phd in photography in usa

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Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies  

The Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies (AFVS) at Harvard offers a graduate program in Film and Visual Studies leading to a PhD.

The Department also offers a secondary field in Film and Visual Studies for students already admitted to PhD programs in other departments in the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

The study of film at Harvard functions within the multi-disciplinary examination of audio-visual experience. From Hugo Münsterberg's pathbreaking forays into the psychological reception of moving images and Rudolf Arnheim’s seminal investigations of "visual thinking" to Paul Sachs’s incorporation of film into the academic and curatorial focus of the fine arts at Harvard and Stanley Cavell’s philosophical approaches to the medium, Harvard has sustained a distinguished tradition of engaging cinema and the cultural, visual, spatial, and philosophical questions that it raises. With their emphases on experimentation in the contemporary arts and creative collaboration among practitioners and critics, the Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies (AFVS) and the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts provide a singular and unparalleled site for advanced research in Film and Visual Studies. The program aims to foster critical understanding of the interactions between the making of and thinking about film and video, between studio art, performance, and visual culture, and between different arts and pursuits whose objects are audio-visual entities. The Carpenter Center also supports a lively research culture, including the Film and Visual Studies Colloquium and a Film and Visual Studies Workshop for advanced doctoral students, as well as lecture series and exhibitions featuring distinguished artists, filmmakers, and scholars.

Interdisciplinary in its impetus, the program draws on and consolidates course offerings in departments throughout the Faculty of Arts and Sciences which consider film and other arts in all their various countenances and investigate the place of visual arts within a variety of contexts. Graduate students may also take advantage of the significant resources of the Harvard Film Archive (HFA), which houses a vast collection of 16mm and 35mm film prints as well as rare video materials, vintage film posters, photographs, and promotional materials. The HFA furthers the artistic and academic appreciation of moving image media within the Harvard and the New England community, offering a setting where students and faculty can interact with filmmakers and artists. In early 2003, the HFA opened a new Conservation Center that allows the HFA conservator and staff to accession new films as well as to preserve its significant collections of independent, international, and silent films.

Students and faculty in Film and Visual Studies are also eligible to apply to the Harvard Film Study Center for fellowships which are awarded annually in support of original film, video, and photographic projects. Established in 1957, the Film Study Center provides production equipment, post-production facilities, technical support, and funding for nonfiction works that interpret the world through images and sounds. Among the many important films to have been produced at the Film Study Center are John Marshall's The Hunters (1956), Robert Gardner's Forest of Bliss (1985), Irene Lusztig's Reconstruction (2001), Ross McElwee's Bright Leaves (2003), Peter Galison and Robb Moss’s Secrecy (2008), Ilisa Barbash and Lucien Castaing-Taylor's Sweetgrass (2009), Véréna Paravel and J.P. Sniadecki’s Foreign Parts (2011), Véréna Paravel and Lucien Castaing-Taylor’s Leviathan (2013) and De Humani Corporis Fabrica (2022), Stephanie Spray and Pacho Velez’s Manakamana (2014), Mati Diop’s Atlantiques (2019), Ernst Karel and Veronika

Kusumaryati’s Expedition Content (2020), and Joana Pimenta and Adirley Queirós’ Dry Ground Burning (2022).

Prospective Graduate Students - Film and Visual Studies Graduate Program Admissions Information Sessions: 

1:00 pm on the following dates:

Monday, September 30 th

Monday, October 28 th

Monday, November 25 th

Registration is required – registration link below:  

https://harvard.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMvcOypqjMpHt1EDPhAG6PXHDtx9IIASIYd#/registration

Images:  Instructions for a Light and Sound Machine  (2005), directed by Peter Tscherkassky, from a print in the collection of the Harvard Film Archive.

• Undergraduate
• Academic Requirements
• Secondary Field in Film and Visual Studies
• Film and Visual Studies PhD Alumni:
• Graduate Program FAQs
• Courses in Art, Film, and Visual Studies -Fall 2024-Spring 2025

Graduate Contacts

Laura Frahm Director of Graduate Studies 

Emily Amendola Graduate Coordinator Film and Visual Studies Program (617) 495-9720 amendola [at] fas.harvard.edu  

FAQs about the Graduate Program

My native language is not english; do i have to take the an english language proficiency exam.

Adequate  command of spoken and written English  is essential to success in graduate study at Harvard. Applicants who are non-native English speakers can demonstrate English proficiency in one of three ways:

• Receiving an undergraduate degree from an academic institution where English is the primary language of instruction.*
• Earning a minimum score of 80 on the Internet based test (iBT) of the ...

When is the application deadline for admission to the Ph.D. program in Film and Visual Studies?

December 15, 2023

Where can I obtain an admissions application?

Applications are found on the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences website ( https://gsas.harvard.edu/admissions/apply ). 

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The UC San Diego Visual Arts PhD Program grants two PhD degrees: Art History, Theory and Criticism and Art History, Theory and Criticism with a Concentration in Art Practice . The program embodies the department's commitment to innovative research by embracing the close intersection of art, media, and design practice with history, theory, and criticism, and by offering training in the history, theory, and criticism of a range and mix of areas represented in our MFA faculty, including studio art, film, video, photography, computational media, performance art, public art, design, visual culture, and socially engaged art practice. Regional and cultural frameworks of study include European and Latin American art, Chinese art, nineteenth-century French visual culture, Mesoamerican, Native American, and Indigenous art and material culture, Medieval art and culture, queer and feminist art, material culture, science, technology, and art; and ocean, environmental, and land art.

The Art Practice Concentration degree, which must be applied for at the time of application to the PhD program, follows the same course of scholarly training, research, and writing as the Art History, Theory and Criticism degree, with additional requirements in research-based art practice that span all years of coursework, qualifying, and doctoral research. Two students are admitted to this concentration annually.

Information for Current and Prospective Students

Requirement overview, program requirements.

• Coursework, 88 units

Language Requirement

• Qualifying Materials and Exams

Dissertation and Defense

• For VA77 Only- Art Practice Project and Exhibition

Full Time Enrollment

In order to remain eligible for financial support all graduate students must be enrolled   in 12 units of upper-division (100-199) or graduate level (200 and above) courses each quarter during the regular academic year. Graduate students must also maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to maintain good academic standing. The majority of students will choose to complete the majority of their academic coursework for a letter grade.

Pre-Candidacy

Coursework should be chosen in consultation with the Advisor and should be taken in preparation for the Qualifying phase. During the first three years in the program, students should aim to fulfill the following requirements:

• MA en Route Requirements (if interested and eligible)
• Qualifying Materials and Exams (year 3)

Advancing to candidacy occurs when the student has passed all course, language, and qualifying requirements and is ready to research and write a dissertation. Doctoral candidates, sometimes referred to as “all but dissertation” or ABD, work on their dissertation with Advisor and Committee consultation and feedback for two or more years. During this time, Art Practice candidates additionally produce the required art practice components. Each quarter, most doctoral candidates typically enroll in 8-12 units of VIS 299 and/or 4 units of a 500, in consultation with their Advisor. Candidacy concludes when the candidate completes and successfully defends the dissertation (and, for VA77, the additional Art Practice requirements) and is awarded the doctorate.

Degree Paths

The program consists of two degree paths: Art History, Theory and Criticism (VA76) and Art Practice (VA77), a concentration designed for artists engaged in advanced research who wish to pursue their work in an environment geared to doctoral study, and to produce studio, media, performance or public facing work alongside a written dissertation. See Handbook for further details.

Interdisciplinary Specializations

Students within the PhD program who are interested in the opportunity to undertake specialized research may apply to participate in an interdisciplinary specialization. Students accepted into a specialization program would be expected to complete coursework in addition to those required for their PhD program. The department offers interdisciplinary specializations with the following campus programs.

