Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Master of Creative Technologies combines studio practice, technical development and critical research. You will design and deliver an extended creative project or research portfolio informed by methods in creative practice research. Typical subject areas include interactive media design, game development, animation and visual effects, augmented and virtual reality, creative coding, sound design, data visualisation and user experience.

Study structure is flexible and may include a mix of taught courses and a major project or thesis. Core elements usually cover creative practice research methods, project development and professional practice; elective modules allow you to specialise or work across disciplines. Assessment emphasises portfolios, prototypes, public showings and written reflection, preparing work for professional contexts or further research.

Teaching methods are studio-based and project-focused, combining workshops, seminars, supervised independent work and collaboration with industry partners. You will have access to specialist facilities such as motion-capture, VR/AR labs, sound studios, animation suites and high-performance computing resources.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (for example design, computer science, media, fine arts, animation) or an equivalent professional portfolio and experience.
• Evidence of creative and technical ability, normally presented as a digital portfolio or showreel, and a CV outlining relevant experience.
• A personal statement or research proposal describing your intended project or areas of interest and how the programme will support your goals.
• Applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide referee reports as part of the selection process.
• International applicants must meet AUT's postgraduate English language requirements; international and non‑standard applicants should consult the faculty for acceptable evidence of English proficiency.
• Where applicants do not meet academic requirements, AUT may require completion of a bridging qualification or consideration for alternative postgraduate pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a broad range of roles across creative industries and technology sectors. Typical career paths include creative technologist, interactive media designer, game designer/developer, AR/VR developer, animator, visual effects artist, sound designer, multimedia producer, UX/interaction designer, data visualisation specialist and creative director. Graduates also proceed to roles in research, teaching or to entrepreneurial ventures, founding studios or consultancy practices.

The programme emphasises industry-relevant skills and portfolio development, making graduates attractive to studios, digital agencies, gaming companies, cultural institutions and tech start-ups. Strong project-based work and industry collaboration help build professional networks and practical experience.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

• AUT has a strong focus on applied creative practice and close links with New Zealand's media, design and tech industries, providing opportunities for real-world projects and collaborations.
• Students benefit from well-equipped specialist facilities, including VR/AR labs, motion-capture, professional sound suites, animation and post-production studios, and high-performance computing resources.
• The university's location in Auckland offers proximity to a vibrant creative sector, festivals, production companies and a growing games and digital media community.
• Teaching staff combine academic research with industry experience, offering supervision across technical, artistic and theoretical dimensions of creative technologies.
• The programme supports interdisciplinary exchange across design, computer science, film and media disciplines, enabling students to craft bespoke study pathways aligned to professional ambitions or further research.