Columbia College Chicago

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.F.A. - Photography

Format: Campus

Program Description:

Columbia College Chicago guides aspiring fine art photographers through a stylistically diverse MFA program that emphasizes aesthetic and conceptual development alongside advanced photographic technique. The program is grounded in art history and theory and invested in the critical dialogue on contemporary photography. In three years of focused study, students develop a sophisticated body of work, an understanding of the theoretical perspectives that support that work, and the necessary tools of professional practice which will accelerate their careers as working artists. At Columbia, graduate students are allowed the essential time required to create a thoughtful, mature body of photographic work. With three years to incubate their ideas, develop their style, and advance their craft, graduates of the program emerge as confident artists prepared to position themselves as professionals within the complex landscape of contemporary art. The degree culminates in a thesis exhibition at the College’s prestigious Glass Curtain Gallery. Students are supported in their studies by one of the most distinguished groups of teaching photographers in the country. Full time faculty, including Dawoud Bey, Kelli Connell, Paul D’Amato, Barbara Kasten and Bob Thall, bring passion for the medium and immense professional experience to the classroom. Students undertake coursework that includes intimate graduate seminars and independent projects to allow for deep engagement and personal interaction with their talented, practitioner-based faculty. In addition to the guidance and support of their professors, students have access to extensive and advanced photographic facilities, and a robust Visiting Artist program.

Accreditation:

Accredited at graduate and undergrad levels by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Also accredited as teacher training institution by Illinois State Board of Education

# of Credits Required:

60

International Student Requirements:

International students are required to submit an official TOEFL score of 100 or greater on the internet based test. For more information about requirements for international students at the graduate level, please visit our website.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

$733.00 USD

Tuition In-State Full Time:

41040 USD

Financial Aid Offered: Yes

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Large City

Size & Settings: 10,000 - 19,999