General Questions
Audio Engineering Questions
Film Making Questions
Q: How can I register for a Program ?
A: Just fill in the registration form (included in the prospectus), sign front and back (registration agreement). Include supporting documents as outlined in the prospectus and a cheque for the registration fee. Post the documents or see us at the Institute.
Q: When do I have to enroll ?
A: Basically you can enroll at any time, we do not have a closing date for applications. So theoretically you could register just before the program starts. However, we do have limited positions for our programs since we provide enough resources and practical time for each student. The usual timeframe for enrollments is 3-4 months before the program start.
Q: Can you reserve a place for me ?
A: We only accept complete registrations, i.e. with a signed registration form/agreement (original) and the registration fee. Only this secures a place in program. We do not make any reservations without a formal enrollment.
Q: Does SAE provide accommodation ?
A: No. However, we provide an accommodation list. Please download our SAE Auckland accommodation list on the Costs/Dates page of SAE New Zealand's web site.
Q: As an international student how can I obtain a study visa ?
A: Study Visa applications are directed by the New Zealand Immigration Service.
Q: Is SAE New Zealand accredited by NZQA ?
A: SAE INSTITUTE is registered as a Private Training Establishment by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. The level 5 Diploma In Audio Engineering (PC1902) and the level 5 Diploma In Film Making (PC9573) are accredited by the NZQA.
Q: Are Student loans available ?
A: The Diploma In Audio Engineering and Diploma In Film Making programs are approved by the Ministry of Education for student loans and allowances. Prospective students can apply with STUDYLINK for a loan/allowance.
Usually this application is at the same time as enrolling with SAE. STUDYLINK check at some stage of the application whether the applicant is enrolled with SAE. The registration fee may not be covered by the student loan.
Please refer to the StudyLink website on www.studylink.govt.nz, where you will find all the latest updated information on Student Loans and Allowances and also the apply online facility. The StudyLink contact centre phone number is 0800 88 99 00.
Q: When was SAE founded ?
A: SAE was founded in 1976 by Australian Producer and Engineer Tom Misner.
SAE New Zealand began operations in 1990.
AUDIO:
Q: What are the job prospects ?
A: It depends on the field you are interested in. Generally the audio industry in New Zealand is very strong with the economic transition toward this vast industry. People wanting to work in this industry may begin with an internship or on the job training in supplement to their formal qualification.
Audio engineering is more than Music Production. The Diploma In Audio Engineering will prepare you for a wide selection of audio careers. Audio Engineers are involved in advertisement production, post-production for film and video, location-sound for film production, radio broadcasting, audio production for multimedia etc. There is also the wide field of live-sound: Concerts, Theatres, conventions, all kinds of events require sound-reinforcement.
Q: How is the SAE Diploma recognized ?
A: The Diploma in Audio Engineering is well-recognized by the audio industry. SAE graduates are working all across the country in audio production. There are major recording studios that employ only SAE graduates. We have good relationships to the Audio Industry, which results in many mediations.
Q: Will I be actually recording bands ?
A: Several music productions are compulsory assignments throughout the Diploma In Audio Engineering program. You book studio time, invite a band and record them.
Q: Can I record my own band ?
A: Yes, although your focus is on audio engineering and not the actual performance. However, your fellow students can record your band for their projects. We also recommend that students form 'student bands' to undertake recordings for their projects.
Q: Is the Electronic Music Producer Certificate a pre-requisite for the Diploma In Audio Engineering?
A: No. However, many students use it as a first step. This program is excellent for those who want to achieve a professional sound to their personal productions. The EMP program also provides an excellent knowledge base if you are not familiar with the concepts and theory in audio technology and electronic music production.
FILM MAKING:
Q: What are the job prospects ?
A: The Film Making industry is booming. Graduates of the SAE Diploma In Film Making usually have no problems finding jobs within the industry. Freelancing is also an advantageous independent career option within the creative media industries.
Typically Film Making graduates are working with production companies, agencies and contractors that produce CD-ROMs, DVDs, documentaries and other forms of electronic film media content. A very important sector these days is online production .
Q: How is the SAE Diploma recognized ?
A: The industry recognizes the SAE Diplomas well. Especially since the unique way our Diploma Programs are structured. Employers can be sure that an SAE graduate has practical experience and has worked on 'real' projects.
Q: Do I have to work with other students at the same time on one workstation ?
A: No. Each student has an individual workstation available during lectures. Practical sessions are on a booking basis. One computer is allocated for each student throughout the entire program.
Q: Are there guest-lecturers ?
A: Yes. For certain topics we have guest lecturer from the industry. That also provides an excellent opportunity for students to come in contact with prospective employers.
Q: Will I get to do real productions ?
A: Throughout the Film Making program, students work on several creative media and film making projects to produce professional products. In particular, class projects involves student teamwork within a workplace environment.
Students are involved in 'real-world' applications with professional clients and become experienced in real problem solving. Each student undertakes and produces a comprehensive final project. Students have individual choice of their final product.