SAE Creative Media Institute is proud to announce the launch of its new Graduate Diploma in Creative Business, designed to inspire and equip Aotearoa’s next generation of creative professionals and entrepreneurs. Internationally recognised for its industry-led education in audio, screen, music production, and songwriting, SAE now expands its academic offering to include creative business, responding to the growing need for creatives who can translate ideas into sustainable careers.
“The structure of this programme recognises the realities of creative work,” says Dr Major. “By combining flexible online learning with immersive wānanga-style workshops, we’ve created a model that allows creatives across Aotearoa to upskill, connect, and build sustainable businesses without stepping away from their creative practice.”
Developed by SAE’s New Zealand campus in Parnell, Auckland, the Graduate Diploma focuses on building essential entrepreneurial, strategic, and commercial skills tailored specifically to the creative industries. The programme supports creatives at all stages of their careers, from freelancers and independent artists to project leaders and emerging business owners, empowering them to grow viable businesses, financial systems, lead creative teams, and develop long-term professional pathways.
The qualification has been developed with assistance from Compton School, Australia’s premier business school for creatives, bringing global best practice into a distinctly Aotearoa context. Guided by Compton School CEO and Founder Dr David Court, and co-designed with SAE New Zealand Director Dr Suzette Major and Academic Dean Dr Lorna Piatti-Farnell, the programme bridges creativity and commerce while encouraging students to recognise the value of their cultural backgrounds, creative identities, and lived experiences as central to how they build their careers and businesses.
“It’s been a privilege to collaborate with SAE on this Graduate Diploma”, explains Dr Court, CEO and Founder, Compton School. “Compton School has always focused on giving creatives the practical tools they need to thrive. Seeing SAE adapt that thinking to the cultural and community needs of New Zealand has been inspiring. Our relationship is built on shared values and a shared belief in the value of joining business thinking to creative practice.”
Delivered through a blended learning model that combines flexible online study with immersive, in-person wānanga-style workshops, the programme reflects the realities of creative work in Aotearoa today. Students also benefit from ongoing access to industry mentors, gaining real-world insight while actively developing their creative ventures.
The Graduate Diploma in Creative Business commences in March 2026, with applications now open. For more information, visit sae.ac.nz or contact [email protected].
