About the programme
The Certificate in Digital Media + Design is an NZQF Level 4 programme at Whitecliffe that introduces graphic design practice and digital media workflows over a single 18-week full-time semester (60 credits).
Students build both the theory and the hands-on technique behind visual communication: drawing, graphic illustration and how these feed into graphic design work. Whitecliffe lists the Adobe tools covered as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro and After Effects.
The course treats every brief as a problem to be solved through critical thinking and a sound technical process. Content is delivered through lectures and demonstrations, one-to-one and peer discussion, and then practised in hands-on tasks and creative projects completed in class and independently. Teaching staff include working designers, artists and digital media specialists.
By the end, students have a set of foundation skills and a portfolio they can use to apply for further study at Whitecliffe, elsewhere in New Zealand or abroad. Internal pathways include the Level 4 Certificate in Fine Arts and the Level 7 Bachelor of Design + Digital Media or Bachelor of Fine Arts. It suits people testing their interest in design before committing to a degree, or aiming for junior creative roles. Classes run at the Auckland City (Symonds Street) and Manukau campuses.
Entry requirements
- Domestic applicants: turn 17 during the first year of study; no formal qualifications or portfolio needed.
- International applicants: turn 18 during the first year of study.
- IELTS (General or Academic) of 5.5 with no band below 5, or equivalent.
- Meet New Zealand visa requirements.
What you study
- Visual communication
- Drawing techniques
- Graphic illustration
- Digital media processes — Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects
- Creative projects and portfolio development
Careers after graduation
- Digital Designer
- Publication Designer
- Illustrator
- Junior designer in the creative industries
- Further study towards a design or fine arts degree
Post-study work visa
Generally not available for this qualification
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