M.A. Applied History and Public Humanities
The M.A. in Applied History and Public Humanities at The University of Akron combines h...
B.F.A. Photography
Akron, Ohio
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.F.A. Photography program at The University of Akron provides students with a comprehensive education in photography, emphasizing both technical skills and artistic vision. It combines hands-on learning with theoretical coursework to prepare graduates for careers in photography and related fields.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to cover foundational principles as well as advanced techniques in photography. Students start with courses in digital and analog photography, learning camera operation, darkroom techniques, and digital editing software. Advanced coursework allows for specialization in areas such as portrait photography, documentary photography, fine art photography, and commercial photography. Studio-based projects and portfolio development are integral parts of the program, providing students with opportunities to showcase their creative vision and technical proficiency.
Research Focus: The program encourages students to explore personal themes and concepts through research and experimentation. Faculty mentorship supports independent projects, thesis development, and critical analysis of contemporary photographic practices. Students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches and innovative uses of photography as a medium of artistic expression and social commentary.
Industry Engagement: The University of Akron fosters strong connections with the photography industry through partnerships with local studios, galleries, and professional photographers. Students benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and internships that provide practical experience and insight into professional practices. These opportunities enhance students' portfolios and prepare them for careers in various sectors of the photography industry.
Global Perspective: The program integrates a global perspective by examining cultural influences on photographic traditions worldwide. Students have opportunities to study abroad, participate in international photography competitions, or engage with visiting artists and scholars from different cultural backgrounds. This exposure broadens students' understanding of global visual cultures and enhances their artistic sensibilities.
Location
Akron, Ohio
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 20961
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 71 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 95.
- SAT: Not required for undergraduate admissions.
The University of Akron (UA) offers a variety of scholarships to support international students financially. These scholarships are designed to help alleviate the cost of tuition and support academic excellence.
Merit Scholarships: Merit scholarships at UA are automatically considered for all incoming first-year students. These awards are based on a comprehensive review of the applicant’s academic transcripts, curriculum, and cumulative GPA.
Williams Honors College Scholarships: First-year, transfer, and continuing students who meet specific academic qualifications can apply for the Williams Honors College Scholarships. These scholarships range from $1,500 to $2,000 and require an application to the Williams Honors College, including an interview.
Provost’s Scholarships for Transfer Students: These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, are available to students transferring from another regionally accredited college or university. Transfer students are automatically considered for these awards upon applying for admission.
International Student Scholarship Opportunities: International students can also benefit from various specific scholarships offered by different departments and programs within the university. For instance, the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences offers numerous scholarships for students pursuing majors within their disciplines. These range from awards for academic merit to those supporting specific fields of study.
Graduates of the B.F.A. Photography program from The University of Akron are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in the photography industry and beyond.
Photographer: Many graduates pursue careers as professional photographers, specializing in areas such as portrait photography, wedding photography, fashion photography, commercial photography, fine art photography, or documentary photography. They work independently or for studios, agencies, magazines, or businesses.
Photojournalist: Photojournalists capture images that tell stories for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or news agencies. They cover events, human interest stories, and current events, often working in fast-paced and unpredictable environments.
Studio Manager: Graduates may work as studio managers or assistants in photography studios, overseeing daily operations, scheduling, client communications, and production management. This role requires organizational skills, creativity, and technical proficiency.
Photo Editor or Retoucher: Photo editors select and enhance images for publication or exhibition, ensuring they meet artistic and editorial standards. Retouchers specialize in digital editing, manipulating images to achieve desired effects or corrections.
Freelance Photographer: Many graduates choose to work as freelance photographers, taking on assignments such as weddings, events, portraits, or commercial projects. They may sell their work through online platforms, galleries, or art fairs.
Art Director: Art directors oversee visual elements in advertising, marketing campaigns, or media productions. They collaborate with photographers, designers, and creative teams to develop and execute visual concepts that communicate messages effectively.
Educator: Some graduates pursue careers as photography educators, teaching at schools, community colleges, art academies, or workshops. They share their expertise in technical skills, artistic vision, and professional practices with aspiring photographers.
Curator or Gallery Manager: Professionals in this role manage art exhibitions, collections, and gallery operations. They may specialize in photography, curating exhibitions, organizing events, and promoting artists' work to the public.
Photo Technician: Photo technicians provide technical support in labs, studios, or commercial printing facilities. They process, develop, print, and digitize photographs using specialized equipment and software.
Digital Media Specialist: Graduates with strong digital photography skills may work as digital media specialists, creating visual content for websites, social media platforms, marketing campaigns, or multimedia productions.
