The Academy of Fine Arts (AFA) at Garland High School provides students with a semi-professional and early collegiate education and experience in their chosen disciplines. Students graduating with an AFA Diploma will have successfully completed coursework and performance requirements that will prepare them for success beyond high school whether it be university or employment.

Using student-centered learning strategies, meaningful relationships with AFA faculty and experiences with successful professionals, Academy students are guaranteed one of the finest educations in the state.  The academy's strong arts foundation is developed together with the student's academic program. Accommodating International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), Honors, or On-Level, all AFA students will receive rigorous, well-rounded instruction.

Areas of study

AFA offers diplomas in the following areas of study:

• Choral Music Studies
• Film Studies
• Instrumental Music Studies – Band
• Instrumental Music Studies – Guitar
• Instrumental Music Studies – Orchestra
• Instrumental Music Studies – Piano
• Theatre Studies – Performance
• Theatre Studies - Technical
• Visual Arts Studies