M.A. in Photography

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Photography program at SCAD's Atlanta campus is a dynamic and innovative graduate program designed to nurture the talents and ambitions of emerging photographers. With a robust curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and renowned faculty, the program offers students a comprehensive education in photography, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and artistic vision necessary to excel in the competitive and ever-evolving field of photography. The M.A. in Photography program at SCAD's Atlanta campus offers a transformative educational experience, allowing students to expand their horizons and discover their potential as photographers. With a blend of theory, technical skills, and artistic expression, graduates are well-prepared to embark on fulfilling careers in the field of photography.The M.A. in Photography program at SCAD's Atlanta campus offers students a strong foundation in photography techniques, conceptual thinking, and digital technology. Graduates emerge with a versatile skill set that enables them to excel in various photography-related careers, whether as artists, commercial photographers, educators, or in other exciting roles in the field.

Curriculum:

1. Rigorous Curriculum: The M.A. in Photography program at SCAD combines critical theory and practical application. It encompasses a wide range of photography genres, including fine art, commercial, fashion, and documentary photography. The curriculum also focuses on post-production techniques, image editing, and professional portfolio development.

2. World-Class Faculty: Students have the privilege of learning from accomplished faculty members who are not only expert photographers but also leaders in the field. These faculty members offer valuable insights and mentorship, ensuring students reach their full creative potential.

3. Access to Industry-Standard Facilities: SCAD provides cutting-edge facilities, studios, and equipment, enabling students to produce high-quality work. These resources include digital imaging labs, darkrooms, professional-grade cameras, and lighting equipment.

4. Creative Environment: Atlanta, with its vibrant arts scene and diverse photography opportunities, provides an ideal backdrop for students to hone their craft. The city offers a wealth of subjects, from urban landscapes to cultural events.

5. Collaborative Learning: The program encourages collaboration and interdisciplinary exploration. Students can work with peers from different artistic disciplines, fostering a rich and diverse learning environment.

6. Professional Development: The program focuses on preparing students for professional success. Students are exposed to real-world photography projects and learn the business and marketing aspects of the field.

7. Portfolio Development: Throughout the program, students compile a professional portfolio that reflects their style, skills, and creative vision. This portfolio is a crucial asset for launching a successful photography career.

8. Internship Opportunities: SCAD has connections with numerous organizations and companies, providing students with opportunities to gain real-world experience through internships. These experiences are invaluable for building a network and enhancing career prospects.

9. Alumni Success: SCAD has a strong network of alumni who have achieved recognition and success in the photography world. Graduates have gone on to exhibit their work internationally, work for prestigious magazines, and establish their studios.

10. Career Opportunities: Graduates of the M.A. in Photography program at SCAD's Atlanta campus find a wide array of career opportunities in fields such as fine art photography, commercial photography, fashion photography, editorial photography, and more. They may work as freelance photographers, photojournalists, commercial art directors, educators, or pursue entrepreneurial ventures as studio owners.

11. Artistic Growth: SCAD emphasizes the development of students' personal style and artistic vision. This program provides a platform for students to explore their creativity, experiment with new techniques, and produce work that makes a meaningful impact.

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. A minimum academic requirement of a 60% or above in the previous academic program is expected. 

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.5.

   • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 85 with no band less than 20 is expected.

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 58 is required with no band less than 53.

3. Portfolio : Applicants are required to submit a portfolio showcasing their previous creative work and experience.

SCAD is committed to supporting international students in achieving their educational and creative aspirations. The university offers a range of scholarships specifically designed to help international students pursue their studies.

1. International Student Scholarships: SCAD offers various merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, artistic talent, and the potential for creative excellence.

2. Distinguished Scholar Award: This prestigious award is given to exceptional undergraduate students, including international students, who demonstrate outstanding academic and artistic accomplishments. It provides substantial financial support.

3. Graduate Fellowships: SCAD offers graduate fellowships to international students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees. These fellowships cover tuition and other educational expenses and are awarded based on academic achievement and creative potential.

