Computer Graphics

The Bachelor of Design Innovation with a specialization in Computer Graphics at Victoria University of Wellington offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of digital visual communication, animation, interactive media, and computer-generated imagery. This degree program is designed to equip students with the technical skills, creative ability, and theoretical understanding necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of computer graphics and digital design. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse range of topics, including 3D modeling, animation, visual effects, user interface design, and interactive media development, enabling them to produce compelling visual content for a variety of media platforms. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems in digital media. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and software tools, fostering a hands-on learning environment that emphasizes experimentation, creativity, and technical proficiency. The program also integrates opportunities for collaborative projects, industry placements, and internships, allowing students to gain valuable industry experience and establish professional networks. By the end of the degree, graduates will possess a strong portfolio showcasing their skills in digital visualisation, animation, and interactive design, making them highly competitive in industries such as gaming, film and television, advertising, virtual reality, and digital arts. The Bachelor of Design Innovation with a focus on Computer Graphics prepares students not only to enter the workforce but also to innovate and lead in the digital arts and media sectors.

Complete six courses at 100 level:

• Introduction to Computer Graphics (CGRA 151)
• Either Introduction to Computer Program Design (COMP 102) or Introduction to Computer Science (COMP 112)
• Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithms (COMP 103)
• 3D Modelling & Animation I (DSDN 132)
• Either Engineering Mathematics Foundations (ENGR 121) and Engineering Mathematics with Logic and Statistics (ENGR 123)
• Or Algebra (MATH 151) and Discrete Mathematics and Logic (MATH 161)

Complete five courses at (mostly) 200 level:

• Computer Graphics (CGRA 251)
• Algorithms and Data Structures (COMP 261)
• 3D Modelling and Animation II (MDDN 241)
• Systems Programming (NWEN 241)

One course from:

• Engineering Mathematics with Calculus (ENGR 122)
• Calculus 1A (MATH 141)
• Calculus 1B (MATH 142)
• Linear Algebra (MATH 251)

Complete three courses at 300 level:

• Real-time 3D Computer Graphics (CGRA 350)
• Visual Effects Programming (CGRA 351)

One course from:

• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (COMP 307)
• Computer Game Development (COMP 313)
• Design and Analysis of Algorithms (COMP 361)
• Postproduction and Special Effects (MDDN 311)
• Creative Coding III (MDDN 342)
• Advanced Computer Game Design (MDDN 343)

Requirements

• Achievement of the International Baccalaureate Diploma
• Submit your completed application to be assessed for New Zealand entrance equivalency
• IELTS: minimum overall score of 6.0 with no sub-score below 5.5
• TOEFL: minimum overall score of 80 (internet-based test)
• Pearson Test of English: minimum score of 58 (with a 'Communicative score' of not less than 50)
• EPP: minimum final scores of 4,4,4,3

Scholarships

• T.J.A. Ballinger Scholarships
• The Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship: Asia Pacific
• Creativity Scholarships
• Wellington U3A Award
• VUW Hardship Fund Equity Grants
• International Student Achievement Scholarship
• Emily Lilias Johnston Scholarships
• Lady Stout Bursary

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Computer Graphics at Victoria University of Wellington offers students a comprehensive education in the design, development, and application of computer graphics technologies. This program integrates core engineering principles with specialized skills in visual computing, 3D modeling, animation, virtual reality, and interactive media. Throughout the degree, students gain practical experience through project-based learning, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios in industries such as gaming, film, advertising, and digital media. The curriculum covers essential topics including computer programming, algorithms, computer vision, human-computer interaction, and multimedia systems, equipping graduates with a strong technical foundation and creative problem-solving abilities. The program is designed to foster innovation and prepare students for careers as digital artists, software developers, or multimedia specialists. Collaborative projects and industry placements are often included to enhance employability and provide networking opportunities within New Zealand’s vibrant technology sector. The degree also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication skills, and ethical considerations in the development and deployment of visual computing solutions. Victoria University's strategic location in Wellington, New Zealand’s creative and technological hub, offers students access to a thriving community of tech companies, creative agencies, and research institutions. Upon graduation, students are well-positioned to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce in areas such as game development, virtual and augmented reality, digital content creation, and user experience design, contributing to technological innovation and creative industries domestically and internationally.