About the programme

The emphasis is on spatial graphics, visual identity and type design.

The programme accepts both architecture and design students. We train architects to have a strong awareness and in-depth knowledge of the use of graphic elements in space, and we train designers who are not only capable of working with the more classic virtues associated with graphic design, but who are also able to implement graphic design in a spatial context. A key element of the programme is working with branded spaces, where the physical space is viewed as an important component in creating an effective visual identity.

Another important element is problem-solving specific design issues based on assignments that are close to real life, resembling the types of projects faced by professional architects and graphic designers. We take on large and complex challenges that require the students to navigate among many different types of media and platforms. We strive to understand user behaviours, chart the users’ actions in place and space and communicate a given message clearly and effectively. A central focus area is good design and knowledge of design history.

We work with design on every scale, from type and pictogram design to large-scale complex wayfinding and visual identity projects. Type design assignments not only aim to improve the students’ specific grasp of type design but also their overall ability to make good typographic choices. Another purpose of type design coursework is to enhance the students’ eye for detail in other design contexts.

1st semester: Intro Typography
1.1: The first part of the semester is devoted to brief workshops, where students can try their hand at several crafts that form the basis for contemporary typography design. This includes courses on calligraphy, Roman capitals (painting & carving), casting, letterpress and type design.

1.2: The second part of the semester is devoted to an individual assignment concerning wayfinding and signage in a concrete context.

2nd semester: Visual identity
The second semester focuses on various aspects of identity design, communication and branding and on applying these aspects across digital, printed and spatial platforms.

The coursework includes assignments dealing with:

2.1: Visual identity

2.2: Type design and visual identity

2.3: Information graphics

3rd semester: Dialogue with Type History
3.1: The theoretical assignment in the third semester concerns an issue pertaining to type history. The outcome is presented both in writing and as a verbal presentation for the class.

3.2: Based on the above-mentioned assignment, the students develop a new exhibition design to present the type history issues in an exhibition format.

3.3: The final assignment of the semester is a preliminary to the graduation project. Choosing their own topic, the students test some of the issues they intend to address in their final graduation project.

4th semester

Graduation

The programme includes courses in basic skills such as calligraphy, painting, carving and casting type, letterpress etc. and an introduction to FontLab or Glyphs..

Wayfinding
is a multidisciplinary competence that integrates knowledge of legibility, type design, symbols, architecture, urban space design etc. with perspectives from sociology and psychology.

Information graphics
require an analytic, user-oriented approach based on knowledge about perception and visualization.

Exhibition design
requires a competent grasp of visual presentation to achieve synergy with spatial experience design.

Visual identity
revolves around the unique and characteristic logo design and its implementation across platforms, media and materials– digital, analogue, 2D and 3D.

Type design
on a high level is a basic condition for working with the areas mentioned above. Here, the focus may be either on typeface legibility or on the capacity of type to define a visual identity.

Danish/English as needed.