Year 1 Papers - Semester 1

Design 1A
Level 5
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Entry Criteria

This paper introduces you to the design elements, principles and processes so that you can apply this knowledge to visual problem solving, and includes the gestalt theory of visual perception, colour theory, problem solving and visual media. It also covers the anatomy of typography, type classification, analysis of letterforms and typographic measurement and will introduce you to optical relationships, the repetition of elements to create unity, type families and type-style variations.

Digital Media 1C
Level 5
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Entry Criteria

Introduces you to the knowledge and skills required to communicate visual ideas through a variety of computer software packages. Includes scanning, importing and manipulating images and graphics, file management techniques and principles of digital image production and enhancement through a variety of computer software packages. You will also create basic design layouts, use relevant software for presentation and apply design principles and processes to solve visual imaging problems.

Photography 1A
Level 5
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Entry Criteria

This paper introduces you to photography as a medium to express creative ideas and develop your visual problem solving skills. It covers the design process from analysis of brief, research and development of concepts through to resolution. Technical aspects covered include: camera types; ISO; exposure; shutter speed; aperture and the use of light to emphasise design elements.

Creative Processes 1A
Level 5
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Entry Criteria

In this paper you will be introduced to creative terminology, critique processes, reflective learning, lateral thinking and problem solving techniques. It uses the fundamentals of drawing to generate and develop visual concepts and explore the relevance of drawing to other visual mediums such as paint, video and photography. It also covers documentation of the creative process, reflective research and idea generation. In this paper you will work individually and with a team to solve practical problems.

Contextual Studies 1C
Level 5
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Entry Criteria

Provides an introduction to a range of theories that are relevant to contemporary visual imaging, and introduces the conventions of academic writing and presentation. Includes academic discourse, concepts of visual language, critical thinking and the critical analysis of art ideas, plus an overview of art history, aesthetics, abstraction, conceptual art, design and photography. It also introduces you to current issues and legislation that influence the visual imaging industry and the similarities and differences between the various sectors. It covers an overview of the industry, the relevance of the Treaty of Waitangi and the legal, social and ethical influences that impact on the visual imaging industry.

Year 1 Papers - Semester 2

Design 1B
Level 5
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Design 1A

This paper builds on the skills you gained in Design 1A by developing an understanding of formalist and conceptual approaches to Visual Imaging. It covers the application of the design process, design elements and principles to develop and resolve design concepts. You will also learn about applied problem solving techniques, design psychology, and the fundamentals of visual communication.

Photography 1B
Level 5
7.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Photography 1A

This paper further develops your knowledge and skills in solving visual problems through idea generation, composition, lighting and the use of a variety of equipment. It covers idea generation, research and idea development, different lighting types and camera techniques.

Digital Imaging 1B
Level 5
7.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Photography 1A

Develops your skills in communicating visual ideas through the understanding of digital imaging technology. The paper builds on knowledge gained in Digital media 1A and covers image conversion concepts, inputting images (by scanning, downloading or transferring a file), outputting files, colour management policies and image enhancement techniques.

Advertising 1B
Level 5
7.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Design 1B

This paper introduces you to the principles, rules and techniques used in the design industry to create effective advertising solutions. It covers the rules and theories of advertising, terminology and processes, evaluation of successful advertising solutions, researching target markets and effective written communication.

Drawing/Illustration 1B
Level 5
7.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Creative Processes 1A

This paper further develops the skills you gained in Drawing 1A. You will learn how to translate drawings into illustrations, experiment with techniques and media, understand visual relationships, and develop your drawing and observational skills. You will also learn new ways to generate and resolve ideas, and to evaluate your work.

Interactive/Web 1B
Level 5
7.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Design 1A

This paper introduces you to the skills you will require to present information in an interactive/web format. It covers the history of interactivity and the Internet, and teaches you how to create buttons, links, and the navigation tools needed in for a website. You will also learn about issues relating to interactive user interfaces.

Animation 1B
Level 5
7.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Creative Processes 1A

In this paper you will gain the skills and techniques to create and display an animation using a range of devices, methods and supporting software. This paper covers basic script writing, traditional drawing and modeling techniques, story-boarding and the sound effects used in basic computer animation.

Video and Sound 1B
Level 5
7.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Photography 1A

In this paper you will learn basic digital video skills for the purpose of visual communication. You will learn about storyboarding, idea development, filming techniques, lighting, and sound recording for video.

Year 2 Papers - Semester 1

Visual Imaging 2A
Level 6
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Design 1

This paper allows you to mix and adapt knowledge and skills gained in previous or current papers to produce innovative products targeted at your chosen area. Includes conceptualisation, realisation and presentation of visual concepts and relationships between content and materials.

Image Analysis 2A - Photography
Level 6
9 Credits
Prerequisite: Contextual Studies 1B

This paper gives you an understanding of the history of photographic imaging by focusing on the work of selected national and international photographers. It analyses the communicative role of the image in different historical, social, and cultural contexts.

