Overview

The Photography programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a comprehensive platform to master the art and business of contemporary image-making. This advanced curriculum is designed to transform creative passion into a professional career through rigorous technical training and conceptual exploration. Students engage with industry-standard technology while developing a unique visual signature that resonates in the global marketplace.

Why Photography at Academy of Art University?

The institution is renowned for its "no barriers" approach to creative education, ensuring that talented individuals can access high-level training without traditional testing hurdles. Students benefit from a faculty composed of working professionals who bring real-world insights directly into the studio. The university provides an interdisciplinary environment where photographers can collaborate across different artistic schools, mirroring the professional creative industry. Furthermore, the campus features specialised facilities, including dedicated framing shops and equipment labs, to support the production of exhibition-quality work.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33426 per year
National fee: USD 26586 per year
Local fee: USD 26586 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the intersection of technical mastery and personal expression. Modules may include:

Photography
Visual Development
Studio Arts
Digital Media
Professional Development
Generative AI

Careers with Photography

Graduates from this programme are prepared to enter the competitive creative sector with a portfolio that demonstrates both technical proficiency and artistic maturity. The university has a strong track record of alumni success, with former students securing roles at major global organisations. Potential career paths and employers for graduates include:

Professional Photographer
Art Director
Technical Designer
Visual Content Creator
Warner Bros. Discovery
Disney Theatrical Group
Lincoln Motor Company
Gensler

The programme emphasises the creation of work that speaks louder than a traditional résumé, ensuring graduates are equipped to lead teams and shape culture within the photography and design industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

History of Photography

The Language of Photography

Photoshop & Lightroom for Photographers

Photography Concept

Lighting

The Nature of Photography

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

63 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Photography View 41 other Masters in Photography in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Application form or online application
$50 application fee
Official transcripts from your undergraduate college or university showing completion of an undergraduate degree.
Resume
Portfolio

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33426 USD / year

≈ 33426 USD / year
Out-of-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year

Additional Details

Graduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,407/unit – 3 units per class

Graduate Tuition (International Students): $1,615/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Photography.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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