What are the best photography graduate programs in the USA?

Key takeaways

• Photography graduate programs can help you deepen your knowledge of photography. 
• A master’s degree in the field can increase earning potential and enhance job security. 
• Several colleges and universities have graduate schools in the United States of America for photography. 
• The California College of Arts offers a Master in Fine Arts with the option to pursue a photography concentration. 
• Some of the other best photography graduate schools include San Jose State University, Rhode Island School of Design, the University of Memphis, and more.  
• Rochester Institute of Technology is one of the high-ranking photography graduate schools in the country. 
• You can also pursue a Master’s in Professional Studies with a concentration in Photography from The School of Visual Arts. 

You must be familiar with the saying, an image is worth a thousand words. But in reality, an image conveys more information than words can because it captures emotions, scenes, history, and so much more. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional photographer, photography graduate programs can help expand your knowledge of the field. 

In this article, we list some of the best photography graduate schools in the United States. Did you know that professionals with an advanced degree, such as a master’s, enjoy higher earning potential, have higher employment rates, and greater job stability? A report by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics titled Education Pays clearly outlines that the value of a graduate degree is higher than that of a bachelor’s degree in the job market. 

A comprehensive list of the best photography graduate programs in the USA

The educational landscape of the United States of America presents a wealth of opportunities for students looking to enroll in a bachelor’s or advanced degree, such as a graduate or a PhD program. This holds true for photography programs as well. Colleges and universities across the United States offer a plethora of graduate programs in different types of photography, including fine art, fashion, commercial, and so on. 

Regardless of which type of photography you aspire to pursue, there is likely a program you will find that suits your needs. However, given the sheer volume of available options, you will likely find selecting one program quite challenging. Here are a few of our top picks and the reason why we think they stand out. 

California College of Arts

The California College of Arts offers an interdisciplinary experience that provides art students with a holistic learning experience. The college offers a Master of Fine Arts with a concentration in photography, taught by internationally renowned faculty who bring a diverse learning experience to the classroom. The program focuses on developing artistic expression through different media, including photography, painting, sculpture, and so on. 

Here, students from across the world get a chance to work together and collaborate inside the classroom. The program curriculum is designed to encourage learning through hands-on experience and social engagement. Additionally, you will learn how to use state-of-the-art tools and techniques to create art that makes a long-lasting impact.

If you are looking for a program that will help you develop into the artist you’ve always wanted to be, then this is the program for you. 

Rhode Island School of Design 

The Rhode Island School of Design offers a two-year Master’s in Fine Arts program that focuses on developing photography skills and artistic expression through a blended curriculum. Here, students engage in a variety of activities, including studio work, classroom learning, independent projects, and critique. Through the curriculum, graduates develop a deeper understanding of contemporary photography concepts, practices, and trends. 

What sets the MFA at the Rhode Island School of Design apart is that students get to enjoy and undertake independent studio work in a designated studio. Here, students get a chance to explore and experiment freely. Moreover, students are encouraged to explore topics and subjects not just through film-based or digital photography, but also to learn to write about the topics and subjects they explore. 

If you are looking for a program where you get the free hand to experiment on a subject of your choosing, this is the program for you. Additionally, you will build technical competencies, create a cohesive body of work, and learn to portray and market your work in art exhibitions, photo galleries, and so on.  

Rochester Institute of Technology 

The Rochester Institute of Technology is one of the top-ranked photography graduate schools in the United States of America. Here, you benefit from the presence of renowned full-time faculty with published work in national and international recognition. Moreover, you get to enjoy dedicated studios, labs, and facilities as graduate photography students. The facilities and equipment are all up to date, having undergone recent renovation in 2021. 

The program’s curriculum focuses on expanding one’s understanding of photography as a conceptual art form. Through the program, you not only get to broaden your horizons but also learn to hone your skills and showcase your unique perspective on different subjects. Moreover, the program’s blended curriculum allows students to learn theory and its practical applications, providing a wholesome learning experience. 

What sets the program apart is the availability of abundant opportunities for networking and showcasing one’s work at art galleries, photography exhibitions, conventions, and so on. 

San Jose State University

San Jose State University offers a 3-year Master’s in Fine Arts program with a concentration in Photography. It is undoubtedly one of the longest photography graduate programs in the USA, also making it one of the most comprehensive ones. The program consists of 60 credit hours and focuses on the development of artistic expression through a photographer’s lens. 

The university not only features one of the longest graduate photography programs but also boasts one of the largest technical facilities for photography students. Here, you get a chance to truly work on your art and learn from the best faculty members in a state-of-the-art facility. Moreover, you can choose a specialization track of your choice from the available options, namely Digital Media Art, Photography, Pictorial Art, and Spatial Art. 

It is really the perfect program for those who want to broaden their horizons and benefit from an extensive learning curriculum. However, be prepared to invest 2.5 to 3 years of your life if you decide to pursue a graduate program in photography from San Jose State University.

University of Memphis

At the University of Memphis, you can pursue a Master’s in Fine Arts with a concentration in either Photography or Printmaking. The program curriculum focuses on developing professional expertise through studio-based work. Here, you get plenty of opportunities to showcase your abilities and hone your skills. Moreover, you get abundant opportunities to present your work to peers, industry professionals, potential employers, and so on. 

The curriculum relies heavily on practical work, but also features ample theoretical classes aimed at enhancing one’s understanding of photography concepts. Out of the 60 credit hours of the program, you will spend the majority of them engaged in practical work. If you want to develop a strong portfolio of original work and learn how you can improve as a professional photographer, this is the program for you. 

School of Visual Arts

The School of Visual Arts offers a Master’s in Professional Studies, which is an excellent option for those who want to pursue photography as a profession. The program is specifically designed to meet the needs of professional photographers by helping them develop an array of skills in their chosen niche. Moreover, you will also learn how to navigate the market as a professional, sell your services, understand client requirements, and communicate efficiently. 

The program focuses on teaching the techniques and tools photographers can use in the field, including natural settings and studios, to produce images and results that best capture their intent. If you want to learn to utilize the power of digital photography for storytelling, this is the program for you. Moreover, the School of Visual Arts proudly supports and showcases the work of its students on its platforms, enabling them to gain the recognition they deserve. 

If you are searching for a program that supports your ambitions, this is the program for you. 

Give your career a boost – Enroll in one of the photography graduate programs!

Digital Photography is a growing field with amazing potential for personal growth and development. It is one of the few skills that can not only secure you formal employment, but also allows you to pursue freelance work opportunities. Moreover, you can even start your own photography business. The options are nearly endless, and so is the earning potential. 

Our list of the best photography graduate programs includes amazing options that ensure the development of an artist’s potential and expertise. Each of these options offers unlimited learning and exploring potential to aspiring photography professionals. You can choose any option from the list of photography graduate schools, and you are sure to get the best learning experience.