• Anthropogeny:   for students with an interest in human origins
• Critical Gender Studies:   providing specialized training in gender and sexuality
• Interdisciplinary Environmental Research : for students interested in environmental solutions

Curriculum: VA76 Art History, Theory and Criticism

VA76- 22 courses, 88 units

GENERAL FIELD EMPHASIS

During the first year of study, students declare a general area of study in consultation with their Advisor and with the approval of the Faculty Director. This general field emphasis will be considered as they choose courses and, toward year three, plan their qualifying materials. See the Handbook for general field options.

CORE REQUIREMENTS (8 courses, 32 units)

Required (4 courses, 16 units):

• VIS 200- Methods and Theories
• VIS 204- Rethinking Art History
• VIS 500 (1 course, 4 units)- Apprentice Teaching
• VIS 502- Graduate Teaching in Visual Arts

Breadth (4 courses, 16 units), choose from 4 different areas with 3 different faculty:

• Medieval, Renaissance or Early Modern Art- VIS 251, VIS 252
• Modern and Contemporary Art- VIS 254, VIS 255
• Media Studies- VIS 256
• Meso-American Art or North American Indigenous Art- VIS 257, VIS 260
• Asian Art- VIS 258
• Latin American Art- VIS 259
• Material Culture- VIS 261
• Design Studies- VIS 262

ELECTIVE REQUIREMENTS (14 courses, 56 units), choose from the following options:

• Art History Seminars (VIS 230-269), a minimum of 6 MUST be taken for the elective area
• Graduate Research (VIS 299), during 1st year with provisional advisor
• Professional Practice Seminar (VIS 220)
• Art Theory/Practice (VIS 206, VIS 210-219), a maximum of 2 may be taken
• Other Department, a maximum of 3 graduate level courses may be taken 
• Reading Courses (approved undergrad courses), a maximum of 4 may be taken 
• Directed Group Study (VIS 298), a maximum of 1 may be taken
• Individual Studies (VIS 295), a maximum of 12 units may be taken with Advisor

Curriculum: VA77 Art History, Theory and Criticism- Art Practice

VA77- 22 courses, 88 units

CORE REQUIREMENTS (12 courses, 48 units)

Required (9 courses, 36 units):

• VIS 206- Seminar in Art Practice Research
• VIS 207 (repeat 3 times for 12 units)- Working Practice for Art Practice
• VIS 210-219, 1 course from Art Theory/Practice 

Breadth (3 courses, 12 units), choose from 3 different areas with 3 different faculty:

ELECTIVE REQUIREMENTS (10 courses, 40 units), choose from the following options:

• Art History Seminars (VIS 230-269), a minimum of 3 MUST be taken for the elective area
• Art Theory/Practice (VIS 210-219), a maximum of 2 may be taken
• Other Department, a maximum of 3 may be taken 
• Reading Courses (approved undergrad courses), a maximum of 2 may be taken 
• Directed Group Study (VIS 298), a maximum of 4 units may be taken

For the VA76 PhD students, competency in reading, understanding, and interpreting texts in two languages other than English is required before advancement to candidacy (Qualifying Exam stage), and competency in at least one language is expected at the time of application to the program. Art Practice Concentration students (VA77) will be required to satisfy competency in one language other than English before advancing to PhD candidacy. The student and their Advisor will jointly determine examination languages. 

The Program’s language requirement may be met in one of three ways: 

• Passing the department’s in-house Language Exam  
• Passing one approved graduate-level language course 
• Passing two approved upper-division undergraduate language courses 
• Passing a two-year sequence of approved undergraduate language courses in a single language  

Required Paperwork

For each language exam or course sequence taken to satisfy a language requirement, a Language Completion form must be completed by the student, the proctor/instructor and submitted to the Student Affiars Manager in order to receive credit for completion of the language requirement. Submitted forms are automatically routed via DocuSign for approval and processing.

In-House Language Exams

In-house Language Exams test ability in reading and comprehension (by translation into English) only, not writing or spoken fluency in the designated language. The exam consists of two short texts, one less difficult to be translated into English without a dictionary, and one more difficult to be translated with a dictionary. The dictionary may be either a printed volume or an on-line resource. One hour is allowed for each section (total test time: 2 hours). The translations may be written on a computer or by hand. Exams are corrected by the faculty member responsible for designing the exam, who also invigilates the test. If adequate reading knowledge is not demonstrated, the student’s Advisor will review with the student and the faculty setting the exam the steps necessary to master the language and a new exam will be scheduled within a reasonable amount of time. 

Students requesting an in-house language examination should consult with faculty responsible for particular languages:

• Chinese and Japanese : Professor Kuiyi Shen 
• French : Professors. Jordan Rose and John Welchman 
• German : Professor Alena Williams 
• Italian : Professor William Tronzo 
• Korean : Professor Kyong Park
• Mayan languages : Professor Elizabeth Newsome 
• Spanish : Professors Elizabeth Newsome and Mariana Wardwell 
• Turkish: Professors Memo Akten and Pinar Yoldas

Individual arrangements for determination of competency will be made for those languages that cannot be tested by department faculty . 

Committee Constitution and Management

About the committee.

This is the group of four faculty who agree to the student’s request for mentorship and evaluation during the qualifying and doctoral years. The Committee is chaired by the Advisor(s). In addition to mentoring and guiding the student’s research, this team serves as the Qualifying Committee and the Doctoral or Dissertation Committee, conducting the Qualifying Exam and the Dissertation Defense. The committee must be formally appointed by Graduate Division in the process outlined below.

Committee Constitution

The Committee Chair is the student’s Faculty Advisor/Co-Advisors and is selected by Year Two through mutual agreement with the student. The rest of the Committee is constituted through request and consent between the student and other faculty, with the guidance and approval of the Advisor(s). 

Makeup of the committee:

• 3 Visual Arts Faculty (including the Chair/Co-Chairs), 1 member may be a non-PhD faculty
• 1 tenured or emeritus faculty from outside the department

For each option, Assistant or Acting-Associate Faculty may serve as a general member or Co-Chair but not as sole Chair. The Graduate Division website has  additional information  about committees and a  Committee Membership Table  which may be helpful in determining what role a faculty member may serve on a committee.

Submitting Your Committee

After faculty have agreed to serve on the Committee, and the Faculty Advisor has approved the list, the student must complete and send the  Committee Constitution form  which will be routed to the Student Affiars Manager for processing.  This form must be approved by the Graduate Division by Week 5 BEFORE the Qualifying Exam .

Changing Your Committee

There are times when committee membership must change after the intial review and approval. All changes to committee membership need to be approved by the Department and then Graduate Division. Committee reconstitution must be completely reviewed and approved by Week 5, the quarter PRIOR to QE/Defense. When changing committee membership:

• Review the Committee Membership requirements 
• Discuss the change in committee membership with the Committee Chair/Co-chairs
• Discuss the change in committee with impacted committee members
• Complete the   Committee Reconstitution form   which will be routed to the Student Affairs Manager for processing.

Committee Management

It is the responsibility of the student, in consultation with their advisor/committee chair, to engage with and request feedback on drafts of written materials and (for VA77) documentation of artwork progress with all committee members during research and writing of their qualifying materials and dissertation. The student also must email final copies of all materials to their Committee prior to their Qualifying Exam and Dissertation Defense. 

Qualifying Exam, Advancement to Candidacy

About the qualifying process.

The Qualifying process occurs throughout Year Three. The student, under the supervision of the Advisor and with the advice of the Committee, prepares two bibliographies (one on the chosen field of emphasis and the second pertaining to the proposed dissertation); writes a qualifying paper and a dissertation prospectus; and takes written and oral examinations pertaining to these documents. The Art Practice PhD additionally requires a practice prospectus and a third bibliography.

Qualifying Exam

The Qualifying Examination has two parts: A Written Examination in which the student writes two essays over five days in response to questions provided by the Committee; and two weeks later,  a 2- or 2.5-hour Oral Examination led by the Committee, during which the student is asked questions and put in dialog about all of the qualifying materials.

