When it comes to pursuing higher education abroad, New Zealand has become one of the most in-demand destinations for international students. Known for its high-quality education system, it’s no wonder that more students are choosing to study in New Zealand every year. The country boasts some of the world’s top universities and institutions, providing students in New Zealand with a wealth of opportunities to gain a world-class education. Among these, Whitecliffe College stands out as a leader in private education, offering specialized programs in creative arts, design, and technology. Renowned for its industry-aligned disciplines and exceptional teaching standards, Whitecliffe College has earned its prestigious NZQA Category 1 rating, solidifying its position as New Zealand’s highest-ranked private institution. Whitecliffe offers ample opportunities for students interested in art and design. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about Whitecliffe College and why it’s the ideal choice for aspiring students. Written under the guidance of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Advisor with years of experience, this blog ensures that your questions related to studying at Whitecliffe College, the New Zealand student visa process, and admission requirements are answered in detail.
Programs Offered by Whitecliffe College
Fine Arts
Fine Arts is the perfect field for anyone who’s passionate about expressing their creativity through different art forms. Whether you’re drawn to visual arts, sculpture, or contemporary installations, a career in Fine Arts can open doors to showcase your talent and make a real impact in the art world. At Whitecliffe College, the Fine Arts program is designed to equip you with the skills and practical experience needed to succeed as a professional artist.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) at Whitecliffe College is a 3-year program to study in New Zealand that offers you a solid foundation in the creative arts. It’s designed to combine hands-on skills with research, helping you discover and develop your unique artistic style while exploring contemporary art movements and techniques. Throughout the course, you’ll collaborate with experienced artists and mentors, gaining exposure to both local and international art scenes. You’ll also have the chance to build a professional portfolio that showcases your work and sets you up for a successful career in the art world.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $27,000 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy per year
Entry Requirements:
- Completed secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level 3 or an international equivalent
- A strong portfolio showcasing your artistic talents
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) or an equivalent score
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours): Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) is a 1-year advanced program to study in New Zealand at Whitecliffe that builds on what you’ve learned in the BFA, allowing you to dive deeper into specialized research and professional practice. This course focuses on helping you understand contemporary art on a deeper level while refining your creative process and developing a strong, personal artistic vision. You’ll have the chance to collaborate closely with experienced faculty and industry professionals, gaining valuable insights and feedback. If you’re looking to take your artistic skills further and step confidently into a career in the arts, this program is an excellent next step. This program is perfect for students in New Zealand ready to push their artistic boundaries and make a bigger impact in the art world.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $27,000 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy per year
Entry Requirements:
- Completion of a Bachelor of Fine Arts or an equivalent qualification
- A strong portfolio that demonstrates your advanced artistic skills
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) or an equivalent score
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) at Whitecliffe College is a 2-year program designed for those who want to take their artistic practice and research to the next level. This course is ideal for students in New Zealand aiming for leadership roles in the creative industries. You’ll focus on independent studio work, professional exhibition practice, and in-depth exploration of critical art theory. By the end of the program, you’ll be ready to step into exciting careers as curators, art project managers, or independent artists, with both solid academic knowledge and hands-on experience. If you’re looking to develop your artistic career at an advanced level and gain the skills necessary to lead in the art world, the MFA offers a unique and rewarding opportunity.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $27,000 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy per year
Entry Requirements:
- Completion of a Bachelor of Fine Arts or an equivalent qualification
- A portfolio demonstrating your advanced artistic development
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or an equivalent score
Design Innovation
Design Innovation is all about combining creativity and technology to solve real-world problems. If you’re someone who loves coming up with new ideas and turning them into practical designs, this field is for you. Whether you’re interested in becoming a UX/UI designer, a digital media expert or even starting your own creative business, Design Innovation gives you the tools to make it happen. This program focuses on developing your problem-solving skills, teaching you how to design user-friendly experiences and interactive media. Through hands-on projects, you’ll learn how to think critically and creatively, gaining the practical skills needed to shape the future of design.
