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Graphic Design Course – Trentino Art Academy
The Graphic Design course at Trentino Art Academy focuses on all aspects and nuances of visual communication.
You will learn how to create clear and effective messages across different media, from web design to editorial graphics. You will build a strong cultural and methodological foundation: learning theoretical principles and practising consistently through workshops led by experienced instructors.
Graphic Design Course Overview
First-Level Academic Diploma (AFAM)
180 credits
Three-year duration
Course start: September/October 2026
Location: Trento
Language of instruction: Italian
Mandatory attendance
In person classes
Learning Objectives
The Graphic Design course is focused on visual communication design through the use of images, symbols, logos, colours, and text.
It trains professionals capable of developing clear and effective messages for brands, companies, and institutions across the main areas of the field: visual identity, publishing, advertising, packaging, web, social media, as well as exhibition, museum, and public service design projects.
Study Plan – Year 1
Related/Complementary
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABPR 31 | Photography: Techniques and Technologies | 100 | 6 | Theoretical/Practical | Marco Olivotto |
| ABST 55 | Anthropology of Art | 45 | 6 | Theoretical | Giovanna Felluga |
| ABPR 19 | Lettering | 100 | 6 | Theoretical/Practical | Andrea Foches |
| ABTEC 39 | Basics of Computer Science | 25 | 4 | Theoretical/Practical | Fabio Bernardi |
| ABLIN 71 | English | 25 | 4 | Theoretical | Steven Tomasi |
Foundation
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABST 48 | History of Printing and Publishing | 60 | 8 | Theoretical | Fabrizio Franchi |
| ABTEC 38 | Digital Applications for Visual Arts 1 | 75 | 6 | Teorica/Pratica/Laboratoriale | Samuele Prosser |
Core
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABPR 19 | Graphic Design | 150 | 12 | Theoretical/Practical | Gianmarco Longano |
| ABPR 17 | Color design | 100 | 8 | Theoretical/Practical/Laboratory | Marco Olivotto |
Study Plan – Year 2
Related/Complementary
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABPC 68 | Semiotics of Art | 45 | 6 | Theoretical | Luca Bertoldi |
| ABST 46 | Aesthetics | 45 | 6 | Theoretical | Marco Luscia |
| Stage | 100 | 4 | |||
| Integrative Didactic Module | 0 | 2 |
Foundation
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABPR 30 | Paper Technology | 100 | 8 | Theoretical | Claudia Zanella |
| ABPR 16 | Basics of Computer Design | 100 | 8 | Theoretical/Practical | Fabio Bernardi |
Core
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABPR 19 | Graphic Design 2 | 150 | 12 | Theoretical/Practical | Pio Nainer |
| ABST 51 | Languages of Contemporary Art | 45 | 6 | Theoretical | Luca Coser |
| ABTEC 41 | Rendering 3D | 100 | 8 | Theoretical/Practical | Andrea Foches |
Study Plan – Year 3
Related/Complementary
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABTEC 43 | Audio-visual Languages and Techniques | 75 | 8 | Theoretical/Practical | Andrea Franceschini |
| Content Free | 0 | 10 |
Foundation
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABTEC 38 | Computer Graphic | 100 | 8 | Theoretical/Practical | Valerio Oss |
| ABST 47 | History of Contemporary Art 2 | 45 | 6 | Theoretical | Luca Coser |
Core
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABPR 19 | Graphic Design 3 | 150 | 12 | Theoretical/Practical | Daniel-A. von Johnston |
| ABPR 19 | Web Design | 75 | 6 | Theoretical/Practical | Mabel Pillon |
Final Assessment (10 CFA ECTS)
| SD | Subject Area | Hours | CFA ECTS | Teaching Format | Lecturer |
|---|
Additional Information about the Course
Qualification
The Graphic Design course awards a First-Level Academic Diploma, recognised by the AFAM system (Higher Artistic, Musical and Dance Education) and equivalent to a university degree in Class L-3 – Disciplines of the Arts, Music, Performing Arts, and Fashion.
The First-Level Academic Diploma is a first-cycle qualification: AFAM institutions are part of the higher education system and follow a three-cycle structure of studies.
Internships
The course includes a professional internship for each student: a placement in companies, professional studios, research centres, institutions, and other organisations affiliated with Trentino Art Academy.
This is a key educational experience that allows students to gain concrete exposure to the professional world and production processes.
How to Enrol
The annual tuition fee is €4,050.00. Scholarships may be available upon application. For further information on tuition fees and admission procedures, please visit the dedicated page.
AdmissionsCareer Opportunities in the Field
Graphic Designer
Designs visual elements for both print and digital communication.
Web Designer
Designs websites and digital interfaces.
Editorial Designer
Designs books, magazines, and editorial products, taking care of layout and visual composition.
Visual Designer
Works on visual content and imagery for digital communication and branding.
Brand Designer
Develops visual identities (logo, colours, graphic language) for companies and institutions.
Packaging Designer
Designs packaging and product wrapping, combining aesthetics and functionality.
Interaction Designer
Designs the interaction between users and digital products.
UX (User Experience) Designer
Designs the user experience of websites and applications, making it simple and effective.
Multimedia Designer
Creates visual and interactive content across different media.
Video Maker
Produces video content for communication, promotion, or storytelling.
Art Director
Coordinates and oversees the visual direction of creative projects.
Content Creator
Designs and produces visual, video, and digital content for social media and websites.
Project Manager
Manages timelines, resources, and development phases of a project.
Studying Graphic Design at Trentino Art Academy: The Teaching Method
Our highly professional training is a combination of theory, practice, and project-based methodology.
Throughout the three-year programme, students acquire theoretical knowledge, take part in hands-on workshops, and learn how to follow a graphic project from start to finish, in every phase. In this way, studying graphic design builds a solid foundation for a career in the field.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Graphic Design Course at Trentino Art Academy
Do I need to know how to draw to enrol in the course?
No, an advanced level of drawing is not required. The course is designed to provide all the foundations of graphic design and visual communication, even for those starting from scratch.
Can I specialise further after the course?
The First-Level Academic Diploma awarded is recognised by the AFAM system (Higher Artistic, Musical and Dance Education) and is equivalent to a university bachelor’s degree in Class L-3 – Disciplines of the Arts, Music, Performing Arts, and Fashion.
With this qualification, it is possible to access—subject to the specific requirements of each institution—second-level academic programmes, master’s degrees, university master’s programmes, and further specialisation courses both within universities and AFAM institutions.
What career opportunities does the course offer?
The course prepares students for various professional roles, including graphic designer, visual designer, junior art director, web designer, and content creator, with opportunities to work in creative studios, communication agencies, or as freelancers.
Are there practical experiences or internships?
Yes. The programme includes design workshops, hands-on activities, and internship opportunities, which are essential for gaining real-world experience and building a professional portfolio.