessions available at the beginning of each semester where our Student Support Advisors can help you with your application. These advisors are also available throughout the year to assist.
Scholarships Te Tahua Akoranga
At Unitec we manaaki student success wherever we can and scholarships are one of the ways we do that.
Scholarships
We have scholarships that recognise the achievements and the challenges of dedicating yourself to learning, whether that’s in a vocational trade, at undergraduate level or at Master’s degree level and beyond.
We understand that financial barriers can be significant for students. That’s why most scholarship funding helps support students with costs associated with study. That could be tuition fees or course-related costs like books and supplies, as well as living expenses such as childcare and transport.
Applying for a scholarship
We offer scholarships designed specifically to help reduce the pressure, so you can focus on achieving your academic goals.
We offer a variety of scholarships to students and highly recommend looking at our website for current scholarships.
Here are some of the scholarships we have offered in the past:
• Māori & Pacific Scholarships
Scholarships for new students, those progressing into a new programme and academic excellence scholarships in undergraduate degrees. Some of these scholarships also provided mentoring opportunities and other ways to connect with Unitec’s Māori and Pacific communities. We also offer Kura Kaupapa / Rūmaki Reo scholarships.
New Student & School Leaver Scholarships
Scholarships for students who have recently left high school or people seeking a career change, as well as our disabled and neurodiverse learners, to further support and enhance the student experience.
Help while you study – financial assistance
Sometimes unexpected and additional costs can pop up. If you find yourself struggling financially during your studies, Unitec has Study Grants for essential course-related costs (up to $500) that domestic, full-time students can apply for. There’s also an emergency hardship fund that can provide some financial help, a small one-off payment to help you cover the cost of unforeseen, essential expenses. Our Student Support team can help put you in touch with other support services that can help to get you back on your feet.
Our website unitec.ac.nz has the most up-to-date fees information. It also has useful links to help you work out how to apply for a loan, and whether there are scholarships you could be applying for.
Manaaki New Zealand Scholar Ratu Epeneri Korovakaturaga, Master of Architecture, Fiji
Profiles Scholarship
Pacific Academic Excellence Scholarship
Ana Nadumu
Bachelor of Social Practice
“I feel blessed and thankful for the support provided, the availability of my lecturers, the resources, learning advisors and library assistance which have been a huge help in my journey. And the assistance provided by my Unitec whānau motivates me to stay focused on my studies and work towards my goal of graduating.”
“I struggled in my first year of studies, especially during the first semester. It was overwhelming, returning to study after 20 years, especially in a totally different country and environment. I was already used to juggling work, home and family life but with the addition of studies, I started to feel stressed. Receiving a scholarship has really helped take the pressure off, and allowed me to focus on getting good grades.”
“The scholarship team has been incredibly helpful, guiding me through the application process and convincing me that I could do it. I’d say to anyone considering a scholarship, if you fit the criteria, then apply!”
Aivi Fifita
Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Business (HR Management)
“Receiving the Pacific Success scholarship has been such a blessing to me. It has reminded me that I’m not alone in my journey and has connected me with other Pasifika learners –it really feels like I’m coming from home to home when I spend time at the Pacific Centre at Unitec.”
“It has also helped me balance my family and study life – I really feel that I can support my husband and daughter despite the fact that I’m studying. I’m so grateful for this opportunity, and to my Pasifika whānau at Unitec for encouraging me to apply.
“The assistance that scholarships offer really strengthens our Pacific network, and I hope that my success might encourage other Pasifika women to do the same, particularly those held back by family commitments or financial hardship.
“Remember - it’s never too late to invest in yourself.”
Theresa Murray
Bachelor of Social Practice (4th year)
“I started my Social Practices degree because I wanted to change the cycle – I was raised in care and none of my family had ever done any tertiary study before.”
“Whai Ake has helped me in more ways than you can imagine. The financial assistance has been huge, but also the friendships and connections it’s helped me make – not just with other students, but with kaihautū as well. We get so much support from kaimahi, especially those at Waitākere – my whānau is their whānau, and we’re always encouraged to bring our kids along to everything – they’re part of our journey.
“Whai Ake has also helped me become more grounded in my culture. Whaea Lynda, Whaea Jonyne, Whaea Marama and Papa Ho – they’ve all helped me learn my identity as a Māori student.
“Don’t be whakama (scared), I say – make the most of the help that’s available. You don’t know until you know.”
