Art Degrees Online

The photography program has, as its underlying basis, the recognition of photography as a unique and elegant blend of science and art which has evolved into one of the most influential media of communication on the planet. As a fine art that works directly from reality and is, therefore, grounded in truth, it is an extremely potent and evocative means of self-expression. As the preferred means of news reportage, it has, since its inception, been the primary force in documenting global events, and, in some cases, even shaping world history. As the medium of choice for product advertising, it accounts for billions of dollars of consumer trade, annually. And now, with the advent of digital photography, the creative power and control of the individual photographer is almost unlimited.

A two-year Associate in Fine Arts degree, or a two-year diploma, is offered for students wishing to prepare for this field. Also, a four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography and Digital Imaging has been designed to cover the increased digital needs of our students, as well as to continue to offer the skills, concepts and history of traditional gelatin/silver photography. This program has been carefully designed to accurately mirror the dynamic merger of traditional and digital imagining which is currently evolving in the field.

The BFA program offers the student a unique experience that covers both fine art and commercial photography. Students will be given the opportunity to acquire skills that enable them to choose from many different photo career directions which is currently evolving in the field.

Career opportunities in photography are quite varied, and include portraiture, photojournalism, architectural photography, product photography, wedding photography, photographic processing and printing, and many forms of prepress digital manipulation.

Your Digital Photography training includes the following courses:
Photography Foundation
History of Art and Photography
Career Development for Photographers
Photoshop for Photographers I
Lighting Basics
Photojournalism
Portrait Photography
Event and Wedding Photography
Fashion Photography
Digital Pre-Press for Photographers
Still Life and Product Photography
Photoshop for Photographers II
Commercial/Advertising Photography
Digital Presentation Techniques
Marketing and Business Practices
Photography Portfolio Presentation
Introduction to Computer Systems

Associate of Science degree in Digital Photography

The Associate of Science degree program in Digital Photography teaches students traditional photographic skills as well as emerging technical skills in the ever-changing digital world of professional photographers.
Students enrolling in the Digital Photography degree program will study course content covering career-relevant skills training in commercial, advertising, portrait photography, photojournalism and wedding photography. They will also complete hands-on projects using industry-standard cameras, lighting, grip, software and techniques. Résumé- and portfolio-building opportunities are also emphasized throughout the degree program. The comprehensive course of study is design to provide them with opportunities to:
Create dramatic lighting effects, direct models, organize digital workflow and manipulate images.
Work on creating fashion, lifestyle and advertising images.
Cover sporting events, photograph weddings and create memorable portraiture and product photography.

The Photography and Digital Imaging program at MCTC integrates traditional film-based photo technology with the ever changing and expanding world of digital imaging.

Coursework covers metering techniques, lighting, traditional darkroom techniques, portraiture, fashion, and product photography. You will use 35mm, medium format, and large format cameras and the latest in digital capture and output technology. The complete digital workflow process is covered.

While being occupational and technical in nature, the Photography and Digital Imaging curriculum will encourage your creativity and individualized expression through hands-on assignments and personalized instruction. You will graduate from the program with a professional portfolio and a working knowledge of the professional photographic industry.

You will be required to provide your own 35mm and digital SLR cameras and lenses, professional light meter, supplies, visual curiosity and a desire to learn.

This program has an articulation agreement with the Metropolitan State University and Bemidji State University.

The Graphic Arts Technology Department offers a curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in printing, publishing, advertising, and commercial photography. The program courses cover a wide cross section of imaging technologies, from traditional printing and print preparation techniques through the latest digital processes, including studio based digital photography. They combine a strong theoretical foundation with hands-on laboratory experiences in practical application.

An associate degree in Graphic Arts Technology will provide the education necessary to begin a successful career in the graphic arts industry, as well as many of the diverse emerging imaging technologies such as the Internet. Rochester Institute of Technology, as well as other institutions offering programs in the various imaging technologies, accepts credits from the STCC Graphic Arts Technology program toward their advanced degree programs.

The program offers two options, one in Commercial Art and one in Digital Photography, as well as two Certificates of Completion in Desktop Publishing and Graphic Arts Technology. Minimum Grade Requirement: The minimum passing grade for any individual course in this program shall be a “D” (60%). The minimum average for graduation from the program is a “C” (73%).

The Digital Photography Option prepares students for fast-paced careers in commercial studio photography, including portrait photography, product photography, digital image modification, photo-restoration, photo-retouching, digital workflow, and image preparation for final output. The student will also develop proficiencies in various lighting and image capture techniques, as well as skills with professional imaging software programs. Courses in typography, layout, graphic design, and website design – including HTML and interactive media techniques – are also included in the program.