Qualifying Timeline

A student must have completed all required course work and passed all language examinations before taking the qualifying examination, which will be held no later than the end of the third year. Upon successful completion of the qualifying examination, the student will be advanced to candidacy.

Qualifying Exam Administrative Checklist  

Qualifying Exam Failure

Should a student fail the examination, the Faculty Committee will clarify the weaknesses in the exam, so that the student can prepare to take it a second time. If a second oral examination is warranted, they will have to re-take and pass the exam prior to the end of the Pre-Candidacy Time Limit (or they need an extension approved to continue). They can always take a leave and return but if the PCTL is expired, they will have to advance before returning or an exception to extend the time would be need to be approved prior to retuning. If the student fails the oral examination a second time, their graduate studies in the department will be terminated.

MA en Route

• Five Art History seminars 
• VIS 200 Methods and Theories
• VIS 204 Re-Thinking Art History 
• One Theory/Practice seminar (chosen from VIS 210-219)
• Four breadth courses, from four different breadth areas

We do not offer an MA with an Art Practice concentration. Therefore, Art Practice concentration students must make a formal change in their degree aim to designate Art History, Theory, and Criticism (VA76). This change must take place at least two quarters prior to the Qualifying Exam. 

Note:   Students who wish to receive an MA as part of the Ph.D. program   must apply for master’s degree candidacy by the end of the second week of the quarter in which they expect to receive the degree.   Please see the Graduate Coordinator regarding this process.

Necessary Documents for the Qualifying Exam

• Report of the Qualifying Exam

Necessary Documents for the MA on the Way

• Application for MA (due week two) 
• Final Report for MA 

Best Practices for Completing the Report of the Qualifying Exam and Final Report via DocuSign:

• Ahead of your exam/defense ask faculty to add [email protected] as a “safe sender” so those emails are less likely to go to junk/spam. Although campus IT has taken steps to identify DocuSign as a safe sender, it is still recommended that individual users do so as well.
• At the end of your Exam/Defense ask your committee members to check their email for the DocuSign email with the link to the form and sign while you're all online together. 
• ask the faculty to check their junk folder, spam quarantine, or other spam folders
• next, ask them to log into their DocuSign account using their @ucsd.edu email address and SSO credentials to access the form/s directly (https://docusign.ucsd.edu) *some people have personal DocuSign accounts so ask them to ensure they are logging into the UCSD DocuSign account
• Get verbal confirmation of who has signed and who has not, then follow-up with the Student Affairs Manager to resolve any issues your committee members have with signing the form.
• Once the appropriate form is submitted to the Graduate Division, the appropriate fee will be charged directly to the student’s financial TritonLink account. 

About the Dissertation

Following successful completion of the qualifying examinations, the candidate will research and write a doctoral dissertation under the supervision of their Advisor and with the input of the Committee. Students in the art practice concentration (VA77) will submit a written dissertation that observes the same regulations and conventions as VA 76, except that the length requirement is slightly shorter and there must be one additional chapter devoted to discussion of the art practice. In addition, Art Practice candidates will additionally produce and exhibit a visual component. See the Handbook for details. 

About the Defense

After the committee has reviewed the finished dissertation (and art practice components, for VA 77), the candidate will orally defend their dissertation (and art practice work and exhibition), responding to questions from the Committee in a meeting that may be public (the student may invite visitors), as per university policy. The Dissertation Defense is the culmination of all of your work within the Ph.D. program. Please read all of the information on the Graduate Division's website about " Preparing to Graduate " and make an appointment to speak with the Student Affairs Manager one year prior to when you plan to defend.

Roles and Responsibilities for the Defense

Student will:

• Schedule the Dissertation Defense with their committee. This is normally scheduled for three hours. (You are responsible for reserving a room or scheduling the zoom meeting). 
• Complete the PhD Dissertation Defense Notification form which will notify the Student Affairs Manager of the date and time of the defense. This form is required so that the Final Report paperwork can be initiated and sent to your committee members on the date of the defense.
• Follow-up with your committee, the Graduate Division, and the Student Affairs Manager about any issues surrounding the completion of your degree.

Faculty Advisor will:

• Ensure the   policy   appropriate participation of all members of the committee at the Dissertation Defense. It is also helpful to remind all committee members to sign the forms by checking their inboxes for the DocuSign request to sign the forms. These sometimes end up in a person's spam folder.

Student Affairs Manager will:

• Fill out the Final Report form via DocuSign and route the form the morning of the exam/defense for signature to all committee members, the department chair, and the Graduate Division.
• Follow-up with committee members regarding signatures on the Final Report and general petition forms (if needed).
• Send out the announcement of the defense to department faculty and graduate students.

Additional Information and Tasks

Preliminary Dissertation Appointments with the Graduate Division: Students will schedule their preliminary and final appointments with Graduate Division Academic Affairs Advisors utilizing the online calendaring system they have in place:   https://gradforms.ucsd.edu/calendar/index.php

Committee Management : If you need to make any changes to your doctoral committee please follow the instructions above in the "Committee Management" drawer. 

Embargo Your Dissertation:   Talk to your faculty advisor about embargoing your dissertation. You may want to embargo your dissertation if you are planning to turn it into a book. The embargo will delay the university's publication of your dissertation and prevent other academics from using your research.   https://grad.ucsd.edu/_files/academics/DissertThesisReleaseTemplate.pdf

Necessary Documents for the Dissertation Defense

• Final Report (routed for signature by the Student Affairs Manager)

Best Practices for Completing the Final Report via DocuSign:

• At the end of your Defense ask your committee members to check their email for the DocuSign email with the link to the form and sign while you're all online together. 
• Get verbal confirmation of who has signed and who has not, then follow up with the Student Affairs Manager to resolve any issues your committee members have with signing the form.

Paying Associated Fees:  For students who will need to pay fees (advancement to candidacy, thesis submission fee, filing fee, re-admit fee), they will be charged on the financial TritonLink account once the form is received by the Graduate Division. There is no need for students to go to the cashier’s office.

Grades and Evaluations

Only courses in which a student received grades of A, B, or S are allowed toward satisfaction of the requirements for the degree. Note that a “C” is generally regarded as unsatisfactory within this department. In satisfaction of all program requirements and electives, A, A-, and B+ are regarded as acceptable grades for seminars and courses. Grades of B, B- indicate weaknesses and are cause for concern. Grades of C+ or below are regarded as unsatisfactory and may lead to academic probation. University policy states that any student with more than 8 units of “U” and/or “F” grades is barred from future registration including the next available quarter. It is not recommended that VIS 295/298/299 are taken for a letter grade.

Grade Point Average

A graduate student must maintain a minimum grade point average of at least 3.0 (B average) to continue in good standing. A student is subject to dismissal if the overall grade point average falls below 3.0 at any time.

Spring Evaluation

Every Spring quarter, Advisors (in the first year Provisional Advisors) will submit an evaluation of their advisee’s progress to Graduate Division. Students are expected to submit a summary of the past academic year to their advisor. These evaluations serve as an important tool for students and advisors in assessing student progress, while also providing suggestions and goals for students’ successful completion of their projects.   

The Graduate Division will review the evaluations when student/departments are making specific requests for exceptions

The duration of the Ph.D. program is five to eight years. University and departmental regulations stipulate that the maximum tenure of graduate study at UC San Diego or Total Registered Time Limit (TRTL) is eight years; while seven years is the limit for receiving any type of university financial support or a student's Support Time Limit (SUTL). For the Department of Visual Arts, the "normative" time to degree is 6 years. Students are expected to pass their qualifying exam and advance to candidacy in year three, but no later than year four which is the university's Pre-candidacy time limit (PCTL).

To learn more about time limits please visit the Graduate Division website.

