Abroadly

Media Design School

Auckland, 🇳🇿 New Zealand Private
#21 National
Media Design School campus
1,300 students 38% international Urban $21k - $32k/yr

About Media Design School

Media Design School (MDS) in Auckland, New Zealand, is a renowned private tertiary institution specializing in creative technologies, design, and digital arts. Established in 1998, MDS has consistently focused on providing industry-aligned education, making it a leading institution in its field globally. It is recognized for producing graduates who excel in animation, game development, film, and interactive media.

Academics


MDS offers a diverse range of programs, including 3D Animation & VFX, Game Art, Game Programming, Graphic Design, Interactive UX/UI, Artificial Intelligence, and Creative Advertising. The school's teaching approach simulates a real-world industry environment, utilizing state-of-the-art software and technology from day one. MDS was the first in New Zealand to offer dedicated programs in 3D Animation and Game Development, and Bachelor's degrees in Cloud Computing and AI. It also holds exclusive partnerships, such as being the only school in New Zealand partnered with Sony Computer Entertainment Europe's PlayStation First Academic Development Programme.

International Students


Media Design School boasts a multicultural environment with over 500 international students from more than 40 countries, enriching the academic experience and fostering cross-cultural teamwork. The school offers English-taught programs and provides support services for international students, including assistance with visa applications and finding accommodation. MDS also offers scholarships, including tuition fee waivers of up to 40% for creativity, leadership, and academic excellence.

Campus & Location


The MDS campus is located in Auckland's vibrant Wynyard Quarter, within the Innovation Precinct, offering students networking and collaboration opportunities within New Zealand's tech industry. Auckland provides a dynamic city life, and the campus itself features customized design studios, classrooms, and photo studios equipped with cutting-edge technology. Public transportation, including buses, trains, and ferries, is readily accessible, with Britomart being a central hub for connections across the city.

Career Outcomes


MDS graduates are highly sought after, with a reported employability rate of 90%. The school maintains strong industry connections, collaborating with professionals to ensure its curriculum aligns with current industry standards. Notable employers of MDS alumni include leading design, advertising, game, animation, film, television, and production studios globally. MDS also fosters a startup culture through its MDS Studios program, which nurtures students in starting their own production companies and bringing their creative ideas to market.

Highlights

  • Top ranked creative school in Oceania
  • Industry partnerships with global tech giants
  • Highly awarded student work internationally
  • Specialized digital and creative arts degrees
  • Located in Auckland's innovation precinct
  • Strong focus on practical portfolio development

Subject Areas

3D AnimationGame ArtGraphic DesignMotion GraphicsInteractive Design

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Disability Support Scholarships Available

Photos

Media Design School photo 1Media Design School photo 2Media Design School photo 3Media Design School photo 4Media Design School photo 5Media Design School photo 6Media Design School photo 7Media Design School photo 8Media Design School photo 9

Programs Offered at Media Design School (10)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science

Bachelor Programs (8)

Bachelor of Art and Design (3D Animation and Visual Effects)

Animation and VFX

Animation and Visual Effects
andanimationb.a.b.s.ba
36 months English Full-time

$31,000/yr

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Artificial Intelligence)

STEM

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence
aiartificialbabachelorbachelor's
36 months English Full-time

$31,000/yr

Bachelor of Digital Transformation

Business Technology

Business Administration
36 months English Full-time

$29,000/yr

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Cloud Computing)

STEM

Cloud Computing

Computer Science
babachelorbachelor of software engineeringbengbs
36 months English Full-time

$31,000/yr

Graduate Diploma of Creative Technologies

Creative Technologies

Creative Technologies
bachelorcreativecreative technologiesdiplomagraduate
12 months English Full-time

$28,000/yr

Bachelor of Creative Technologies (Game Art)

Game Development

Game Development
artbachelorcreativedevelopmentgame
36 months English Full-time

$31,000/yr

Bachelor of Media Design

Graphic Design

Graphic Design
bachelordesigngraphicmedianew zealand
36 months English Full-time

$31,000/yr

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Game Programming)

STEM

Software Engineering

Software Engineering
designsoftwareschool(gameengineering
36 months English Full-time

$31,000/yr

Master Programs (2)

Master of Design

Design Strategy

Digital Design
12 months English Full-time

$35,000/yr

Master of Software Engineering

STEM

Software Engineering

Software Development
12 months English Full-time

$35,000/yr

Media Design School Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

6+ IELTS
80+ TOEFL
Acceptance Rate Open (60%+)
Intakes Fall, Spring
Tuition (per year) $21k - $32k/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$1000
Teaching Language English
Student : Faculty 15:1
Accreditation
New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)

Ready to apply to Media Design School?

Abroadly helps you manage applications, track deadlines, and get matched to programs.

Apply Direct →

Frequently Asked Questions About Media Design School

Common questions from international students considering Media Design School.

What is the acceptance rate at Media Design School?

Media Design School is classified as "Open (60%+)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does Media Design School cost for international students?

Tuition at Media Design School ranges from $21k - $32k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $1000/month), books, and living expenses.

What is Media Design School ranked globally?

Media Design School holds the following rankings: #21 in New Zealand. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does Media Design School have?

Media Design School typically requires IELTS 6+ or TOEFL 80+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at Media Design School?

Yes, Media Design School offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does Media Design School start its semesters?

Media Design School has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does Media Design School offer?

Media Design School offers 10+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is Media Design School located?

Media Design School is located in Auckland, New Zealand 🇳🇿. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What are the admission requirements for Media Design School?

For specific details about Media Design School, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What programs does Media Design School offer?

For specific details about Media Design School, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

Need help applying?

AI-powered tools to manage applications, track deadlines, and get matched.