Bachelor of Design + Digital Media: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Bachelor of Design + Digital Media is a 3-year program to study in New Zealand that combines creative design with digital media, giving you the skills to excel in today’s tech-driven world. You’ll learn how to design for web platforms, create mobile applications, and develop user-friendly experiences (UX/UI). The program emphasizes innovation, digital storytelling, and applying design theory in a tech context. By the end of your studies, you’ll have a strong professional portfolio and be ready to launch a successful career in the booming digital design industry.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $27,000 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy per year
Entry Requirements:
- Completed secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level 3 or an international equivalent
- A portfolio showcasing your creative and technical skills in design and digital media
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) or equivalent
Master of Creative Enterprise and Innovation: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Master of Creative Enterprise and Innovation is a 1-year program that helps you take your creative talents to the next level by focusing on entrepreneurship within the creative industries. This program is perfect for students in New Zealand who aspire to launch their own creative business or lead innovative projects in design-focused companies. You’ll learn to blend creative design thinking with business strategy while working on entrepreneurial ventures that will give you the hands-on experience needed to succeed. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to manage teams, drive creative projects, and make a lasting impact on the future of the digital design world.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $24,000 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy per year
Entry Requirements:
- A completed undergraduate degree in design, business, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
- A portfolio showcasing creative projects or previous work in design and entrepreneurship
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent
Applied Information Technology
Whitecliffe’s Applied Information Technology programs are perfect for students who are excited about technology and want to dive into the world of IT. Whether you’re into software development, cybersecurity, or network administration, these programs give you the skills to grow in the fast-growing tech industry. You’ll learn from industry experts and work on real-world projects, all while earning certifications that are recognized globally. If you’re someone who loves problem-solving and working with computers and wants to build a strong career in tech, this program is a great fit for you.
Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support at Whitecliffe College is a 36-week program designed to give you the skills to provide technical support in various IT environments. This course focuses on troubleshooting, system maintenance, and understanding the essential software and hardware used in the tech industry. Throughout the course, you’ll work on practical projects, gaining real-world experience that will prepare you for a career in IT support and technical assistance.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $19,500
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy
Entry Requirements:
- Completed secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level 3 or an international equivalent
- Basic understanding of computer systems is helpful but not required
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) or an equivalent score
Bachelor of Applied Information Technology: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Bachelor of Applied Information Technology at Whitecliffe College is a 3-year program that provides in-depth knowledge and practical skills in IT, including software development, network management, and cybersecurity. This degree is designed for students in New Zealand who want to pursue a career in IT and technology, equipping them with both technical expertise and problem-solving abilities. The course focuses on applying IT concepts to real-world situations, preparing graduates for a wide range of roles in the fast-growing tech industry.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $19,500 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy
Entry Requirements:
- Completed secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level 3 or an international equivalent
- Strong interest in IT and technology
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) or an equivalent score
Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology at Whitecliffe College is a 1-year program for students who already have a background in IT and wish to specialize further. This course covers advanced topics such as cybersecurity, data management, and cloud computing. It’s perfect for individuals looking to enhance their technical knowledge and move into more senior roles in the IT sector. You’ll gain hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of modern IT practices.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $24,000 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy
Entry Requirements:
- A completed undergraduate degree in IT, Computer Science, or a related field
- Portfolio or examples of previous work in IT or technology
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or an equivalent score
Master of Information Technology: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Master of Information Technology at Whitecliffe College is a 1-year program to study in New Zealand designed for those who want to take their IT expertise to the highest level. You’ll focus on leadership, innovation, and advanced IT concepts like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. This program prepares you for leadership roles in the tech industry, where you’ll be able to manage complex IT projects, develop strategic solutions, and drive technological innovation.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $36,000 per year
- An additional $450 Student Services Levy
Entry Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology or a related field
- Strong interest in advanced technology and IT leadership
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or an equivalent score
Sustainable Fashion Design
Whitecliffe’s Sustainable Fashion Design programs are perfect for students who are passionate about fashion and want to make a positive impact on the planet. You’ll learn everything from garment production to sustainable practices and cutting-edge design techniques, preparing you for a career as a fashion designer, sustainability consultant, or fashion stylist. If you’re someone who wants to blend your love for fashion with your commitment to a more sustainable future, this program is made for you.
Diploma in Fashion: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Diploma in Fashion at Whitecliffe College is a 1-year program perfect for students looking to kickstart their journey into the world of fashion. This course gives you a hands-on introduction to design, garment construction, and fashion theory, equipping you with the skills needed to pursue a career in fashion. Whether you’re interested in fashion design, styling, or production, this diploma will help you develop a solid foundation and kickstart your creative career in the fashion industry.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $18,460 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy per year
Entry Requirements:
- Completed secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level 3 or an international equivalent
- A portfolio showcasing your creativity and passion for fashion
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) or an equivalent score
Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design: Duration, Tuition Fees, & Entry Requirements
The Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design at Whitecliffe College is a 3-year program to study in New Zealand that combines your love for fashion with a focus on sustainability. This program dives deep into sustainable practices in fashion design, teaching you how to create stylish, eco-conscious designs that make a real impact. You’ll explore garment construction, materials, and design techniques, all while learning how to reduce environmental footprints in the fashion industry. If you’re passionate about making fashion more sustainable and want to drive change in this exciting field, this program is a perfect fit for you.
