Arts, Audio Visual Technology, and Communication Career Cluster

Revised May 2024

The Arts, Audio Visual Technology, and Communication (AAVTC) career cluster focuses on designing, producing, exhibiting, performing, writing, and publishing multimedia content requiring creative aptitude, fluency in computer and technology applications, and proficiency in oral and written communication. This career cluster includes occupations ranging from camera operator, audio and video technician, director, and producer to graphic designer and web and digital interface designer.

Statewide Program of Study: Graphic Design and Interactive Media

The Graphic Design and Interactive Media program of study focuses on occupational and educational opportunities associated with designing or creating graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. The program includes designing clothing and accessories and creating visual images using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.

Secondary Courses for High School Credit

• Level 1: Principles of Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications
• Level 2: Graphic Design and Illustration I
• Level 3: Graphic Design and Illustration II and Graphic Design and Illustration II Lab
• Level 4: No Level 4 course offered; current sequence completes endorsement requirements

Work-Based Learning and Expanded Learning Opportunities

Work-Based Learning Activities

• Shadow an art director at a branding firm or design agency
• Intern in the marketing and communications department of a technology company

Expanded Learning Opportunities

• Participate in SkillsUSA or TSA
• Participate in Student Television Network
• Join a related co-curricular or extracurricular club such as web development or computer coding

Example Postsecondary Opportunities

Associate Degrees

• Graphic Design
• Digital Arts

Bachelor’s Degrees

• Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design
• Design and Visual Communications

Master’s, Doctoral, and Professional Degrees

• Game and Interactive Media Design
• Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects

Additional Stackable Certifications

• Certified Textile Designer (CTD)

Example Aligned Occupations

Software Developers

• Median Wage: $111,705
• Annual Openings: 15,324
• 10-Year Growth: 36%

Graphic Designers

• Median Wage: $50,973
• Annual Openings: 1,766
• 10-Year Growth: 10%

Art Directors

• Median Wage: $81,926
• Annual Openings: 619
• 10-Year Growth: 18%

Aligned Industry-Based Certifications Offered in LCISD

• Adobe Certified Professional in Graphic Design and Illustration Using Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design Using Adobe Photoshop

Additional Information

Successful completion of the Graphic Design and Interactive Media program of study fulfills requirements of the Business and Industry endorsement.

Data Source: TexasWages, Texas Workforce Commission (Retrieved March 8, 2024)

https://tea.texas.gov/academics/college-career-and-military-prep/career-and-technical-education/programs-of-study