Bachelor of Digital Media

The Bachelor of Digital Media is a three year full time programme intended for students interested in the exciting arena where creative arts meet digital technology. The programme has a core of subjects, which branches into two major strands - digital film (from script to finished product) and animation (limited only by your imagination).

The programme aims to give you not only solid technical skills, but also to expand your creative skills and to give you the ability to adapt in a rapidly changing industry.  In 10 years time, the technology we use today will be obsolete, but skills in storytelling, critical thinking, composing images and relating them to one another will be necessary and relevant irrespective of future technology. While the technical side is an important part of the programme, the primary focus is on bringing creative ideas to life.

A wide range of subjects are covered, including video production and editing, screenwriting, 2D and 3D animation, stop motion, motion graphics, and business and legal skills.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE  

Year 1 Core Papers
BDM103 Professional Practices 1
BDM106 Film and Animation Theory and History
GEN100 Introduction to Academic Skills

and Animation Strand 
BDM124 Introduction to Animation and Interaction
BDM125 Storyboarding for Animation
BDM126 Principles of Animation
BDM127 2D Animation and Interaction
BMA115 Drawing I 

or Film Strand 
BDM101 Video Craft
BDM104 Screenwriting 1
BDM105 Video Editing 1
BDM131 Practical Filming
BDM142 Fundamentals of Digital Media

Year 2 Core Papers
BDM202 Audio Techniques
GEN200 Research and Statistics

and Animation Strand 
BDM206 Animation History
BDM225 3D Animation
BDM226 3D Character Animation
BDM227 Motion Graphics and Compositing
BDM228 2D/3D Visualisation
BMA215 Drawing II 

or Film Strand
BDM204 Screenwriting II
BDM207 Film Theory and Criticism
BDM231 DV Filmmaking
BDM233 Pre-production Techniques
BDM234 Cinematography
Elective 1 - Paper to be approved by programme manager 

 
Year 3 Core Papers 
BDM310 Media Culture III
BDM311 Fundamentals of Research

and either
BDM330 Professional Practices II or
Elective 2 - Paper to be approved by programme manager

and Animation Strand 
BDM324 Animation Project
BDM326 Advanced Animation Production

or Film Strand 
BDM331 Digital Video Project
Elective 3 - Paper to be approved by programme manager

PAPER DESCRIPTIONS:

BDM103 Professional Practices 1
This paper is intended to make the student aware of business and legal issues. Students are made aware of the implications of copyright and how to claim and obtain the rights to copyright material. They develop the ability to prepare a basic budget.

 
BDM106 Film and Animation Theory and History
The aims of this paper are to give students a comprehensive introduction to the understanding of film and animation theory and history. Students will look at the development of different genres and their cultural and historical context. Students will be able to critically discuss the origins of film and animation and how this has shaped contemporary cinema both worldwide and within a New Zealand context.

GEN100 Introduction to Academic Skills
This paper aims to provide students with an introduction to academic writing and presentation requirements for degree level study. It will provide students with the necessary skills to support their learning in other papers in the areas of writing, communicating, and presenting. The use of relevant technology in academic study for both delivery of information and as a source of information is also an element of this paper.

BDM124 Introduction to Animation and Interaction
Students will develop conceptual and technical skills required to operate in a team environment, in order to produce a stop-motion animated short film for publishing in an interactive High Definition environment over multiple platforms.

BDM125 Storyboarding for Animation
Students are able to describe short film structures, the three-act feature structure, and are aware of non-narrative alternatives to conventional story telling. Students are able to write in the standard format and then develop this into a visual narrative. Students will demonstrate the ability to optimise visual composition for storytelling and will gain an understanding of the creative process from idea generation through to completion and what role storyboarding plays in this process.  

BDM126 Principles of Animation
The aim of this paper is to introduce students to the principles of animation. This will include an understanding of the traditional 12 principles of animation, and its origins, purpose and practical implementation, within their own animation practice. Students develop skills and knowledge which will help them create appeal and form in their characters. Students will also demonstrate an understanding of motion studies and how to apply these to various characters to produce realistic movement and the illusion of life.