Whai Ake I Te Ara Tika Māori Mentoring Scholarship - Unitec School Leavers Scholarship –Te Pou Hiranga Academic Excellence Scholarship
Pacific Success Scholarship Recipient
Whai Ake Māori Scholarship Recipient
Recipient
Creative Industries Te Kura Auaha
Programmes Available
Art & Design
Contemporary Dance
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) - Performing and Screen
Credits 60 (0.5 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February or July
Duration Full-time for 16 weeks or part-time options available
Annual fees $3,500 (NZD) (Approximate fees only. For the latest fees, please visit our website)*
This programme is your pass to an exciting future in performance, production and screen. It’s ideal if you want to go on to higher-level study in performing and screen arts, if you’re unsure of exactly what area to focus on, or if you’re already in employment and want to improve your personal communication and professional presentation skills.
Career opportunities
This programme prepares you for further study towards a career in media or performing and screen arts.
Highlights
• Learn from the best with high-profile industry guests teaching your classes
• Hands-on learning through projects designed to emulate the industry
Work with professional camera, sound and lighting equipment and software
Unique cross-disciplinary learning environment: collaborate with acting students on creative projects.
• Access to our equipment and facilities for 12 months after you graduate so you can continue to develop your projects and career.
Programme overview
This Study and Employment Pathways programme specialising in performing and screen arts will expose you to the basic principles of production, acting, dance theatre technologies and design, moving image study as well as collaborative project-based learning.
Admission requirements
For this programme, you’ll need:
Academic
1. To be 16 years old at the time the programme starts
2. Complete an interview, audition and/or submission of work.
3. A minimum total of 40 NCEA credits at level 2 in 4 approved subjects
4. University Entrance numeracy (or equivalent)
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
• A minimum of 12 credits in English at level 1 or higher
• The New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 3 (Applied)
Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
• Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
Other options
If you don’t meet these requirements, you’ll need one of the following:
• A relevant qualification at Level 3 or above on the NZQCF or equivalent
• The New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3)
Attend a Skills Review session where your literacy and numeracy levels will be assessed.
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/screen
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Student cultural connection through Puna Kōrero — Unitec Matariki Project.
Unitec kaimahi (staff) and ākonga (students) from the Bachelor of Design and Contemporary Art (BDCA) programme came together in mahi kotahitanga and creative collaboration to help bring to life Puna Kōrero Project for Matariki celebrations in June 2024.
The project was nine months in the making and culminated in a morning working bee at Te Whare Wananga o Wairaka, followed by a spectacular evening event, with the launch of a storytelling mobile app, the unveiling of a reo M āori music video and a projection-mapped animation show which lit up Unitec’s Te Noho Kotahitanga marae.
“Puna Kōrero was a collaborative project which brought together our kaimahi, tauira, and extended whānau to encourage our local communities to connect and deepen our relationships with the whenua and puna. The project aimed to educate people about the cultural and environmental significance of this place.” says Academic Programme Manager, Peeti Lamwilai.
This is in response to massive change taking place at the current and former campus areas of Unitec in Mt Albert with residential developments and urban intensification.
The five BDCA tauira who supported the project expressed appreciation for having been invited to contribute their creative skills towards a public-facing experience.
“Seeing your work projected onto a building as beautiful and sacred as the marae is very surreal. I’ve never done projection mapping before, so this project was an awesome learning experience for me,” says BDCA ākonga Samantha Waddell.
“Being apart of the Matariki Project 2024 has been one of my highlights in my creative journey. It was a great opportunity to showcase my skills whilst also collaborating with other creatives to bring storytelling on a large scale.,” says BDCA ākonga, Oleana Lavea.
“This project in many ways reconnected me to my own whakapapa. For me, the result was not only an amazing light show but also rekindling my sense of belonging as a New Zealander of M āori descent, and that is what I think Matariki is all about,” says BDCA ākonga Marina Fepulea’i.
To read more inspirational stories visit unitec.ac.nz/latest-news
Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Acting for Screen And Theatre)
Credits 360 (3.0 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February
Duration Full-time for three years
Annual fees $11,500 (NZD)
This degree is designed to develop your acting and performance skills to realise your full potential as an actor on-screen and onstage.
Career opportunities
Actor for theatre, film, and television
Theatre deviser/creator
Presenter
Performing arts manager
• Acting trainer/teacher
Highlights
Numerous opportunities for live and screen performance.
• A vibrant multidisciplinary environment that includes dance, screen arts, production design and management, design and arts.