Image Analysis 2A - Design
Level 6
9 Credits
Prerequisite: Contextual Studies 1B

In this paper you will gain an understanding of the history of imaging through the study of selected designers in their respective historical, social, and cultural contexts. This paper also covers different forms of media, and the role of propaganda within the visual communication medium.

Image Analysis 2A - Moving Image
Level 6
9 Credits
Prerequisite: Contextual Studies 1B

This paper will provide you with an understanding of the history of imaging through the study of a range of styles and techniques. Studies will focus on the work of selected films and directors, and the role of communication through films. It covers issues and contexts relating to film, stylistic approaches, and film review.

Image Analysis 2A - Illustration
Level 6
9 Credits
Prerequisite: Contextual Studies 1B

This paper will provide you with an understanding of the history of imaging through the study of a range of styles and techniques. Studies will focus on the work of selected illustrators and artists, and the role of communication through illustration. It analyses the communicative role of the image in different historical, social, and cultural contexts.

Photography 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisites: Photography 1B & Digital Imaging 1B

In this paper you will develop your knowledge and skills in solving visual problems. It covers research and analysis of visual ideas, creative solutions to unfamiliar visual problems, industry appropriate lighting techniques and camera equipment, and further develops your visual communication skills.

Digital Imaging 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisite: Digital Imaging 1B

This paper builds on your ability to communicate visual ideas in a digital imaging environment. It covers the use of design principles, retouching techniques, tonal and colour control, colour management and digital file management.

Design 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisites: Advertising 1B & Design 1B

This paper builds on your previous learning by applying computer skills, design skills and design theory to specific graphic design problems. It covers project planning, image manipulation, layout and contemporary software, common printing processes so you can prepare print ready digital files.

Drawing 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisite: Drawing/Illustration 1B

Explores a range of creative and interpretative responses to visual problems and develops specialised professional skills and techniques. Uses a variety of drawing techniques and approaches including figure drawing conceptual drawing.

Interactive/Web 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisite: Interactive/Web 1B & Design 1B

In this paper you will develop software skills and a more thorough knowledge of interactive/web-based tools. This paper covers importing graphics/images, text, timelines, styles, layout, exporting, basic HTML, and techniques for optimising interactive/web performance.

Animation 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisite: Animation 1B & Drawing/Illustration 1B

In this paper you will learn how to conceive, design and produce animation sequences suitable for web, video and film. This paper covers creating 2D/3D animations, vector and pixel output, and generating and manipulating sound.

Video and Sound 2A
Level 6,
12 Credits
Prerequisite: Video and Sound 1B & Photography 1B

Enables you to develop digital video skills for the purpose of visual communication. Covers research into industry applications, story-board creation and application, special effects, specialist software in video and sound editing, and manipulation of sound.

Typography 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisite: Typography 1A

In this paper you will explore the fundamentals of typography in greater depth, with a focus on construction, composition, creative thinking and effective communication. You will explore type characteristics, manipulation of existing letterforms, communication through visual-verbal equations, and relationships between graphic elements and surrounding space.

Illustration 2A
Level 6
12 Credits
Prerequisite: Drawing/Illustration 1B

Explores a range of creative and interpretative responses to complex visual problems and develops specialised professional skills and techniques. You will also learn about identifying the desired message, visual research, ideation techniques, critical analysis and the use of digital software for creating illustrations..

Year 2 Papers - Semester 2

Visual Imaging 2B
Level 6
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Visual Imaging 2A

This paper allows you to further mix and adapt knowledge and skills gained in previous or current papers to produce innovative products targeted at your chosen area. Includes conceptualisation, realisation and presentation of visual concepts and relationships between content and materials.

Image Analysis 2B - Photography
Level 6
5 Credits
Prerequisite: Image Analysis 2A - Photography

This paper gives you an understanding of the history of photographic imaging by focusing on the work of selected national and international photographers. It analyses the communicative role of the image in different historical, social, and cultural contexts.

Image Analysis 2B - Design
Level 6
5 Credits
Prerequisite: Image Analysis 2A - Design

In this paper you will gain an understanding of the history of imaging through the study of selected designers in their respective historical, social, and cultural contexts. This paper also covers different forms of media, and the role of propaganda within the visual communication medium.

Image Analysis 2B - Moving Image
Level 6
5 Credits
Prerequisite: Image Analysis 2A - Moving Image

This paper will provide you with an understanding of the history of imaging through the study of a range of styles and techniques. Studies will focus on the work of selected films and directors, and the role of communication through films. It covers issues and contexts relating to film, stylistic approaches, and film review.

Image Analysis 2B - Illustration
Level 6
5 Credits
Prerequisite: Image Analysis 2A - Illustration

This paper will provide you with an understanding of the history of imaging through the study of a range of styles and techniques. It analyses the communicative role of the image in different historical, social, and cultural contexts.

