Both bachelor's and master's degree programs are available in photography; some schools also offer certificate programs. Students can find relevant programs at both traditional universities and dedicated art schools.
10 Schools with Photography Programs
Below are ten school in the country that offer programs in photography, as well as where they are located, that level of education they offer in the field and their average tuition.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Program Offered | Tuition (2015-2016)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $6,368 (in-state) |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $15,054 (in-state) |
| New York University | New York, NY | 4-year, Private | Bachelor's | $47,750 |
| University of Washington - Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | 4-year, Public | Certificate & Bachelor's | $11,839 (in-state) |
| University of Houston | Houston, TX | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $8,759 (in-state) |
| Temple University | Philadelphia, PA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's & Master's | $15,188 (in-state, undergraduate), $15,354 (in-state, graduate) |
| Brigham Young University-Provo | Provo, UT | 4-year, Private | Bachelor's | $5,150 |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's & Master's | $12,772 (in-state, undergraduate), $10,710 (in-state, graduate) |
| California State University - Sacramento | Sacramento, CA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $6,872 (in-state) |
| Grand Valley State University | Allendale, MI | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $11,363 (in-state) |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics
School Selection Criteria
Students interested in fashion photography should compare schools keeping the following criteria in mind:
- It can be helpful to find out if the curriculum within a broader photography programs includes courses specifically in fashion photography.
- Students should look into the school's facilities in order to ensure that they will have access to industry-standard photography equipment and software applications.
- Aspiring fashion photographers may want to consider the school's location when choosing between programs, as they may have more opportunities for real-world experience at schools located near fashion industry hubs.
- Students may want to consider the program's length; for instance, master's degree programs can last for either two or three years, and some bachelor's degree programs are offered in accelerated formats.
Bachelor's Degree Programs
Aspiring fashion photographers can enroll in Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) programs in photography. In these programs, students gain a comprehensive overview of the field, taking courses in topics such as digital photography, studio lighting techniques and photography history. Students must also complete general education courses. It is important to note that students in BA programs typically take fewer photography-focused classes and more liberal arts electives.
Master's Degree Programs
At the graduate level, it is possible to pursue either a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree program. Experienced photographers can take advanced courses and hone their photography skills. Students often have the chance to tailor their courses and studio work toward particular areas of interest, such as fashion photography. Prior to graduation, students must submit a thesis or final project. These programs can last two to three years.
Certificate Programs
For individuals who want to learn about photography without committing to a full degree program, some schools offer photography certificate programs. Not only do these programs help fashion photographers improve their artistic skills, but they may also include courses specifically in fashion photography. Certificate programs typically last one year or less, and they may offer courses in the evenings or on weekends to accommodate the needs of students with full-time work commitments.
Student's interested in fashion photography may find undergraduate and graduate programs in the field at various schools around the country. School facilities and curricular options are key considerations when choosing between programs.