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Course Catalog
Section F · Visual & Performing ArtsUC Honors · +1.0 GPA
2-D Art and Design
UC A-G approved 2-D Art and Design course delivered fully online. Students develop a personal artistic voice through investigation in drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, and digital media. Prepares students for AP 2-D Art and Design.
1 Year Online · Remote / Hybrid / In-Person Visual Arts Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 10 credits
Section FUC A‑G Requirement
Visual & Performing Arts — 1 year required
One yearlong course (or two semester courses) in dance, drama/theater, music, visual arts, or interdisciplinary arts. Courses must be UC-approved and meet state visual/performing arts content standards.
UC Honors Designation
AP Art History, AP Drawing, AP 2D Art & Design, AP 3D Art & Design, and AP Music Theory all earn 1 extra weighted GPA point.
Why This Matters for College Admission
Arts courses develop creativity and design thinking — skills increasingly valued in tech and business. Many selective UCs view a second or third arts year as a positive differentiator.
What You'll Learn
Develop a sustained investigation portfolio demonstrating artistic growth
Master compositional principles: form, color, texture, space, and perspective
Create works in multiple media including drawing, painting, printmaking, and digital tools
Analyze art history and connect contemporary work to historical movements
Critique peers' work using formal analysis vocabulary
Prepare a portfolio for AP Art & Design or college-level art programs
Course Structure
Semester 1, Unit 1Weeks 1–5
Foundations
- Core vocabulary and concepts
- Foundational skills
- Context-setting activities
Semester 1, Unit 2Weeks 6–12
Core Skills
- Skill-building exercises
- Primary assessments
- Collaborative projects
Semester 2, Unit 1Weeks 13–18
Advanced Concepts
- Deeper conceptual application
- Research and analysis
- Peer-review activities
Semester 2, Unit 2Weeks 19–24
Synthesis & Mastery
- Cross-unit integration
- Final capstone project
- Portfolio submission
Prerequisites & Requirements
Open to qualifying students in grades 9, 10, 11, 12; no prerequisites required
All students complete a placement conversation with our admissions team before enrollment is confirmed. Questions? Contact admissions.