Educational opps in New Zealand

Post, Sept, 2004

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND -- Students aspiring to work in the digital arts field might not immediately think of New Zealand when looking into educational opportunities, but the country's Media Design School (www.mediadesign.school.nz) offers a cost-effective alternative to institutions here in the US.

"Because of the cost of living and the thriving production environment here, Media Design School offers a cost-effective educational option for budding visual effects artists and animators," explains GM Frances Valintine.

Media Design School offers training in 3D animation, game development, visual effects, motion graphics and digital media. Students learn in a productionstyled environment, under the guidance of industry professionals. Instructors include 3D animation veteran Tom Zuber, graphics/Maya artist Patrick McNabb and gaming pro Richard Hicks. The school offers one- or two-year programs that are supported by some of New Zealand's leading studios and agencies.

For more on "Education," see our feature on page 32.