BDM127 2D Animation and Interaction
Further builds on knowledge and skills gained in BDM124. Critical evaluation of target audience, communication objectives and technical tools to effectively develop 2D animated narratives with supporting interactive content. Prepare and target content for simultaneous launch over multiple platforms. 

BMA115 Drawing I
The purpose of this paper is to ensure that all students enrolled in visual and graphic arts develop the fundamental drawing skill essential as an analytical, descriptive, and creative tool.  The student will develop a range of perceptual and conceptual skills, and be introduced to analytical aspects of drawing as an aid to visualising and realising ideas and be introduced to the human figure as a source for form analysis and recording practice using a variety of drawing approaches.

BDM101 Video Craft
This paper aims to provide students with practical hands-on skills to be able to effectively use equipment and techniques involved in visual story telling for film. Students will work and develop skills to effectively use cameras, lighting and audio equipment. They will develop techniques and skills to best understand how to use these tools to greatest effect in various situations and to enhance their storytelling skills.

BDM104 Screenwriting 1 
Students are able to describe short film structures, the three-act feature structure, and are aware of non-narrative alternatives to conventional story telling. Students are able to write in the standard format and accurately notate their intentions using this format.

BDM105 Video Editing 1 
This paper deals with the aesthetics and practicalities of combining moving images.  Students are introduced to editing continuity and methods of editing to accentuate the narrative and through the study of established works gain insights into the main approaches to editing.

BDM131 Practical Filming 
Students will consolidate skills learnt and build knowledge to enable them to organise and manage a short film project. Students will learn project management skills which will enable them to direct a project to a high level of competency. They will study the various roles required in a professional film project. Students will fulfil the role of director and producer on their own short film and are also expected to take on assigned rolls on the projects of their fellow class members.

BDM142 Fundamentals of Digital Media 
This paper is an introduction to the complex area of digital media. It is aimed at giving students an understanding of how to read and analyse the many graphic images with which we are bombarded in everyday life. Students will gain skills in developing practical experience using a number of industry based tools to propose, present and finalise design projects.

BDM202 Audio Techniques 
This paper is intended to further students’ understanding of the possibilities of digital audio and file based editing and collage. The paper also introduces an understanding of music as it relates to film, and students are given the tools necessary to communicate accurately with music professionals.

The paper deals with the recording and manipulation of digital sound. Using industry standard software, students learn to record directly to hard disk, improve poor recordings, create a sound montage as a background track, and edit sound to a digital video playout.

The paper introduces an understanding of sound design. Students have direct experience with creating and editing sound effects, ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), Foley and music as they relate to film. Students are also introduced to the fundamentals of music composition using MIDI or similar means.

GEN200 Research and Statistics
This paper aims to prepare the student for professional practice by presenting research as a uniting strategy for practice, theory and scholarship.  Students will be introduced to several approaches to research, both qualitative and quantitative.  Students will also be assisted to develop skills as a beginning researcher. 

BDM206 Animation History
The aims of this paper are to further develop students’ understanding of animation history. Students will examine differing regional traditions and culture, how this has affected the development of genre, style and technology of their animation practitioners. Students will study artists who have significantly contributed to the development of different animation styles.

BDM225 3D Animation
Students will further develop a critical understanding of studio production pipeline practice and asset management within a 3D production environment. They will research and identify the technical and narrative needs of animation within the 3D environment.

BDM226 3D Character Animation
Students will engage in critical analysis during the process of designing, developing and animating an emotionally complex humanoid character within a time intensive deadline.

BDM227 Motion Graphics and Compositing
Students will critically analyse and evaluate tools and techniques, design processes and production of integrated 2D and 3D motion graphics, resulting in the creation of a short film.

BDM228 2D/3D Visualisation
This paper provides core technical skills in the design and creation of 2D/3D digital images. Students will learn to manage, critique and evaluate tools crucial to producing 2D/3D compositions resulting in a small portfolio of photorealistic quality imagery.

BMA215 Drawing II
The purpose of this paper is to build on the solid foundations of the first year drawing paper and to reinforce and expand the skills and knowledge already gained. Students  will be assisted toward developing a personal means of expression through drawing and fostering observation and accurate drawing skills. Students will also develop an understanding of form and spatial relationships through a range of exercises including historical models.