• A collaborative model: you’ll work closely with directing and writing, film and television, and performance technology students.
Close links with industry: our tutors work in the industry and therefore retain currency and have relevant knowledge, experience and contacts. No other acting training course in Aotearoa has the same access and proximity to Auckland’s vibrant and rapidly expanding screen sector.
Unitec has 30 years’ training experience with a rich history of successful graduates, many who are now influencers and leaders in the industry.
• Every year we have the privilege to work with many guest specialists and directors who run masterclasses, workshops and lead projects as directors, coaches, mentors and creators.
Strong international connections. Pathway into the Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Practice or Master of Creative Practice.
Programme overview
Unlock your full potential as an actor on both screen and stage with the most industry connected programme in Aotearoa.
Over your course of study, you’ll work on a wide variety of screen and live performance projects, guided by tutors who are seasoned industry professionals.
Working in an environment that is framed by the values of our Te Noho Kotahitanga partnership, you will learn practical and professional skills in an environment of wrap around support.
Throughout the three years of training, you will be challenged to strengthen your capacity for expression in your body and voice, while working to deepen your understanding of character. You will also build the professional skills you need, not only to get jobs and make your own work, but make ends meet as a working artist.
Program Structure
Year One: Begin to develop core skills in voice, movement, singing, and acting for screen and stage. Apply new skills in scene work and collaborations with screen students. Dive into M ātauranga M āori and M āori performing arts, as you start to discover who you are as an artist.
Year Two: Deepen your skills in acting, voice, and movement. Perform publicly and collaborate with other students on screen and live performance projects. Work on specialized skills including accents and audition technique. Expand your knowledge of the industry and how to operate as a professional actor. Explore other creative practices through electives including writing for comedy, hybrid art, and more.
Year Three: Apply your learning in master classes, scripted live performance, screen work, and devised theatre while engaging in industry secondments and professional skills development. Work towards entering the industry with excellent relationships, skills, and professional practices.
Auditions
Each year we have many applicants for the limited places offered in Year One. First round auditions are held throughout New Zealand in September. You’ll be given clear information at the time of your application about what to learn and how to prepare.
From these auditions, a group of applicants is selected for second-round auditions. These are held in Auckland over a weekend in early October. From this two-day workshop, the final selection of trainee actors is made for the following year.
If you’re not sure that you’re ready to audition for this highly competitive programme, look at the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) - Performing and Screen (see pg. 10) which is a full-time, semester-long programme designed to help you upskill if you’re interested in progressing to this degree.
Admission requirements
For this programme you’ll need:
Academic
1. 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher including:
• 14 credits in two different approved subjects; and
• 14 credits from up to two subjects (approved or non-approved)
2. 14 credits in NCEA Level 1 or higher in mathematics or Pāngarau
3. Interviews, submissions and/or auditions will be required – we’ll notify you what is required when you apply.
4. Complete a medical declaration form
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English or Te Reo Māori (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
• Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
• Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available.
There are additional English requirements for international students – you can find more information on our website.
Other options
If you don’t meet these requirements, you’ll need one of the following:
A relevant qualification at Level 3 or above on the NZQCF or an equivalent qualification
• Evidence you’re eligible for special or discretionary admission
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/acting
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Marianne Infante
Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts Alumni
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) - Art and Design
Credits 60 (0.5 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February or July
Duration Full-time for 16 weeks or parttime options available
Annual fees $3,500 (NZD) (Approximate fees only. For the latest fees, please visit our website)*
This certificate programme is ideal if you want to go on to higher-level study in art and design. It’s perfect for people who have or haven’t completed secondary school, require University Entrance or want to study for a career in art and design.
Career opportunities
This programme prepares you for further study toward a career in art and design in creative industries.
Highlights
• Emphasis on practical skills and studio-based learning: you’ll be creating your art and design in a studio environment and participating in group critiques with fellow students.
Learn from lecturers who are eager to share their industry experience with you.
• Access to Unitec’s excellent communication studies and design facilities.
• A mix of classroom sessions, practical workshops, critique sessions, guest speakers, discussions, presentations and online learning.
A chance to take classes in Unitec’s marae, a great setting to explore Māori oratorical traditions and the role of culture in communication.
Programme overview
Prepare yourself with the skills needed to study towards an exciting future in art, media or design.
This programme starts with a base in identity and communication and builds with art and design knowledge in both individual and collaborative projects.
