The programme emphasizes critical thinking and technical processes as tools to solve the design inquiry/brief. These are delivered through lectures, demonstrations, individual and peer discussions, and assignments of practical tasks and creative projects, both in class and self-directed learning.
The Certificate in Digital Media and Design is a semester-long programme centered around the introduction to graphic design practice and digital media processes.
The programme focuses on the development of theoretical knowledge and technical skills related to visual communication and drawing techniques and their application within the graphic design space.
Upon the completion of the programme, students will have built foundational skills that can be further developed in Whitecliffe’s degree-level programmes.
February 2026 Intake
16/02/2026
July 2026 Intake
20/07/2026
18 weeks
Full-time
Auckland City Symonds Street Campus
Manukau Campus
Wellington Campus
Fees free may apply
All 2025 fees are subject to change and regulatory approval.
Domestic: $3,957 + $150 Student Services Levy
International: $12,000 + $150 Student Services Levy
Further study options:
Level 4 Certificate in Fine Arts
Level 7 Bachelor of Design + Digital Media
Level 7 Bachelor of Fine Arts (Fine Arts / Photo Media)
Certificate in Digital Media + Design
NZQA Level 4 (60 Credits)
NZ Government key information link for students.
Graduates will gain skills and knowledge to fill junior roles in creative and/ or arts industries.
Bachelor of Design + Digital Media
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Applicants must
International applicants must
The Certificate in Digital Media + Design is an 18-week full-time programme offered at Whitecliffe, taught over a single semester and available across multiple campuses, including Auckland City, Manukau, and Wellington.
Students develop foundational skills in visual communication, drawing techniques, graphic illustration, and digital media processes, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects.
The programme is taught by experienced industry professionals and educators with extensive backgrounds in creative industries, including scholars, working designers, artists, and digital media specialists.
Applicants must meet minimum age and English language standards, with domestic students required to be at least 17 and international students at least 18, plus an IELTS score of 5.5 (no band lower than 5) or equivalent.
Graduates can pursue junior creative roles such as digital designer, publication designer, illustrator, or animator, and are well prepared for entry-level positions or further study in the arts and design fields.
All fees are listed in the programme information and are subject to annual regulatory adjustments.
The course uses lectures, demonstrations, peer discussions, practical assignments, and self-directed learning to deliver critical thinking and technical knowledge, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Yes, graduates may progress to another Level 4 Certificate or to a Bachelor’s-level programme at Whitecliffe.
The programme offers multiple intakes per year, allowing students to choose the most suitable starting point for their studies. Intake dates are reflected in the programme information.
Whitecliffe provides access to faculty guidance, peer support groups, campus resources, a careers team, and opportunities for collaboration on creative projects, ensuring that students receive practical support throughout the course.
The vast majority of our team have extensive experience within their respective industries. This is key in helping us ensure our graduates have the real-world skills they need for a successful career and bright future.
Dr Mariapaola McGurk (fondly known as MP) is a dynamic leader and scholar in the creative and cul ...
Rebecca Steedman is a design educator, designer, and artist with over 12 years of educational exp ...
Rob Mills is a design thinker, educator, and creative freelancer with a Master’s degree in Digi ...
Uelese is a graduate of the Whitecliffe School of Fine Arts and is teaching the Certificate of Di ...
Becky’s experience ranges in the fields of digital media, marketing, and videography. She holds ...