Time Limits:  https://grad.ucsd.edu/academics/progress-to-degree/time-to-doctorate-policy.html

You can check your time limit by logging into the Graduate Student Portal.

Graduate Student Portal:  https://gradforms.ucsd.edu/portal/student/

PhD Current Students

Phd handbook.

The department website and catalog are great resources for students to learn generally about the PhD program and progress towards their degree. There are detailed instructions and robust program information available in the full PhD Handbook. Each student should refer to this resource throughout their academic career.

2023-24 Academic Year

2022-23 Academic Year  

2021-22 Academic Year

How to Apply

• Join our PhD Art History Program (VA76)
• Join our PhD Art Practice Program (VA77)

• Arizona Arts
• Arizona Arts Live
• Center for Creative Photography
• University of Arizona Museum of Art
• School of Art
• School of Dance
• Fred Fox School of Music
• School of Theatre, Film & Television

Photography, Video & Imaging

Photography, Video and Imaging (PVI) is a top-ranked* program with expert faculty, cutting-edge facilities and an inspiring community. Students enter with raw talent and receive the mentorship, guidance and opportunities necessary to take their work to the next level.

The program is designed to provide a broad, interdisciplinary educational experience that encourages students to expand the boundaries of their practice. Through intensive mentorship, students develop their unique voice in pursuit of expressive inquiry, maturity of vision and artistic professional development.

We offer studio courses in digital photography, traditional and non-silver darkroom techniques, video, hybrid digital/analog methods, performance, installation, and interactive and emergent image-forming technologies. Studio offerings are accompanied by coursework that provides conceptual grounding and context so students are fluent in both historical and contemporary trends.

*Ranked number 3 among public universities by U.S. News & World Report

• Resources & Facilities

First Year Experience

Student work, resources and facilities.

An R-1 research university, the University of Arizona provides many opportunities for engaging in cross-disciplinary work that pushes the boundaries of photography. Along with state-of-the-art studios and facilities, students have access to the Center for Creative Photography , a world-renowned repository and research library located on campus.

Private and communal darkrooms are equipped for working with all film formats. The Photo | Video | Imaging Program also has capacity for work in antiquarian and alternative processes.

We also offer a variety of professional equipment for checkout.  This includes mirrorless cameras, DSLRs, studio lighting, location lighting, audio equipment, and more.

Our faculty gives students an inside look into arts careers, having had direct experience and success in the professional photography world. In addition to being leaders in their fields, our faculty works closely with students to provide the kind of guidance and mentorship that turns raw talent into developed professionalism.

Sama Alshaibi

Marcos Serafim

Martina Shenal

David Taylor

Program requirements.

125 units are required to complete the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art in Photography, Video & Imaging (PVI), 42 units of which must be upper division coursework. Students must complete 24 units of upper division coursework in PVI.

Download the Photography, Video & Imaging (PVI) checklist.

Specific Program Requirements can be viewed through  UA Academic Catalogs .

Contact an  academic advisor or set up an advising appointment  to learn more about School of Art programs and admissions.

UNDERGRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

• ART  and  ARH  (Art History) and  ARE  (Art Education)

60 units are required to complete the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art degree.

Please see the Studio Art Graduate Handbook on the Graduate Advising page for specific program requirements.

GRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

All Studio Art majors at the School of Art will begin their journey with the First Year Experience. The program is an engaging variety of 8-week thematic workshop-structured art courses, designed as an experiential initiation into professional artistic practice, creative methodology and studio work ethic.

Ready to Shoot Your Shot?

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Tailgate Party

I fell down some stairs

What Do You See?

Floral Arrangement

This website exists as an ongoing collaborative experiment in digital publishing and information sharing. Because this website functions as a wiki, all members of the School of Art community—graduate students, faculty, staff, and alums—have the ability to add new content and pages, and to edit most of the site’s existing content.

Content is the property of its various authors. When you contribute to this site, you agree to abide by Yale University academic and network use policy, and to act as a responsible member of our community.

Page last changed by: Lindsey Mancini

Photography

Photography (mfa).

Program overview

Photography is a two-year program of study admitting ten students a year. Darkroom, studio, and computer facilities are provided. Students receive technical instruction in black-and-white and color photography as well as nonsilver processes and digital image production.

The program is committed to a broad definition of photography as a lens-based medium open to a variety of expressive means. Students work both individually and in groups with faculty and visiting artists. In addition, a critique panel composed of faculty and other artists or critics meets weekly, as well as for a final review each term, to discuss student work.

Last edited by: Lindsey Mancini

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Credit Requirements

Typical plan of study.

First year minimum credits

ART 845, Individual Criticism:… Fall: 6; Spring: 6

ART 828, Issues in Contemporary Photography:…Fall: 3; Spring: 3

ART 802b, Between Frames:… Fall: 0; Spring: 3

ART 949a, Critical Practice:…Fall: 3; Spring: 0

Academic or Studio Electives:…Fall: 3; Spring: 3

Total minimum credits for Fall Term: 15

Total minimum credits for Spring Term: 15

Second year minimum credits

ART 823a, Critical Perspectives:…Fall: 3; Spring: 0

ART 825b, Photo Book:…Fall: 0; Spring: 3

Academic or Studio Electives:…Fall: 6; Spring: 6

Film and Visual Studies

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Harvard has sustained a distinguished tradition of engaging cinema, media, and visual studies. This exciting, vital interdisciplinary program places you at the crossroads of creative and innovative fields of research.

You will experience a dialogue among the expanded field of moving image culture, visual arts, spatial studies, and media studies. You will be at the forefront of pressing research that represents the global future, and you can make a real difference among scholars who are often artists and filmmakers in a program that encourages a mix of art making and art thinking.

The research pursued is at the center of the critical debates of our times. Examples of work published by alumni of the department include “Re-Vision: Moving Images Media, The Self, and Ethical Thought in the 20th Century” and “Land Cinema in the Neoliberal Age.”

Graduates of the program have secured faculty positions at prestigious institutions including Cornell University, UC Santa Cruz, Emerson College, Colgate University, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Others have gone on to start their own businesses and become artists, writers, and curators.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Film and Visual Studies , and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies . 

Admissions Requirements

Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Film and Visual Studies .

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required as part of the application and must be between 15 to 20 pages, in 12-point font, double spaced, with normal margins. The writing sample must be an example of critical writing (rather than creative writing) on a subject directly related to film, performance, and/or visual studies. You should not send longer papers with instructions to read an excerpt or excerpts.

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should give the admissions committee a clear sense of your individual interests and strengths. You do not need to indicate precisely what your field of specialization will be, but it is helpful to know something about your aspirations, and how film and visual studies at Harvard might help in attaining these goals.

Strong language background helps to strengthen the application, and students who lack it should be aware that they will need to fill this gap before they can take the general examinations.

While the overall GPA is important, it is more important to have an average of no lower than A- in courses related to film and visual studies or related fields. In addition, if you have not majored in film studies or a related field, it is important to have sufficient background to enter the graduate program.

Personal Statement

Standardized tests.

GRE General: Optional

Theses and Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Film and Visual Studies

See list of Film and Visual Studies faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

Photography (MFA)

• Program description
• At a glance
• Degree requirements
• Admission requirements
• Tuition information
• Contact information

arts, camera, digital, prints

The M.F.A. (photography) program offers students a broad-based educational experience centering around light-sensitive systems. The photography faculty at ASU is significant in size and diverse in background and creative practice making possible a wide range of options for students working together in a closely knit yet rigorous educational setting. M.F.A. candidates work in 19th-century processes, a state-of-the-art digital lab, traditional black and white darkrooms and in collaboration with printmakers and intermedia artists. The program includes course work in criticism and theory as well as gallery and museum practice. The Northlight Gallery grants students the opportunity to engage with photographic artists from around the world, as well as providing experience with collections and exhibition opportunities for graduate students.