Once you’ve successfully completed the programme, you can go on to further study in the Bachelor of Design and Contemporary Art (see pg. 15).
Admission requirements
For this programme you’ll need:
Academic
1. A minimum total of 40 NCEA credits at level 2 in 4 approved subjects including:
A minimum of 12 credits in English at level 1 or higher
2. To be 16 years old by the time the programme starts
3. UE numeracy or equivalent
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
A minimum of 12 credits in English at NCEA level 1 or higher
• The New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 3 (Applied)
• Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
• Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available.
There are additional English requirements for international students – you can find more information on our website.
Other options
If you don’t meet these requirements, you’ll need one of the following:
• A relevant qualification at Level 3 or above on the NZQCF or equivalent
• The New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3)
• Attend a Skills Review session where your literacy and numeracy levels will be assessed.
Note: International graduates will not be eligible for a post-study work visa upon completion of this programme.
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/art-design
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Bachelor of Design and Contemporary Art
Credits 360 (3.0 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February or July
Duration Full-time for three years or part-time options available
Annual fees $8,000 (NZD) (Approximate domestic fees only. Includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee levy)
Ready to inspire communities through art and design? The Bachelor of Design and Contemporary Art enables you to explore your creative ambitions through making and prepares you for a successful and enduring career in design or visual arts.
Career opportunities
• Graphic designer
• Photographer
• Artist Motion graphics designer
Illustrator
Packaging designer
Product designer
Curator
• Art/design educator
• Gallerist
• Animator
Highlights
• Specialise in your chosen area of practice. Choose from one of two majors: Visual Arts or Design.
Gain key skills and experience through exciting studio projects, diverse technical workshops and in-depth contextual discussions.
• Apply practical learning in studios, computer labs and workshops, through one-on-one and group tutorials, wānanga and noho marae – with the opportunity to meet a wide range of artists and designers.
• Get creative in your own spaces. Our purpose-built gallery, exhibition and presentation facilities will prepare you for the professional environment.
• Excellent student support from expert lecturers and technicians, ready to help you realise your creative ambitions.
Work on a major creative capstone project in your final year of study – and exhibit this work at our end-of-year Gradfest.
• Graduate work-ready for the future with a qualification designed to meet the future needs of Auckland’s creative communities.
Programme
overview
Your first year of study will involve lots of discovery and experimentation. Then, you’ll build a specialist area of practice, drawing inspiration from your creative abilities and lived experiences. Gain a deeper understanding of your practice through making while developing technical skills and expert knowledge to land your dream job.
Here are some of the areas of practice you can choose to focus on:
Design: Graphic Design, User Experience (UX/UI), Product Design, Web Design
Visual Arts: 2D/3D Practice, Photography/ Moving Image, Painting, Sculpture/Installation, Printmaking, Ceramics
Portfolio
If you’re invited for an interview as part of the application process, you’ll be asked to present a portfolio of your design work which will contain evidence of your ability in art and/or design.
Admission requirements
For this programme, you’ll need:
Academic
1. 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher including:
• 14 credits in two art or design-related subjects and 14 credits from two (maximum) other subjects.
14 credits from up to two subjects (approved or non-approved).
14 credits at NCEA Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pangarau, or
• A Level 4 approved qualification in a relevant art or design discipline, or
• Equivalent knowledge or skills.
2. As part of your application, you may also be asked to present a portfolio of work and/or attend an interview.
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
• 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English or Te Reo Māori (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet this requirement, you’ll need to provide evidence that you have the English proficiency required.
Don’t meet these requirements?
There may be other options available:
• If you’re over 20 and have relevant skills/ life experience, or
If you’re under 20 and have the relevant reading, writing, and numeracy skills.
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/art-design
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Practice
Credits 60 (0.5 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February or July
Duration Six months full-time or one year part-time
Annual fees $4,300 (NZD)*
Are you ready to advance your creative practice? Is it time to refine your artistic methods or innovate your arts-based portfolio?
Career opportunities
• Artist
• Art director
• Product designer
• Graphic designer
• Director
• Photographer
• Experience designer
• Producer
• Sculptor
Visual artist
Performance designer
Service designer Curator
Actor for theatre, film, and television
• Choreographer
• Filmmaker
Highlights
• Create a body of new work, improve your professional capacity and refresh or re-orient your profession. Develop creative thinking and research skills through applied practice.
• Improve your communication and project proposal skills through studio/project critiques and written components.
• Learn from supervisors that include notable artists, designers, and educators.
