Description of Programs

The work of graphic designers can be seen virtually everywhere one looks. The career fields of advertising and graphic design offer a wide range of opportunities for creative personalities. Whether sketching a layout, writing ad copy, presenting an idea to clients, or selecting an appropriate venue, graphic designers are creative problem solvers.

The mission of the Advertising Design program at National Park Technology Center is to guide students in an exploration of the fields of advertising and graphic design. Students will learn the steps followed in the design process allowing them to develop a solution to a design problem. Students will learn to effectively communicate ideas and information to business and consumer audiences through various forms of graphic media including traditional and new media.

Students will do well in Advertising Design if they are creative and have strong communication skills. Time management skills and self-discipline are necessary to meet project deadlines. Students must have basic computer skills. Ability to read and follow written instructions and ability to work independently are necessary.

Program Content:

Advertising Design I

• Lab Safety
• The Advertising Design Industry
• Elements and Principles of Design
• The Design Process
• Color Theory
• Illustration Theory
• Typography
• Design Skills
• Computer Skills
• Career Development

Advertising Design II

• Advanced Design Skills
• Advanced Computer Skills
• Corporate Identity
• Photography
• Portfolio Development

Computer skills will be developed using industry-standard software to create design projects. NPTC Advertising Design students work in a Macintosh computer lab using Adobe CS2, which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Web development and animation are included for advanced students.

Students will be required to purchase a binder and the supplies necessary to compile a student portfolio.

Advertising Design currently has a maximum capacity of 25 students. All interested students must complete a written application to be considered for enrollment. Priority for enrollment into NPTC Advertising Design will be given to students based on the following:

• AD II students who have successfully completed (C or better) Advertising Design I will take priority over any other applicants.
• Juniors – students in 11th grade will take priority over seniors for entry as an Advertising Design I student. Juniors are eligible (and encouraged) to complete 2 years of instruction in this program to become a vocational completer.
• Seniors applying as AD I students will be considered after juniors.

There are two class periods / sections available for enrollment to all students. In the event that there are more applicants for a section than slots available, students will first be asked to choose an alternate period / section. If a section is still over capacity, the following additional criteria will be used to determine acceptance into the program:

• Successful completion (C or better) of Business Applications.
• Successful completion of at least one credit of EAST.
• Successful completion of Desktop Publishing.
• Successful completion of other approved computer related or art classes.
• Minimum Grade Point Average of 2.50.
• Student interview.

Final determination will be at the discretion of the instructor and the director of instruction.

Articulated college credit is available to students who have successfully completed two years of Advertising Design and submit a portfolio of their work for approval. Credit can be earned in the Communication and Arts (Graphic Design) and Business Divisions of National Park Community College.

Download the Secondary Student Handbook (in .pdf format)