• College/school: Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

60 credit hours and an oral comprehensive exam

The 60 hours of graduate credit are subject to committee approval and must include:

• Twenty-seven to 32 graduate studio credit hours in the major area(s) of concentration.
• Six credit hours of graduate-level art history and three credit hours of other interdisciplinary graduate credit to supplement M.F.A. work (nonstudio courses).
• Nine credit hours of graduate-level course work outside of the major area of concentration, of which three credit hours must begin with the ART prefix and the remaining six credit hours may be outside the School of Art.
• Ten to 15 hours of ART 680 Practicum, resulting in an M.F.A. exhibition.

All applicants must complete the Graduate College online application. A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university recognized by ASU is required.

Applications include the following components: portfolio with image list, statement of intent, current resume or c.v. and three letters of recommendation.

• The portfolio and image list should be sized with a maximum dimension of 1,024 pixels. Video files must be less than 60MB each.
• The statement of intent should address the applicant's artistic interests, reasons for applying to graduate school in general and the ASU School of Art in particular as well as professional goals. It should not exceed 1,000 words.
• A current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Three letters of recommendation are required from faculty with whom you have studied or from recognized professionals in the field. No form letters are used.

The preferred method for submission is online via SLIDEROOM: http://asuherberger.slideroom.com . Applicants may upload images (.jpg), video (.mov, .wmv, .flv), music (mp3) or PDF documents. The deadline to submit is January 15 for fall admissions; we do not admit for the spring semester.

School of Art | ART 102 [email protected] 480-965-6303

Find the Right School for You

• Photography Schools

Reviewed by TACP Staff Writers

Table of Contents

What is a photography school, types of photography schools.

• Best Photography Schools
• Career Outcomes
• ROI of Photography School

A photography school is an educational institution that specializes in teaching the art, craft, and technical aspects of photography. These schools offer comprehensive programs that cover a wide range of photographic genres, including fine art, commercial, documentary, and photojournalism. Students learn through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and mentorship from experienced faculty.

Photography schools provide access to state-of-the-art equipment, studio facilities, and digital labs, enabling students to develop their skills and build professional portfolios. The curriculum often includes courses in composition, lighting, digital editing, and the business side of photography.

Several types of institutions offer photography programs, each with its own unique focus, degree options, and learning environment. Understanding the differences between these schools can help students find the best fit for their goals, learning styles, and desired specialization.

• Art Schools

Art schools are typically private institutions that offer Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees in photography. Some also offer graduate degrees like a Master of Fine Arts (MFA). The curriculum heavily focuses on photography, with students choosing a specialization like fine art or commercial photography. Art schools provide access to state-of-the-art equipment, industry connections, and help students develop strong portfolios.

Universities and Four-Year Colleges

Community colleges, dedicated photography schools, the best photography schools in the u.s..

Choosing the right photography school can be a pivotal decision for aspiring photographers looking to hone their craft and launch successful careers in the visual arts. The best photography programs in the United States offer a combination of rigorous technical training, creative development, and industry connections that set them apart from the rest.  What makes a photography school stand out? Key factors include the quality and diversity of course offerings, access to advanced equipment and studios, opportunities for hands-on experience through internships and collaborations, and a strong track record of alumni success in the field. The best programs also tend to be located in vibrant artistic communities, providing students with exposure to diverse photographic styles and potential networking opportunities.

1. Yale University

1156 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06511

2. Rhode Island School of Design

20 Washington Place, Providence, RI 02903-2784

3. School of the Art Institute of Chicago

111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

4. NYU Tisch School of the Arts

721 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts offers a comprehensive four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program in photography that embraces a wide range of perspectives and approaches to photo-based image-making. Situated in the heart of New York City, Tisch’s photography program provides students with unparalleled access to world-class museums, galleries, and industry professionals, as well as unique opportunities for internships and collaborations. The vibrant urban setting serves as an endless source of inspiration and subject matter for aspiring photographers.

5. Rochester Institute of Technology

55 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623-5602

6. Arizona State University

1001 S Forest Mall, Tempe, AZ 85287

7. University of Arizona

1031 North Olive Road., Tucson, AZ 85721

8. University of New Mexico

1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131

The University of New Mexico’s photography program, one of the first MFA programs in the country, emphasizes artistic expression and conceptual thinking through a curriculum that covers both traditional and contemporary practices.

One key aspect that makes UNM’s photography program particularly attractive is its location in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The state’s stunning natural landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and forests, provide endless opportunities for students to explore and capture diverse subject matter. The unique quality of light in New Mexico has long attracted artists and photographers, and UNM students have the advantage of being immersed in this inspiring environment.

9. Bard College

30 Campus Road, Annandale-On-Hudson, NY 12504

Bard College’s photography program stands out for its integration within the college’s renowned Studio Arts department, offering students a well-rounded education that combines intensive studio practice with a strong foundation in the liberal arts. The photography facilities at Bard are state-of-the-art, providing students with access to both traditional darkrooms and cutting-edge digital equipment.

The program’s location in the Hudson Valley, just north of New York City, offers students a unique blend of rural and urban environments in which to create their work. The proximity to New York City also provides students with opportunities to connect with the city’s vibrant art scene, attend exhibitions, and secure internships with leading photographers and arts organizations.

10. California Institute of the Arts

24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia, California 91355

The photography program at the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) stands out for its emphasis on experimentation, interdisciplinary exploration, and the development of each student’s unique artistic voice and critical thinking skills.

CalArts’ photography faculty represents a diverse range of practices, including analog and digital photography, moving image and installation, writing and publishing, painting and social practice. They work across various contexts, from museums and galleries to documentary, art criticism, and community venues. 

Career Outcomes for Photography School Graduates

Freelance photographer.

A freelance photographer is a self-employed professional who offers photography services to a variety of clients. They typically specialize in specific areas such as weddings, portraits, events, or commercial work. Freelance photographers are responsible for managing all aspects of their business, including marketing their services, building and maintaining client relationships, scheduling shoots, and capturing and editing images.

Studio Photographer

Photojournalist.

A photojournalist is a visual storyteller who captures newsworthy events, people, and places through photography for various media outlets. They combine strong photography skills with journalistic principles to document and report on current events in fast-paced, often unpredictable environments. Photojournalists must be able to tell compelling stories through their images, adhering to ethical standards of journalism while covering a wide range of subjects.

Commercial Photographer

A commercial photographer creates images for businesses and brands, primarily for use in advertising, marketing materials, and product catalogs. They often specialize in specific areas such as food, architecture, or product photography and must possess a combination of technical expertise, creative vision, and marketing understanding. Commercial photographers work directly with clients, collaborating with marketing teams and art directors to produce high-quality images that effectively promote products or services.

Fashion Photographer

A fashion photographer captures images of clothing, accessories, and models for fashion magazines, designers, and retailers. They collaborate closely with stylists, makeup artists, and art directors to create visually striking images that showcase fashion items and trends. Fashion photographers must possess strong technical skills in lighting and composition, as well as the ability to direct models and adapt to various shooting environments. Their work is crucial in shaping the visual identity of fashion brands and influencing consumer trends, and they often engage in diverse projects such as editorial shoots, advertising campaigns, and runway shows.

Return on Investment of Photography School

While a photography degree can provide valuable technical skills, creative development, and networking opportunities, it does not guarantee financial success in the field. Many successful photographers have built careers without formal education. The ROI largely depends on how graduates leverage their skills, build their portfolios, and navigate the competitive industry.

Some data suggests that the financial returns may be lower compared to other fields, with potential starting salaries around $30,000-$40,000. Ultimately, the value of a photography degree extends beyond just monetary returns, including personal growth, artistic development, and potential career opportunities in various photography-related fields.

Frequently Asked Questions

Marketing Your Photography Business: Strategies for Attracting Clients

Photography Career: Exploring Freelance Photography

Famous Advertising Photographers: Masters of Visual Storytelling

Is It Worth It to Go to Photography School?

