If you’re passionate about photography and looking for a college to pursue your passion, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 15 colleges with photography majors in 2023, each offering unique programs that cater to different interests and skill levels. From fine arts to commercial photography, these schools provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for a successful career in the field. So, read on to discover the perfect program for you and kickstart your journey towards becoming a professional photographer.
Photography is the art of capturing and processing light using a sensor or film. The main reason or importance of photography is to treasure moments and share them with the world.
The photography industry can be extremely competitive. According to the Federal Bureau of labor statistics, the average wage for photographers can be $30k-$40k per year. As a photographer you can build a successful career with any of these high-paying photography Jobs which include portrait photography, family photography, photojournalist and news photography, film set photography, presidential photography, medical and scientific photography, real estate photography, wedding photography and many more.
It doesn’t matter if you intend to take pictures professionally or as a hobby, you need to be well-trained and prepared.
Pursuing a photography major in a college will lead to a fast-growing career and lead to more exciting job opportunities. If you want to know more or you are looking for colleges with photography majors then this article is definitely for you.
The cost of a photography degree usually varies from college to college, the program and the number of required courses. The annual average cost is between $10,000 and $30,000. This covers tuition costs for both in-state and state students for each program.
Table of contents
- What Should I Study If I Like Photography?
- What are Photography Majors Called?
- How Many Years Does it Take to Study Photography?
- Colleges with Photography Majors in 2023
- 1. Fitchburg state university
- 2. University of Idaho :
- 3. Endicott college
- 4. Northern Arizona university :
- 5. Savannah College of Art and Design
- 6. Purchasing College
- 7. University of La Verne
- 8. Sam Houston State College
- 9. University of Dayton
- 10. Bennington College
- 11. Barry University
- 12. Andrews University
- 13. Purdue University
- 14. Pratt Institute
- 15. Oregon State University
- FAQs – Colleges with Photography Majors
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
What Should I Study If I Like Photography?
If you enjoy photography and want to improve your skills, there are several areas of study that may interest you.
First, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of photography, including camera settings, exposure, and lenses. You may also want to study lighting and composition, which are crucial to capturing great photos.
Post-processing and editing are also important aspects of modern photography, and can greatly enhance your final images. You could learn about different software programs and techniques for retouching and enhancing your photos.
Studying the history and theory of photography can help you gain a deeper understanding of the art form and how it has evolved over time.
Depending on your interests, you could focus on specific genres of photography, such as studio and portrait photography, landscape and nature photography, or photojournalism and documentary photography.
Lastly, if you plan to pursue photography as a career, it’s important to understand the business and marketing aspects of the industry. This could include developing a portfolio, pricing your services, and marketing your work to potential clients.
See: 15 Colleges with Swim Teams in 2023
What are Photography Majors Called?
Photography majors are typically offered through art and design schools, and can have different names depending on the institution or program. Common names for photography majors include Photography, Photographic Arts, Fine Arts in Photography, Commercial Photography, Visual Arts with a concentration in Photography, or Digital Media Arts with a focus on Photography.
Some programs may also offer specialized majors in areas such as photojournalism or fashion photography. In addition to photography-specific coursework, these majors often include art and design classes as well as general education requirements.
How Many Years Does it Take to Study Photography?
The amount of time it takes to study photography can vary depending on the program and level of education. A typical undergraduate program in photography may take four years to complete, while a graduate program can take one to three years. Short-term workshops and courses are also available, ranging from a few weeks to several months. Ultimately, the amount of time you spend studying photography will depend on your goals and how much education and training you feel you need to achieve them.
Colleges with Photography Majors in 2023
Below are our top picks on the best colleges with photography majors in 2023:
- Fitchburg state university
- University of Idaho :
- Endicott college
- Northern Arizona university
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- Purchasing College
- University of La Verne
- Sam Houston State College
- University of Dayto
- Bennington College
- Barry University
- Andrews University
- Purdue University
- Pratt Institute
- Oregon State University
1. Fitchburg state university
Fitchburg is a state university that is the right institution to do photography studies. The university has a remarkable reputation and its faculty is known for excellence. The college with a photography major is located in the heart of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, an flourishing, historic community that gives students enough opportunities to practice their skills. A bachelor’s degree in photography is offered at this university which will equip you for a photography career.
2. University of Idaho :
The University of Idaho has the highest caliber of photography program. This college with photography majors is located in Moscow, Idaho which has a population of over 1.9 million. This is a great location for students who want to explore city life while having access to all the necessary conveniences. Students can put to use the school’s numerous resources such as the digital imaging lab and the Centre for creative photography library.
3. Endicott college
Endicott college is a co-educational, private college in Beverly, Massachusetts. The photography program at Endicott college is set up to provide students with a well-rounded education with an emphasis on visual storytelling. Students have the choice of specializing in either photography or digital arts. Endicott photography major receives an excellent education and has access to extraordinary professional prospects upon graduation.
Also, see: 15 Most Expensive Colleges In The US in 2023
4. Northern Arizona university :
Founded in 1899, Northern Arizona University is a final public university and an outstanding institution for photography students.
This college with photography majors offers a. Bachelor’s degree program that prepares students for a career in commercial photography. And studio work. The school prides itself on its state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, as well as a committed faculty that will help you become a professional photographer.
