The MIT Diploma in Performing Arts (Level 5) provides students with the skills in Acting, Music and Dance to perform competently in professional stage and screen productions. Students learn the process of Acting, develop the confidence to explore psyche and creativity and develop practical ability in basic Acting technique. Students will complete courses in Music focusing on developing their vocal/singing confidence and skills using various techniques and styles employed by the music/singing industry. They will also complete courses in Dance employing skills and tools in Modern and Contemporary dance to develop a capable and proficient performer.

Students will also develop an ability to be self motivated and independent, to work with energy commitment and focus. As well they develop personal skills including self confidence, communication, focus, commitment, and an ability to work in groups and independently with a focus on achieving a set objective. They will apply these skills in rehearsal and performance on stage and screen.

The underlying philosophy of the programme incorporates and integrates contemporary, Maori and Pasifika elements

A graduate will:

- Have comprehensive, proficient knowledge and professional practical working skills in acting for stage and screen.
- Incorporate, utilise and respect Maori and Pasifika cultural influences in their own original and contemporary New Zealand theatrical performances.
- Have acquired a wide skill base in a variety of acting styles, including physical performance and supplementary acting genres.
- Have polished and proficient vocal technique, and a sufficient range of song choices, as well as the confidence to perform professionally as a specialist soloist and or as part of a group.
- Apply and compose music theory which will incorporate contemporary and cultural influences including; Maori and Pasifika to their performance in a range of musical styles as a soloist, and as part of a group.
- Have advanced and professional techniques in a variety of dance styles, utilising the social, cultural and political contexts from New Zealand and overseas influences.
- Have the choreographic and innovate skills needed to create original dance work in a variety of performance genres to a professional level.
- Be motivated and able to set themselves up as independent and interdependent professional performers, in terms of expected conduct, networking skills, legalities while working within the performance
- Have the necessary skills and experience to warrant the representation and employment in one or more of the disciplines in acting, singing and dance.
- Be able to continue in their study to a Degree in Creative Arts (Performing Arts).

MIT's Bachelor of Creative Arts is designed so that the first year of the Performing Arts specialisation consists of the same offering as this Diploma of Performing Arts. Consequently, students' who graduate from the Diploma programme are able to apply to enter directly into the second year of that degree.

Applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
(a) Have at least 42 NCEA credits at Level 3, including a minimum of 14 credits in each of two approved subjects, plus a minimum of 14 credits in one or two subjects and a minimum of 4 credits in reading and a minimum of 4 credits in writing, both at level 2 or equivalent
OR
(b) Have at least 72 NCEA credits at Level 2 including a minimum of 14 credits in each of two approved subjects and including 8 credits in reading/writing and including 30 credits achieved at Merit or Excellence or equivalent
OR
(c) Have at least 60 NZQA recognised credits at Level 5 or higher or equivalent
OR
(d) Have relevant work/life experience and be able to demonstrate that they can work/study at a level appropriate to the programme. Each applicant will be considered on an individual basis. To support their application applicants will be required to demonstrate their ability to study at Level 5 (Year 1) including a file providing evidence of personal life skills and previous activities. Applicants will be invited to an interview. Among attributes an applicant must demonstrate are a mature and positive approach to study, commitment and motivation to succeed, and the ability to read and write at the required level for degree study

AND

Applicants must have sufficient competence in the English language to undertake this programme, which is taught and assessed in English.
Any applicant whose first language is not English may be required to provide evidence of their English language competency.

AND

Participate in a group audition and attend an interview;

AND

Complete a 500 word personal statement outlining the reasons for choosing to apply for the programme.