This Bachelor of Science in Photography will provide experience, training, and theory in the techniques of digital photography as well as the opportunity for students to develop their creative eye. The coursework includes studio and location photography, the use of computer image adjustment, working with light, and managing workflow. In addition, the core communication courses provide the essential skills of writing, critical thinking and communication. Students who pursue this degree will have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and will be required to produce a senior portfolio project.
The making of a quality photograph begins with the vision of the person behind the lens. Train your eye—and mind—to capture the best light: pursue a Bachelor of Science in Photography.
The Bachelor of Science in Photography takes an integrated approach to the discipline that will help you secure a brilliant future in photography or a related field. Coursework in the major is designed to engage you, the student, with a combination of the communication core and in-depth courses in techniques and application of photography. You are provided a solid skills base on which to build a career in commercial photography. In advanced courses you will focus on the finer details of light manipulation, composition, darkroom technique, digital imaging, photo editing, and much more.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
| Major GPA | 2.5 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
Purpose Statement
The BS in Photography combines the science, art, application and practice of creating images digitally or on film through industry-based software, studio lighting and on-location field instruction.
Coursework provides students a theoretical and technical sequence of instruction to professionally create, print and display photographic work; work in varied lighting situations; adapt to the environment around them; critically analyze photographic art; develop profitable business and marketing strategies. Field location courses provide on-location opportunities photographing landscapes, wildlife, night skies using high-tech mobile photographic equipment. Studio courses offer opportunities in photographing food, products and portraits with industry standard lighting equipment.
Photography graduates will leave this program with an ability to apply the professional standards of photographic communication and find employment in corporate, conceptual and editorial industries
Student Learning Outcomes
This major requires 39 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 39 units with a minimum GPA of 2.5:
Photography Common Course Requirements (27 units)
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
You should also be aware that you may take PHO 408 in your final two years before graduation; however, you must receive prior approval from our photography faculty members. We reserve the right to deny approval based on our assessment of your preparation and competence.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.