The field of photography is rapidly changing. Professional photographers are always needed to capture, create, process and share images. The College of DuPage Photography Program is ready to train you for your career in this rapidly evolving profession.
Photography students learn everything from basic skills and work flow to advanced digital imaging, printing and business practices and portfolio preparation. Photography faculty are all practicing professional photographers that share a real-world perspective with students.
Guest speakers, location shoots, community service projects and gallery shows are incorporated into photography curriculum. Once you become an advanced photography student, your work will be showcased at COD's annual Exposed Photography Showcase.
Photography teaching facilities at College of DuPage are among the finest in the country:
- Computer labs feature high-end Apple computers, professional printers and scanners and the latest Adobe software for digital imaging.
- The darkrooms are fully equipped, with separate areas for processing and printing black and white silver prints.
- Photo studios are available to students enrolled in in lighting and portraiture classes and are equipped with high end Profoto lighting gear.
Students may also check-out equipment including digital and film cameras and flashes, as well as tripods and other lighting accessories.
Determine Your Path
Graduates of the program find employment opportunities in the photographic industry, including portraiture, event coverage, as documentary/photojournalists, location scouts, in-house photographers for start-up companies, digital assistants and photo assistants. They also become entrepreneurs creating advertising, corporate and editorial images for their clients. Many of our students have become fine artists and display and sell their work in galleries and at art fairs.
Photography courses include analog film photography, digital photography alternative, documentary photography, commercial photography, wedding and family portraiture. Students will find:
- Dedicated instructors with years of professional photography and teaching experience.
- Instruction utilizing modern facilities and advanced equipment including professional photography software, printers and scanners.
- Affordable programs to help students achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining a saving account.
- Small class sizes that ensure students receive personalized attention from instructors.
- Program accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASASD).
- Articulated transfer programs with multiple four-year institutions including Columbia Chicago and Northern Illinois University.
Digital Photography, Certificate
The Digital Photography certificate is designed to provide students with the entry level skills necessary to make, manage, and manipulate digital photographs. It is especially suited to students who have knowledge in digital image making or already have a degree in another field. The certificate can serve as the first step to completing the AAS degree in Photography Technology. This certificate requires 15 credits in the courses listed below.
Photography Technology, A.A.S.
The Photography Technology degree is designed to provide students with a broad working knowledge of the history, art, and techniques of photography. Students will learn both the foundational analog and digital skills needed to produce, compose, light, edit, print, and archive high quality images. This degree requires 64-69 credits in program requirements, program electives, and general education in the courses listed below.
Photography Technology, Certificate
The Photography Technology certificate is designed to prepare students with foundational skills necessary to enter the photography industry. This certificate requires 46-47 credits in program requirements, program emphasis courses, and program electives.
COD Stories
“The head of the program must have seen something in me that I didn’t, because the honors classes are what really drove my interest in higher education. Both the teachers and the students had a keen intuition and drive to be in the classroom, and that level of intellect really had a positive effect on me.” - Ben Chernivsky
Ben's COD StoryCOD Stories
“COD offered me an excellent education in addition to helping me acquire an internship and a study abroad experience in Florence, Italy. I felt like I received great one-on-one with both my professors and advisors, in order to personalize an experience that would prepare me for my career.” - Lauren Frank
Lauren's COD StoryCOD Stories
“The Photography program at College of DuPage is truly a blessing to the school." - Brian Powers
Brian's COD StoryGet Started Today
The first step to getting started in Photography is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
Photography program graduates will:
- Understand both advanced digital and analog camera operations with an understanding of formats, photographic exposure, depth of field, and, shutter speed, and illustrate proper placement of plane of focus
- Illustration of advanced visual literacy skills by utilizing sophisticated compositional properties and visual qualities of a photographic image
- Demonstrate the ability to recognize and control both natural and studio lighting with emphasis on the quality, quantity, and direction of light and the resulting effect of light on the photographic image
- Ability to determine what type of studio lighting equipment is necessary to properly light various types of objects, people, spaces, and locations.
- Manipulate, manage, and archive digital images. Control the transition of image color, tone and value from screen to printed image
- Identify and apply appropriate business practices specific to the self-employed photographer
- Organize, edit, and evaluate a professional quality portfolio of photographic work that demonstrates creative problem solving and effective communication
- Create a professional quality portfolio that is a successful demonstration of the technical knowledge gained through the readings, lectures, and assignments offered in this program. The portfolio should also demonstrate an awareness of the history of photography and suggest an understanding of how the student's own work is a participation in the current conversation of contemporary photography
College of DuPage partners with several four-year institutions to help students seamlessly complete a bachelor’s degree in photography. Students can connect with Transfer Services for personalized guidance on transfer opportunities.
For more information about Transfer Pathways, visit the College of DuPage Catalog. The pathway outlines a typical two-year course plan for completing an AA or AS degree before transferring to a four-year program. Course requirements vary by institution, so consult your faculty or academic advisor for specific guidance.
Articulation Agreements
College of DuPage maintains transfer agreements with many colleges and universities to ensure a smooth transition toward a bachelor’s degree. These agreements often include a defined course sequence. Students should regularly meet with a faculty member or the Counseling and Advising office to stay on track.Transfer Guides
Beyond articulation agreements and guaranteed admission programs, College of DuPage courses transfer to many other institutions. Transfer Guides help students select COD courses that meet prerequisites for specific majors and include details such as contact information, major requirements, general education requirements, and transfer policies.Career Information
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