Photography 2B
Level 6
25/15 Credits
Prerequisite: Photography 2A

In this paper you will develop industry relevant knowledge and skills in solving visual problems through idea generation, composition, lighting and use of various equipment. This paper covers independent research, creative solutions to unfamiliar visual problems, industry appropriate lighting methods, appropriate camera equipment, and the use of materials and techniques to enhance visual communication.

Design 2B
Level 6
25/15 Credits
Prerequisites: Design 2A

In this paper you will explore, experiment and apply design theory, skills and knowledge enabling you to produce a body of design work in a specialised area. Teaching covers analysis of target groups, exploration and development of ideas, research and analysis of current trends.

Interactive/Web 2B
Level 6
25/15 Credits
Prerequisite: Interactive/Web 2A

This paper allows you to analyse and critique user interface issues ensuring a high level of usability. It includes knowledge of software for interactive/web-based design, interactive user interfaces, graphic styles and issues relating to interactive user interfaces. You will create interactive projects such as Game Design and CD-ROM production.

Animation 2B
Level 6
25/15 Credits
Prerequisite: Animation 2A

In this paper you will produce animation sequences for video and film from conception to final implementation. This paper focuses on gaining specialist knowledge suitable for 3D animation. It covers 3D animations that educate, inform and entertain, sound design and commercial 3D applications such as games, TV and film output.

Video and Sound 2B
Level 6
25/15 Credits
Prerequisite: Video and Sound 2A

This paper provides you with the knowledge and skills within digital video imaging to solve visual problems through idea generation, composition, lighting, use of equipment and post-production techniques. It covers a variety of imaging and sound editing techniques related to specialist areas within the video and sound industry such as film, documentary, short films, TV, music videos, and promotional videos.

Illustration 2B
Level 6
25/15 Credits
Prerequisite: Illustration 2A

Explores the creative and interpretative aspects of modern illustration techniques. Combines traditional and digital options relevant to your chosen style and area of the illustration industry. Helps to develop specialised professional skills and techniques and to identify the desired message. You will undertake visual research, ideation techniques, critical analysis and the use of digital software for creating illustrations.

Year 3 Papers - Semester 1

Business Studies 3A
Level 7
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Contextual Studies 1B

This paper gives you an understanding of the principles and techniques related to establishing and maintaining your own visual imaging business. It covers market analysis, the advantages and disadvantages of self-employment and marketing principles.

Research and Analysis 3A
Level 7
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Visual Imaging 2B

For this paper you will complete an in-depth research project, negotiated between yourself and your lecturer. You will exercise a high level of judgement in selecting research methods, organising information and formulating a precise and in-depth design brief. You will receive feedback and critique as you complete your chosen project.

Photography 3A
Level 7
30 Credits
Prerequisites: Photography 2B, Image Analysis 2B - Photography & Digital Imaging 2A

You will develop advanced knowledge and skills in photographic imaging and create work at a professional standard. You will learn how to conduct independent visual research and develop your own area of specialisation within the photographic industry.

Design 3A
Level 7
30 Credits
Prerequisites: Design 2A & Image Analysis 2B – Design & Typography 2A

You will develop advanced knowledge and skills in design and create work at a professional standard. You will learn how to conduct independent visual research and develop your own area of specialisation within the design industry.

Interactive/Web 3A
Level 7
30 Credits
Prerequisites: Interactive Web 2B, Image Analysis 2B - Moving Image

You will develop advanced knowledge and skills in Interactive/Web design and create work at a professional standard. You will learn how to conduct independent visual research and develop your own area of specialisation within the Interactive/Web industry.

Animation 3A
Level 7
30 Credits
Prerequisites: Animation 2B, Image Analysis 2B – Moving Image & Drawing/Illustration 2A

You will develop advanced knowledge and skills in animation and create work at a professional standard. You will learn how to conduct independent visual research and develop your own area of specialisation within the animation industry.

Video 3A
Level 7
30 Credits
Prerequisites: Video and Sound 2B, Image Analysis 2B – Moving Image

You will develop advanced knowledge and skills in video and create work at a professional standard. You will learn how to conduct independent visual research and develop your own area of specialisation within the video industry.

Illustration 3A
Level 7
30 Credits
Prerequisites: Illustration 2B, Image Analysis 2B – Illustration

You will develop advanced knowledge and skills in illustration and create work at a professional standard. You will learn how to conduct independent visual research and develop your own area of specialisation within the illustration industry.

Year 3 Papers - Semester 2

Visual Imaging 3B
Level 7
45 Credits
Prerequisite: Visual Imaging 2B

In this paper you will produce multi-disciplinary visual imaging works, creating a portfolio of work at a professional standard, relevant to the visual imaging industry. The project topic will be negotiated between individual student and lecturer to ensure feasibility in terms of time, resources, skills, and creative direction. Content will be related to the visual imaging industry and defined in relation to individual student need.

Business Analysis 3B
Level 7
15 Credits
Prerequisite: Business Studies 2A

This paper provides you with an understanding of how to apply business principles in a visual imaging business. It covers marketing plans, advertising, referrals, business operation, branding, SWOT analysis, financial plans and budgeting.