Bachelor of Computer Generated Imagery

Programme Overview

This degree is designed for those aspiring to work in the high-growth industries of film, television, and game development. The curriculum focuses on the technical and creative aspects of producing high-quality digital assets and environments, moving from foundational artistic principles to advanced digital production pipelines.

Students work in a studio-like environment, mastering industry-standard software and hardware. The programme emphasizes storytelling and cinematic techniques, ensuring that technical skill is always supported by strong visual narratives. In the final year, students produce a professional-grade showreel or capstone project.

What You'll Study

The degree is structured to build technical mastery alongside creative research.

Year 1 (Level 5 Foundations):

• Digital Tools: Introduction to 3D modelling, texturing, and basic animation.
• Artistic Foundations: Drawing for CGI, anatomy, and cinematic composition.
• Theory: History of Visual Effects and Media Arts.

Year 2 (Level 6 Development):

• Technical Specialization: Advanced rigging, character animation, and particle systems (VFX).
• Pipeline Management: Introduction to lighting, rendering, and compositing techniques.
• Professional Practice: Collaborative projects and industry workflow simulations.

Year 3 (Level 7 Mastery):

• Major Project: A year-long independent project resulting in a professional portfolio piece.
• Advanced Rendering: High-end look development and complex visual effects integration.
• Showreel Development: Finalizing technical and creative assets for industry employment.

Why Choose This Programme?

• Industry Standard Software: Deep dive into tools like Maya, ZBrush, Houdini, and the Adobe Creative Suite.
• Project-Based Learning: Education mirrors the real-world studio environment with collaborative "live" briefs.
• Creative Precinct: Study alongside students in Film, Music, and Arts, enabling rich cross-disciplinary collaborations.
• Showreel Focus: The final year is dedicated to creating a portfolio specifically designed to secure roles in international studios.

Entry Requirements

• Academic: NCEA Level 3 (with UE) or a relevant Level 4 Art/Design qualification.
• Portfolio: Applicants are typically required to submit a portfolio showcasing creative potential (this can include drawings, digital art, or 3D work).
• Selection: An interview may be conducted to discuss the applicant’s portfolio and career aspirations.
• Technology: Students require a high-specification laptop or workstation capable of intensive 3D rendering (min. 32GB RAM and a dedicated high-end GPU recommended).
• English: IELTS Academic 6.0 (all bands 5.5+) or equivalent.