Find your perfect college degree
If you love capturing moments through the lens of a camera and sharing the world’s beauty and complexity in a single frame, you might want to consider a career in photography.
Turning your passion into a career brings a profound sense of fulfillment because you get to do what you love every day while potentially achieving personal growth and financial security.
The job outlook for photographers within the 2023-2033 period is stable, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the employment growth rate expected to be 4%, which is as fast as the average rate for all other occupations. The median pay for the profession in 2023 was $40,760 per year or $19.60 per hour.
Bear in mind, though, that raw talent and skills alone are not sufficient to build a career in photography. Success in this field depends on a combination of factors, including education and training, technical photography and digital imaging skills, apprenticeships and practical experiences, business and marketing skills, and networking.
Many of these factors are available when you enroll in a formal education and training program in photography.
Level Up Your Photography Credentials
Enrolling in an on-campus or online Associate in Photography program is one of the quickest ways to level up your career because the degree you’ll earn provides a formal credential that will enhance your credibility as a photographer when seeking clients or employment opportunities.
You can also complete the program in two years instead of the four years typical in Bachelor’s degree programs.
Even if you’re already talented in traditional or digital photography, enrolling in an Associate in Photography degree program offers a variety of valuable benefits, including a structured curriculum that encompasses technical skills training and creativity concepts, as well as opportunities to fine-tune your skills.
You can also expand your abilities regarding access to equipment and learning from experienced instructors and many others.
The Lowdown
An Associate in Photography online program aims to prepare students for careers as versatile and knowledgeable photographers by equipping them with a comprehensive range of skills such as camera operation, lighting techniques, image editing, and portfolio development.
Some programs may also include business and marketing aspects of the photography industry, especially for students who intend to establish their own studio or work as freelancers.
Methodology
If you’re looking for hybrid or fully online photography degree programs at the Associate’s level, you’re in the right place! We made a list of universities, colleges, and other learning institutions that offer the best Associate in Photography degree so that you won’t have to search far and wide.
Our selection criteria ensure that these photography programs meet high-quality standards and cater to the needs of online students who aspire to be professional photographers.
The criteria for each program are the following:
- Offers courses available in 100% online or hybrid learning formats,
- Provides comprehensive associate-level coursework covering the foundational aspects of photography as a discipline,
- Incorporates practical, hands-on experience with photography equipment and techniques,
- Emphasizes the development of skills that meet modern industry demands,
- Includes portfolio development as a critical component in the curriculum to prepare students for their professional careers,
- Establishes clear transfer pathways for students interested in pursuing higher education,
- Offers a variety of specialization options such as fine art, portrait, and commercial photography,
- Offers affordable tuition rates and provides several financial aid options to support students’ education,
- Employs a team of faculty members with experienced and knowledgeable photography professionals,
- Offered by community and junior colleges that uphold quality education as evidenced by its approved accreditation from recognized organizations or agencies that accredit an online digital Photography degree.
For additional details, please consult our Methodology section.
10 Best Online Associate in Photography Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers a completely online Associate of Arts in Digital Photography degree program that helps students bring their passion and creativity to higher levels.
The curriculum for this AA online digital photography degree program requires students to complete a total of 60 credits toward graduation.
It combines a range of general education courses to provide students with a strong academic foundation, as well as major courses to strengthen the technical skills necessary to become successful professionals in digital photography.
Some of the Photography online courses under this program include:
- Media Communication and Visual Literacy
- Digital Photography
- Photographic Practice in the Digital Age
- The Business of Photography
- Lighting for Photography
- History of Photography
Students are also required to take 12 credits of Free Electives courses, which allow them to customize their specializations in their Associate degree in Photography.
The New England Commission of Higher Education has approved the institutional accreditation of SNHU.
The University also offers an online Bachelor of Digital Photography degree program, which makes it easy for Associate’s degree graduates to further their education.
Sessions College for Professional Design
Arizona-based Sessions College for Professional Design is offering an online photography degree through its Associate of Occupational Studies in Digital Photography program, which is designed for adult learners and high school graduates who intend to enter the industry as independent freelance photographers.
This Digital Photography Associate program requires students to complete 72 credits toward graduation. It’s a two-year degree program (six semesters) where students build a strong foundation in photography, post-production works, and lighting in the first year.
During the second year, students will explore the various commercial photography assignments and find their areas of specialty.
Sessions College’s accreditation has gained the approval of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), an accrediting agency that the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the US Department of Education recognize.
Sessions College is also a National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements institutional participant.
Academy of Art University
Based in California, the Academy of Art University offers an online Associate of Arts (AA) in Photography degree program, which ensures students will have the technical competence for every aspect of photography, including digital capture and printing, visual language, lighting, and image editing.
Students are required to complete 60 units under the program to obtain the AA degree, including 18 units in Liberal Arts courses and 30 credits of Core courses.
Courses under this program include the following:
- History of Photography
- Photography Principles and Techniques
- Imaging Workflow and Process
- Perspective Journalism
- Photo Design and Concept
- People Photography
- Motion for Photographers
The AA degree requirement also includes three credits of the Final Portfolio course “Portfolio Preparation and Professional Development,” which is essentially the capstone course where students have to create a compilation that showcases their cohesive personal photography style and demonstrates their readiness for professional projects.
The University holds a regional accreditation approved by the WASC Senior College & University Commission or WSCUC.
The University also offers online Photography degree programs at the Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Arts, and Master of Fine Arts levels.
Santa Barbara City College
California-based Santa Barbara City College offers an Associate of Arts (AA) in Applied Photography degree as one of its fully online programs.
