Graduate Diploma in Creative Business
Get ready to launch your creative career!
Available at
Auckland
Fees
Graduate Diploma in Creative Business
Domestic Fees
$8208.00 NZD
CB701: $2052.00 NZD
CB702: $2052.00 NZD
CB703: $2052.00 NZD
CB704: $2052.00 NZD
Programme fees may be paid by a Student Loan. Fees must be paid annually, prior to the commencement of study.
For more information about this programme or how to apply, please contact Jeanne-Michelle at [email protected] or on (09)373 4712
Graduate Diploma in Creative Business
International Fees
$18,594.00 NZD
CB701: $4,648.50 NZD
CB702: $4,648.50 NZD
CB703: $4,648.50 NZD
CB704: $4,648.50 NZD
Fees must be paid annually, prior to the commencement of study.
For more information about this programme or how to apply, please contact Jeanne-Michelle at [email protected] or on (09)373 4712
Duration(s)
Full time: 1 year
Diploma
Graduate Diploma in Creative Business
Course Durations
Full time: 1 year
Diploma
Start Date(s)
Auckland
March 2026
Graduate Diploma in Creative Business
Start Dates
Auckland
March 2026
Entry Requirements
Graduate Diploma in Creative Business
Domestic Entry Requirements
In order to be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Creative Business, an applicant must meet the following minimum criteria:
Hold a bachelor’s degree in a creative industries or creative technologies field; or equivalent professional experience*
Be at least 18 years of age at the time of programme commencement. A copy of the student's valid photo ID must be provided.
English as an Additional Language applicants must achieve an overall Academic IELTS score of 6.0, with no band less than 5.5, or equivalent from another acceptable test as listed on the NZQA website. Scores must come from a single test taken no more than two years before the proposed date of enrolment.
Admission Interview
Applicants will be required to attend an admission interview (in person or via video call). The interview aims to assess the applicant’s suitability for the programme. Eligibility for admission does not guarantee an offer of a place. Applicants are encouraged to seek whānau support if desired.
Admission to the programme will be offered to applicants who:
Meet the entry requirements
Demonstrate the potential to successfully complete the programme
Have a desire to build a sustainable career the creative sector or a related field
Recognition of Prior Learning, Cross Credit, and Credit Transfer
Cross credit, credit transfer, and recognition of prior learning (RPL) will adhere to the standard institutional regulations and guidelines as outlined in the Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer policy.
Application process for Recognition of Prior Learning or Credit Transfer
Applicants who believe they meet the criteria for RPL or credit transfer are required to complete the relevant application form(s) and attach relevant certified documentation, including official academic records and/or evidence of learning outcomes being met through previous work or life experience. An interview with the Academic Dean may also be conducted. Each application will be assessed by relevant academic staff, with recommendations made to the Examiners Committee for approval. There is a cost associated with an RPL or credit transfer application.
Part-time study
Courses can be taken independently, but full-time study is recommended for those seeking StudyLink support. Part-time enrolment is permitted as a ‘block of learning’, i.e, a student may undertake a single 8-week course. If accreditation is approved for the Graduate Diploma in Creative Business, and dependent upon market demand, SAE may seek additional accreditation for each course to stand-alone as a microcredential in the future.
Re-enrolment after a five-year absence
Re-enrolment after an absence of five years or more is at the discretion of the Academic Dean. The Dean will consider previously achieved grades, the similarity of structure and content, the student’s suitability for continued study, and the time elapsed since the last enrolment. The Academic Dean holds the final authority to accept or decline an enrolment.
Total completion time
Students are expected to complete the Graduate Diploma within four years of study after initial enrolment.
Satisfactory progression
Students are not usually permitted to enroll in any course more than twice. After two unsuccessful attempts, further enrolment in that course will be allowed at the Academic Dean’s discretion.
Requirements to graduate
To graduate with the Graduate Diploma in Creative Business, students must successfully complete 120 credits at Level 7. To meet the requirements of the Academic Board, every candidate for the Graduate Diploma must complete a programme of study typically lasting at least one year.
Graduate Diploma in Creative Business
International Entry Requirements
In order to be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Creative Business, an applicant must meet the following minimum criteria:
Hold a bachelor’s degree in a creative industries or creative technologies field; or equivalent professional experience*
Be at least 18 years of age at the time of programme commencement. A copy of the student's valid photo ID must be provided.
English as an Additional Language applicants must achieve an overall Academic IELTS score of 6.0, with no band less than 5.5, or equivalent from another acceptable test as listed on the NZQA website. Scores must come from a single test taken no more than two years before the proposed date of enrolment.
