Compass professional studies program

9992A + 9992B - Compass Graphic Communications (Compass College Composition [English A] + Compass AI for Graphic Design 2) - 2 Terms / 4 credits, Grades 11-12

Prerequisite recommended: Marketing 1: Fundamentals, AI for Graphic Design 1, or Graphic Design 1

Compass Graphic Communications is a two-term, interdisciplinary course that integrates college-level composition with advanced graphic design. Scheduled for two blocks per day and earning four WHS credits, this course fulfills an English “A” WPS graduation requirement and offers students the opportunity to earn three college credits through concurrent enrollment in “ART2910: Graphic Design Tools 1” at North Hennepin Community College, transferable to many colleges and universities nationwide.

This co-taught, project-based course emphasizes clear communication through writing, speaking, and visual design. Students engage in research-based and informational projects that develop skills in organization, audience awareness, feedback, and professional presentation. Instruction includes focused study of Standard American English and the influence of language on place, with attention to the Dakota and Anishinaabe people of Minnesota.

Through hands-on design experiences, students explore creative problem-solving and visual communication using industry-standard tools such as the Adobe Creative Suite. Projects include interactive, graphic, and product design work, often developed in collaboration with local businesses. These authentic partnerships allow students to plan, design, and implement real-world solutions while building technical skills, communication confidence, and a personal creative brand.

Student Testimonial:

• "Compass is an amazing course to take because it’s so personalized to you. You have the opportunity to create your own professional logo, illustrate/write a children’s story, and more!”

9991A + 9991B - Compass Business Management (Compass Principles of Management + Compass Economics) - 2 Terms / 4 credits, Grade 12 [Watch Course Video]

Prerequisites: Accounting 1: Fundamentals or Business 1: Fundamentals

Compass Business Management is a two-term, two-block-per-day course that combines Principles of Management and Economics for a total of four WHS credits. This Compass course fulfills the Senior Economics WPS graduation requirement and provides eligible students the opportunity to earn three college credits through concurrent enrollment in “BUS2200: Principles of Management” at North Hennepin Community College, transferable to many colleges and universities nationwide.

This course blends theory and application to examine how organizations operate within complex economic systems. Students study how for-profit and nonprofit organizations are structured, how they interact with customers and government, and how economic forces influence decision-making. Emphasis is placed on understanding scarcity, resource allocation, global trends, and the impact of public policy on organizations.

Experiential learning is central to the course. Students partner with local businesses, visit organizations, and learn directly from industry mentors while completing hands-on projects addressing real-world challenges. Through research, collaboration, and applied problem-solving, students develop leadership, project management, communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills. This course is designed for students interested in exploring business careers while gaining practical experience beyond the traditional classroom.

Student Testimonial:

• “My Business Management & Economics Compass class opened my eyes to the numerous opportunities the business world has to offer.  Not only did I learn valuable skills from my business mentor, but I also had the opportunity to job shadow him at his company and network with many of his peers.  This experience, along with visiting local businesses, will better prepare me for my college experience.” 

9993C + 9993B - Compass AP Cybersecurity & Applied Mathematics with Personal Finance (Compass AP Cybersecurity+Math + Compass Personal Finance) - 2 Terms / 4 Credits, Grades 11-12

Prerequisite: A computer course is recommended but not required

Compass AP Cybersecurity & Applied Mathematics with Personal Finance is a two-term, interdisciplinary course scheduled for two blocks per day and earns four WHS credits. This Compass course fulfills the Personal Finance WPS graduation requirement and offers eligible students the opportunity to earn three college credits through concurrent enrollment in “CVF1065: Computer Forensics” at Century College, transferable to many colleges and universities nationwide.

This college-level course explores how data, systems, and money interact in an increasingly digital world. Students examine the modern cybersecurity landscape, learning how adversaries exploit system vulnerabilities and how organizations manage risk through security controls, policies, and procedures. Through digital forensics, students practice evidence collection and analysis while building foundational knowledge in networking, encryption, and cybersecurity principles.

Applied mathematics is embedded throughout the course, with real-world applications including graph theory, game theory, voting methods, cryptography, and financial systems. Students also develop essential personal finance skills, exploring financial psychology, income and earnings, budgeting, credit and debt management, risk, and investing. Emphasis is placed on practical application, critical thinking, and informed decision-making.

The course is team-taught and emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on projects with real organizations, guest speakers, mentors, off-site experiences, and interactive assignments. It is well-suited for students interested in technology, engineering, mathematics, business, finance, or law enforcement.

Students will be prepared to take the CompTIA Security+ and/or the CompTIA Network+ certification exams.