BDM204 Screenwriting II 
The Hollywood screenplay is arguably one of the most important literary forms of the last century. Consequently, there is a wealth of material available on the writing and structuring of the Hollywood style screenplay. Although this paper deals with the conception, structure and writing and editing of a feature length screenplay, it is intended that the student is able to use the Hollywood screenplay as a model for the structuring of a story in any media form.

BDM207 Film Theory and Criticism
The aims of this paper are to further develop students' critical understanding of film theory and criticism.  Students will examine and debate topics and arguments surrounding Post-War cinema.

BDM231 DV Filmmaking
In this paper students will consolidate skills gained in previous papers and further advance their practical knowledge base. Students will produce and crew on a short film which they will develop after consultation with the tutor. This will showcase their professionalism, art direction, cinematography and post production skills.

BDM233 Pre-production Techniques 
In this paper students will learn advanced techniques in pre-production. As well as being able to schedule a professional project, students will examine the structure and involvement of departments involved in developments of a major film project. Students will develop documentation and artwork for a professional proposal for a short film project.

BDM234 Cinematography
The aims of this paper are to provide theoretical understanding and practical application of the lighting and camera tools and styles used in digital cinema production. Students will be expected to develop skills to an industry standard level for both location and studio situations.

Elective Study I
Students may choose a paper at Level 5 or above, as approved by programme managers in Digital Media and in the area of study selected by the student.

BDM310 Media Culture III 
In this paper the student analyses work in greater depth and is expected to gain a greater understanding of theoretical and philosophical issues concerning art forms. The student will also articulate a personal artistic statement, relating their own work to that of other contemporary and historical artists.

BDM311 Fundamentals of Research
The aim of this paper is to enable the student to participate in research, analysis, draw conclusions and report findings in an appropriate format. The project is in two parts. Firstly, students apply skills acquired in BDM211 to develop a research proposal in an area relevant to film, multimedia, or a related area. Secondly, this proposal forms the basis of the research project proper, in which students undertake the approved project and report the findings from the investigation in an approved format.

BDM330 Professional Practices II
In this paper students will engage in activities which further develop their skills as professional practitioners. They will obtain a first aid certificate and demonstrate an understanding of the demands of health and safety in the workplace.  They will engage in industry related internships and gain understanding of organisational and operational requirements and be able to evaluate and operate within that environment. Students will research the needs of their industry to identify vital skills needed and plan personal development activities to achieve these.

Elective Study II
Students may choose a paper at Level 5 or above, as approved by programme managers in Digital Media and in the area of study selected by the student.

BDM324 Animation Project 
This paper involves further development of knowledge and skills gained in earlier papers, and strengthens skills required to operate within a deadline-driven studio production environment, producing a collaborative short film. Students build critical time and management skills, while working on a self directed specialist animation project. 

BDM326 Advanced Animation Production 
Students will build on skills gained in year two animation papers and develop advanced animation techniques. Students will analyse the needs and research methodologies of a project to achieve the most effective, efficient outcomes within the advanced dynamic simulations and special effects field.

BDM331 Digital Video Project 
Students will further develop of knowledge and skills gained in earlier papers. Students will be required to operate within a deadline-driven studio production environment, producing a collaborative short film. They will build critical time, leadership and management skills, while producing and directing a specialist film project. 

Elective Study III
Students may choose a paper at Level 5 or above, as approved by programme managers in Digital Media and in the area of study selected by the student.

When you complete the programme you will have the broad range of skills necessary for an industry that increasingly asks for people with a multidisciplinary approach. Depending on the specialisation chosen, you will be able to look for work in areas as diverse as video editing, screenwriting, directing, as well as other film/television production roles or numerous roles within the 3D animation, 2D animation and motion graphics industries.  The real strength of the programme is that graduates will have had some experience in many of these areas, a quality that will become increasingly important as technologies converge.

The third year of the programme features a large project. For digital film students this may be a feature length film, while animation students will complete a major animation project of a similar scale and complexity.

SIT often collaborates with industry and an example of this was the Two Little Boys movie project in 2010/2011 with Rob and Duncan Sarkies. As part of the production for Two Little Boys, Tent Pole Films partnered with SIT to run an internship programme for nine SIT students, giving them the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the film industry. Read more here...

