person taking a photograph

School of Visual ArtsPhotography Bachelor's Degree

  • BA
  • BFA

About the Photography Major

Refine your creative vision in Columbia College Chicago's Photography BA and BFA programs. Our faculty of award-winning photographers will guide you through this two-year program as you build a sophisticated body of work that you'll exhibit in public venues.

Examples of Photography Careers

  • Fine art photographer
  • Studio artist
  • Museum curator
  • Art gallery director
  • Commercial photographer
  • Photography educator

The Student Experience

In the Photography BA program, you'll have access to our advanced photography and fine art facilities, including graduate studio space, a digital imaging lab, a commercial lighting studio, and darkrooms. In a supportive critique setting, you'll share your work with our faculty members, guest curators, and visiting artists. You'll make professional connections through our partnerships with the Museum of Contemporary Photography and local galleries, museums, and studios.

  • Engage in comprehensive artistic explorationYou’ll explore traditional and experimental photography techniques, including documentaries, videos, collages, and installations. You'll also benefit from peer critiques and field trips to studios and galleries.
  • Build professional connectionsThe program offers access to prominent guest curators, visiting artists, and faculty mentors who regularly exhibit work at leading institutions.
  • Use professional tools Students have access to cutting-edge facilities, including a digital imaging lab, darkrooms, and studio spaces.
  • Showcase your workYou’ll show your work at public venues such as Columbia’s Museum of Contemporary Photography, gaining visibility and networking opportunities.
  • Complete a capstone projectYour final thesis project will be exhibited in a high-profile event that draws artists and curators from across Chicago, further positioning you within the professional art community.

Two students taking photographs

Career Readiness

Gain hands-on experience, connect with a global alumni network, and learn from industry-active faculty. Starting junior year, Columbia’s Career Center links you with internships in studios, museums, and galleries. Join alumni working as freelancers, studio managers, and curators, and graduate with a polished portfolio, website, and brand to launch your career.

  • Industry connections

    You’ll interact with the Chicago photography scene through internships, workshops, and guest critiques from museum curators, gallery directors, and leading artists.

  • Skill-building opportunities

    You’ll gain expertise not only in photography but in writing, curating, and presenting work to diverse audiences, preparing you for gallery exhibitions and museum placements.

Alumni Spotlight

Photography Alumni Jess Dugan

Jess Dugan MFA ’14

Recipient of the Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography, widely exhibited in museums across the U.S.

98%

of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.

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