Digital Art and Design

About the Course of Study

Graphic Design is a form of communication that utilizes visual elements to convey ideas. It has become an umbrella term covering various types of design work, from logos to brochures to packaging, and so much more. A graphic designer uses typographies, colors, shapes, and images to bring a concept, idea, or message to life. They use visually appealing elements to create attractive designs that apply in multiple areas, like marketing, advertising, and production. A well-designed graphic material can catch the audience's attention and entice them to buy or use a particular product/service. Thus, a graphic designer is one of the most in-demand professionals out there in market, particularly for their ability to talk to the client through a visually appealing medium that combines technical and artistic skills. Upon completion of this program students will be prepared to be a Graphic Designer, and/or further their education to becoming a Graphic Designer. TAPS credit opportunities are available through Horry Georgetown Technical College.

Digital Arts and Design 1: Graphic Design

The objective of this course is to prepare students for careers in the graphic design field. Skills may be applied in any media, such as print, digital media, product design, packaging, etc. Most of the standards require students to combine text and graphics to communicate an effective message in the format intended for commercial reproduction. This project-driven class stresses the development of employability skills in the field of graphics. Students are also expected to use industry software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Students who have taken art and are creative are encouraged to take this course.

Digital Arts and Design 2: Advanced Graphic Design

This class is a continuation of the level 1 program. The students will be expected to use industry software (Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign) and design concepts, principles, and processes to manipulate text and graphics, utilize and output appropriate file formats for the web and print, meet client expectations, and complete a senior project that highlights the skills that were acquired through the 2 year program. Students who have taken art and are creative are encouraged to take this course.

Prerequisite: Digital Arts & Design 1 and Teacher Recommendation

Taps Opportunities
HGTC Digital Art

The Digital Art & Design course at the Advantage Academy gives students the opportunity to obtain credit through Horry Georgetown Technical College. Our TAPS aggrement with HGTC gives student credit for ARV 110 Computer Graphics, ARV 121 Design and ARV 210 Computer Graphics II.

Industry Certificates and Outlook

Students will be provided the opportunity and the knowledge to be prepared for the following industry recognized certifications:

Adobe® Certified Associate - Graphic Design & Illustration with Adobe Illustrator
Adobe® Certified Associate - Graphic Design & Illustration with Adobe Photoshop
Precision Exams: Digital Print Design
OSHA General Industry Certification

Graphics Design Services Occupation Report

Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Students have completed WBL experiences with SC Works and Florence 1 Schools. These experiences give the students an opportunity to "test drive" a career. This empowers the student with the knowledge that they love the career or that it may not be for them, allowing them to change course to a career that best fit them. Either way the student will save time and money. If they love it the student will already have experience, contacts, references for the industry allowing them to start earning money sooner and likely at a higher than entry level. If they don't love it the student will not waist any more time pursuing a career that is not a good fit for them.

Course Standards

Advisory Committee

The Career and Technical Education Advisory Committees are made up of volunteers who agree to serve as advisors to one or more career and technical programs. Members include representatives from business, labor, community agencies, faculty, students and other members. The primary purpose of advisory committees is to provide direction and guidance for the specific career and technical area within the school to strengthen and enhance the success of CTE programs. By working closely with the business and labor communities, we continue to provide high quality workforce training and education to our students so they will succeed in today's job market.

The committees support and strengthen the partnership between business, labor, the community, and education. The committees make recommendations that will strengthen and help to expand the curriculum to improve the quality of program(s). Members provide valuable input in areas such as curriculum development, industry relevant certifications, student recruitment and placement, staff development, equipment and software recommendations.

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