CTE Levels, Titles & Resources

Student are introduced to the variety of programs and occupations in the arts, audio/video technology, and communications systems. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.

This entry level course is for training in the visual communication portion of all media businesses. Students learn about a career in the many kinds of media and graphic design and illustration jobs. Digital photography and working towards the intermediate level use of image editing and drawing programs are strongly focused upon in this class. This is helpful for any future photographer, videographer, animator or advertiser. Students will begin developing a high quality portfolio for college or design school.

Design portfolios are expanded upon and improved in this second year of Graphic Design and Illustration. There is study of college art and media programs. More time is spent learning advanced concepts in illustration and the advertising and media business as well as new software programs while continuing to hone skills in image editing and digital photography. Large format printing of projects is common in this class. Students may select an area of visual communication to begin specializing in during this year of study. It is a high level of media study where specializations such as motion graphics may begin. Students will have the opportunity earn and industry recognized certification at this level.

This course is recommended for students who have completed Graphic Design and Illustration II. This course is meant to serve students interested in further development of a professional portfolio in addition to further development of skills and technical knowledge. Students will be expected to further develop knowledge and awareness of the industry of graphic design and illustration. Instruction may be delivered through lab-based classroom experiences and/or career preparation opportunities.

In Digital Media, students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies, while designing and creating multimedia projects that address customer needs and resolve a problem. Students will implement personal and interpersonal skills to prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace environment. The knowledge and skills acquired and practiced will enable students to successfully perform and interact in a technology-driven society. Students will enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and critical thinking and apply them to the IT environment.

The goal of this course is for the student understands arts, audio/video technology, and communications systems. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.

This photography course focuses on studio-based photography. Students will learn basic DSLR camera operations, framing and the art of styling and lighting for professional photo shoots. Projects will include various print advertisements and studio work. Students will learn about careers in related to commercial photography and the postsecondary programs and requirements within Colorado. Some examples of jobs in this area are photographer, graphic designer and stylist. Students will complete a number of projects and design pieces to be added to personal portfolios.

Animation I is an introduction to traditional animation. This course covers essential knowledge, skills, and concepts required for postsecondary fields of study. Upon completion of this course, students are able to describe various careers within animation, as well as admission requirements for postsecondary fields of study in Colorado. Students will digitally create both 2D animations and 3D computer-generated animations. The basic principles of design and animation will be covered that have been used by professionals. Students will have drawing assignments to help them in character design, layout, and story development. With the approval of the instructor, students may have the choice to complete major projects in either 2D or 3D.