M.S. in Computer Information Systems
The M.S. in Computer Information Systems at NEC is a 36-credit program that can typical...
B.F.A. in Photography
Henniker, New Hampshire
INTAKE: Jan, Aug & Oct
Program Overview
The B.F.A. in Photography at New England College is a four-year, 120-credit program that aims to develop both the technical and creative skills essential for a career in photography. Students gain extensive hands-on experience, exploring various camera formats, darkroom print production, and digital workflows. The program emphasizes visual literacy, critical thinking, and the development of a unique individual style. Students have the flexibility to customize their degree with electives in areas such as digital photography, documentary photography, lighting, or digital video. The program culminates in a senior thesis and exhibition, providing a platform to showcase their refined skills and artistic vision.
Curriculum: The 120-credit B.F.A. in Photography curriculum at NEC is structured around a core art curriculum, specialized photography courses, and a liberal arts and sciences core. While specific course titles are not fully detailed on the NEC website, the program includes foundational courses in design principles, drawing, and general visual art. Within the photography concentration (at least 28 credits), students delve into both analog and digital processes, covering camera techniques, lighting, and advanced post-production. The curriculum also integrates the history of photography and contemporary photography practices. A crucial component is the "Senior Thesis and Exhibition," where students develop an original portfolio showcasing their unique individual style.
Research Focus: The B.F.A. in Photography at New England College maintains a strong applied and interpretive research focus, geared towards developing students' individual photographic vision and their ability to contextualize their work within the broader history and theory of the medium. The program encourages students to "explore and examine the social, cultural and historical contexts in which you work, in order to better understand the discipline and medium." This involves researching art historical sources and critically analyzing and evaluating photographic works. Students are expected to "develop personally driven work that demonstrates complexity and individuality," which is a form of artistic research through practice. Faculty research interests, such as photography linking science and art or exploring social connections through landscape photography, also inform the curriculum, fostering a deeper engagement with the medium's expressive and communicative power.
Industry Engagement: New England College's B.F.A. in Photography program demonstrates substantial industry engagement through its practical approach and professional opportunities. The program is taught by "committed photographers and artists" who bring their real-world experience into the classroom. Students gain "hands-on experience through an internship or apprenticeship," providing direct exposure to professional photographic environments. The curriculum explicitly prepares students for "successful careers in all fields of contemporary photography," from photojournalism and documentary to editorial, commercial, and fine-art photography. The senior thesis and exhibition also serve as a vital capstone, preparing students to present their work professionally, a critical step for entering the industry.
Global Perspective: The B.F.A. in Photography at New England College inherently incorporates a global perspective through its exploration of the diverse applications and cultural impacts of photographic imagery worldwide. The program teaches students to "explore photographic imagery in all contexts," implying an examination of how photography is used and interpreted across different cultures and societies. The faculty's work and research, which includes projects in places like the American Southwest, Germany, Laos, Israel, and Vietnam, directly expose students to global contexts and how photography can document and influence current events and daily life internationally. By developing "visual literacy" and learning to "articulate ideas and make meaningful work," students are prepared to contribute to a global visual culture where images transcend geographical boundaries. The broader Liberal Arts & Sciences Core Curriculum at NEC also includes a "Global Perspectives" course, further fostering an understanding of diverse cultures and international issues.
Location
Henniker, New Hampshire
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 40178
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 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 65 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
New England College (NEC) is supporting talented international students by offering a range of merit-based scholarships designed to make quality education more accessible and affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and other achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to NEC are automatically considered for merit scholarships during the admission process. Awards vary based on the student’s academic record, test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.
Presidential Scholarship: One of the most prestigious awards, the Presidential Scholarship, is granted to exceptional international students with outstanding academic credentials.
Athletic Scholarships: NEC offers athletic scholarships to international students who demonstrate exceptional skill and commitment in NCAA Division III sports. These scholarships are awarded based on athletic performance, team needs, and coach recommendations, providing support while balancing academics and athletics.
Specialized Program Scholarships: Certain academic departments at NEC may offer scholarships targeting high-achieving students pursuing degrees in fields such as Business, Cybersecurity, Education, Creative Writing, and Health Sciences. These targeted awards help attract top talent and support focused areas of study.
Graduates of New England College's B.F.A. in Photography are exceptionally well-prepared for a dynamic range of visual careers. Their comprehensive training in both analog and digital techniques, coupled with an understanding of photographic history and theory, provides them with a versatile skill set.
Commercial Photographer: Specializes in creating images for businesses, including product photography, advertising campaigns, corporate portraits, and architectural photography.
Photojournalist/Documentary Photographer: Captures images that tell stories and document current events, social issues, or daily life for news organizations, magazines, or non-profit bodies.
Fine Art Photographer: Creates original photographic works for exhibition in galleries, sale to collectors, or inclusion in personal projects, focusing on artistic expression and conceptual themes.
Editorial Photographer: Produces images for magazines, newspapers, and online publications to accompany articles, features, or interviews, often requiring a strong sense of visual storytelling.
Event Photographer: Specializes in capturing moments at various events such as weddings, concerts, corporate functions, or sports competitions.
Photo Retoucher/Digital Image Editor: Enhances, corrects, and manipulates digital images using specialized software, often for commercial, fashion, or fine art purposes.
Graphic Designer (with additional training/focus): Applies visual principles and photographic assets to create designs for branding, marketing, web, and print materials, leveraging their strong visual communication skills.
Assistant Photographer/Studio Assistant: Works alongside experienced photographers in a studio or on location, gaining practical experience in lighting, equipment, and workflow.
Gallery or Museum Assistant/Preparator: Assists with the handling, display, cataloging, and preservation of photographic collections and exhibitions in art institutions.
Multimedia Artist/Videographer: Combines photographic skills with video and audio to create dynamic visual content for web series, short films, social media, or other digital platforms.
