An online master’s degree in photography may provide individuals with advanced camera skills while enhancing their creative practice. In this one to two-year program, students may develop their photography craft by defining their personal style and technique. Program coursework may include some specialized electives along with major-specific coursework including photographic theory, optics in the fine arts, and methods in imaging education.

Upon graduation, students may either seek employment or continue their education by enrolling in a photography doctoral program. Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in photojournalism, publishing, and portrait photography.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 13% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level photography degree programs may consist of core coursework and specialized electives. These classes may teach students how to increase their level of visual literacy and develop a cohesive body of work. Core photography classes may include the following:

• Photographic Theory
• Psychology of Images
• History of Photography
• Contemporary Criticism
• Optics in Fine Arts
• Interdisciplinary Aspects of Communication
• Methods in Imaging Education

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may find employment opportunities in advertising, print media, publishing, portrait photography, or freelance photography. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in photography are projected to increase by 13% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Fashion Photographer
• Photojournalist
• Documentary Photographer
• Advertising Photographer
• Editorial Photographer

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s degree in photography may have the opportunity to continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree in photography may prepare students for a career in academia, allowing them to teach at the post-secondary level.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook