Foundation Pathways

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Build the confidence to take your next creative step.

Our Foundation Pathways help you develop the creative thinking, practical skills and study habits needed to progress into Bachelor's-level study.

Learn alongside experienced lecturers in small studio classes, explore your creativity through hands-on projects, and build a strong foundation for whatever comes next.

Choose your pathway below to begin your creative journey.

With upcoming changes to the Government’s Fees Free policy, the July 2026 intake may be one of the final opportunities for eligible students to access Fees Free funding for an MDS pre-degree certificate. Find out what this means for future students here - Last Chance for Fees Free – MDS Pre-Degree Pathway.

Foundation courses

Foundation

NZ Certificate in Digital Media and Design

20 Weeks

Full Time/Part Time available

Foundation

NZ Certificate in Arts and Design

20 Weeks

Full Time/Part Time available

Foundation Studies was a great experience. I met like-minded people, built confidence, and felt ready to step into my bachelor’s degree.

Alex Emirali

Foundation Studies Graduate

Foundation Level Student Work

Student Success Stories

View all Alumni

James Aldous

Lighting Trainer

Wētā FX

Every day your work ethic is noticed by your peers and colleagues. Managing your social graces and personal habits is as much a part of studying as the learning part.

Bachelor of Art & Design - 3D Animation & VFX

Matthias Bucher

Graphic Designer

Poof Doof and Burnett Foundation Aotearoa

Studying at MDS prepared me for the industry entirely. MDS's project-based learning in a design studio setting really represents the type of collaborative work environment I went into.

Bachelor of Media Design - Graphic, Motion & Interactive Design