Animation, Visual Effects and Game Design Major - Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa
Creative Media
A course by
AUT
Develop practical and creative skills in animation, visual effects, and game design as part of the Bachelor of Design at AUT. Learn in world-class facilities, build industry connections, and prepare for a career in the digital creative industries.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
City Campus, Auckland
It will take a total of 3 years


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Develop practical skills in animation, visual effects and game design
Gain expertise using digital production tools, industry-standard software and creative studios.

Create and communicate compelling digital stories
Learn to develop, analyse and present engaging moving image narratives and interactive experiences.

Engage in collaborative creative practice
Work individually and in groups within a studio environment, building teamwork and project management skills.
What You're Signing Up For
The Animation, Visual Effects and Game Design major within AUT's Bachelor of Design prepares students for careers in digital creative industries. The programme provides a thorough grounding in animation, visual effects and game design practices using industry-standard software and facilities such as green screens, motion capture, and virtual reality labs. Students learn storytelling, moving image narratives, and user experience design, with flexibility to pursue personal interests through electives and minors. The programme includes industry networking, workplace experience, and culminates in a public student exhibition.
Course Content
- Foundations of animation, visual effects, and game design
- Creative practice-based studio work
- Industry-standard software (2D/3D animation, VFX, game design tools)
- Motion capture and virtual reality
- Design thinking, history and theory
- Narrative and content creation for moving image
- Critical analysis and troubleshooting
- Industry networking and guest speakers
- Workplace experience (60 hours in industry)
- Self-directed major project and public exhibition
What you need to know first
University Entrance or equivalent

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Digital Creative Industries
Game Development
Film and Television
Animation
Visual Effects

Future employment opportunities might be
2D/3D animator
Visual effects artist
Games designer
Virtual reality artist
Interactive designer
Motion capture artist
Motion designer
Film industry roles


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details