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High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Visual Art

Visual Art

MCPS Regional Visual Art Programs provide students with a strong foundation in drawing and design, advanced media skills, and authentic, real‑world arts experiences. Through rigorous studio practice and creative exploration, students are prepared for postsecondary opportunities in the arts—whether pursuing a college degree or entering the creative workforce directly after high school.

The program emphasizes artistic growth, technical proficiency, and professional readiness. Students develop competitive portfolios and gain experience working with both traditional and digital media, preparing them for careers in visual arts, design, and related creative fields.

 

Core Experiences

  • MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal
  • Industry Recognized Credential (IRC) in Adobe
  • Career experiences with MCPS Partners

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills in the Arts
    Students in the MCPS Regional Visual Art & Design programs will develop competitive portfolios featuring both drawing and media specific skills.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience in the Arts
    Have the opportunity to earn industry recognized credentials related to their media and/or business marketing or entrepreneurship, while designing and implementing a capstone project related to their chosen career focus with support from MCPS partners.
  3. Foster College, Career, and/or Community Pathways in the Arts
    Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in the arts by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and engagement with industry professionals equipping them to complete the MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal requirements.

 

Application & Locations

Application: Criteria-based application (portfolio)

Schools:

  • Region 1: Einstein
  • Region 2: Blake
  • Region 3: Woodward
  • Region 4: Wootton
  • Region 5: Gaithersburg
  • Region 6: Northwest

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Visual Art Program. Cells in purple are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grades 6–8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Art experience in Middle School preferred
Advanced Drawing 2 Advanced Painting 2 A/B

AP Drawing DP or

IB Art or

Dual Enrollment


Students propose capstone project

AP 2D or 3D Visual Art or

AP Photography or IB Art

Capstone Project
Elective Art Course

Elective Art Course or

World Language
Math Math Math Math
Science Science Science Elective (PE, Technology or Health)
Social Studies Social Studies Social Studies Elective (PE, Technology or Health)
World Language Elective (PE, Technology or Health)

Elective Art Course or

World Language

Elective Art Course or

World Language

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS graduation requirements, students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Visual Art Program and earn the related certificate:
  • Art Core
    • Advanced Drawing 2
    • Advanced Painting 2
    • 1 credit Art elective
    • AP Drawing AND AP 2D or 3D Visual Art (IB Art may replace one (SL) or both (HL) of these these in schools where it is offered) or dual enrollment
    • Completion capstone project
  • Focus
    • Art
      • 3 credits of art electives
    • World Languages
      • Seal of Biliteracy and related world language credit