graphic designer on laptop

Graphic Arts

Explore the print and design industry through drawing, typography, photography, graphic design, illustration, and animation. Learn marketable skills in a studio setting that includes a Mac lab running the Adobe Creative Suite, and a print lab that provides hands-on workspace to generate products like t-shirts and stickers. An emphasis is placed on the design process, concept development, and critique to create a portfolio for a career in commercial arts.


PDF Document Graphic Arts Summary Sheet

CORE SKILLS

  • Idea generation & image development
  • Creative problem solving
  • Layout & composition
  • Design principles & color theory
  • Digital & traditional illustration
  • Animation & character design
  • Photography
  • Print production
  • Graphic design & typography
  • Self-management & self-promotion

FUTURE CAREER OPTIONS

  • Concept artist
  • Art teacher/therapist
  • Photographer
  • Animator
  • Illustrator
  • Set designer
  • Fine artist
  • Museum curator/technician
  • Freelance artist

CERTIFICATIONS and ACADEMIC CREDIT

  • English and/or math credit
  • PASSES EDGE workplace safety certificate
  • Visual Performing Applied Arts credit
  • Postsecondary articulated credit

SETTING STUDENTS UP FOR SUCCESS

Students engage in active learning by taking advantage of job shadows, co-op and work experiences as well as making career connections through guest speakers from the graphic arts industry.

LEADERSHIP and SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Club participation, competition and leadership can occur through Skills USA, MITES, National Cherry Festival, peer mentorship, local art shows, National Technical Honor Society and Student Council.