Photography Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
Getting a Photography Degree in St. Louis, Missouri
If you’re considering a Photography Degree in St. Louis, Missouri, you’re in the right place. Photography is an exciting field that blends artistic vision with technical expertise. A Photography Degree equips students with the necessary skills to excel in diverse areas such as fine art, commercial photography, and photojournalism. This guide will explore various education paths, local resources, and the steps needed to launch a successful photography career in St. Louis.
About St. Louis
St. Louis, a vibrant city on the banks of the Mississippi River, offers a rich cultural and artistic atmosphere perfect for aspiring photographers. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and historic neighborhoods like the Central West End, St. Louis provides an inspiring backdrop for photography students. Learn more about St. Louis and its attractions by visiting the official city website.
Photography Degree Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis hosts several educational institutions offering Photography Degree programs. Below are three options for students interested in pursuing photography as a career:
1. Webster University
- Program: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Photography and Visual Communications
- Specializations: Fine Art, Commercial Photography, Photojournalism
- Unique Features: Coursework includes Documentary Photography, International Photojournalism, and advanced digital imaging.
- Location: Webster Groves, a charming St. Louis suburb with a strong artistic community.
- Website: Webster University Photography Program
2. St. Louis Community College (STLCC)
- Program: Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Photography
- Features: Offers foundational courses in digital and darkroom photography, lighting techniques, and portfolio development.
- Location: Meramec campus, located in Kirkwood, just outside St. Louis.
- Website: STLCC Photography Program
3. University of Missouri – Columbia
- Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography
- Specializations: Photojournalism, Documentary Photography
- Unique Features: Nationally recognized for its photojournalism program.
- Location: Approximately 120 miles from St. Louis.
- Website: University of Missouri Photography Program
If you’re open to a short commute, the University of Missouri – Columbia offers additional opportunities for Photography Degree seekers.
Photography Career Opportunities in St. Louis
St. Louis has a dynamic photography scene with opportunities in various industries. Below are examples of employers and organizations in the area:
1. St. Louis Post-Dispatch
- Industry: Media and Journalism
- Opportunities: Photojournalists can cover news, events, and human-interest stories.
- Location: Downtown St. Louis
- Website: St. Louis Post-Dispatch Careers
2. Studio Altius
- Industry: Commercial and Portrait Photography
- Opportunities: Specializes in corporate headshots, weddings, and family portraits.
- Location: Maplewood neighborhood
- Website: Studio Altius
3. St. Louis Art Museum
- Industry: Fine Art and Exhibitions
- Opportunities: Photography students can intern or work on curatorial projects.
- Location: Forest Park
- Website: St. Louis Art Museum Careers
These organizations provide a glimpse into the range of career paths available to graduates of Photography programs.
Prerequisites for Photography Degree Programs
Before enrolling in a Photography Degree program, students typically need to meet the following requirements:
- Educational Background: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Age Requirement: At least 18 years old.
- Portfolio Submission: Many programs require a portfolio showcasing previous photography work.
- Standardized Tests: Some institutions may request SAT/ACT scores.
- GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA standards vary by program.
It’s essential to review individual school requirements as they can differ significantly.
Photography Degree Requirements in Missouri
Missouri has established guidelines for higher education institutions offering Photography programs. Below are key requirements and resources:
- Core Curriculum: Students are often required to complete courses in digital imaging, photography history, and advanced lighting techniques.
- Internships: Many programs include internships or capstone projects to provide hands-on experience.
- Portfolio Review: A portfolio review may be necessary for graduation.
- Accreditation: Ensure your program is accredited by organizations like the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) or the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
For more information, the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development oversees higher education in the state. Additionally, you can explore national education resources through the U.S. Department of Education.
Get Started Today
A Photography Degree in St. Louis, Missouri, offers the perfect blend of artistic inspiration and professional opportunity. With a variety of local programs and career prospects, now is the ideal time to take the first step. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs, admission requirements, and how they can help you achieve your goals in photography.