Aspiring photographers have a broad range of career options, from photojournalism to wedding photography, to part-time freelance work. Your choice of photography school should be shaped by the type of career you hope to pursue.
There are two schooling options: You can major in photography at a traditional college or university or attend a specialized photography school or art institute, pursuing anything from a certificate program to a bachelor's degree in photography. Programs at specialized photography schools are typically shorter and focused primarily on photography-related courses. At a four-year college or university, photography courses will make up only a portion of your overall education.
Because photography programs vary so widely in scope, tuition prices vary widely, too. Career-focused programs, which usually last one or two years, run anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 per year.
A degree in photography from a four-year school is more expensive, particularly if you choose a prestigious art school.
If you select a four-year photography school, plan on spending at least another $2,000 per semester for expenses like a meal plan, student activity fees, technology fees and health insurance. First-year students often pay $150 or so for an orientation fee and another $150 or so for a security deposit. Optional parking permits run anywhere from $100 to $200 per year.
First, decide on your career path. Do you want a general program or one that trains you for a specialty like fine arts photography? Do you want to teach photography?
Run your own studio? You may be better suited for a career-focused certificate program. Aspiring photojournalists are better off pursuing a four-year degree.
Once you've selected some schools, call them to request copies of course lists and fee schedules.
Lastly, consider whether you're willing to relocate. You can save money by selecting a photography school within commuting distance.
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