Why Is Commercial Photography Important For Business Growth?

7 Desirable Skills Every Professional Photographer Needs

11 Myths About Becoming a Pro Photographer

15 Genres to Pursue as a Professional Photographer

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We have 3 Photography PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Creative Arts & Design

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Photography PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Are you passionate about capturing moments and telling stories through the lens of a camera? If so, pursuing a PhD in Photography could be the perfect path for you. This unique opportunity allows you to delve deeper into the world of creative arts and design, exploring the artistry and technical aspects of photography.

What's it like to study a PhD in Photography?

Studying a PhD in Photography is an exciting and rewarding journey. It offers you the chance to push the boundaries of your creativity and develop your own unique style as a photographer. You will have the opportunity to conduct in-depth research on various aspects of photography, such as the history and theory of the medium, the impact of technology on image-making, or the social and cultural implications of photography.

During your PhD, you will work closely with experienced supervisors who will guide and support you throughout your research. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, allowing you to experiment with different techniques and approaches to photography. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to exhibit your work and present your research at conferences, further enhancing your professional profile.

Entry requirements for a PhD in Photography

To be eligible for a PhD in Photography, you will typically need a relevant undergraduate and/or postgraduate degree in a related field, such as Fine Arts, Visual Arts, or Photography. Additionally, you will need to submit a research proposal outlining your intended area of study and research objectives. This proposal should demonstrate your passion for the subject and your ability to undertake independent research.

PhD in Photography funding options

Funding for PhDs in Photography may be available from various sources, including governments, universities and charities, business or industry. See our full guides to PhD funding for more information.

PhD in Photography careers

A PhD in Photography opens up a wide range of exciting career opportunities. You could pursue a career as a professional photographer, working in areas such as fashion, advertising, journalism, or fine art. Alternatively, you may choose to become an educator, sharing your knowledge and passion for photography with aspiring artists and students. Additionally, you could explore opportunities in curating, art direction, or even research and academia, contributing to the field through scholarly publications and teaching.

Embarking on a PhD in Photography is not only a chance to deepen your understanding of the medium but also an opportunity to make a lasting impact in the world of creative arts and design. So, if you are ready to take your passion for photography to the next level, consider pursuing a PhD in Photography and unlock a world of endless possibilities.

Research Degrees at UCA

Funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

Arts Research Programme

Arts Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

PhD in Art, Design and Media

Self-funded phd students only.

The PhD opportunities on this programme do not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

PhD Research Programme

PhD Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

Research degrees in the School of Design

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School of Photographic Arts and Sciences

585-475-2716 [email protected]

The School of Photographic Arts and Sciences molds imaginative visual artists, practitioners, and technologists through its programs that explore the depth and scope of contemporary imaging practices today and into the future. A more than 93 percent job placement rate demonstrates the programs’ career-focused curriculums that prepare students for success in a variety of fields, including biomedical photography, photojournalism, advertising, media design, moving media, and much more. Here, photography is taken to ambitious levels to create an environment where innovation flourishes. Our prominence derives from professional courses of study as well as a one-of-a-kind educational community that consists of critically regarded faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, an unmatched repository of equipment, and co-operative education and internship opportunities.

With a legacy more than 100 years in the making, the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences is critically regarded as an educational leader in the professional study of photography and its multiple practices. The school’s high rankings from leading college guides, industry leaders and internationally respected publications include the MFA in photography and related media's No. 6 position  U.S. News and World Report ’s ranking of graduate photography programs. The school also received a $3.5 million gift from alumnus Chance Wright — which was used for facilities renovations that allow RIT to continue growing as one of the world's premier education and research centers in contemporary image creation. RIT also holds a strong Pulitzer Prize legacy , with a growing number of alumni who, as photographers, videographers and editors, have been recognized with the highest honor in journalism.

Charles Arnold Lecture Series

The school's signature lecture series brings speakers with experience, talent, insight and discovery to the creative and intellectual culture of RIT in honor of Professor Charles Arnold's contributions to the Photo School and the wider world of photography.

Join our mailing list to stay up to date on all things RIT

Schedule your in-person or virtual campus tour

Start your college journey by applying to RIT today

Fully equipped studios for students to utilize, creating a professional environment for photoshoots.

More than 200 elective and core courses are offered at the undergraduate level.

Eleven photography alumni have combined to win 15 Pulitzer Prizes.

Latest News

September 13, 2024

Community opportunity to 'paint with light' returns with RIT Big Shot 36

RIT’s annual Big Shot is returning for its 36th event on Friday, Sept. 20. The Rochester community is invited to shine a light on RIT’s Student Hall for Exploration and Development (SHED), the university’s newest facility housing makerspaces, performing arts areas, and high-tech classrooms.

August 13, 2024

Alumnus captures iconic moment on 2024 presidential campaign trail

The duty of a photojournalist is to document current events as they unfold and act as the “eyes of history,” according to Evan Vucci. That belief helped Vucci keep his focus when he ran toward the danger on July 13 to photograph former President Donald Trump moments after a failed assassination attempt.

July 17, 2024

RIT Alumnus behind historic Trump Rally photo   

WROC-TV talks to Evan Vucci '00 (photojournalism) about the viral photo he took at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

Featured Work

Short Attention Span Film Festival 2023

RIT's Short Attention Span Film Festival is a showcase of moving media projects by students from a variety of majors in the College of Art and Design. Submission include animations (2D, 3D and stop...

Photographing Bills Mafia

Clay Patrick McBride

RIT faculty and students captured the unique pre-game traditions and unbridled passion of Buffalo Bills fans for a story and picture essay featured in Sports Illustrated.

Wilderness Photography

Nell Pittman

A body of work by RIT photography and related media MFA student Nell Pittman.

Featured Profiles

Multimedia Storytelling

As a photojournalist for a major daily newspaper, David Wallace ’01 Photojournalism Option (Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA) has produced compelling stories honored with prestigious awards. 

Imaging Technologies Expert

After graduating, Paul Reichert '01 (Imaging and Photographic Technology; now Photographic Sciences) joined the Photography and Television (Photo/TV) Operations group at NASA Johnson Space...

Connecting Creatives

Will Moran '20 created Cabin Fever, an online publication highlighting worked created by artists while in quarantine. 

Catherine Zuromskis

Ted Kinsman

Daniel Hughes

Undergraduate Programs

The photographic and imaging arts BFA program (with options in advertising photography, fine art photography, photojournalism, and visual media) promotes the creation, editing, and presentation of images in still, moving, and multimedia formats. The photographic sciences BS program (with options in biomedical photographic communications and imaging and photographic technology) prepares students for careers in healthcare and at scientific, forensic, and imaging technology companies.

Advertising Photography Option - Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA

RIT's BFA in advertising photography prepares you for diverse and rewarding careers in the field of visual communications.

Fine Art Photography Option - Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA

RIT's BFA in Fine Art Photography hones your skills to create thought-provoking and meaningful images through photographic expression.

Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA

RIT’s photography BFA immerses you in the creativity and innovation of photography and imaging. Personalize your degree with options in advertising photography, fine art photography, photojournalism, and visual media.

Photographic Sciences BS   (Accelerated dual degree available)

RIT's scientific photography degree immerses you in the fascinating world of scientific photography, where you’ll use photography to capture images and collect scientific data.

Photojournalism Option - Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA

RIT's photojournalism degree prepares you to produce non-fiction visual reporting that tells the stories of people, social issues, and events for modern media outlets.

Visual Media Option - Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA

RIT’s visual media degree allows students to integrate the graphic communications professions of photography, media design, and business.

Graduate Programs

Students in the photography and related media MFA program study fine art practices with the goal of nurturing artistic individuality through extensive study of art practice, criticism, and aesthetics. The program is a professional two-year course of study in fine art photography, digital imaging, and moving media. In the 2016 U.S. News & World Report rankings, RIT was fourth nationally among graduate schools offering the fine arts specialty of photography.

