Digital Design
Digital Design
YEAR 1 - DIGITAL DESIGN I
- Course Title: Principles of Digital Design
- Course Instructor: Rogetta McCann-Mitchell & Tiffany Clay
- Number of Credits: 6 credits
- Semesters Offered: 2 semesters
- Prerequisites: Algebra I & English 10
- Eligible Grade Levels: 10th, 11th
- Dual Credits: Ivy Tech
YEAR 2 - DIGITAL DESIGN II
- Course Title: Graphic Design & Layout
- Course Instructor: Rogetta McCann-Mitchell
- Number of Credits: 6 credits
- Semesters Offered: 2 semesters
- Prerequisites: Successful completion of Principles of Digital Design
- Eligible Grade Levels: 11th, 12th
- Dual Credits: Ivy Tech
Content Standards and Competencies
- Demonstrate proficiency in industry-standard design software and digital tools.
- Apply principles of design, color theory, and typography to creative projects.
- Create digital media including graphics, photography, video, web, and interactive content.
- Demonstrate technical skills in image editing, layout, animation, and multimedia production.
- Interpret client needs and develop creative solutions through design briefs and proposals.
- Apply problem-solving and innovation to real-world design challenges.
- Demonstrate effective presentation and portfolio-building skills.
- Exhibit professionalism, customer service, and ethical practices in design environments.
- Recognize and adapt to industry trends, emerging technologies, and new media platforms.
- Apply project management skills to plan, organize, and deliver design projects.
- Collaborate with peers and clients to produce creative, high-quality outcomes.
- Prepare for industry-recognized certifications and future career opportunities in digital media and design.
Dual Credit Information
Dual credit opportunities are subject to change by postsecondary partners or by state agencies, including the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the Indiana Department of Education, and the Indiana Office of Career and Technical Education.
| Course Number | Course Name | Credit Amount | College/University | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VISC 101/102 | Computer Graphics 1 & 2 | 6 | Ivy Tech | Year 1 |
| VISC 101/102 | Principles of Digital Design | 6 | Ivy Tech | Year 1 |
| VISC 115/VISC 114/VISC 113 | Computer Graphics 3 & 4 | 6 | Ivy Tech | Year 2 |
| VISC 115/VISC 114/VISC 113 | Graphic Design & Layout | 6 | Ivy Tech | Year 2 |
Academic Standards for Success
- Maintain consistent attendance, punctuality, and active participation in classroom and lab projects.
- Demonstrate effective written, verbal, and communication skills.
- Apply math, logic, and design principles to digital media projects.
- Follow complex, multistep creative processes with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Interpret and apply information from technical manuals, design briefs, and project guidelines.
- Exhibit professionalism, responsibility, and respect in collaborative and client-focused settings.
- Demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity in design tasks.
- Work effectively in teams, showing leadership, collaboration, and adaptability.
- Evaluate and revise work based on feedback, critique, and performance standards.
- Manage time, organization, and resources to meet project deadlines and client expectations.
Pike CTE Program Approval Rubric
View the Program Approval Rubric here.
NOTE: Required prerequisites include the successful completion of *Algebra I & *English 10 for academic credit.
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Digital Design Pathway
The Digital Design pathway at the Pike Career and STEM Center prepares students for creative careers in graphic design, media, and visual communication. Students begin with Principles of Digital Design and Digital Design Graphics, where they are introduced to the fundamentals of design, including composition, illustration, layout, and the effective use of design elements and principles. Students develop ideas both manually and digitally while building strong problem-solving and critique skills.
Students gain experience in photography and visual composition by capturing and editing original images. They create graphic illustrations using both vector-based and raster-based applications, developing professional-level projects that reflect real-world design practices. Instruction also includes typography, product design, packaging design, branding, and more, preparing students to think creatively and strategically.
This pathway encourages students to pursue industry-recognized Adobe Certified Professional certifications, with opportunities to earn up to four industry certifications. Students can also earn Ivy Tech Dual Credit through courses such as VISC 101, VISC 102, VISC 115, and VISC 114, each worth three college credits. These credentials give students a strong advantage for college and career readiness.
Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and InDesign. These tools allow students to build professional portfolios that showcase their creativity, technical skill, and readiness for careers in graphic design, digital media, marketing, and creative technology fields.
Graduates of the Digital Design pathway are prepared for careers in graphic design, digital media production, advertising, branding, photography, and visual communications. This program blends creativity, technology, and professional certification opportunities to help students turn artistic talent into real-world career success.