Graphic Design

Las Vegas Academy’s Graphic Design program gives students something few high school art programs can: real clients, real deadlines, and professional-grade tools. As part of LVA’s Media Arts major, Graphic Design students build a strong foundation in Multimedia Communications and Marketing while specializing in design. Across four years, students can complete up to three CTE programs. They gain real-world experience by designing marketing materials for LVA’s conservatories, contributing to the school’s social media and news website, and producing work in LVA’s in-house print shop. Along the way, they learn to pitch ideas, collaborate, work with clients, communicate professionally, and turn creative vision into finished, polished work.

Program Curriculum

No other high school design program offers access to as many CTE courses, art electives, and professional resources as LVA. Graphic Design students can take three years of advanced digital imagery electives, including AP 2D Art & Design Portfolio for dual credit and college entry. They can also earn a graphic arts internship in LVA InHouse Design & Print, the school’s in-house print shop.

Working with departments across campus, students design and produce:

Large-format advertisements and signage using a 60" printer and laminator
Custom 3D-printed designs
Engraved awards
Screen-printed t-shirts
Dye-sublimated mugs and merchandise

All Media Arts students have full access to the Adobe Creative Suite. Graphic Design students can also earn industry certifications in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

Beyond the classroom, students can strengthen their skills and compete nationally through electives and student organizations:

Publications: Students design the school’s award-winning yearbook, Eclectic, build leadership experience, and travel to yearbook workshops.
SkillsUSA & DECA: LVA’s active chapters regularly compete at state and national levels, including in Advertising Design and Screen Printing Technology.

COURSE SEQUENCE

Year 1: Graphic Design 1 + Beginning Photography

Year 2: Graphic Design 2 + Graphic Design 2 LAB

Year 3: CSN Jumpstart + GD advanced study

Year 4: AP2D + GD advanced study

Program Outcome

Graphic Design students leave LVA with college credit in up to three CTE programs, industry-recognized Adobe certifications, and a professional portfolio built on real client work. They are prepared for college programs and careers in graphic design, advertising, branding, marketing, print production, digital media, and more. The program balances artistic expression with marketable skills in a way no other program at LVA does. It serves the aspiring professional designer as well as the artist who wants to promote their own work.

Program Accolades

The Las Vegas Academy digital arts programs has been awarded the following recognitions multiple times:

SkillsUSA Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals in Advertising Design, 3D Animation, Screenprinting Technology
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards State & National Gold Key, Silver Key, and American Vision
Voice, CCSD Art Contest, Best of Show, 1st Place, 2nd Place, and Honorable Mention
Adobe Certified Associates certifications for students for job placement in programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and After Effects.