New Zealand Diploma in Animation (Level 6)

Creative Media

A course by

NMIT

This diploma develops advanced animation and computer generated imagery (CGI) skills with opportunities to specialize, preparing students for professional work or further study in digital animation-related fields.

NZ$8,199

inc GST

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This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 6 Certification (120 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

Nelson, Nelson

It will take a total of 40 weeks

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Professional Practice Skills

Students prepare for professional CGI work including business acumen, legal requirements, and teamwork.

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3D Modelling Proficiency

Develop skills to create both organic and hard-surface 3D models for animation.

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Rigging and Animation Techniques

Understand and apply rigging processes and animate models effectively.

What You're Signing Up For

The New Zealand Diploma in Animation (Level 6) is a 120 credit programme offered by Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) and part of Te Pūkenga. It builds upon fundamental skills from the Level 5 programme, allowing students to explore areas of interest with project work and choose focus areas in animation. The programme covers professional practice, 3D modelling, rigging and animation, dynamic effects, lighting and post-production, technical development, and collaborative CGI projects. Graduates are prepared for work in professional CGI studios or as independent contractors and can pathway into the final year of a Bachelor of CGI.

Course Content

  • Professional Practice 2: business skills, legal considerations, production workflow, collaboration
  • 3D Modelling 2: creating soft-body and rigid-body 3D assets for characters and environments
  • Rigging and Animation 2: preparing models for animation and manipulating rigs to create movement
  • Dynamic Effects 2: animating complex natural effects like fire, smoke, fluid simulations
  • Lighting and Post-production 2: photorealistic lighting, shading, rendering, compositing
  • Technical Development 2: coding and tool development to solve CGI design challenges
  • CGI Project 2: collaborative, substantial CGI projects tailored to student interests

What you need to know first

New Zealand Diploma in Animation (Level 5) or equivalent skills and experience

Evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 academic with no band lower than 5.5) or assessment for NZ citizens/permanent residents

Demonstrated skills for tertiary study through work/life experience if no formal qualifications

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Creative Media

  • Animation

  • Film and Television Production

  • Gaming and VFX

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Animator

  • CGI Artist

  • 3D Modeler

  • Visual Effects Technician

  • Technical Developer in CGI Studios

  • Freelance CGI Contractor