In the media arts and technology MFA program, you will learn to leverage emerging technologies to your advantage. With a management focus, technical expertise, and comprehensive knowledge of how to drive the graphics process from concept through completion, you will be an attractive prospect in a wide range of industries, including education, engineering, marketing, research science, human resources, public relations, and more.

Photography and Related Media MFA

Earn your graduate photography degree at RIT, ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the 6th best fine arts school for a graduate degree in photography.

Imaging Systems Minor

The imaging systems minor offers students an introduction to the business and technology of photographic imaging services. Courses cover digital imaging capture systems, professional practices, output technologies, color management, and imaging workflows. The minor provides the foundation students need to pursue opportunities in photo technology management, color workflows, technical support, digital imaging technology, and sales for photography and imaging manufacturers.

Photography Minor

The photography minor explores the diverse subject of photography from either an art or science perspective. Students develop both technical and aesthetic skills needed for creative, communication, or scientific applications. Students choose one of the following areas of emphasis: general photography, fine art photography, photojournalism, or photo sciences. Course selections are based upon career goals and aspirations, personal interests, and the availability of photography courses. Courses are selected from the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences’s comprehensive portfolio of offerings in photographic sciences, photojournalism, applied photography, and fine art photography.

With professional-level resources and access to industry-standard equipment, our photography facilities are regarded as some of the best in the country. And they were recently bolstered by a multi-million-dollar renovation. The state-of-the-art facilities include more than two dozen studios for professional-level shoots, 20 darkrooms for black-and-white or color film processing and printing, two well-stocked equipment cages for students to check out industry-standard gear and a world-class printing lab. Learn more about our facilities below to see the range of equipment that is right at students' fingertips!

September 18

Film + Foto Fest @ RIT '24

September 19

September 20

FallFest: RIT Big Shot No. 36 — the SHED

The School of Photographic Arts and Sciences hosts a Day of Photo event each year, allowing prospective students to gain insights from current students and award-winning faculty and alumni, learn about our facilities and much more.

For a deeper look at the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences and its students, faculty, alumni and facilities, visit our blog .

Internal College of Art and Design resources such as academic information, forms and FAQs can be found at  inside.cad.rit.edu . Our academic advising page also has helpful information.

• PhD in USA – A Guide for 2024/25
• Finding a PhD

A PhD in USA takes approximately 5 – 6 years of full-time study and can cost between $12,000 – $45,000 per academic year. PhD programs in USA differ from that in the UK and Europe in that students must first take taught classes, coursework and exams before starting their research project.

Why Do a PhD in USA?

The United States has long had some of the most distinguished universities and advanced PhD programmes in the world. Combined with curriculum flexibility, rigorous teaching methods, vast funding opportunities, breathtaking campuses and significant career prospects, it’s no wonder that it is one of the most sought-after study destinations for research students.

In addition to comprehensive training standards, here are a few other reasons why a student may choose to undertake their PhD in the United States:

• Longer learning timeframes – A PhD in the US lasts longer than a PhD in the UK or Europe. This allows students to more confidently transition from undergraduate to postgraduate studies; more commonly referred to as ‘graduate studies’ in the US. This gives you the opportunity to learn more about your subject, research methods and academic writing in general before starting your research project.
• World-class universities – It’s no secret that some of the most well-known higher education institutions that continue to dominate global rankings are based in the United States. Although many factors go into determining whether a position is right for you, a PhD at a high-ranking American university will undeniably have many benefits, from excellent learning standards to access to innovative equipment and deep expertise.
• International network – The US has long been a popular choice among PhD students around the world. As such, the US hosts a diverse and multicultural learning environment in which many research students will quickly feel at home.
• Opportunities – With over 4,000 universities in the US, we can safely say you will have plenty of opportunities to find the ideal combination of project, supervisor and university that works for you.

Universities in USA

Universities in the United States can be divided into two types: public universities and private universities.

Public universities are financed by the state in which they are based. Because of this, public universities charge less for students from within the state and more for students from outside the state, including international students.

Private universities are not financed by their state, but by private donors, research funds and tuition fees. For this reason, private universities generally charge higher tuition fees than public universities and require all students to pay the same amount, regardless of whether they come from out-of-state or abroad.

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 , eight of the top ten universities in the world are located in the United States. These are:

Method of Study

The main difference between a PhD in the US and a PhD in Europe lies in the program structure. Whereas a European PhD essentially consists of a single phase lasting three to four years , an American PhD consists of three different phases, each with its own time frame.

• Phase One – The first phase lasts approximately two years and focuses on building a basic foundation for the doctoral student. This phase consists largely of taught components such as lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions, in which the student learns more about theoretical concepts and research methods within their discipline.
• Phase Two – The second phase can be considered an assessment phase, which runs both periodically alongside and at the end of the first phase. Here, students complete coursework and take exams on the basis of the material they have covered of which they must pass in order to proceed to the third phase.
• Phase Three – The third phase lasts approximately three years and resembles the European PhD structure. During this period, the student undertakes an independent research project, including forming a research design, conducting experiments, writing a thesis (more commonly referred to in the USA as a dissertation) and sitting a viva exam.

Teaching Requirements

Besides structure, a key difference between a PhD program in the US and in Europe is the focus on teaching requirements. In the US, doctoral students are expected to lecture, lead tutorials, host laboratory sessions, mark coursework and provide office hours for undergraduate students. Although students studying in European will likely contribute to these at some point during their study, this would normally be on a voluntary basis and involve less time commitment.

Research Flexibility

Another difference is project flexibility. In Europe, students typically apply to a PhD project predetermined by a supervisor, and although there may be some scope to adapt the project, depending on the funding provider , it will usually be limited to how the project is carried out rather than what it is about. In the US, however, a student applies to become a doctoral candidate within a department rather than applying for a particular research project. This is because students are expected to decide on their thesis topic (also commonly referred to as a dissertation research topic) near the end of their first phase after they have developed a better understanding of their subject and know where their interests lie. Therefore, research students in the US generally have more flexibility and influence in the direction of their research than students in the United Kingdom or Europe.

PhD Admission Requirements in USA

PhD admission into US universities can be highly competitive, both because of the limited number of positions and the large number of annual applicants.

The eligibility requirements for a doctoral program in the USA can generally be divided into four sections:

• Grade Point Average ( GPA ) – in the US, a scoring system known as Grade Point Average is used to measure academic ability. A student’s GPA is calculated as a weighted score of the subjects they study during their undergraduate degree; an equivalent score is calculated by universities for international applicants. Although universities rarely set minimum GPA requirements for doctoral study, it’s worth being aware that a GPA of 3.0 is equivalent to a UK second class honours (2:1); the typical entry requirement for UK universities.
• Graduate Records Exam (GRE) – most universities will require you to take a series of examinations known as Graduate Records Exams, which are used to determine your suitability for graduate study. GREs will assess your analytical, reasoning and critical thinking skills as well as your depth of your subject.
• Student aptitude – in addition to academic ability, US universities also look for characteristics of a strong researcher. These include traits such as engaging in the subject in your own time, e.g. by attending talks and conferences, demonstrating a high degree of independence and enthusiasm, and a general passion for your subject.
• English Language Proficiency – international students whose first language is not English must sit language exams such as IELTS or TOELF to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

International students will also require a F1 student visa in order to study in the US, however, you would typically apply for this after you have secured a place into a doctorate program.

How to Apply for PhD in USA

When applying for a PhD position at a graduate school, the application process will differ between universities, however, they will all typically ask for the following:

• Academic CV – a short document summarising your educational background and current level of experience .
• Personal statement – a document which outlines why you believe you are suitable for PhD study and your passion for the subject.
• Academic transcripts – a complete breakdown of the modules and their respective marks you have taken as part of your previous/current degree.
• GRE scores – a transcript of your Graduate Records Exam results.
• Research statement – a condensed version of a research proposal outlining your general research interests, if required.
• Recommendation letters – references from several academic referees who endorse your qualities as a person, your abilities as a student and your potential as a doctoral researcher.