Applicants in this category will have evidence of the achievement of either a minimum of 42 credits at Level 3 or higher on the National Qualifications Framework, including a minimum of 14 credits at a Level 3 or higher in each of two subjects from the approved subject list, with a further 14 credits at Level 3 or higher taken from no more than two additional domains on the National Qualifications Framework or approved subjects, with a minimum of 14 credits at Level 1 or higher in mathematics and a minimum of 8 credits at Level 2 or higher in English or Te Reo Māori.  Four credits must be in Reading and four credits must be in Writing.  Or, completion of an external or overseas qualification, which is considered to be the equivalent of any of the above qualifications, as approved by the head of faculty.

Mature entry applicants will have achieved the age of twenty by March 1 of the first year of enrolment in the programme, and have provided evidence of relevant prior learning and experience.

Notwithstanding the above admissions categories, in exceptional circumstances, an applicant below the age of twenty who can show evidence of ability to succeed in the programme may be considered for admission, provided the applicant has successfully completed an approved course or programme which is deemed to prepare graduates for the required academic standard for entry.

An applicant who does not meet academic criteria, may be provisionally admitted to enrol in one or more year one papers, provided he or she meets the requirements above. Upon successful completion of the papers, the student may apply for special admission or admission by mature entry.

In addition, the following requirements apply to applicants in all admissions categories:

Applicants are required to provide two confidential references from people who are able to affirm that the applicant is of good character and reputation.

Applicants whose first language is not English, or who come from a country where the language of instruction in schools is not English, must provide evidence of having successfully completed English instruction to a level deemed appropriate by the head of faculty. Evidence may include official transcripts and/or recognised English test results, such as IELTS and TOEFL.

Portfolio Requirements

All applicants are required to submit a portfolio of their work with their application. Requirements are as follows:

Animation strand

• Portfolio: examples of free-hand drawing (x10 A3).
• Elective portfolio/show reel:  examples (images) of your latest artwork, (anything from painting to animation). We also look for potential in drawing and the ability to adapt between traditional methods and computer based work.
• Prior Learning: evidence of prior learning e.g. academic transcripts.
• Statement: hand written statement X 1 A4 page (outlining your interests and goals within the programme e.g. why are you choosing animation as a career?).
• Referees: contact details for two people who know you well e.g. teacher or employer.
• Interview: a time will be arranged for you to meet with the programme manager or appropriate staff member following the assessment of your application.  
• Innovation and Imagination:  We are also looking for maturity, originality and the ability to develop interesting and engaging storytelling.

Film Strand

• Portfolio One: examples of films online e.g.  a playlist or collection on Youtube or Vimeo. This should showcase the applicant’s skills and experience in filming and editing regardless of whether a documentary, scripted or experimental approach is utilised.  
• Portfolio Two:  Students should also submit at least 10 examples of photographic work that illustrates their photographic skills. We will be looking at both the technical and artistic ability in the photographs, everything from exposure through to composition of the submitted images. 
• Prior Learning: evidence of prior learning e.g. academic transcripts.
• Statement: hand written statement X 1 A4 page (outlining your interests and goals within the programme e.g. why are you choosing film as a career).
• Referees: contact details for two people who know you well e.g. teacher or employer.
• Interview: a time will be arranged for you to meet with the programme manager or appropriate staff member following the assessment of your application.  
• Innovation & Imagination:  We are also looking for maturity, originality and the ability to develop interesting, imaginative and engaging storytelling.

The head of faculty will determine the maximum number of students permitted to enrol in the degree programme. If there are more applicants than places available, students will be selected primarily on academic ability. All enrolments in the Bachelor of Digital Media are at the discretion of the programme manager in consultation with the head of faculty and teaching staff, as required.  

In order to be awarded the Bachelor of Digital Media, the student will have been credited with all required papers and electives as specified in the degree schedule to a total of 360 credits.

The student completing the Bachelor of Digital Media will normally be expected to complete the three year programme (full time equivalent) within five years.  The Head of Faculty with the approval and recommendation of the Board of Studies, may allow a student a longer period to complete the programme.

After successfully completing 2 years students may exit and receive the Diploma in Digital Media upon approval from the Head of Faculty.