Admission Interview
Applicants will be required to attend an admission interview (in person or via video call). The interview aims to assess the applicant’s suitability for the programme. Eligibility for admission does not guarantee an offer of a place. Applicants are encouraged to seek whānau support if desired.
Admission to the programme will be offered to applicants who:
Meet the entry requirements
Demonstrate the potential to successfully complete the programme
Have a desire to build a sustainable career the creative sector or a related field
Recognition of Prior Learning, Cross Credit, and Credit Transfer
Cross credit, credit transfer, and recognition of prior learning (RPL) will adhere to the standard institutional regulations and guidelines as outlined in the Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer policy.
Application process for Recognition of Prior Learning or Credit Transfer
Applicants who believe they meet the criteria for RPL or credit transfer are required to complete the relevant application form(s) and attach relevant certified documentation, including official academic records and/or evidence of learning outcomes being met through previous work or life experience. An interview with the Academic Dean may also be conducted. Each application will be assessed by relevant academic staff, with recommendations made to the Examiners Committee for approval. There is a cost associated with an RPL or credit transfer application.
Part-time study
Courses can be taken independently, but full-time study is recommended for those seeking StudyLink support. Part-time enrolment is permitted as a ‘block of learning’, i.e, a student may undertake a single 8-week course. If accreditation is approved for the Graduate Diploma in Creative Business, and dependent upon market demand, SAE may seek additional accreditation for each course to stand-alone as a microcredential in the future.
Re-enrolment after a five-year absence
Re-enrolment after an absence of five years or more is at the discretion of the Academic Dean. The Dean will consider previously achieved grades, the similarity of structure and content, the student’s suitability for continued study, and the time elapsed since the last enrolment. The Academic Dean holds the final authority to accept or decline an enrolment.
Total completion time
Students are expected to complete the Graduate Diploma within four years of study after initial enrolment.
Satisfactory progression
Students are not usually permitted to enroll in any course more than twice. After two unsuccessful attempts, further enrolment in that course will be allowed at the Academic Dean’s discretion.
Requirements to graduate
To graduate with the Graduate Diploma in Creative Business, students must successfully complete 120 credits at Level 7. To meet the requirements of the Academic Board, every candidate for the Graduate Diploma must complete a programme of study typically lasting at least one year.
TURN YOUR CREATIVITY INTO A SUSTAINABLE CAREER
You’ll develop the entrepreneurial, strategic, and commercial skills needed to thrive in the fast-changing creative industries. Gain a deep understanding of how creative businesses are built, funded, and grown, and learn how to position yourself within the wider creative economy.
By the end of the programme, you’ll have a creative business ready to launch, and the clarity, confidence, and capability to articulate your value, make smart decisions, and seize opportunities across the creative landscape.
This Graduate Diploma in Creative Business covers
Building a viable creative business
Business finance fundamentals
Creating your own personal brand
Creative Entrepreneurship
Project Management
Marketing & Promotion
Course Structure
Term One
Start your Creative Business
Credits: 30
This course equips students with the strategic skills and insights needed to successfully navigate and establish a sustainable career within the creative economy.
Students will explore how to set up a business within the creative economy, gaining a deep understanding of its ecosystem, their place within it, and the opportunities available to them. Through analytical frameworks, students will identify their strengths and opportunities, setting the stage for successful creative careers. The course emphasises strategic thinking as students critically evaluate various project choices, assessing their viability and alignment with both personal aspirations and professional objectives. Additionally, students will enhance their collaborative skills, learning how to effectively contribute to and thrive within diverse creative teams.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex demands of the creative landscape, including how to operate in a culturally appropriate way under the principles of Tikanga Māori.
Credits: 30
This course equips students with the strategic skills and insights needed to successfully navigate and establish a sustainable career within the creative economy.
Students will explore how to set up a business within the creative economy, gaining a deep understanding of its ecosystem, their place within it, and the opportunities available to them. Through analytical frameworks, students will identify their strengths and opportunities, setting the stage for successful creative careers. The course emphasises strategic thinking as students critically evaluate various project choices, assessing their viability and alignment with both personal aspirations and professional objectives. Additionally, students will enhance their collaborative skills, learning how to effectively contribute to and thrive within diverse creative teams.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex demands of the creative landscape, including how to operate in a culturally appropriate way under the principles of Tikanga Māori.
Term Two
Fund your Creative Business
Credits: 30
This course equips students with the financial acumen and strategic insights needed to launch and manage successful creative ventures, enabling them to articulate value and make informed financial decisions.
