Seattle Public Schools

Programs and Career Pathways

Media Arts Pathways

Media Arts Career Pathways

Is this the right pathway for me?

  • Do you have a passion for creative expression and storytelling? 
  • Are you open to learning and adapting to new technologies and trends? 
  • Do you enjoy collaborating with others and working on diverse projects? 

What is Media Arts?

Media arts is a creative field that uses visual and auditory elements to convey ideas and stories. It includes graphic design, photography, filmmaking, animation, and more. Professionals in media arts use technology to create engaging content for various platforms like TV, film, and the internet. The goal is to communicate, entertain, or inform through artistic expressions, making it a dynamic and evolving field. 

What sort of work would I do?

In media arts, students can pursue creative roles like graphic design, photography, filmmaking, animation, and more. Whether crafting visual designs, capturing images, or directing films, the field offers diverse and dynamic opportunities. Roles also extend to web design, digital marketing, and interactive media, providing a range of creative paths for those interested in visual storytelling and design.

Leads to these Careers

  • Graphic Designer 
  • Photographer 
  • Filmmaker 
  • Animator 
  • Sound Designer 
  • Web Designer 
  • Digital Marketer 
  • Art Director 
  • Interactive Media Designer 
  • Creative Director 

In-Demand Occupations

Typical Education RequiredCareer TitleAverage Annual SalaryJob Outlook in WA State (2020-2030)
High School Photographer $64,051 5% increase 
Bachelor’s Degree Graphic Designer $96,281 29% increase 
Bachelor’s Degree Audio and Video Technician $84,769 22% increase 
Check Career One Stop, Bureau of Labor Statistics for updated career trends

What Courses can I take now?

Check with your school counselor and administrators to find out which classes are available at your school.

Clubs and Activities at SPS

Students can attend Skills USA and TSA club sessions at their schools to dive deeper into all things Media Arts. Learn about opportunities at your high school!

What training do I need after high school?

Below are possible training pathways for students interested in pursuing work and higher learning in media arts.

Seattle Central College – Creative Academy 

  • Programs: Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design, Photography, and Video Production 
  • Features: Hands-on training, state-of-the-art equipment, industry connections 
  • Eligibility: Free tuition for Seattle Public Schools graduates through Seattle Promise 
  • Duration: 2 years 

Cornish College of the Arts

  • Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design, Photography, Film+Media 
  • Features: Emphasis on artistic development, interdisciplinary approach 
  • Duration: 4 years 

Local Workshops and Community Classes

Questions? Contact us at cte@391774.com!