About the programme
The Bachelor of Design + Digital Media is an NZQF Level 7 programme at Whitecliffe that prepares designers for digital and creative industries over three years of full-time study (360 credits), blending theory with hands-on skills. Whitecliffe notes that the programme is pending NZQA approval, so its title and some details may change.
The degree rests on three pillars: criticality, creativity and connectedness. Its content spans interactive and motion design, design thinking, UX and UI, web and app development, hybrid reality, emerging design technologies, entrepreneurship, human-centred design and graphic design. Students also learn to create through cultural perspectives, including those of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Learning is project-led. Live client briefs, community projects and internships build teamwork and the ability to negotiate with stakeholders. Students are taught that a good design answer has to suit the client's business model, be sustainable and deliver commercial, social and cultural value, and they are encouraged to experiment and develop an independent practice.
A typical week involves around 20 hours of scheduled on-campus and online classes plus about 18 hours of self-directed project work, with access to computer labs running industry software such as Adobe Creative Cloud. The programme suits students heading for design studios, tech companies or creative agencies, or planning to freelance or launch a business. Graduates can go on to a postgraduate certificate, diploma or master's in a related field.
Entry requirements
- University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits in each of three approved subjects, plus UE Literacy and UE Numeracy.
- Alternatively: a relevant NZQF Level 3+ qualification, the New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media (Level 4) or in Arts and Design (Level 4), or a NZ or overseas qualification assessed as equivalent.
- No portfolio or prior design experience is needed; applicants outside the standard criteria may be admitted by the Head of Programme.
- International applicants must turn 18 during their first year of study.
- English: IELTS Academic 6.0 with no band below 5.5, or equivalent; NZ visa requirements also apply.
What you study
- Interactive Design
- Motion Design
- Design Thinking
- UX and UI
- Web and App development
- Hybrid Reality
- Emerging and Future Design Technologies
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Centered Design
- Graphic Design
Careers after graduation
- Creative Director
- Digital Designer
- UX/UI Designer
- Graphic Designer in a digital agency
- Motion designer or web and app developer
- Freelancing or running a digital media business
Post-study work visa
Up to 3 years
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 20/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitecliffe website