Communication Design,
Bachelor (Graphic Design)
The communication design degree is structured so that students learn the practice of graphic design as a means of organising and transmitting messages in an expanded, experimental and participatory way.
In addition to the basic subjects essential to the practice of graphic design, such as typography, image and editing, we explore possible ways of communicating through visual language in a playful and conceptual way. Students are encouraged to explore the limits of the design discipline as an objective, artistic and transformative means of communication.
The learning process takes place through practical projects, based on a solid and integrated theoretical foundation, and materialised using different analogue and digital techniques. We facilitate experimentation with tools and ways of creating and publishing, from the digital image to paper publication.
Students are encouraged to work autonomously and collectively, to do their own research, learning, tools and work processes, as well as to develop an exploratory and critical approach to their work, their choices and productions.
The work carried out tries to bring students closer to design practices in an external context, training them to use and adapt ideas, tools and strategies in post-academic and professional situations, in different graphic design practices, such as publishing, posters, visual identity, exhibition systems or signage, among others. At the same time, we are particularly concerned with enabling the development of practical and experimental research projects for students who wish to follow an independent path, exploring graphic design as an authorial practice, through publications, interventions or visual performances in physical or digital space.
Why choose our BA?
Built on a logical progression of key subjects – from methods to projects – the programme explores flexible curricula models, adapting to emerging interests and issues, both disciplinary and within society at large.
In the final year of the programme, students codesign and develop workshops and events, collectively exploring the needs of a discipline and society in transition.
Unique range of local partnerships, such as the Bordalo Pinheiro Museum, and international partners such as the Pratt Institute (New York, USA), for student exchange programmes.
Delli’s programme works towards the development of hybrid, multidisciplinary and critical practitioners, while supporting specialist interests.
Promotes autonomy by creating space for diverse practices, communities and approaches, facilitating internships as well as self-directed research projects.
Study structure
First Year
During the first year, the programme puts emphasis on method through an exploration of the fundaments of design, with a profoundly hands-on approach, from drawing to composition, typography to editorial design, from historic technology to production. Trial, error and experimentation are key aspects of this initial phase of the programme.
Second Year
The second year focuses on the development of the identity and critical dimension of the student, exploring different positions and challenging the past, present and future of the discipline. It does so through a variety of approaches and projects, from visual identity to exhibition design, to the study of typography and illustration, digital technology and interdisciplinary research.
Third Year
Finally, the third year consolidates the journey developed during the first and second years, exploring live projects, as well as highly experimental courses which push the boundaries of the discipline. Multiple collaborative projects are organised, and attention is given to the networks created inside and outside the programme, via the national and international guests who support and complement our pedagogic models. Adopting a research-led approach, and using both field-work and speculation, we push students to consider new and more sustainable social and economic models.
Study Plan
Head of Programme
Luís Alegre
Filipe Luz
Teachers
António Cruz Rodrigues
Bruno Santos
Francisco Laranjo
Filipe Luz
Hugo Barata
Inês Correia
Inês Marques
Isabel Lucena
João Cabral
João Cunha
João Sousa Cardoso
Luís Alegre
Marco Balesteros
Maria Clara Lima
Marta Guerra Belo
Natalie Woolf
Orlando Franco
Patrícia Cativo
Paulo Segadães
Paulo T. Silva
Rita Carvalho
Ricardo Nunes
Rodrigo Peixoto
Sílvia Prudêncio
Silvio Lorusso
Secretariat
João Cunha
Admission conditions
Necessary qualifications
a) This study cycle accepts candidates who submit their application via the institutional entry admission and have obtained a positive score on one of the following national exams:
03 DESENHO
10 GEOMETRIA DESCRITIVA
18 PORTUGUÊS
b) Candidates may also apply via the regimes of institution/programme transfer or via Special Application, in accordance with the legal regulations in force (holders of higher education degree, holders of a Technological Specialization Course, holders of Professional Higher Technician Course or Over 23 years of Age).
c) Candidates who meet the requirements defined in the International Student Statute can also apply.
Interview
The interview is used to get to know the candidates, their work, their intentions, and expectations about the course.
Portfolio
Candidates must submit a representative portfolio of recent works that must provide an understanding of the candidate’s level of experience. The quality of work submitted is decisive of the number os applications exceeds the number of places available. You can read here the portfolio tips.