B.F.A. in Photography

Entry requirements for undergraduate programs

Application Fees : US$ 60

1. Academic Requirements: To be eligible for undergraduate programs at UMass Dartmouth, applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The university typically requires a minimum GPA equivalent to 75% or above for admission. 

2. English Language Proficiency:                                                                                                  

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
  • Overall Score: 6.5 or higher
  • No individual band score should be less than 6.0.
     
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test):
  • Overall Score: 79 or higher
     
• DET (Duolingo English Test):
  • Score: 105 or higher
     
• PTE (Pearson Test of English):
  • Score: 53 or higher

SAT is not mandatory but recommended.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: UMass Dartmouth offers various merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic achievement and qualifications. These scholarships may cover a portion of tuition costs and are awarded to students with exceptional academic records.

2. International Student Scholarships: The university provides specific scholarships exclusively for international students. These scholarships are designed to attract and support outstanding international talent. The eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary, and students should check with the admissions office for details.

3. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees may have opportunities to work as graduate teaching or research assistants. These assistantships often include a stipend and a tuition waiver, which significantly reduce the cost of education.

4. Global UGRAD Program: UMass Dartmouth participates in exchange programs such as the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD). This program provides scholarships to international undergraduate students, allowing them to study in the United States for a semester or academic year.

5. External Scholarships and Sponsorships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities provided by governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Some countries offer scholarships to support their citizens studying abroad.

6. Fulbright Program: UMass Dartmouth is a participant in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to pursue graduate studies, conduct research, or teach in the United States. Eligible students can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the U.S. Department of State.

7. Financial Aid Guidance: The university's financial aid office assists international students in navigating the scholarship and financial aid application process. They provide guidance on finding scholarships, completing applications, and meeting deadlines.

8. Need-Based Aid: While need-based financial aid options may be limited for international students, UMass Dartmouth encourages students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if eligible. FAFSA results may be considered for certain financial aid opportunities.

9. Assistantships and Research Grants: Graduate students in science, engineering, and technology fields may have access to research assistantships and grants funded by faculty research projects.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Photography program at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (UMass Dartmouth) equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue rewarding careers in various sectors of the photography industry. The B.F.A. in Photography program at UMass Dartmouth provides graduates with diverse career paths in commercial photography, editorial photography, fine art photography, freelance work, teaching, digital media, post-production, and graduate studies. With a strong foundation in technical skills, creative vision, and professional practice, graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic and competitive field of photography.

1. Commercial Photography: Graduates may find opportunities as commercial photographers, working with clients in advertising, fashion, product photography, and corporate branding. They may specialize in areas such as food photography, architectural photography, or lifestyle photography, creating images that effectively communicate a client's message or brand identity.

2. Editorial Photography: Careers in editorial photography involve capturing images for magazines, newspapers, online publications, and other editorial platforms. Graduates may work as photojournalists, documenting current events, human interest stories, or cultural phenomena. They may also specialize in areas such as documentary photography or portrait photography for editorial features.

3. Fine Art Photography: Many graduates pursue careers as fine art photographers, creating work for exhibition in galleries, museums, and art fairs. They may develop personal projects, series, or bodies of work that explore artistic concepts, social issues, or personal narratives. Fine art photographers often sell their work to collectors, art enthusiasts, and institutions or apply for grants, residencies, and artist-in-residence programs.

4. Freelance Photography: Freelance photographers have the flexibility to work independently, offering their services to clients on a project-by-project basis. They may specialize in weddings, events, portraits, or commercial assignments, managing their own business operations, marketing efforts, client relationships, and project logistics.

5. Teaching and Education: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in teaching, sharing their knowledge and expertise with aspiring photographers. They may work as instructors at colleges, universities, art schools, or community centers, teaching courses in photography, visual arts, or digital media. Additionally, they may offer workshops, private lessons, or online tutorials to students of all ages and skill levels.

6. Digital Media and Content Creation: With the increasing demand for visual content in digital media platforms, graduates may find opportunities in digital media production, content creation, and social media marketing. They may work for digital agencies, media companies, or marketing firms, producing engaging visual content for websites, social media channels, advertising campaigns, and online publications.

7. Post-Production and Image Editing: Careers in post-production and image editing involve enhancing, retouching, and manipulating digital images to achieve desired visual effects. Graduates may work as photo editors, retouchers, or digital imaging specialists for photography studios, design firms, publishing houses, or multimedia production companies.

8. Graduate Studies and Research: Some graduates may choose to pursue further education by enrolling in graduate programs in photography, visual arts, or related fields. Graduate studies offer opportunities for advanced research, artistic exploration, and specialization, preparing graduates for careers in academia, fine art practice, curatorial work, or advanced professional roles.