About the New Zealand Design School

History

Media Design School (MDS) was established in 1998 to provide a unique, world-class educational facility, with the vision of producing graduates pursuing excellence in the design and creative sectors.

Media Design School began its operations in New Zealand with 30 students. Ten years later the school has 360 students, one of the highest academic award rates (over 90%) and employment success rates (over 78%) in New Zealand, and built a credible national and international reputation in the process.

The school, located in Auckland’s city centre, is an early adopter of technical advances and one of the first schools in Asia Pacific to offer formal high-level qualifications in emerging technical, digital content and creative fields. New Zealand’s move towards a “knowledge economy” highlights the critical importance of relevant, quality education and investment in people with innovative skills.

The school is well connected with major design and production studios in New Zealand, with relationships that extend to include advertising agencies, post production facilities and print design companies. Representatives from these companies provide mentoring, live projects, workshops, curriculum advice and external assessment.

Since the schools inception, students and graduates from Media Design School have consistently produced some of New Zealand's most innovative design and content solutions, ensuring them employment in New Zealand's highest profile companies and studios.