New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media and Design (Level 4)
Creative Media
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Build your creative skills in digital media and design, and develop a portfolio that can lead to further study in design or creative media or prepare you for entry-level roles in creative digital workplaces.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Otago Polytechnic Dunedin Campus, Dunedin
It will take a total of 17 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Develop digital creative skills
Gain hands-on skills in digital design applications including photography, illustration, animation, and content development for digital and screen media.
Create an original creative portfolio
Produce a portfolio suitable for application to degree-level creative study or for showcasing to employers in junior creative roles.
Understand and apply digital citizenship
Learn principles of responsible practice in online platforms and create content for web, blogs, and digital spaces.
What You're Signing Up For
Learn how to be creative on a computer. This Level 4 programme builds practical digital skills and degree-level creative portfolios in areas such as Communication Design (graphic design, digital photography, web design, digital illustration, animation, cultural symbolism) or Game Design (world building, 3D art, interactive and narrative design). Graduates can progress to higher qualification pathways or junior creative industry roles.
Course Content
- Creative Digital Skills: Develop foundational skills in digital design, photography, and content creation for print/screen or Unreal Engine.
- Creative Online Design: Explore digital citizenship, blog and web design, or game environment creation with realistic lighting.
- Animation and Interactivity: Learn animation basics and moving image (Communication Design) or build interactive narrative games (Game Design).
- Symbolism and Identity: Research symbols, motifs, and cultural identity, focusing on iwi Māori cultural practice.
- Portfolio development and presentation.
- Research project on creative identity.
What you need to know first
Open entry.
Portfolio of 10-12 creative works demonstrating a variety of design, art, or digital media skills.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Creative Industries
Digital Media
Design
Games Development
Future employment opportunities might be
Junior designer in a creative workplace
Assistant in digital media or game development teams
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.