Graphic Design 1

Graphic Design 1

  • Study facts
    • Prog. Code
      PGRA1
    • NQF Level
      5.1
    • Credits
      60
    • Valid from
      H24
    • Dated
      14.08.2024
    • Version
      3.0
    • Study mode
      Full-time, Part-time
    • Program manager
About the programme

In a society where information is communicated through print media, the internet and broadcasting, there is an increasing need for professionals with the ability to produce work for different media. Disciplines include branding, visual communication, illustration, photography, screen-based design and motion design. The aim of the study is to educate graphic designers to become versatile and work in a range of different fields. The course develops independent graphic designers with digital expertise who can work as freelancers or in collaboration with a creative team.

Learning Environment

The digital classroom
All students at Noroff have access to a digital classroom, referred to as the learning platform. Here the student can access relevant academic and practical information about the study programme. The learning platform also contains learning content, activities, delivery deadlines, work requirements and assessments for every course.

Online
Online studies are flexible since students can study from anywhere and at their own pace according to the academic progression and scheduled deadlines. Students access their learning material for each course through the learning platform, and discussion forums are used for communication between fellow students and teachers. Lectures and live-stream sessions are not a part of the delivery model online but may be given as an add-on. 

Campus 
As part of the campus community, students will have access to on-site teachers, guest lecturers, and other students during their learning journey. Students on campus study in modern working environments and have access to equipment used for practical training.

After graduation

Vocational education at Noroff can expand career opportunities and lay lifelong learning foundations. Throughout the programme, students will familiarise themselves with key competencies relevant for industry employment. Students who graduate with a higher professional degree may be eligible to enter one of our partner universities. 

Career opportunities 
After graduation, the candidate may qualify for work within these areas:

  • Graphic Designer
  • Print Media Designer
  • Web Designer

Further studies

After graduation, the candidate may qualify for the second year of Graphic Design.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge:
Understanding theories, facts, principles, procedures in the discipline, subject area and/or occupation.
Skills:
Ability to utilise knowledge to solve problems or tasks (cognitive, practical, creative and communication skills).
General Competence:
Ability to independently utilise knowledge and skills in different situations.

After graduation from this programme, students have acquired the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

The candidate...

  • has knowledge of the key concepts of classic design theory and visual communication and knows the basic principles and elements within the design profession.
  • has in-depth knowledge of the primary analogue and digital tools used in the production of both printed and digital products.
  • has knowledge of general photography principles, the use of digital cameras and working with natural and studio lighting.
  • has knowledge of the processes and methods used when developing brand identities and visual profiles.
  • has knowledge of the design process and understands the various steps, such as planning, idea and concept development, production, completion and the delivery of a design project that meets industry standards.
  • can update his/her vocational knowledge through research, digital aids, exhibitions, design gatherings and contact with design communities.
  • has insight into universal design principles and understands the importance of following set guidelines to ensure user-friendliness.
  • understands how creating professional designs can add value to businesses and organisations.
Skills

The candidate...

  • can, independently or in cooperation with the client, draw up a design brief and plan for the entire design process - from idea to finished product.
  • can use both analogue and digital tools during the design process to create products for print and digital media.
  • can plan, organise and execute portrait photography, including setting up professional lighting and editing photographs.
  • can find relevant information and subject matter through local networks, design expos, conferences, professional literature and online trend portals.
  • can map the client's design needs and identify the need for implementation of measures through the development of new design solutions such as a design strategy, visual profile, printed matter or a website.
  • can identify issues within the subject field on behalf of the client.
General Competence

The candidate...

  • understands professional and industry ethical principles involving ease of use and user interface, interdisciplinary cooperation and customer care.
  • has developed an ethical attitude in relation to practicing the graphic design profession, including the ability to build trust and relationships with clients and colleagues from related industries.
  • can independently develop less complex print and screen-based solutions based on a client brief.
  • can develop workflows for the development of simple print and web solutions.
  • has a comprehensive understanding of the workflow and connection between different subject areas.
  • can build relations with industry peers and collaborate across cross functional teams to provide solutions in graphic design, screen-based design and photography.
Course Overview
Course code Course name Semester Weeks Hours Credits
FM1GD1071 Graphic Design 1 1 4 168 7
FM1SD1031 Strategic Design 1 1 3 126 3
FM1PH1031 Photography 1 1 2 84 3
FM1GD2061 Graphic Design 2 1 3 126 6
FM1GSP062 Semester Project 1 1 4 168 6
FM1PO1021 Portfolio 1 1 1 42 2
FM1DS1081 UX Design Fundamentals 2 4 168 8
FM1FH2031 Photography 2 2 2 84 3
FM1DS2071 UI Design Fundamentals 2 6 252 7
FM1GD3061 Graphic Design 3 2 4 168 6
FM1GPX071 Project Exam 1 2 5 210 7
FM1PO2021 Portfolio 2 2 1 84 2
Total 39 1680 60
Course Models
Graphic Design 1
CourseCourse type2024 Autumn2025 Spring
Core course
7
Core course
3
Core course
3
Core course
6
Core course
6
Core course
2
Core course
8
Core course
3
Core course
7
Core course
6
Core course
7
Core course
2
Teaching and Learning

Noroff offers an engaging and student-active learning experience that prepares candidates for professional working life through unique and industry-relevant teaching and learning activities governed by the current learning outcomes. Teaching and learning engage students in the learning process by promoting a holistic understanding of the different issues and challenges relevant to the subject areas. By fostering critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication, students will develop lifelong learning skills. 

Activities can vary for campus and online delivery and are composed of theoretical and practical approaches, providing students with the best possible outcome for each course. Noroff distinguishes between teacher and student-led activities. Both are equally important and tailored to each course’s educational approach. Teaching and Learning activities used in the courses are outlined in the course descriptions. 

For all online studies, English is the primary language for teaching. English can also be used as the teaching language on some campuses.

Work Requirements and Assessment

Assessment impacts the student’s learning significantly and concludes if the student has achieved the intended learning outcome and, if so, at what level. Assessments include summative and formative methods depending on the content of the learning outcome of each course.

A course usually consists of one or more work requirements. The most common is compulsory course assignments that assess the acquired competencies outlined in the course learning outcomes. Course assignments are assessed as Passed/Failed or graded from A to F, after which verbal or written feedback is provided. Tests can also evaluate students’ achievements and are usually used in combination with compulsory assignments.

Online studies may also require students to deliver one or more compulsory module assignments during a course. This is to follow up and support the online students’ learning path. Module assignments can be used as learning activities for campus students.

Work requirements and assessment methods for each course are described in the course descriptions.

Equipment Requirements

Information about equipment requirements is available on our webpage: Programme information. 

Online students are required to purchase and maintain their equipment.

Admission requirements

There are three ways to meet the admission criteria and be enrolled as a student: 

  1. By upper secondary education (videregående skole) 
    • Higher education entrance qualification from Norway or abroad 
  2. By Norwegian vocational upper secondary education  
    • Documented relevant vocational qualifications diploma (yrkeskompetanse)
      Documented relevant craft certificate (fag og svennebrev)
  3. Prior learning and work experience   

More information about admission requirements is available on our webpage under Admission Requirements.