Why Study/Key Benefits

• This one-year graduate diploma is designed for people who want to build on existing programming or creative technology skills and move into game programming.

• Students learn to use programming languages and game development tools, including C++ and modern game engines.

• The course develops technical knowledge alongside teamwork, communication, presentation and interviewing skills.

• Students can explore gameplay systems, game-engine development, game design and a major practical project.

• The programme offers two learning pathways: one for students transferring foundational programming skills into game development, and another for computer science graduates or experienced programmers who already have stronger programming skills.

• MDS identifies connections with New Zealand game studios such as Rocketwerkz, PikPok and Outerdawn. These industry connections should not be interpreted as a guarantee of a job or internship.

Programme Structure and Subjects/Topics

The programme has two main pathways. The appropriate pathway and exact learning plan are discussed with applicants.

Game Development pathway

This pathway is for applicants who have basic programming knowledge and want to develop their skills for game production. Previous experience with game engines is not required.

• Gameplay Programming: applying mathematical concepts and C++ programming to practical gameplay systems, functionality and rendering frameworks.

• Game Engines: using engines such as Unity and Unreal to explore game production, scripting, materials, lighting and visual effects.

• Game Design: exploring mechanics, balance, player motivation, narrative and level design, then applying those principles in practical projects.

• Major Project: developing an independent game project or, subject to availability, participating in a team-based production with other artists and programmers.

Advanced Game Programming pathway

This pathway is designed for computer science graduates or professionals already working in programming roles.

• Software Engineering for Games: advanced game programming topics such as artificial intelligence, networking, physics, graphics programming and mobile development using C++.

• Game Engine: exploring the lower-level design of game engines and developing plugins and tools within an existing engine.

• Game Design: applying mechanics, balance, player motivation, narrative and level-design principles through practical work.

• Major Project: developing an independent project or, where available, contributing to a team-based game production.

Disciplines/Specialisations

The programme is focused on game programming within creative technologies. Its main pathways are:

• Game Development — for students transferring foundational programming skills into game development.

• Advanced Game Programming — for applicants with stronger programming experience, including computer science graduates and experienced programmers.

Programme Highlights

• Two pathways to accommodate different levels of existing programming experience.

• Practical programming and game-development projects.

• Exposure to Unity and Unreal game engines.

• Advanced topics including AI, physics, networking, graphics and mobile development for the advanced pathway.

• Development of teamwork, communication, presentation and interviewing skills.

• An independent major project, with a team-production option subject to availability.

• A curriculum designed to connect technical learning with the practical demands of game development.

Career Outcomes

MDS identifies several career directions for graduates:

• Gameplay Programmer — developing character controls, physics, interactions and other systems that make games function.

• Tools or Engine Programmer — building and maintaining game-development tools, engine features and production workflows.

• AI Programmer — developing decision-making, pathfinding and behaviour systems for non-player characters and other in-game entities.

Latest Updates/Special Requirements

• The current official programme page lists February and July 2027 intakes.

• The published 2027 international tuition fee is NZD 37,681.90.

• Applicants must submit a portfolio, letter of intent, CV or résumé and relevant academic or experience evidence.

• Students need a device capable of running the required programming and game-development software.

• MDS offers a NZD 6,000 international scholarship for eligible students enrolling in the Graduate Diploma of Creative Technologies; applicants should meet the scholarship deadline for their intake.

• MDS’s international-student page previously stated that non-degree Level 7 or lower programmes outside the relevant eligible list were not eligible for a post-study work visa. However, Immigration New Zealand has announced a change effective 16 November 2026, so students should review the updated conditions below rather than rely only on older MDS guidance.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students intending to study on campus in Auckland generally need a New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa, unless another visa category applies to their circumstances.

General requirements from Immigration New Zealand include:

• An offer of place from an approved education provider.

• Evidence of sufficient funds to pay tuition fees, or an acceptable scholarship arrangement.

• Evidence of sufficient living expenses or an acceptable sponsor.

• Medical and travel insurance acceptable to the education provider.

• Evidence of good health and character, where required.

• Genuine intentions to study and comply with visa conditions.

• A valid passport and evidence that the student can leave New Zealand at the end of their authorised stay.

• Supporting documents required for the individual application.

Financial requirements:

• For tertiary study lasting one year or longer, the published living-cost requirement is NZD 20,000 per year.

• For study lasting less than one year, the published requirement is NZD 1,667 per month.

• For this one-academic-year diploma, plan for at least NZD 20,000 in living expenses in addition to tuition and other costs, subject to Immigration New Zealand’s assessment.

• Students planning to continue studying beyond one year should have a credible plan for funding later years.

Visa cost and processing:

• The Fee Paying Student Visa is listed at a cost from NZD 850.

• Immigration New Zealand states that 80% of applications are processed within 7 weeks; processing times can vary.

• It recommends applying at least 3 months before planned travel.

Work rights during study:

• Depending on the conditions granted, a student visa may permit work for up to 25 hours per week during study and full-time work during scheduled holidays.

• Work rights are not automatic for every student; the conditions on the issued visa determine what work is permitted.

Post-study work visa — important change from 16 November 2026:

Immigration New Zealand has announced that eligibility will be extended to graduates who:

• Complete a Graduate Diploma at NZQCF Level 7.

• Study full-time in New Zealand for the full duration of the qualification.

• Remain enrolled for the full duration, without relying on cross-crediting or recognition of prior learning for the qualification.

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from New Zealand or overseas.