Programme details

Master of Design Technology – MDT

Enhance your proficiency in digital technologies to craft compelling narratives through visual effects (VFX), gaming, animation, or extended reality (XR).

Course description

The Master of Design Technology (MDT) offers a unique opportunity to learn from top professionals in VFX, game design, animation, 3D motion graphics, and multimedia design. This intensive, one-year, full-time program allows you to develop a professional portfolio in your chosen area of focus while engaging in coursework.

As part of the program, you’ll also participate in a practicum where you’ll collaborate with a team to create a short narrative work, guided by academic experts and industry mentors. The MDT is the only degree of its kind in New Zealand that combines university research with practical industry experience, equipping you with essential skills for a career in the rapidly expanding technology sector.

Explore the opportunity to apply for a full-tuition scholarship supported by one of the world’s leading visual effects studios, further enhancing your educational experience and career prospects in design technology.

Immigration benefits

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master of Design Technology (MDT) program have diverse and promising career prospects across several dynamic industries. The MDT program equips graduates with advanced skills in digital technologies, creative problem-solving, and project management, making them well-prepared for roles in the rapidly evolving technology and entertainment sectors globally. Career opportunities can vary based on individual interests, specialization within the program, and the evolving demands of digital media and technology industries. Here are some potential career paths:

Visual Effects (VFX) Artist, Game Designer/Developer, Animator, 3D Motion Graphics Designer, Multimedia Designer, Interactive Media Developer, Digital Content Producer, User Experience (UX) Designer, Creative Director.

Entry requirements

– Hold a Bachelor of Design Innovation (BDI) degree in Media Design, Game Design, Animation and Visual Effects, or an equivalent qualification, with an
average grade of at least B. Specific exemptions and details can be found in the Important Information section.
– Submit a suitable portfolio of work, as outlined in the Important Information section of the application guidelines.
– Receive approval from the Head of School, demonstrating capability and readiness to pursue the proposed course of study.

EL requirement (any one of the following)
– IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0
– TOEFL (Internet-based test): Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing
– Pearson Test of English: Minimum score of 58, with a ‘Communicative’ score of no less than 50
– EAP: Minimum final scores of 4, 4, 5, 5
– Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 176 or higher, with each skill score no less than 169
– New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 5 (Academic)
– NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3, with no skill lower than Level 2