• Enhance your creative portfolio with a small independent or collaborative project. Progress to further postgraduate study. Graduates of this programme will be eligible to staircase into the Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Practice (PGDCP) (page 17) or Master of Creative Practice (page 18).
Programme overview
The Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Practice offers a highly flexible studio or project based programme of study. This short course is structured for artists, designers, performers, and digital creatives seeking to deepen their skills and develop a creative practice project. This 60-credit programme fosters both independent and collaborative learning, offering a bespoke learning environment for creative professionals such as:
Contemporary artists
• Graphic designers
• Animators, game designers, experience designers and UX designers
• Performing artists, actors, dancers, directors, and producers
• Filmmakers, Screenwriters and Media creators
Students pursue practice-led and negotiated studies courses over the semester under the supervision of an expert in the relevant creative practice. The programme is tailored to individual interests or group projects within a community of arts disciplines.
Admission requirements
For this programme you’ll need:
General Admission
1. To be 16 years old by the start of your first semester
2. A recognised Bachelor’s degree in the same or similar discipline with merit achievement (grade average of B- or higher in all Level 7 courses); or
3. A professional qualification in a relevant discipline recognised as being equivalent to merit achievement in a Bachelor’s degree.
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
• Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
• Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available.
There are additional English requirements for international students – you can find more information on our website.
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/art-design
Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Practice
Credits 120 (1.0 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February or July
Duration Full-time for one year or part-time for two years Annual fees $8,600 (NZD)*
Are you a creative professional looking to elevate your practice and your artistic impact? The Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Practice offers studio- or industry-based programmes tailored for artists, designers, and cultural innovators. Develop your critical, practical, and creative skills through exhibitions, publications, or industry projects.
Career opportunities
• Artist
• Art director
• Product designer
• Graphic designer
• Director
• Photographer
• Experience designer
• Producer
• Sculptor
Visual artist
Performance designer
Service designer
Curator
Choreographer
• Filmmaker
• Screenwriter
Highlights
• Create a body of new work, improve your professional capacity and refresh or reorient your profession.
• Develop critical self-reflection, creative thinking and research skills by advancing your creative practice.
Work in a studio-based multi-disciplinary environment with specialist facilities across a range of arts practices.
• Improve your communication and project proposal skills through studio critiques and written components.
• Learn from supervisors that include notable artists, designers, and educators.
• Enhance your creative portfolio with a significant advanced research project.
Programme overview
The Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Practice is designed for artists, designers, photographers, animators, educators, performers, directors, producers, and creative professionals looking to take their careers to the next level. Based in Unitec’s new Creative Industries building, this highly flexible programme empowers you to advance your craft under the mentorship of leading educators and industry professionals.
In your first semester, a bespoke mix of taught, negotiated, or studio courses help to focus your specialist interest—in established fields like graphic design, photography, animation, visual arts, and performance, or in emerging, hybrid disciplines such as service design, experience design, transmedia, and interdisciplinary practice.
The second semester focuses on an advanced creative research project, with support from your supervisor. This gives you the opportunity to push boundaries, experiment, and make an impact in your field through a studio or workplace based creative project.
Admission requirements
For this programme you’ll need:
Academic
To be 16 years old by the start of your first semester
A recognised Bachelor’s degree in the same or similar discipline with merit achievement (grade average of B- or higher in all Level 7 courses); or
• A professional qualification in a relevant discipline recognised as being equivalent to merit achievement in a Bachelor’s degree.
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
• Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available.
There are additional English requirements for international students – you can find more information on our website.
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/art-design
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Master of Creative Practice
Credits 180 (1.5 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February or July
Duration Full-time for 18 months or parttime for three years
Annual fees $8,600 (NZD)*
Do you want to take your creative practice to the next level? Can you see new ways of experiencing and shaping the world through cultural expression, or artistic innovation? If you’re ready to master your craft and redefine your creative potential join us in shaping the future of artistic practice.
Career opportunities
• Artist
• Art director
Product designer
• Graphic designer Director
• Photographer Experience designer
• Producer Production designer
• Sculptor
• Visual artist
• Performance designer
• Service designer
Curator
• Actor for theatre, film and television
Choreographer
Filmmaker
Highlights
In your first semester, you’ll build foundations in:
Positioning your creative practice within a broader theoretical and cultural context
• Engaging with Indigenous research methodologies
• Thinking critically and experimenting with collaborative and industry-oriented approaches
• Applying artistic and design research methods
The Capstone Project:
In your final two semesters, you will embark on a substantial creative research project (90 or 120 credits), conceived, proposed, and executed under the mentorship of academic staff and industry experts. Your project could take the form of a performance, exhibition, design prototype, publication, or another innovative creative outcome.
