New Zealand Diploma in Animation (Level 5)

From Sketches to Screens

Students begin their journey by grounding their creative ideas in fundamental artistic principles. The New Zealand Diploma in Animation (Level 5) at Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) focuses on building core skills in studio and digital drawing, where learners practice life drawing and mural design to improve their visual storytelling. In the digital studio, students use industry-standard software to move from physical sketches to digital artworks, learning how to interpret design briefs and apply design fundamentals to create visually appealing characters with their own unique biographies. 

The Art of Movement and Story

The curriculum dives deep into the technical side of movement through dedicated modules on 2D and stop-motion animation. Students explore the "Principles of Animation" to bring paperless 2D characters to life while also getting their hands on physical assets in the stop-motion studio. During these sessions, students manage every step of a production pipeline—from lighting and basic camera work to final editing—to produce their own short films. Storyboarding classes further refine this by teaching screenwriting for short narratives and how to use film grammar to plan out an entire "animatic" project. 

Collaborative Studio Culture

Life as an animation student at the Te Rau o Te Huia Centre for Creative Industries campus is defined by teamwork. Through cross-disciplinary workshops, students collaborate with peers from different creative fields, mimicking a real-world studio environment. This approach helps build essential skills in project management and leadership as students work together to meet strict production deadlines. Whether working on a solo character design or a group stop-motion short, the focus remains on solving creative problems through technical innovation. 

Future Pathways in the Screen Industry

This one-year qualification serves as a practical entry point into the global entertainment sector. Graduates leave with a portfolio that showcases a wide range of skills, preparing them for roles such as 2D animators, storyboarders, or digital artists. For those who wish to specialise further, the diploma provides a direct pathway into the Level 6 Diploma in Animation or advanced study in screen production.