Application Deadlines and Fees

Since PhD programs in the United States have taught components, they commence at the same time as all other taught degrees, and therefore share the same application deadlines and start dates. This corresponds to an application period that typically begins in August and ends in February. Admission decisions are typically made in April, with successful students starting in August/September.

When you apply to a graduate school, you will be expected to pay a fee for each doctorate application to cover the school’s administrative costs for processing your application. The fee varies from university to university, but typically ranges from $50 to $100 .

Funding your PhD in USA

It’s very common for a PhD student to receive financial aid in the form of a PhD scholarship; in fact, this will be the case for the vast majority of students in the US.

PhD funding can be ‘fully funded’ covering the student’s graduate program tuition fees, accommodation and living costs, or ‘partially funded’ covering the student’s tuition fee only in part or full.

Besides funding, a graduate student can take on an assistantship, such as a graduate teaching assistant or research assistant, in which they take on a part-time salaried position at the university alongside their studies.

Due to the international and collaborate nature of American universities, there are also a number of international scholarships available, such as the Fulbright Scholarship and the AAUW International Fellowship .

PhD Duration in USA

In the US, a PhD takes approximately 5 – 6 years to complete if studying full-time, and 8 – 10 years if studying part-time.

If you already have a Master’s degree, your first phase can be shortened by one year at the discretion of the university.

Cost of a PhD in USA

The cost of a PhD program in the US can vary considerably depending on the type of university, i.e. whether it’s a public or private university, the doctoral course, i.e. whether it’s in a STEM subject such as computer science, engineering or a non-STEM subject, and whether you are a home or international student.

In general, however, the typical annual tuition fee for a PhD in the US is between $12,000 and $45,000 per academic year.

As with any doctoral degree, additional costs may include travel for collaborations, bench fees, accommodation and living expenses.

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Ph.D. in Photography

• About Course

The Ph.D. program in photography offers students a unique opportunity to pursue academic research in the field. The Ph.D. program is typically eighty to a hundred thousand words in length and is designed to help photographers develop their practice. The Ph.D. will also help photographers establish their research credentials, which will enable them to submit their work to appropriate contexts. The process is challenging but rewarding - it will reward you with an incredibly high level of qualification.

The Ph.D. program in photography requires advanced study in the discipline. Graduates earn a doctoral degree based on their research, and they are expected to demonstrate their knowledge through a doctoral dissertation. The Ph.D. in photography is a rigorous and demanding program. The program does not focus on technical skills. Instead, it involves deep thinking about the practice. The goal is to create a body of work that exemplifies the creative process in the field.

A Ph.D. in photography requires an outstanding body of work and a substantial body of published research. This type of degree emphasizes innovative practice as research and builds a coherent research process. A Ph.D. in photography will demonstrate the researcher's critical appreciation of the contexts in which photography works and the siting of photographs. The Ph.D. in photography will also extend existing literature and make a significant contribution to the field.

Ph.D. in Photography Eligibility

Candidates who want to take admission in Ph.D. must have a post-graduate degree in Photography and its relevant discipline with at least 55% marks from a recognized university and must have passed the national level entrance examination or university level entrance examination. National level entrance exams like UGC NET / UGC CSIR NET / GATE / SLET or University entrance exams consist of written tests and personal interviews.

The Benefits of a Ph.D. in Photography

The Ph.D. in photography is a comprehensive degree in the field, with a strong focus on innovative practices. It helps to establish a coherent research process, and the work produced will be of high quality. The Ph.D. also enables photographers to submit their work to a variety of contexts and contribute to new knowledge. There are many advantages of pursuing a Ph.D. in photography. Here are some of them:

Ph.D. students must be continuously enrolled until graduation. If you need to take a break from your program, you must request a leave of absence. It can't be for more than two semesters, and you can't take a leave of absence more than once. If you need to take a leave of absence, you must apply again for admission. The deadline for the application is one month prior to the start of the program.

A Ph.D. in photography is one of the most popular programs in the field, with many benefits. It requires a master's degree and is recognized internationally. There are many institutions offering Ph.D. degrees in the field, so you can choose from many of them. The benefits of a Ph.D. in photography are many. It will give you the chance to work in your chosen field, and earn a doctorate.

Fees for research program for Photography

The average fee for Ph.D. in Photography degree is between INR 50000 and INR 500000.

Eligibility

Masters degree in relevant subjects + the candidates should have cleared the Entrance test conducted by the respective university.

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Postgraduate Courses in Photography - 172 Courses

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• Medical photography

University of Aberdeen School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition

• Medical Imaging MSc

Aberystwyth University School of Art

• Fine Art Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

Arts University Plymouth Arts, Design and Media

• MA by Research MA (Res)
• Photography MA

Bath Spa University Bath School of Art, Film and Media

• Fine Art (Photography) MA

Birkbeck, University of London School of Historical Studies

• History of Photography MA
• History of Photography with Curating MA

Bournemouth University Faculty of Media and Communications

• PhD – Faculty of Media & Communication Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

University of Brighton School of Art and Media

Coventry University School of Art and Design

University for the Creative Arts Photography

• Fashion Photography MA
• Fashion Photography (with Integrated International Pre-Masters) MA
• Photography MA Master of Fine Arts - MFA (PG)
• Photography (with Integrated International Pre-Masters) MA Master of Fine Arts - MFA (PG)

University of Derby Department of Art and Design

University College Dublin UCD School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics

• Languages & Image Studies MA
• Languages and Image Studies GradDip

University College Dublin UCD School of Medicine

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging Graduate Diploma MSc

Wrexham University School of the Creative Arts

Goldsmiths, University of London Media, Communications and Cultural Studies

• Photography Practice MA

Goldsmiths, University of London Sociology

• Photography and Urban Cultures MA

Keele University School of Humanities

• Global Media and Culture MA

Kingston University Fine Art

Lancaster University Lancaster Institute for Contemporary Arts (LICA)

• Art Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

Leeds Arts University Lens Based Practices

Manchester Metropolitan University School of Digital Arts

Nottingham Trent University Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies

• Content Creation - Confetti London MA
• Content Creation - Confetti Nottingham MA

Nottingham Trent University School of Art and Design

University of plymouth school of art, design and architecture.

University of St Andrews Art History

• History of Photography MLitt

Staffordshire University Digital, Technologies and Arts

• Clinical Photography Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

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233 Universities in the USA offering Photography degrees and courses

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Are you looking for Photography courses? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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DePaul University

University of massachusetts - lowell, dallas baptist university.

Robert Morris University

Millersville University

Webster University

CUNY Queens College - Navitas USA

University of Akron

The University of Alabama

THE World Ranking: 601

Shoreline Community College

University of Memphis

THE World Ranking: 801

Orange Coast College

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• THE World Ranking: 801
• London, United Kingdom
• Next intake: 23.09.2024
• Entry Score: IELTS 6.5
• GBP7725 (2024)
• THE World Ranking: 201
• Leicester, United Kingdom
• GBP16200 (2024)
• GBP15450 (2024)
• Next intake: 30.09.2024
• Entry Score: IELTS 7.0
• GBP25060 (2024)
• Cheltenham, United Kingdom
• Next intake: 14.10.2024
• THE World Ranking: 1001
• Cardiff, United Kingdom
• Next intake: 10.10.2024
• GBP16900 (2024)
• Canterbury, United Kingdom
• Next intake: 22.09.2025
• Entry Score: IELTS 6.0
• GBP14500 (2024)
• THE World Ranking: 130
• Nottingham, United Kingdom
• Next intake: 01.10.2024
• GBP21500 (2024)

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