Students will delve into the financial realities of launching and managing creative ventures. Participants will learn to construct financial models that outline revenue streams, costs, and profitability, providing a solid foundation for effective financial management. Students will explore the concept of ‘value’ in creative work and how to articulate the unique value of their creative projects effectively. Students will learn to evaluate risks and rewards for potential investors in a creative venture, and develop the skills to make informed decisions about funding and partnerships.
By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to navigate the financial landscape of their creative endeavours, ensuring sustainable success.
Credits: 30
This course equips students with the financial acumen and strategic insights needed to launch and manage successful creative ventures, enabling them to articulate value and make informed financial decisions.
Students will delve into the financial realities of launching and managing creative ventures. Participants will learn to construct financial models that outline revenue streams, costs, and profitability, providing a solid foundation for effective financial management. Students will explore the concept of ‘value’ in creative work and how to articulate the unique value of their creative projects effectively. Students will learn to evaluate risks and rewards for potential investors in a creative venture, and develop the skills to make informed decisions about funding and partnerships.
By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to navigate the financial landscape of their creative endeavours, ensuring sustainable success.
Term Three
Grow your Creative Business
Credits: 30
This course equips students with the strategic tools and insights to drive growth in creative ventures by analysing the value chain and developing effective marketing and branding strategies.
Students will explore various approaches to growth, assessing their effectiveness and suitability across different contexts within the creative sector. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the value chain in both local and global creative industries, identifying key players and processes that contribute to value creation. This foundational knowledge will enable them to recognise opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Students will construct a detailed marketing and branding strategy for a creative venture, utilising insights from market research and industry trends to effectively engage target audiences.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the strategic tools and insights needed to drive growth and elevate their creative enterprises in a competitive marketplace.
Credits: 30
This course equips students with the strategic tools and insights to drive growth in creative ventures by analysing the value chain and developing effective marketing and branding strategies.
Students will explore various approaches to growth, assessing their effectiveness and suitability across different contexts within the creative sector. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the value chain in both local and global creative industries, identifying key players and processes that contribute to value creation. This foundational knowledge will enable them to recognise opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Students will construct a detailed marketing and branding strategy for a creative venture, utilising insights from market research and industry trends to effectively engage target audiences.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the strategic tools and insights needed to drive growth and elevate their creative enterprises in a competitive marketplace.
Term Four
Future-proof your Creative Business
Credits: 30
This course enables students to analyse intellectual property rights as the underlying asset class of the creative industries, while cultivating leadership and self-management skills, to ensure
adaptability and resilience in an increasingly technology-driven creative landscape.
Students will critically analyse intellectual property ownership, protection, and opportunity within their creative ventures, including how intellectual property operates within indigenous communities. They will examine various options for safeguarding and maximising the value of their creative work while understanding the legal and ethical implications involved in creating and managing intellectual property.
Students will focus on developing essential business planning and leadership capabilities tailored to the specific challenges of dynamic creative environments. The course emphasises future-proofing strategies, equipping students with the tools to adapt to evolving industry trends and technological advancements.
By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to navigate the complexities of creative ownership and leadership, ensuring their ventures remain resilient and relevant in an ever-changing landscape.
Credits: 30
This course enables students to analyse intellectual property rights as the underlying asset class of the creative industries, while cultivating leadership and self-management skills, to ensure
adaptability and resilience in an increasingly technology-driven creative landscape.
Students will critically analyse intellectual property ownership, protection, and opportunity within their creative ventures, including how intellectual property operates within indigenous communities. They will examine various options for safeguarding and maximising the value of their creative work while understanding the legal and ethical implications involved in creating and managing intellectual property.
Students will focus on developing essential business planning and leadership capabilities tailored to the specific challenges of dynamic creative environments. The course emphasises future-proofing strategies, equipping students with the tools to adapt to evolving industry trends and technological advancements.
By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to navigate the complexities of creative ownership and leadership, ensuring their ventures remain resilient and relevant in an ever-changing landscape.
NZQA Course Codes
NZQA Level 7 Graduate Diploma (4 Terms)
WHAT JOBS WILL THIS COURSE LEAD ME TO?
CREATIVE PRACTITIONER
CREATIVE PROFESSIONAL
CREATIVE FREELANCER
CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR
CREATIVE EXECUTIVE
BUSINESS OWNER
PROJECT MANAGER
PRODUCER
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
AND MORE
START YOUR CREATIVE CAREER WITH SAE
With our industry connections, specialised lecturers, and personalised education in industry-standard facilities, you can unleash your creative future with confidence.
