Te Herenga Waka recognised among world’s best film schools

The University’s film programme has been named by The Hollywood Reporter in their annual list of Best Global Film Schools.

Miramar Creative Centre

Sarah Ross, Head of School of English, Film, Theatre, Media and Communication, and Art History says “We're proud and delighted that our Film programme has again been named in The Hollywood Reporter's list as one of the top 15 film schools in the world—for the third time in four years!

“This is a fitting celebration of the programme's outstanding expertise in film production and in critical film studies, and the energy and liveliness of its community.”

Film can be studied a variety of different ways at the University including as a major in a Bachelor of Arts, or through postgraduate study utilising the Miramar Creative Centre. Students gain a range of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, and are able to explore the historical, cultural, and technological perspectives of cinema.

The Hollywood Reporter specifically recognises the Miramar Creative Centre, a purpose built facility for postgraduate students studying filmmaking, game design, visual effects, audio post-production, and multimedia design.

“The MCC and programmes are designed to provide students with practical expertise and real-world experience, setting them up for successful careers in the dynamic world of filmmaking,” Director of the Miramar Creative Centre, Kevin Romond says. “We're honoured by this continued recognition and remain committed to providing our students with a world-class education in filmmaking, equipping them with the skills and connections needed to thrive in this exciting industry.”

This prestigious recognition places the University alongside esteemed institutions including Beijing Film Academy, Gobelins, l'école de l'image (France), the London Film School, and the Toronto Film School.

A significant aspect of the University’s film programme, and the Miramar Creative Centre, is the specialised focus on Work Integrated Learning. Each year, students from the Master of Fine Arts, Creative Practice (MFA (CP)) program are hired to produce professional-grade video content for clients across Te Herenga Waka as part of FILM414, a course on commercial production. This opportunity allows final-year students, who are preparing to enter the Aotearoa New Zealand film industry, to create scripts, shoot, edit, and compile footage as part of their coursework.

Students are given the chance to develop high-quality, valuable assets for promotional purposes, benefiting the University and allowing students to apply their skills in a practical setting.

Nan O’Sullivan, Head of School for Design Innovation says it’s an honour to be named again as one of the best Global Film Schools. “The recognition of the expertise provided to students, and the close connections we have to industry collaborators as a part of our Masters of Design Technology programme is truly worth celebrating.”

Earlier this year, Te Herenga Waka alum, Jane Campion visited Kelburn campus to talk about her experience in Wellington, and the importance of studying film and cinema. Campion is one of many well known alum who are prominent in the international film industry. Others include Taika Waititi, Sam Neill, and Melanie Lynskey.

Learn more about studying Film at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington