a photographer works with a model in the student center

School of Visual ArtsPhotography Master's Degree

  • MFA

About the Photography Program

Refine your creative vision in Columbia College Chicago's selective Photography Master of Fine Arts program. 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. You will 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.

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

The Student Experience

Push your creative boundaries in a community of emerging artists. Columbia College Chicago’s fine-art focus encourages students to develop a unique practice while also investigating the history, theory, and criticism of contemporary image-making.

  • Focus on traditional and experimental photography You’ll explore traditional and experimental techniques, including documentaries, videos, collages, and installations. Courses like Graduate Seminar and Graduate Forum offer peer critique and field trips to studios and galleries.
  • Benefit from professional connectionsThe program offers access to prominent guest curators, visiting artists, and faculty mentors who regularly exhibit work at leading institutions.
  • Work in professional facilitiesGraduate students have access to cutting-edge facilities, including a digital imaging lab, darkrooms, and studio spaces.
  • Explore exhibition opportunitiesYou’ll showcase your work at public venues such as Columbia’s Museum of Contemporary Photography, gaining visibility and networking opportunities.
  • Position yourself through 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.

Photography thesis exhibit

Career Readiness

Columbia College Chicago’s Photography program prepares you for a successful career in the arts by fostering deep industry connections and hands-on experience. Graduates emerge with a competitive edge, with many receiving honors such as the Guggenheim Fellowship and Aperture Portfolio Prize, marking them as leaders in the field.

  • Real-world experience

    Through partnerships with prestigious institutions, like the Museum of Contemporary Photography, you’ll engage with Chicago’s vibrant photography scene, gain valuable skills in writing, curating, and exhibiting, and secure opportunities for networking and internships.

  • Networking and internship opportunities

    Alumni have received prestigious awards and fellowships, including the Guggenheim Fellowship and Aperture Portfolio Prize, positioning them at the forefront of the field.  Students frequently secure internships with renowned institutions, galleries, and studios, allowing you to build a network that will benefit you throughout your career.

Alumni Spotlight

Jess T 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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