Tuition Fees:
- International students: $27,000 per year
- An additional $300 Student Services Levy per year
Entry Requirements:
- Completed secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level 3 or an international equivalent
- A strong portfolio showcasing your design skills and creativity
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) or an equivalent score
Scholarships at Whitecliffe College
Whitecliffe College offers a range of scholarships to support students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence and provide financial assistance to deserving students.
- Whitecliffe Bachelor’s Scholarship – Manukau and Wellington: This scholarship is available for students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree at Whitecliffe’s Manukau and Wellington campuses. It provides financial support to help students focus on their studies.
- Whitecliffe MFA Excellence Awards: Designed for Master of Fine Arts students, the MFA Excellence Awards recognize outstanding achievement and provide financial support for students aiming to excel in the creative industries. Whitecliffe MFA Pathway Awards: These awards support students transitioning into the Master of Fine Arts program, providing financial assistance to those demonstrating exceptional potential in the field of Fine Arts.
- Whitecliffe Master of Information Technology Scholarship: Aimed at students enrolling in the Master of Information Technology program, this scholarship offers financial support to those pursuing advanced studies in the IT sector. In addition to Whitecliffe’s own scholarships, New Zealand offers numerous scholarships through trusts, iwi, and government organizations.
Career Opportunities for International Students in New Zealand
- Part-Time Work While Studying: International students in New Zealand can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. With a minimum wage of NZD $23.15 per hour (as of 2024), students often find part-time work in retail, hospitality, or customer service. These jobs not only help cover living expenses but also provide valuable work experience and networking opportunities.
- Internships and Work Experience: Internships are an excellent way for students to gain hands-on experience in their field. Whitecliffe College’s programs may include internship components, or students can find internships independently. These opportunities allow students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, enhance their resumes, and connect with potential employers.
- Post-Study Work Visa: After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa. This visa allows you to work full-time in New Zealand for up to three years, depending on your qualification. It’s a great chance to gain work experience in high-demand industries like IT, healthcare, and engineering, and possibly transition to permanent employment.
- Career Support Services: Whitecliffe provides career support services, including resume workshops, interview skills training, and job fairs. These services help students transition from academia to the workforce and connect with potential employers.
Location: Living in New Zealand as an International Student
New Zealand offers an enriching and welcoming environment for international students, with its beautiful landscapes, safe cities, and vibrant cultural life. Whitecliffe College’s campuses in Auckland and Wellington provide students with access to a range of amenities, including cafes, parks, and public transport. Living expenses in New Zealand vary depending on location, with rent ranging from NZD 200 to NZD 450 per week for shared accommodation, while private rentals may cost between NZD 500 and NZD 700 per week. Students should budget around NZD 15,000 to NZD 20,000 annually for living costs, including food, transportation, and personal expenses. Despite these costs, New Zealand remains an affordable and enriching place to study, with excellent work opportunities and a high standard of living.
New Zealand Student Visa Requirements
To study at Whitecliffe College, international students must apply for a New Zealand study visa. Below is an overview of the steps involved in securing your visa:
- Offer of Place: Before applying for a New Zealand study visa, you must have an official Offer of Place from Whitecliffe College. This document confirms your acceptance into a full-time course and provides details like the course start and end dates.
- Proof of Funds and Passport: You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses during your stay in New Zealand. As per the current guidelines, you must show proof of at least NZD $20,000 for each year of study in New Zealand. You also need evidence of funds to pay your course fees. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from New Zealand.
- Health and Character Requirements and Insurance: Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to submit a medical certificate and chest X-ray to confirm good health. A police certificate may also be required if you are over 17 years old and plan to study for more than two years. You must have comprehensive health and travel insurance that covers you for the entire duration of your stay. Whitecliffe can help arrange this if needed.
- Additional Documentation and Visa Processing Time: You may also need to submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and evidence of your intention to return to your home country after your studies. Visa processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply at least three months before your course begins.
West Highlander Immigration
At West Highlander Immigration, we have helped thousands of students achieve their dream to study in New Zealand. With 19 years of experience and a dedicated team led by Ms. Parwinder Kaur, our licensed immigration officer, we have successfully sent many students to Whitecliffe College, where they have gone on to build successful careers. Let us guide you through the process and help you take the next step toward your educational journey in New Zealand!