Programme overview
The Master of Creative Practice is designed for ambitious artists, designers, performers, and digital creatives seeking to refine their skills, expand their research capabilities and their professional practice. This 180-credit programme fosters a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment for creative professionals, including:
• Contemporary artists
• Graphic designers
• Animators, game designers, experience designers and UX designers
• Performing artists, actors, dancers, directors, and producers
• Filmmakers, screenwriters and media creators
A Transformative Learning Experience
Join a vibrant community in our new studio spaces where you’ll work amongst other disciplines such as dance, theatre, film, digital media, animation, visual arts, craft, service design, and more. You’ll develop your own project in specialist creative studios, guided by industry-leading academics and practitioners.
Scholarships
There is a scholarship available to support talented students studying towards a Master of Creative Practice programme at Unitec. Full details can be found on our website
Admission requirements
For this programme, you’ll need:
General admission
• To be 16 years old by the start of your first semester
• A recognised Bachelor’s degree in the same or similar discipline with merit achievement (grade average of B- or higher in all Level 7 courses); or
• A professional qualification in a relevant discipline recognised as being equivalent to merit achievement in a Bachelor’s degree.
• If you don’t have an undergraduate degree but have relevant work experience or tertiary experience, you may qualify for a Bachelor’s Degree and entry into postgraduate studies through our APL process.
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
• 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
• Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available.
There are additional English requirements for international students – you can find more information on our website.
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/art-design
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Your point of difference is your superpower
Masters graduate and Bold Innovators Scholarship recipient Alex de Vries credits Unitec with developing his personal kaupapa
Following his Masters of Creative Practice (MCP) at Unitec, graduate Alex de Vries has embarked on a multifaceted career, including filmmaking, music, writing for theatre and audiovisual experimentation.
Discovering new creative pathways at Unitec
After a childhood steeped in music, Alex, who describes himself as Afro-Kiwi, was forced to look beyond music when he lost his voice to illness in 2019. He realised he could still be a storyteller through different forms of media. Postgraduate degrees in Politics, International Relations and Anthropology opened his eyes to “new ways”, but Alex still craved practical skills that would let him take the reins in his career.
The hands-on approach, industry-active staff and world-class facilities at Unitec drew Alex in. He credits his tutors, who are working filmmakers, with genuine care for students and real-world insights into the filmmaking industry. They supported him as he developed a clear voice, artistic style and confidence in his creative abilities. The Creative Practice course also delivered practical, real-world experiences and networking opportunities crucial for his post-study success.
Opportunities and experimentation
Encouraged by Unitec’s Creative Industries Senior Lecturer Becca Wood, Alex successfully applied for the Bold Innovators Scholarship. The result was the first Afro-Kiwi-led audiovisual album, Trust Issues, launched in February 2024.
For Alex, the scholarship fostered a truly collaborative experience in creating Trust Issues. The funding meant he could bring in artists, mostly from under-represented communities, and compensate them fairly. He highlights the importance of trust and equal power dynamics in making the best creative decisions, embodying the spirit of ubuntu— where no one person is more important than any other.
“The central kaupapa of the work is in decolonising screen production,” Alex explains.
A launching pad for a multi-faceted career
Since completing his studies, Alex has thrown himself into creative projects. Recent work includes writing for Bad Apple and Rat World magazines, acting as the Basement Theatre’s Systems Catalyst, producing his first play with Auckland Theatre Company’s Youth Company, working toward a Black Screen Collective with Black Creatives Aotearoa, and consulting on diversity and inclusion for the NZ Film Commission. Alex has also gone on to produce Forage Fest, a three-night music festival for emerging artists, while running music reviewing platform Bin Juice, and working as the Artist Logistics Manager at RISING Festival in Melbourne, Australia.
Alex credits Unitec with helping him critically examine his creative practice and develop a personal kaupapa that shines through everything he does. He encourages anyone dipping a toe into an arts career to embrace their unique strengths.
“Your point of difference is your superpower—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”
Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Contemporary Dance)
Credits 360 (3.0 EFTS)
Start dates February
Duration Full-time for three years
Train the Body. Ignite the Artist. Embark on your journey with Aotearoa’s foremost industry-focused undergraduate programme. Elevate your skills to a professional standard while immersing yourself in intensive in-studio training, live performances, film projects, and secondments. With individualized creative mentoring, you’ll grow as an artist in an environment designed to prepare you for a thriving career in the world of dance.
