Photography - Bachelor of Fine Arts

Program Total Credits: 123

This major prepares students for a wide range of careers in photography by providing a solid grounding in traditional photography and digital imaging. In the sophomore year, students receive in-depth training in craft and ideas fundamental to photographic imaging. Technical exercises emphasize electronic imaging as well as traditional black-and-white and color processes. The curriculum covers both descriptive photography and more experimental manipulated image-making.

During the junior year, students consider photographic forms beyond the traditional print, such as the photographic book, non-silver processes, and installation work. Large-format photography and studio practice with its control of artificial lighting are also part of the junior curriculum. In both the junior and senior years, students may pursue the study of specialized interests on an elective basis, including illustration and editorial photography, photojournalism, environmental portraiture, creative portfolio development, advanced digital imaging, and professional practice.

The senior year is primarily devoted to the production of an independent body of work of the student’s own choosing and direction. The senior thesis provides the opportunity to begin the process of self-definition as photographer and artist. A required junior-level course in photographic criticism, coupled with required classes in the history of photography, exemplifies the strong emphasis that the department places on critical thinking and self-expression in words as well as through photographs.