The technology behind photographic technique has evolved significantly since the invention of the daguerrotype in 1829.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs in photography offer aspiring visual artists the chance to continue to refine their skills in an academic environment, while establishing professional contacts and networks through gallery showings and internships. Several colleges host MFA programs in photography.
Yale University
Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University offers a two-year MFA degree in photography. Students enrolled in the program collaborate with their fellow students and faculty on artistic projects in conjunction with their individual endeavors. The faculty members within the photographic department critique the students' work on a weekly basis in addition to performing end-of-semester reviews. Prospective students must submit an online application to the program in addition to letters of recommendation and a creative portfolio.
Savannah College of Art and Design
The Atlanta, Hong Kong and Savannah branches of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offer an MFA degree in photography. The program includes courses in photographic arts, art criticism and photographic technique. SCAD offers internship programs to students within the program, giving them access to galleries and professional photography companies around the country. Recruiting events occur on campus that expose SCAD graduates to leading media companies. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit a creative portfolio of their previous work to the SCAD faculty.
Rhode Island School of Design
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) offers an MFA degree in photography for students who have completed their undergraduate training. Courses within the MFA program include multiple critiques with RISD faculty. There are several electives for students, including lighting, documentary photography and large format photography. Students use a variety of professional equipment on campus to develop and print their film and digital art projects. Students interested in the program must complete an online application and submit a creative portfolio for review.
Columbia University
Columbia University offers a two-year Master of Visual Arts degree to students who have completed their undergraduate training and are choosing to continue their training in digital media, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, installation and performance art. Students within the photography program attend weekly critiques by members of the visual art faculty. At the end of their first year of study, MFA candidates produce a formal exhibition of their works in a campus gallery. Following the end of their second and final year of study, students are required to display their thesis projects in a gallery outside of campus. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit a creative portfolio of their works.
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