Career opportunities
• Company dancer
• Freelance dancer
• Choreographer for live performance & film
High School dance teacher
Studio dance teacher
• Artistic Director
• Dance and Performance artist
• Arts administrator
Facilitator
Dance academic
Highlights
• Learn from Aotearoa’s Finest: Our teachers are not just educators—they are practicing professional dancers and choreographers who are leaders in their fields.
• Build Industry Connections: Forge meaningful relationships with industry professionals, opening doors to future job opportunities.
• Develop Your Artistic Voice: Create and choreograph your own work while refining your unique perspective.
• Receive Creative Mentorship: Enjoy three years of scaffolded support to help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
• Gain Industry Experience: Participate in a comprehensive third-year secondment programme, working with prestigious companies like The New Zealand Dance Company, Footnote NZ Dance, and Atamira Dance Company.
• Collaborate in Film Projects: Engage in significant dance film projects alongside Screen Arts students and faculty, blending creativity across disciplines.
• Perform Live: Take the stage in professional theatres, collaborating with accomplished choreographers to bring stunning performances to life.
• Collaborate Across Arts Disciplines: Share classes and experiences with actors, directors, writers, editors, and screen arts students, fostering a dynamic, interdisciplinary learning environment.
This comprehensive experience sets Unitec Dance apart, ensuring you’re prepared for a thriving career in the ever-evolving world of dance.
Programme overview
Unitec’s Contemporary Dance major is the most established, full-time undergraduate programme in Aotearoa, fostering a vibrant community of dance artists who shape the industry with innovative choreography and performance excellence.
With a comprehensive curriculum that includes Contemporary Dance, Street Dance, Ballet, Choreography, Improvisation, Haka Toi Aotearoa, and Professional Practice, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to embrace the diverse opportunities available as a Contemporary Dance artist. Take your place in Aotearoa’s thriving dance landscape with Unitec.
Technique
At Unitec Dance, practicality takes centre stage. Spend up to three hours a day in technique class honing your skills and expanding your repertoire. Explore a diverse range of dance techniques, including Contemporary, Street Dance, Ballet, Muscle and Bone, Somatics, Contact Improvisation, and Haka Toi Aotearoa. This hands-on approach ensures you develop a deep connection to your craft, preparing you for the diverse demands of the dance industry.
Choreography
Unitec Dance is renowned for its exceptional choreographic curriculum, where creativity meets practice. Choreography integrates seamlessly with the technique curriculum, offering a well-rounded learning experience. You’ll develop hands-on expertise in choreographic processes, improvisation, collaboration, solo, duet, and group projects, as well as experimental performance practices. These skills culminate in in-house showings and captivating public performances, ensuring you’re ready to excel in your own choreographic pursuit.
Contextual Studies and Professional Practice
At Unitec Dance, your studies extend beyond the studio, immersing you in a rich culture of critical studies. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of dance histories and associated theories, delving into in-depth theoretical and critical thought alongside your future industry peers. This unique cross-discipline environment allows you to seamlessly integrate theory into your practice, broadening your perspective as an artist.
To set you up for a successful career, Professional Practice classes provide essential skills in portfolio careers, self-employment, contracting, CV writing, grant applications, and effective communication. These tools ensure you graduate not only as a skilled dancer but as a well-rounded, industry-ready professional.
Auditions
We offer flexible audition options to make the process accessible for everyone. Upon applying, youll receive detailed instructions to help you prepare.
Group Auditions: Held in Auckland and Christchurch, these are a great way to showcase your talents in a relaxed and friendly collaborative setting.
Individual Auditions: Can’t travel? We can come to you! Auditions can take place at your high school or dance studio.
Online Auditions: Available year-round, providing convenience and flexibility for prospective national and international students.
With approximately 20 places available in Year One, each audition is your opportunity to demonstrate your curiosity, potential, and creativity. Are you ready to take the first steptowards joining Aotearoa’s premier dance programme?
Campus Mt Albert / New Lynn
Annual fees $11,500 (NZD)*
Admission requirements
For this programme you’ll need:
Academic
1. 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher including:
• 14 credits in two different approved subjects; and 14 credits from up to two subjects (approved or non-approved)
2. 14 credits in NCEA Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pāngarau
3. Audition (in-person or online)
4. Complete a medical declaration form
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
• 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English or Te Reo Māori (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
• Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available.
