BDes Professional Photography at Pennsylvania State University

Programme overview

The major in Professional Photography is a professional undergraduate degree in photography designed to provide in-depth, formal education that will prepare students for careers in client-based professional photography or related fields. Students enrolled in the program will acquire practical skills and learn creative techniques relevant to professional photographic image making. The degree program focuses on building career oriented competencies essential to photographers' professional, intellectual, and creative lives.

Faculty: College of Arts and Architecture | Duration: minimum 120 credits | Study mode: full-time | Location: University Park, PA, United States

What you will study

The degree requires a minimum of 120 credits, including General Education and the requirements for the major. Required courses include Fundamentals of Professional Photography, Beyond Photoshop: Techniques in Digital Photographic Imaging, Professional Photography: Studio Technique and Photocomposition, Fashion Photography, Product Photography, Portrait Photography.

Career pathways

The Bachelor of Design (B.DES.) in Professional Photography at Penn State University equips students with creativity, technical skills, and industry expertise essential for success. Graduates pursue careers in commercial, editorial, fine art, and digital media photography, tailoring their paths to their interests.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Admission to the major in Professional Photography is determined by a portfolio review by faculty after the completion of: PHOTO 200 or PHOTO 202 or Portfolio Review. Entrance Procedures Students interested in pursuing Professional Photography (B.DES.) should follow the appropriate change of major or transfer application instructions found under Visual Arts at https://arts.psu.edu/how-to-apply/#specific .

Undergraduate applications are accepted for Fall, Spring and Summer entry; the application opens August 1 for Fall and Summer and June 1 for Spring.

Early Action: apply by November 1 to receive a decision by December 24. Recommended submission deadline for all applications: December 1. Applicants apply through the MyPennState application or the Common App. A nonrefundable application fee is paid by credit card; fee waivers are available to eligible students.

Apply through the official page: https://admissions.psu.edu/apply/

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