I'm really passionate about photography and would like to major in it in college. What colleges offer a major in photography—any recommendations?
There are many great colleges and universities that offer photography majors, so you have plenty to choose from. Here are a few recommendations across the U.S., but you can look for additional options in your preferred region:
1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) — Located in Providence, Rhode Island, RISD is a highly respected art and design school offering a BFA in Photography. Their program focuses on both traditional and digital techniques, as well as fostering conceptual thinking.
2. School of Visual Arts (SVA) — SVA in New York City offers a diverse and robust BFA program in Photography and Video. Students are exposed to a variety of formats and techniques, encouraging experimentation and innovation.
3. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) — CalArts, located in Valencia, California, has an undergraduate Photography and Media program that encourages interdisciplinary work and collaboration across various art mediums.
4. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) — With campuses in Savannah, Georgia and Atlanta, Georgia, SCAD offers a strong BFA program in Photography that focuses on both technical skills and artistic practices.
5. Columbia College Chicago — Located in Chicago, Illinois, Columbia College's Photography BFA program covers multiple photographic practices, from fine art photography to commercial and editorial photography.
6. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) — RIT, located in Rochester, New York, offers a BFA in Photographic and Imaging Arts. The program explores various aspects of photography, including fine art, advertising, and photojournalism.
7. Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) — Situated in Boston, Massachusetts, MassArt's BFA in Photography program combines both traditional and digital approaches to photography, with an emphasis on conceptual development and critical thinking.
These are just a few options to get you started. It's important to research each program's coursework, faculty, facilities, and location to determine which best fits your needs and interests. In addition to considering these photography-specific programs, don't forget to explore liberal arts colleges and universities that offer photography within their art departments. Good luck in your search!
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