There are additional English requirements for international students – you can find more information on our website.
Other options
If you don’t meet these requirements, you’ll need one of the following:
• A relevant qualification at Level 3 or above on the NZQCF or equivalent
• Evidence to be eligible for special or discretionary admission
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/dance
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Screen Arts)
Credits 360 (3.0 EFTS)
Campus Mt Albert
Start dates February or July
Duration Full-time for three years
Annual fees $11,500 (NZD)*
Train to be a screen professional and learn the creative, business and technical skills of development, pre-production, production and post- production. This programme is hands-on and enables students to conceptualise and produce their own film projects, as well as providing rigorous training to obtain work as a motion picture technician.
Career opportunities
Director
Screenwriter
Production Manager
• Assistant Director
• Location Manager
• Production Coordinator
• Cinematographer
• Focus Puller
• Gaffer
• Lighting Assistant
• Grip
• Sound Recordist
Boom Operator
Editor
Assistant Editor
Highlights
• Participate in hands-on learning through film, television and small screen projects designed to emulate the real world.
• Experience different crew models such as working in small, tight teams, as well as full industrial crews – as you would on a television or film set.
• The real world of performing and screen arts: work collaboratively with acting, dance and art department students to gain real-world, on-set experience working in the studio and on location.
• Small class sizes in specialist areas allow lecturers to mentor students.
Specialist programmes designed to develop the necessary skills to succeed in the screen industry.
Programme overview
The Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Screen Arts) is an in-depth programme of study where you will engage in a combination of creative, academic and practice-based courses designed to equip you with skills and capabilities that will enable you to work in Aotearoa’s screen sector.
It is the only undergraduate degree in NZ that offers a full ‘script-to-screen’ experience.
In the first year, you will learn about the filmmaking process and the industry as a whole, the relationship between specialist skills, creative and critical thinking, and storytelling. You will also learn a broad range of filmmaking skill sets. Throughout the next two years, the programme moves from generalist to specialist skills training, enabling you to develop and fine-tune skills in your particular area of interest.
Specialisation options:
Screenwriting: includes screenwriting craft, writing for different mediums (short film, feature film, TV series, etc.), and best professional practices for working writers (pitching, proposal documents, working with producers)
Production: includes production management, assistant directing, location management and scouting
Camera and field sound: includes cinematography, camera assisting, lighting and grip, new media technologies, sound recording and colour grading
Post-production: includes editing and post-production sound
Admission requirements
For this programme you’ll need:
Academic
1. 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher including:
• 14 credits in two different approved subjects; and
• 14 credits from up to two subjects (approved or non-approved)
2. 14 credits in NCEA Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pāngarau
3. Interviews, submissions and/or auditions will be required – we’ll tell you what we need when you apply
English
Applicants will need one or more of the following:
• 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English or Te Reo Māori (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
• Provide evidence that you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency such as IELTS
Achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
If you don’t meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available.
There are additional English requirements for international students – you can find more information on our website.
Other options
If you don’t meet these requirements, you’ll need one of the following:
• A relevant qualification at Level 3 or above on the NZQCF or equivalent
• Evidence to be eligible for special or discretionary admission
For more information on this programme, please visit unitec.ac.nz/screen
International Students, please visit unitec. ac.nz/international
Postal Address
Private Bag 92025
Victoria Street West
Auckland 1142, New Zealand
Mt Albert campus
139 Carrington Road, Mount Albert, Auckland 1025
Waitākere campus
5-7 Ratanui Street
Henderson, Auckland 0612
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The information contained in this publication is for domestic students. For international students, please get in touch with international@unitec.ac.nz or visit unitec.ac.nz/ international to view the international prospectus.
Disclaimer: Unitec has used all reasonable care and skill to ensure that the information in this publication is accurate at the time of printing (August 2025). However, matters covered by this publication are subject to change due to a continuous process of review. Unitec reserves the right to make any changes without notice. So far as the law permits, Unitec accepts no responsibility for any loss suffered by any person due to reliance (either in whole or in part) on the information contained in this publication, whether direct or indirect, and whether foreseeable or not. For the most up-to-date information, please visit unitec.ac.nz or visit Student Central (Te Pae Kōrero) at either the Mt Albert or the Waitākere campus.
Unitec is a business division of Te Pūkenga –New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology