Communications

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This major is designed for students who are interested in combining communication skills, digital technology and creativity. Communication majors will be immersed in consumer-driven activities using 21st Century technology and software programs to design digital products and address a wide variety of media needs and concerns. William Penn offers three different pathways: Digital Media, Digital Communication (Graphic Design) and Journalism.

Grade 9

  1. English I
  2. Integrated Math I
  3. Science I
  4. Geography/Civics
  5. Physical Education/Health
  6. Communication or Media (Level 1)
  7. World Language
  8. Elective

Grade 10

  1. English II
  2. Integrated Math II
  3. Biology
  4. Economics
  5. Physical Ed/Drivers Ed
  6. Journalism I
  7. Communication or Media
    (Level 2)
  8. World Language

Grade 11

  1. English III
  2. Integrated Math III
  3. Science course
  4. US History
  5. Communication or Media
    (Level 3)
  6. Journalism II
  7. Marketing Essentials
  8. Elective

Grade 12

  1. English IV
  2. Mathematics class
  3. Creative Writing
  4. Penn Publications
  5. World History
  6. Elective
  7. Elective
  8. Elective

Additional courses or electives that relate to this major:

  Marketing
  Art Design (Levels I, II, III)
  Legal Studies courses
  Penn Publications

After School:
  Penn Media

Online Courses:
• Professional Communication
• Digital Information Technology
• Art in World Cultures

College Courses

• DSU ENGL 250 Storytelling for Social Change
• WU VFP 100 Camera and Cinematography
• WU TEC 215 Basic Photography
• UD UAPP 110 Changing the World and Public Policy

Below are recommended courses for each Communications’ pathways. Communication majors are encouraged to take as many of the Communication courses that are offered for a balanced curriculum and transcript.

WP MEDIA Pathway

The WP Media curriculum teaches students how to use a comprehensive 21st century digital media communication and design tools for the web similar to the Graphic Arts print curriculum and Penn Publications. With the help of advisors, successful professionals in the industry, this curriculum has been developed to not only prepare students for college, but also explore and consider entrepreneurship. The purpose in this is to help the students build their brand and “Tell Their Story” across web, social media, and video. This also allows students to do the same for potential clients and employers.

Courses: 

• Digital Media Essentials (Level 1)
• Web Design and Development (Level 2)
• Video Production & Special Effects (Level 3)
• Communication, Technology, Research & Development (Level 4)

Digital Communication Technology Pathway

The Digital Communication Technology (DCT) program of study is a three course instructional program of study that requires students to apply the skills and tools of digital designers used in graphic design, pixel-based imagery manipulation, HTML coding, digital video production, vector image manipulation, digital illustration, and digital publishing. Students utilize strategies to solve open-ended problems while learning how to apply technical skills, creative skills, industry knowledge, documentation techniques, and processes using modern, industry-leading technology and software. Client-based learning experiences and industry-mentored projects introduce students to a wide array of related careers in public relations, marketing, web and digital communications and printing.

Courses:
• Foundations of Digital Design (Level 1)
• Applications of Digital Design (Level 3)
• WBL: Penn Publications

Journalism

• Journalism I
• Journalism II
• Creative Writing I
• Creative Writing II
• Creative Writing III