NZQA Category 1 rating (2022)

In our most recent External Evaluation and Review (EER) in 2022, NZQA rated Media Design School at Strayer (MDS) as a Category 1 provider - the highest possible grading under the EER system.

This means NZQA was highly confident in the educational performance of MDS at the time of assessment.

MDS also achieved an “Excellent” rating for educational performance across all six key evaluation indicators, and “Excellent” in performance in all four areas of focus.

Please note: As of 2026, NZQA has discontinued the EER categorisation system. Providers may continue to reference their most recent rating for transparency, but new category ratings are no longer issued under this framework.

Read the full NZQA External Evaluation and Review report (2022).

Code of Practice

Please click here to read our 2025 self-review report in relation to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.

Complaints, appeals and critical incidents document

Learner Success Plan

MDS’s Learner Success Plan 2024 is a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment that promotes the success of all learners, with a particular focus on Māori and Pasifika learners. MDS is committed to achieving parity in learner outcomes and ensuring that all learners can thrive academically, socially, and professionally. Through targeted initiatives and continuous self-assessment, the Learner Success Plan aims to address existing inequities and support the diverse needs of learners.

Download
Media Design School - Learner Success Plan 2024

Tāngata Māori + Pacific Peoples Matawhānui / Vision

Our Tāngata Māori + Pacific Peoples Matawhānui vision, established in 2020, set clear goals for our institution to reach an ideal future state. These goals are set out as three pillars focusing on the cultural connectedness of our institution, its learners, and its staff. It is the guiding document in our journey to an ideal cultural and inclusive state.

Download
Maori & Pasifika Vision 2020 - 2024 - Media Design School at Strayer

Disability Action Plan

The Disability Action Plan (DAP) has been developed to create an inclusive tertiary education environment for disabled learners at MDS.

It is our aim that this plan supports the change that is needed to eliminate intentional or unintentional disability discrimination. You can read more about the Disability Action Plan here.