Graphic DESIGN COURSES

Overview

For entry-level students, there are three options, a one-year Diploma course, two-year Advanced Diploma and Bachelor Degree. The three-years bachelor's degree is issued by Goldsmiths, University of London. FIDI's Graphic Design courses are based on intensive, studio-based learning, with studio groups averaging 10 students and a high level of individual teacher contact. Students develop their own design projects through desk critiques, presentations and technical instruction, progressing from concept development to individual outcomes. Students are encouraged to develop their own design identity rather than following a set visual or stylistic approach. The one-year Diploma is an intensive two-term course ideal for students new to the field of Graphic Design. The course addresses all of the fundamentals of Graphic Design color and composition, design, typography, and drawing. Diploma students can extend their study into the second year to complete an Advanced Diploma. Visit our Gallery for examples of student work. Students who already hold a Bachelor degree in design may qualify for our Master.

We are offering a 3-year Bachelor of Arts Degree, BA (hons) Graphic Design  issued in collaboration with Goldsmiths, University of London. See the Bachelor page for requirements.

Graphic designers are creative, imaginative and excel in the conception of two-dimensional imagery. Graphic design is essentially visual problem solving using text or graphical elements. Graphic designers are leaders in some of today's most dynamic fields such as advertising, publishing, television, and visual communications. They generate the visual presentation and design of goods, including websites, magazines, book covers, corporate stationery, television graphics, and billboards.

Graphic design - 1ST TERM
1 YEAR (30 WEEKS)

Graphic Design Studio 1A
In this course you are introduced to the basics of graphic design practice through a balance of functional and conceptual assignments. Graphic design is central to visual communication and as such, bridges the gaps inherent in verbal and literal expressions. It serves as a cultural commentary, both reflecting and shaping societal values and opinions throughout history; advertising, web, guerilla marketing, protest, infographics or brand/product identity have all had a role to play in the development of modern society.

Graphic Design Principles and Processes 1A
The course will include guidance on the fundamental principles and processes of creative thinking and will enable you to build skills and techniques you can use in response to set design assignment briefs. Knowledge and skills developed within this module will provide a foundation for all successive studies in visual communication.

Typography 1A
This course introduces you to the knowledge and skills required for the design and development of typeface concepts. You will critically explore a range of working methods that use type as an effective communication methodology, the origins of typography, and the development of the numerous typefaces that have been designed and created throughout history. Beginning with the fundamentals of typography, you will explore printmaking, investigate the origins of movable type and the impact this had on learning in Europe.

Analytical Drawing 1A
The course provides a comprehensive introduction to hand drawing using pencil, ink and charcoal, with the objective of developing skills in shading, contour, gesture and perspective. The coursework follows a series of studies that introduce basic drawing techniques, media, and composition through examination and study of ordinary forms.

Art and Design Theory
This course provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the historical and theoretical underpinnings that have shaped the evolution of Italian art and design practices. Through in-depth analysis, critical discussions, and practical applications, you will gain an understanding of traditional art and design theory with its significance in contemporary artistic contexts. Key principles of design theory will be researched, including aesthetics, form, function and visual communication to comprehend the fundamental concepts driving design practices.

Italian Language 1A The course will focus mainly on spoken conversational Italian, with themes relating to common life, travel and business travel situations including greetings, days of the week, asking for directions, food, making plans, telling time, purchases and dealing with money and numbers.

Graphic design - 2nd term

Graphic Design Studio 1B
An investigation of more advanced graphic design. Projects assigned during the second term involve comprehensive problem solving from concept development through to the final presentation stage.

Graphic Design Principles and Processes 1B
During the second part of the course, you will learn to be able to identify and disassemble existing design projects exploring colour theory, proportion, geometrical and organic shapes, perspective, alignment, scale and texture. You will be able to describe the aesthetic, technical and critical context of design and the relevant approaches utilised in contemporary graphic design

Typography 1B
This second part of the course you will continue to explore communication methodologies and the development of the numerous typefaces that have been designed and created throughout history.You will develop effective research skills, specific to typography, such as conducting research on historical typographic styles, influential typographers, and cultural contexts. You will learn to analyse and interpret typographic trends and apply research findings to your own design projects.

Analytical Drawing 1B
The course provides a complete exploration of the art of hand drawing utilizing pencil, ink, and charcoal with the objective of mastering shading, contour, gesture, and perspective techniques. The coursework follows a series of studies that introduce basic drawing techniques, media, and composition through examination and study of ordinary forms.

Italian Language 1B
The courses will continue to focus mainly on spoken conversational Italian. This more advanced level class will start to deal with general work and business discussions.

* Program may be subject to change

ACADEMIC LEVEL-2ND and 3rd year

The second year and third year of the Academic level are much more thorough in exploration of design concepts. Larger projects are developed with a more detailed approach to creative problem-solving and the ability to offer solutions that are effective in the business of commercial graphics.

* Program may be subject to change

Graphic design- 2nd year

The second year provides a more thorough exploration of design concepts. Larger projects are developed during the year using more detailed client briefs, complete branding strategies, mixed media and imagery.

Third term

Graphic Design Studio
Interactive Media Design
Moving Images (Video)           
Digital Photography or Internship *option 
Art and Design Theory 2

Fourth term

Graphic Design Studio
Interactive Media Design
Moving Images (Video)           
Digital Photography

Graphic design- 3RD year

The third year is reserved for students enrolled in the three-year, BA (hons) Graphic Design issued in collaboration with Goldsmiths, University of London. he final year builds on skills developed during the first two years, with greater emphasis on advanced design development, independent research and professional practice. Students undertake a major Thesis Project, developing an individual graphic design project from initial research and concept development through to a fully resolved visual identity, branding manual and final presentation. Examples of FIDI thesis projects can be viewed on our social media channels and through student projects published on Dezeen.com

Fifth term:

Digital Illustration 
Multimedia
Experiential Learning
Design Research Project
Professional Practice

Sixth/ Final term

Digital Illustration 
Multimedia
Experiential Learning
Design Research Project
Professional Practice

* Program may be subject to change