SAE Institute

A training ground for future professionals

SAE Institute has been located in Parnell since the early 1990s, and is part of a successful global network of campuses.
We offer a number of qualifications in filmmaking and audio engineering.

Our Diploma and Degree courses are approved by NZQA.

At SAE we offer:
  • Diploma Electronic Music Production (12 months part time)
    This qualification is for individuals who wish to develop their experience and practice in the production of electronic music and in DJ production techniques. It provides the music industry with performers who have an extended repertoire of DJ and electronic music production skills to perform competently ad creatively.
  • Diploma in Audio Production (12 months full-time)
    This qualification is for individuals who wish to develop their experience and practice in audio engineering and production. It provides the music industry with people who have a range of audio engineering skills to produce complex audio recordings and sound-related works.
  • Diploma in Screen Production (12 months full-time)
    This qualification is designed for people who are new to the industry or considering a career in film, video or other related screen production industries. Graduates will have the skills, knowledge and attributes to operate with supervision as useful contributors in the screen production industry.
  •  Bachelor of Music Production  (3 years full time)
    This qualification is designed for people considering a career in music production, audio-visual or other related industries. Graduates will have the skills, knowledge and attributes to operate independently as creative contributors in the wider music production industry.
  • Bachelor in Audio Production (3 years full-time)
    To equip students with early-through-advanced industry-led skills and knowledge in audio technologies and practice, including relevant historical, cultural and business practice contexts. To facilitate the development and refinement of self-reflective creative practice, underpinned by comprehensive transferable skills.
  • Bachelor in Screen Production (3 years full-time)
    This qualification is designed for people who are pursuing a career in film, video or other related screen production industries. Graduates will have specialised skills, knowledge and attributes necessary to operate independently as creative contributors in the screen production industry.

Industry involvement & training

Because the creative media industry is constantly evolving, so are we! At SAE we are passionate about teaching using the latest technology and the expertise of lecturers that have all spent years in the music and audio business.

As a degree granting institution, our staff are continuously developing and researching in their respective fields. SAE also utilizes industry professionals and representatives on a regular basis by engaging them as guest lecturers, or through enabling students to produce real work for professional clients.

When you learn you can be assured of access to:
  • Top quality equipment
  • Personal studio time
  • Lecturer interaction and assistance.

At SAE we combine theory and practice with assignment criteria that recreate work place scenarios, where students are responsible for managing projects within specific criteria and deadlines, with the help and assistance of our staff.

Our qualifications are designed to develop the independence and initiative that are valued in both the film and audio industry. Our goal is to ensure that when you leave SAE you will have the right combination of theory and practical skills for success in the real world.

Secondary school initiative

At SAE we offer a Secondary School Initiative to give young people the opportunity to experience working in a recording studio or on a film set so that they can get a feel for what we do before deciding on a career path.

Groups of year 12 or 13 students have the opportunity to visit the SAE Institute studios and produce a musical piece or film scene.

Under the guidance of SAE staff and current students, groups will observe and participate in the production.