5. Savannah College of Art and Design
Savannah college is a private non-profit college in Savannah Georgia. It is known as the oldest black university in the United States. Students who are interested in photography might decide to specialize in either film or digital media. The University’s film department is one of the best in the nation. If you are interested in photography and you are looking for a school where you can develop or grow your photography skills then Savannah College of Art and design is exactly what you need.
6. Purchasing College
Located in Harrison, New York, it was founded by governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1967. Purchase college is a public college that serves the state of New York. This College with a photography major offers a bachelor’s of Arts and a master of Arts in photography. The curriculum is intended to educate students about photographic careers. Classes are taught by qualified and well-trained professional photographers who are well-experienced and have displayed their work in major galleries across the country.
7. University of La Verne
Founded in 1891, the University of La Verne is a private university in California.
The photography program at the University of La Verne is top-notch and reasonable. This University offers a Bachelor of Arts in photography and media Arts. They also offer an internship program in which students can obtain practical experience in working with professional photographers and photo editors in a variety of fields. Classes are provided to students by the department in all areas of professional photography .
8. Sam Houston State College
This college with a photography major offers a unique program that blends still photography, film and animation to teach students how to express stories through moving images.
These schools also offer art history, studio art, art education and other variety of additional courses. Sam Houston state university’s photography department emphasizes studio art and designs such as composition and color theory
9. University of Dayton
Located in Dayton Ohio, this university is a Catholic research university founded in 1850 by the society of Mary.
The University of Dayton is a great place to begin your studies if you are interested in Photography. The university gives degrees in numerous art and design disciplines which also include a speciality in photography. Projects and internships will also give you the practical experience you need in the field. With an acceptance rate of nearly 70% admission is very simple. University of Dayton
Also, see: 15 Colleges with Military Programs in 2023
10. Bennington College
Founded in 1932 as a women’s college, Bennington College is a private liberal arts institution located in Vermont’s Bennington.
The school’s photography program is acknowledged for its rigorousness and level of competition. It offers classes in film production, digital imaging and printing, darkroom methods, digital media, and photographic history.
Students who have completed the photography department at Bennington College have worked for major companies and agencies around the world.
11. Barry University
As one of the biggest Catholic universities, Barry university was founded in 1940 by the Adrian Dominican sisters. Barry University in Miami, Florida, is an excellent option for photography-minded students.
Students who want to pursue a profession in photography can get knowledge of lighting techniques and camera movements that will assist them in creating stunning photographs.
They will also investigate the history of photography, which will help them comprehend how this art form has evolved over the years.
12. Andrews University
Founded in 1874 as the battle creeks college, Andrews university is a private Seventh-day Adventist university. This College with Photography Majors is a tiny Christian institution in Michigan’s Berrien Springs. It is widely recognized for its emphasis on the arts and sciences.
At Andrews University, students can major and minor in either photography or visual communication.
Andrews University’s photography department offers both undergraduate and graduate degree choices, allowing students to follow what they have passion for without having to leave school.
Also, see: 15 Colleges with Rolling Admissions in 2023
13. Purdue University
Founded in 1869, this university is located in West Lafayette Indiana Purdue University is among the most prestigious institutions for photography majors. The school’s photography program has a solid reputation.
The photojournalism program at Purdue is regarded as among the best in the nation. In addition to a selection of courses, students have access to art facilities and equipment.
Faculty members are engaged in their disciplines and devoted to assisting students in developing their own artistic and photographic voices.
14. Pratt Institute
This is a private university founded in 1887. It has its main campus in Brooklyn New York and a satellite campus in Manhattan and an extension campus in Utica
The College with Photography Majors at Pratt Institute, a top-ranked art such as ich makit is among the best in the nation. The school’s small student body and intimate campus facilitate the development of ties between students and faculty.
Pratt’s program is aimed to educate students for a future as professional photographers, whether they enter the field as freelancers or seek employment with established studios or businesses.
15. Oregon State University
This is a public research university founded in 1876 and located in Eugene Oregon.
The photography program at the University of Oregon is one of the best and attracts students from all around the world. To complementation with the photography major and minor, students can also pursue a degree in fine art or a ceramics minor.
On campus, students have access to darkrooms and studios, as well as internship and work-study possibilities with local art galleries and museums which helps newly graduated students to jump-start their photography career.
FAQs – Colleges with Photography Majors
Photographers can make good money, but it depends on factors such as their level of experience, specialization, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for photographers in the United States was $38,890 in May 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $77,910.
Yes, there is still a demand for photographers, although the nature of the industry and the type of work available has shifted in recent years due to advances in technology and changes in consumer behavior. Some areas, such as commercial and event photography, have remained in demand, while others have declined.
Photography can be a fulfilling and financially rewarding career for those with a passion for the art. However, it can be competitive and requires hard work, talent, and dedication to succeed.
Conclusion
Pursuing a photography major can be an excellent way to turn your passion for photography into a fulfilling career. With our list of 15 colleges with photography majors in 2023, you can explore a range of programs and find the one that best fits your needs and interests. Whether you aspire to be a fine art photographer, a photojournalist, or a commercial photographer, these schools can help you achieve your goals and build a successful career in the industry. So, take the first step today and start your journey towards becoming a professional photographer.
References
- worldscholarshipvault.com -15 COLLEGES WITH PHOTOGRAPHY MAJORS
- imagesredefined.in – REASONS TO CHOOSE PHOTOGRAPHY AS A CAREER OPTION
- photomba.net – HOW MUCH DOES A PHOTOGRAPHER MAKE
