Graphic Communications

"This program definitely brings out your creativity, your personality, and helps you build connections because we [collaborate] with a local company and learn more about graphics in the real world.”

Holly Henault, Grade 12

They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. We agree, but say you should still design a good cover anyway. As the famous designer, Mark King once said, “design is the body language of your marketing.” It sends visual cues to your audience and sets the tone for their relationship with your brand.

Our Graphic Communications CTE Pathway does a deep dive into the principles of quality design and effective graphic communication strategies, and acquaints students with essential design software including Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Throughout this program, students will complete work associated with the GAERF- PrintED Certification — which ensures students have industry-standard skills in graphic communications. Most importantly, this program helps students to transform their artistic skills into a highly marketable workforce skill that will help them gain entry into college and obtain a high-paying graphic communications job. BHS CTE Graphic Communications Factsheet

Program Timeline

In addition to the suggested course timeline below, students must meet BHS’ graduation requirements.*


Grade 9

Career Skills

1 academic credit


Grade 10

Graphic Communication I

1 academic credit


Grade 11

Graphic Communication II

1 academic credit


Grade 12

Graphic Communication III

1 academic credit


*We recommend pairing coursework in Graphic Communications and Computer Science

What You'll Learn

  • In Graphic Communication I, you’ll be introduced to Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, the history of graphic design, and the fundamental principles of graphic design.

  • In Graphic Communication II, you’ll learn about typographic principles, image integration to design, how to use strong visual concepts to communicate effectively, color correction, and more.

  • In Graphic Communication III, you’ll refine your graphic design skills even further. This class will focus on students completing a series of real-world design projects for the school and local community. This will help students refine their communication skills and develop a portfolio of their work.