“Every artist was first an amateur.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Career Cluster
Arts and Communications Pathway

Graphic Design & Visual Communications Standards

Program Title: CTE Graphic Design and Visual Communications Program

Program Description: The Graphic Design and Visual Communications pathway at Haverhill High School is designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and practical experiences needed to transition from the classroom to a successful career in the dynamic field of design. This program blends creative exploration with technical expertise, preparing students for careers as graphic designers, visual communicators, and digital media specialists across a wide range of industries.

Through a combination of hands-on coursework, industry-standard software training, and real-world project experiences, students will learn the core principles of graphic design, typography, branding, digital imaging, web design, and visual storytelling. The program emphasizes both conceptual thinking and practical application, enabling students to create compelling designs that communicate effectively to diverse audiences.

In addition to technical skills, the program places a strong focus on professional development, including building a portfolio, preparing for job interviews, and understanding the business side of design. Students will have opportunities to engage with industry professionals, participate in internships, and attend career-building workshops to gain insight into the demands and expectations of the design industry. 

By the time students graduate Haverhill High School, they will be ready to continue their education or directly enter the workforce with a strong portfolio showcasing their abilities and a deep understanding of how to create visual media that make an impact in today’s rapidly evolving digital world.

Course Title:  Introduction to Graphic Design and Visual Communications 9th Grade ( Full year) 

Course Description: This introductory course provides students with a comprehensive foundation in graphic design and visual communication principles. Students will explore key concepts such as layout, typography, color theory, image manipulation, and visual hierarchy, while learning how to apply these principles in digital design projects. Emphasis will be placed on developing creative problem-solving skills, enhancing visual storytelling, and understanding the role of design in conveying messages across various media.

Through hands-on assignments and projects, students will gain proficiency in industry-standard design software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. 

By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of the design process, from concept to execution, and will be equipped with the skills needed to create visually compelling designs for print, digital, and multimedia platforms.

Course Title:  Graphic Design and Visual Communications II 10th Grade.

This second-level graphic design course is designed for students to build upon their foundational knowledge in graphic design and investigate the history of graphic design and real-world case studies. Students will focus on creating impactful visual communications and focus on advanced techniques in design thinking, brand identity, typography, interactive design, and multimedia integration.

Course Objectives:

  • Concept Development: Students will learn how to develop comprehensive design strategies, exploring conceptual ideation and the integration of design elements that communicate effectively to diverse audiences.
  • Brand Identity: Emphasis on the creation and application of brand identities, from logos to comprehensive brand guidelines, including the use of color theory, typography, and visual language to create cohesive brand experiences.
  • Advanced Typography: Dive deeper into the art of typography, learning how to use type creatively and effectively in various design formats, including digital, print, and interactive platforms.
  • Multi-Platform Design: Students will learn to design for multiple platforms, ensuring consistency and flexibility across various mediums (print, digital, social media, and mobile applications).
  • Portfolio Development: Emphasis on the development of a professional portfolio, with the opportunity to complete a range of design projects to showcase a student’s individual style and technical expertise.
  • History of Graphic design: Graphic Design and typography have rich histories that stretch back centuries and are deeply interwoven with the development of communication, art, and technology.

Course Title:  Portfolio 11th Grade

The primary goal of this course is to help students build a compelling, well-organized portfolio that highlights their best work in graphic design and visual communications. The course will teach students how to curate their projects, communicate their aesthetics and engage in the design process effectively. Lastly, students will understand the needs of different industries and clients and become proficient in presenting their portfolios professionally, both digitally and in print.

Course Objective:

  • Define what a portfolio is and its importance in the design industry.
  • Discuss the importance of presenting the design process: research, ideation, sketches, feedback, and iterations.
  • Demonstrate how to layout a digital portfolio or presentation using design tools (e.g., Adobe XD, Figma, Behance). Explore different portfolio platforms, such as Behance, Dribble, or personal websites.
  • Discuss how to write an effective designer biography and introduction.
  • Discuss how to iteratively improve the portfolio based on feedback from mentors, peers, or industry professionals.
  • Prepare students for presenting their portfolio to potential clients or employers.

Course Title: AP ART & 2D DESIGN 12th Grade.

AP 2-D Art and Design students will use the skills learned in prior courses, and original  ideas to create unique works of art. Throughout the course, you’ll develop an inquiry that guides artmaking through practice, experimentation, and revision of materials, processes, and ideas while demonstrating 2-D art and design skills through graphic design, sequential art, photography, collage, printmaking, illustration, industrial design, animation, game design, painting, fibers, and others.