University of Bergen

What you'll study

DIGI-118 covers the fundamental theory and practice of data visualisation. You will learn perceptual and design principles that make charts and maps effective, the grammar of graphics and common visual encodings for quantitative, ordinal and categorical data. Practical topics include data preparation and cleaning, static charting, geospatial visualisation, and the basics of interaction and animation for web visualisations.

Hands‑on work focuses on contemporary tools and workflows used in industry and research. Typical technical content includes creating visualisations with Python libraries (for example matplotlib, seaborn and Plotly), introduction to web visualisation with HTML/CSS and JavaScript libraries (such as D3.js or equivalent high‑level tools), and use of spreadsheet and visual analytics software. The course emphasises iterative design: sketching, prototyping, user testing and evaluation of visualisations.

Teaching is a mix of lectures, computer labs and supervised project work. Assessment normally combines practical assignments, a group or individual project delivering an applied visualisation, and written or online tests that examine both conceptual understanding and critical evaluation of visualisations. Ethical considerations, accessibility and responsible use of visualised information are integrated throughout the syllabus.

Entry requirements

DIGI-118 is designed as an introductory bachelor course and is typically available to students enrolled in bachelor programmes at the University of Bergen as well as to visiting students and those taking single subjects. Students are expected to have a basic secondary‑level education; for international applicants this generally means an equivalent upper‑secondary qualification. Admission to the wider bachelor programme that includes this course follows the University of Bergen's general entry rules.

Recommended preparatory knowledge includes basic numeracy and comfort with spreadsheets. Some prior exposure to programming is helpful but not mandatory; the course provides introductory support for required scripting tasks. Non‑Norwegian speakers must meet the University’s English language requirements for course instruction where applicable.

Career prospects

Skills from DIGI-118 are immediately relevant in roles that require communicating data clearly and persuasively. Graduates and students with training in data visualisation commonly move into careers such as data analyst, visualisation specialist, UX designer focused on data products, business intelligence developer, and roles in journalism or public communication where data storytelling is important.

Beyond entry‑level positions, knowledge of visualisation strengthens applications for further study (advanced data science, information design, human–computer interaction) and for roles in research teams that work with complex datasets, including environmental and marine research projects common in the Bergen region. The practical portfolio generated during the course is useful for demonstrating capability to employers.

Why study at University of Bergen

The University of Bergen offers an interdisciplinary environment that brings together computer science, information studies, media and design — an ideal setting for data visualisation education. Students benefit from hands‑on computing facilities, lab supervision and opportunities for collaboration with research groups and local institutions that work with real data domains such as climate, marine science and public health.

The university’s teaching emphasises applied learning and ethical practice, with support for student projects that may be developed in partnership with municipal, research or industry partners in the Bergen area. For students who wish to progress, the University of Bergen also provides pathways into more specialised courses and research projects in data science, visualization research and human‑centred design.