WHAT is the Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging Technology program?

This program is designed for creative students interested in careers in the graphics and printing industry.  Students learn to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, Macromedia Flash, Painter, and Microsoft PowerPoint and will demonstate an understanding of the principles and elements of design from the visualization process to comprehensive layouts, laser output, and finally printing on an actual press.  Students will also learn 35mm and digital photography, as well as pre-printing, printing press, and post-press operations.

WHY should I take Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging Technology?

Classes at the Saginaw Career Complex are different than those offered at your home high school. You learn by doing—not just reading, listening, and memorizing. And you learn out in the real world, on-the-job, with real people.

Students who successfully complete this program in Graphic Arts are prepared to go directly to local market Print Shops, where depending on ability, would do: Pre-Press; Printing or Post Press work. They may also do basic computer layout and design. After graduation students may enroll at Community Colleges, Art & Design Centers, or Universities for continued training, or go directly to work in the Printing Industry.

You will also earn a competency certificate in Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging Technology from the Saginaw Career Complex, which says you've learned actual job skills at high standards set by business and industry. Your parents will love it, so will colleges and employers.

WHAT will I learn in Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging Technology?

You will learn about:
• Computer Software
• Computer Hardware
• Electronic Prepress & Troubleshooting
• Pre-Printing Press Operations
• Printing Press Operations
• Post Printing Press Operations
• 35mm Photography, Development, Printing
• Math & English Language Arts
• Communication Skills
• Teamwork, decision making, and problem solving
• Employability skills

You will learn these skills in a clean, well-equipped, and up-to-date, Graphic Arts lab. You will also learn and practice skills in real work environments.

For more specific areas of study click here to see more about the curriculum.

WHAT are my job prospects?

Employment of visual artists is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through the year 2008. Because the visual arts attract many talented people with creative ability, the number of aspiring visual artists continues to grow. Consequently, competition for both salaried jobs and freelance work in some, but not all, areas of visual arts is expected to be keen.

WHERE can I go after completing the program?

Your training in the Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging Technology program gives you several exciting options:

• Entry-level employment - Working in a variety of positions in the printing industry would be a viable option for students who have completed this program.
• Entrepreneurship - With the skills learned in this program, students might open up their own independent business.
• Continued Education - Students may continue their education with the advantage of articulating college credits at the same time they are earning their high school diploma, and they don't have to pay for it! After successfully completing the program, students may articulate credits at Delta College or Ferris State University. The articulation process will give students a head start on their post-secondary education, as well as save them a considerable sum of money. In addition, students are also ready to enter industry/employer-sponsored training programs.

WHO are the teachers?

Mrs. Toni Hock brings an abundance of energy, talent, education, and practical experience to her classroom on a daily basis. Mrs. Hock holds degrees from Delta College and from the University of Michigan's School of Art. In addition, Mrs. Hock also has several years experience as a Graphic Artist, some of which has been spent in her own business called Brylliant Designs. She continues to utilize her talents as a freelance designer. In addition to her activities in the classroom, Mrs. Hock demonstrates her expertise in the fine arts with displays of her work at art galleries and art fairs. This dynamic instructor brings a wealth of knowledge and ability to the students in the Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging Technology program.

WHAT are the admission requirements?

Students admitted to the Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging Technology program at the Saginaw Career Complex must:

• Have an interest in a career in the Graphic Arts/Visual Imaging area.
• Be a high school junior or senior.
• Be on track for high school graduation.
• Have good attendance habits.
• Be willing to attend the Saginaw Career Complex for half of the school day and participate in work-based learning experiences.

WHAT does it cost?

Nothing! Eligible high school students may attend free of charge.

HOW do I enroll?

You can enroll by completing just a few easy steps. Click here to get started:

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