Graphic Design

Teacher

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Graphic Design is a course focusing on print and web design as well as video editing. Learning the principles of design and incorporating them into various forms of media is a skill they will use each day in the field. The course focuses on Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Premiere Pro.

CERTIFICATION

Students who receive 12 credits in graphic design have the opportunity to take the Adobe certification exam that focuses on Adobe Illustrator. Adobe Illustrator is the predominately used software by industry professionals in the field of graphic design.

Work Based Learning Opportunities

Students will obtain 54 Work Based Learning hours during their three years within the program. Through these 54 hours, students will develop career-building skills, work with professionals, as well as attend internships focusing on the field of graphic design. Our shop class collaborates with business professionals such as Marvel Consults and DEMA Auto to provide students with real-life work experience during their internships.

Career Opportunities

Graphic Designer: ($45k-$90k) This is the foundation! Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.
Brand Designer: ($55k-$110k) These designers focus on creating and maintaining a consistent visual identity for a company or organization. This includes designing logos, typography, color palettes, and imagery that reflects the brand’s values and personality.
Web Designer: ($50k-$110k) Web designers are responsible for the visual look and feel of websites. They combine design principles with coding knowledge (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to create user-friendly and engaging online experiences.
UX/UI Designer: ($60k-$140k) UX (user experience) and UI (user interface) designers focus on the usability and interactivity of websites and apps. They ensure that designs are both aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate.

Specialized Graphic Design Roles

Illustrator: ($40k-$90k) Illustrators create original artwork for various purposes, including books, magazines, advertising, and product packaging. They may specialize in a particular style, such as cartooning, realism, or vector art.
Motion Graphics Designer: ($60k-$130k) These designers create moving graphics and animations for use in videos, websites, and presentations. They often use software like After Effects to bring their creations to life.
Publication Designer: ($50k-$100k) Publication designers specialize in the layout and design of magazines, newspapers, and books. They have a keen eye for typography and page composition.
Packaging Designer: ($50k-$100k) These designers create visually appealing and functional packaging for products. They consider factors such as branding, shelf appeal, and consumer behavior.
Type Designer: ($50k-$110k) Type designers create original typefaces for use in various applications. They have a deep understanding of typography and the nuances of letterforms.

Emerging and Expanding Roles

Experience Designer: ($70k-$150k) Experience designers focus on creating holistic and engaging experiences for users across multiple touchpoints, both physical and digital. This may involve designing for events, installations, and interactive environments.
AR/VR Designer: ($60k-$140k) These designers create visual content and interfaces for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications. This is a growing field with opportunities in gaming, education, and other industries.
AI Design Specialist: ($60k-$130k) AI design specialists use artificial intelligence tools to assist with design tasks, such as generating design variations, automating repetitive tasks, and personalizing user experiences.