PA Dept of Education | CIP Code 11.0801

Effectively interacting with an audience on many levels, from graphics to audio, is the challenge in this field. Corporate Web sites and interactive CD-ROMs and training materials become a canvas in the professional world. Multimedia system and Web page design, video, animation, and scripting are just some of the key elements in the curriculum. The technical toolbox and the student's own creative abilities prepare for entry-level positions such as graphic artist, digital media producer, and interface designer in fields as varied as advertising, corporate communications, and law and medicine.

There's a revolution going on in communication: a digital revolution. The Internet, CDs, DVDs, and video production are all creating new avenues of artistic expression. Students who know how to create, build, and deliver that digital information are going to have the edge. In this program, students learn to navigate the digital landscape, including the worlds of video production and multimedia technology. Learning to combine traditional production techniques with the latest digital tools to shoot, edit, refine sound, and develop special effects, the students will be prepared for entry-level production positions in Internet, broadcasting, and cable industries.

Mass communication and media writing are other aspects of the program. In addition, students will explore lighting, audio for video, television studio production, and video editing. Each student's portfolio will demonstrate his or her talent in the form of a video from concept to final edition composition. Entry-level jobs that may await the Multimedia and Web Design graduate include those in pre- and post-production fields, lighting, directing, and production in broadcasting or corporate environments. Beginning 2008, students may concentrate on printing pre-press operations and be eligible for PrintED Certification.

Today, photography is much more than capturing an image. Once it has been taken, a photograph can be scanned, digitized, manipulated, and retouched, which is why the program emphasizes both the artistry and technical requirements of this highly creative field. Composition, lighting, digital darkroom processes, and digital imaging are also covered in the course. Graduates may seek entry-level position in ad agencies, magazines, newspapers, studios, or stock photo houses.

Printing is the production of multiple copies of images and words, like the images and words in this course catalog. It involves a collection of information and photos with the primary purpose to create and manufacture products that communicate visually.

The printing industry is constantly developing higher quality and more efficient ways to meet the needs of our growing population. The printing industry is one of the largest service organizations in the world. Its sales income and number of employees rank as the largest manufacturing industry in the United States today. With over 44,000 printing plants currently in operation, it produces more than 157 billion dollars in printed products and services each year.

Printing is a growth industry. Each year it manufactures more products than it did the previous year. As a result, employment opportunities are excellent.

Students are members of DECA, an International Student Organization who prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. Scholarship opportunities exist through annual membership.

Occupational Profile: For information on this occupation's description, required knowledge, job tasks and related job titles, state and national wages, and employment trends, visit the U.S. Dept. of Labor's site for this career field at: http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/27-1024.00