The Graduate Diploma in Screen Arts (GradDipSCA) is a Level 7 qualification designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to enter or upskill in the screen and film industry.

It focuses on hands-on production-based learning, combining creativity, storytelling, technical production, and professional screen industry practice.

Students study alongside Bachelor of Screen Arts (Honours) learners and work in industry-standard production environments.

Screen Arts Majors You Can Study

• Animation
• Film Production
• Visual Effects (VFX)
• Game Development
• Documentary & Factual Production
• Emerging Creative Technologies
• Media Technology

Why Study Graduate Diploma in Screen Arts at Massey University?

• Study at one of New Zealand’s top-ranked creative arts schools
• Learn in real production studios and professional film environments
• Build a strong screen production portfolio for industry entry
• Work on real-world creative briefs and collaborative projects
• Access industry-standard tools for animation, VFX, film, and game design
• Strong pathway into postgraduate screen and creative arts study
• Learn from industry-active filmmakers, designers, and creative technologists
• Gain practical experience in storytelling, production, and editing

Core Learning Structure

Students typically complete:

1. Development Phase

• Idea development
• Pitching concepts
• Storyboarding
• Pre-production planning

2. Production Phase

• Filming / animation / VFX production
• Team-based studio work
• Technical execution

3. Final Major Project

• Industry-level production output
• Portfolio development
• Final creative showcase

Subjects / Topics Offered

Core Learning Areas

• Screen storytelling
• Film production techniques
• Animation principles
• Game development pipelines
• Visual effects production
• Media technology workflows
• Audio for screen
• Production planning

Key Studio Courses

• Development Lab
• Advanced Practice Exploration
• Studio & Location Production
• Professional Cultures in Screen Arts
• Major Project Production

Major Project

Students complete a final production project, such as:

• Short film
• Animation film
• Game prototype
• VFX sequence
• Interactive media project

Disciplines / Specialisations

The diploma is awarded without formal endorsement, but students can specialise in:

• Animation
• Film Production
• VFX
• Game Design
• Emerging Technologies
• Documentary Production 

Career Outcomes

Graduates can work in:

Film & TV Industry

• Film Producer
• Assistant Director
• Camera Operator
• Editor

Animation & VFX

• 2D/3D Animator
• VFX Artist
• Motion Graphics Designer

Game Industry

• Game Designer
• Game Artist
• Technical Artist

Media & Creative Sector

• Content Creator
• Digital Media Producer
• Creative Technologist
• Freelance filmmaker

Highlights of the Programme

• One of New Zealand’s top screen arts schools
• Industry-standard production studios
• Hands-on film and animation training
• Strong portfolio development focus
• Collaborative production environment
• Access to professional equipment and labs
• Direct pathway into creative industry careers

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Portfolio submission is mandatory for selection
• Interview may be required for shortlisted candidates
• High emphasis on studio attendance and participation
• Students must complete a final major production project
• Strong teamwork and production deadlines are central to learning

Visa Requirements (International Students)

To study on-campus in New Zealand, students must have:

• Valid New Zealand Student Visa
• Offer of Place from Massey University
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Passport validity
• Medical & travel insurance
• English proficiency proof