4. International Honors Scholarships: These scholarships recognize and reward the achievements of international undergraduate students. They can significantly offset the cost of tuition.

5. Regional Scholarships: SCAD offers scholarships for students from specific regions or countries. These awards aim to increase cultural diversity and foster a global community at SCAD.

6. Online Student Scholarships: International students who choose to pursue their education through SCAD's online programs can also access a range of scholarships designed to support their virtual learning journey.

7. Need-Based Scholarships: SCAD provides need-based scholarships for international students who may require financial assistance to pursue their creative education.

8. Talent-Based Scholarships: In addition to academic excellence, SCAD recognizes and rewards talent in various artistic fields, such as visual arts, performing arts, and creative writing.

9. SCAD Challenge Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students who participate and excel in the SCAD Challenge, a competition that showcases creative talent.

10. International Baccalaureate (IB) Scholarships: SCAD offers scholarships to students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

11. Artistic Achievement Scholarships: These awards are designed to recognize exceptional accomplishments in various artistic disciplines and creative fields.

SCAD's commitment to supporting international students through scholarships underscores its dedication to promoting diversity, talent, and artistic excellence. These scholarship opportunities enable international students to access a world-class art and design education and contribute to a vibrant global creative community.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Photography program at SCAD's Atlanta campus is designed to empower aspiring photographers with the skills, knowledge, and artistic vision necessary to succeed in the competitive and ever-evolving field of photography. Graduates of this program find a wide range of exciting career prospects in the dynamic world of photography.  

Fine Art Photographer: Graduates can establish themselves as fine art photographers, creating compelling and innovative photographic works for gallery exhibitions, art fairs, and private collectors. This path allows them to express their unique artistic vision and contribute to the world of contemporary art.

Commercial Photographer: Many M.A. in Photography alumni pursue careers in commercial photography, working for advertising agencies, brands, and publications. They create visually appealing and persuasive images for advertising campaigns, fashion shoots, product photography, and more.

Photojournalist: Graduates interested in telling stories through images can become photojournalists. They capture newsworthy events, documentary photography, and photo essays for newspapers, magazines, and online publications.

Portrait Photographer: Portrait photographers specialize in capturing the personality and essence of individuals or groups. They work in studios, on-location, or in event photography, which includes family portraits, senior photos, and wedding photography.

Fashion Photographer: The fashion industry relies heavily on photography to showcase clothing, accessories, and models. M.A. in Photography graduates can work in the fashion sector, creating editorial spreads, catalog images, and lookbooks.

Editorial Photographer: Editorial photographers contribute to magazines, newspapers, and online publications by creating visual content that complements articles, features, and news stories.

Documentary Photographer: Documentary photographers focus on storytelling through images, addressing social and cultural issues. They may produce photo essays, multimedia projects, or long-term documentary works.

Educators and Professors: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in academia, becoming photography educators or professors at colleges and universities. They impart their knowledge and expertise to the next generation of photographers.

Studio Owners: Entrepreneurial alumni may opt to open their photography studios, offering services ranging from portrait and commercial photography to wedding and event photography.

Photo Editor or Curator: Photo editors work for media organizations, selecting and editing images for publication. Graduates with an interest in curatorial work can curate photography exhibitions at galleries, museums, or cultural institutions.

Freelance Photographers: Many M.A. in Photography graduates work as freelance photographers, offering their services to a diverse clientele and working on various projects, from corporate events to artistic commissions.

Digital Image Retouchers: The program equips students with post-production skills, making them suitable candidates for roles as digital image retouchers, enhancing and perfecting photographs for clients.

Archivists and Researchers: Graduates can find employment as visual archivists, preserving and cataloging photographic collections, or as researchers exploring the history and impact of photography.

Commercial Art Directors: Experienced alumni may advance into art director roles, where they oversee the visual aspects of advertising and media campaigns.

Media Production: Some graduates venture into the film and television industry, working as still photographers on sets or as visual content creators for digital media platforms.