This AA degree program requires students to complete a total of 60 degree-applicable units toward graduation, including at least 18 units of General Education courses. The department-required courses cover a variety of photography-focused topics, including:
- Introduction to Photography
- Photojournalism
- Color Management
- Fine Art Photography
- Portfolio
The courses in this program also include a variety of photography courses from which students have the option to choose from a total of 6 units. These include Creative Applications, Travel and Street Photography, Sports Photography, Stock Photography, Wedding and Event Photography, Children and Pet Photography, and Advertising Illustration.
Santa Barbara City College is institutionally approved by the WASC and the Accrediting Commission for Community & Junior Colleges, which is an accrediting organization recognized by the US Department of Education and the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation.
Columbus State Community College
Based in Ohio, Columbus State Community College addresses the growing demand for qualified digital photographers by offering an online degree in Associate of Applied Science in Digital Photography, where students are provided with a well-rounded education while strengthening their foundation on digital and web design, communication, and marketing.
Students are required to complete at least 64 credit hours to obtain the AAS degree under this four-semester Digital Photography program. Courses include the following:
- Intro to Digital Photography
- Intro to Computer Design
- Photoshop for Photographers
- Digital Photography and Design
- Studio & Environmental Portraiture
- Business Photography
- Digital Portfolio Development
Students under this Associate degree program have the option to transfer to a Bachelor’s degree in photography, media design, marketing, business management, liberal studies, and other fields offered by various universities, including the following:
- Columbus College of Art & Design
- Ohio University
- Ohio Dominican University
- Franklin University
- Tiffin University
- Miami University
Since 1973, Columbus State Community College has held a Higher Learning Commission or HLC institutional accreditation.
Dakota College at Bottineau
Dakota College at Bottineau offers an online Associate of Applied Science in Photography degree program where students are groomed to become not just skilled and knowledgeable commercial photography professionals but also creative directors and studio managers.
This Photography degree program requires students to complete at least 61 credits toward graduation. The curriculum essentially focuses on concepts, techniques, and technicalities of photography, with a bit of general education courses required in an Associate of Science degree.
The courses under this program include the following:
- Digital Darkroom
- Principles of Lighting
- Advertising Photography
- Portrait Photography
- Documentary Photography
- Outdoor Photography
- Photography Portfolio
What’s unique about this program is that Dakota College offers an annual study abroad photo trip that students can join in.
The Higher Learning Commission has approved the accreditation status of Dakota College at Bottineau.
Foothill College
The Associate of Arts in Photography online degree program of California-based Foothill College aims to provide students with a solid foundation in creative principles and a comprehensive know-how of various photography strategies useful for artistic expression, employment, or college transfer.
The program requires students to complete a minimum of 90 units toward graduation, including 32 units of Core courses and eight units of Support courses. The Core courses include Photoshop for Photographers I to III, History of Photography, and Lightroom & Photographic Design.
Students have to choose a total of 8 units from the various Support courses offered by the College, including the following:
- 2-D Foundations
- Color Theory
- Careers in Visual Arts
- Photography of American Cultures
- Photojournalism
- Photographic Portfolio Development
- Landscape Field Study in Photography
- Social Concerns Field Study in Photography
- Museum/Gallery Field Study in Photography
The ACCJC of the WASC has approved the institutional accreditation of Foothill College.
Dakota County Technical College
Dakota County Technical College offers a couple of 100% online photography programs, including an Associate of Applied Science in Professional Photography degree, which is available for full-time and part-time students.
Students are required to complete a total of 60 credits in order to obtain the AAS in Professional Photography degree. The curriculum covers major aspects of photography, including image capture and post-production. It also incorporates essential entrepreneurial courses for students who aspire to be photography business owners or freelance photographers.
More specifically, the courses under the AAS degree program include the following;
- Interpersonal Communication
- (English) Composition I
- Camera Skills
- Lighting Basics
- Studio Portraits
- Photoshop for Photographers
- Color Management
- Introduction to Small Business
- Photo Business Preparation
- Selling & Negotiating for Small Business Owners
The Credit for Prior Learning program allows students to have their life experiences credited toward their Associate degree to accelerate their program.
As a Minnesota-based institution, Dakota County Technical College can also help students prepare early if they want to pursue higher education in a four-year university after they complete their Associate’s degree.
Dakota County Technical College is Higher Learning Commission (HLC)-accredited.
Miami Dade College
The Associate of Science (AS) in Photographic Technology degree program at Miami Dade College offers a variety of learning options, i.e., 100% online, in-person, or blended learning.
The program aims to prepare students for careers in the field of industrial and commercial photography. It essentially focuses on boosting the technical know-how of students in terms of choosing the right photography equipment and accessories depending on the subject and environment.
This Photographic Technology degree program requires students to complete a total of 64 credits toward graduation, including 40 credits of Major courses such as the following:
- Drawing
- Two-Dimensional Design
- Color Photography
- Illustrative Photography I and II
- Portrait and Still Photography
- Portfolio Preparation
Students can personalize their degree by selecting Electives from the University’s offerings to fulfill the 9 credit requirements of the program. These Electives encompass art, graphics, and photography topics such as:
- Fashion Photography
- Electronic Photoshop
- Advanced Electronic Publishing
- Digital Photography
- Color and Composition
Miami Dade College holds the institutional accreditation status granted by the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges or SACSCOC. It also upholds the educational standards set by the Department of Education.
Randolph Community College
Based in North Carolina, Randolph Community College offers three concentrations for its Associate in Applied Science in Photographic Technology, with courses available in online or hybrid formats as well as in day or evening classes.
- The AAS in Photographic Technology – Commercial Photography Concentration focuses on photography techniques in commercial settings and exposes students to the business side of photography as well. Specific courses include Photographic Illustration and Advertising Photography. Students are required to complete a total of 68 credits toward graduation.
- The AAS in Photographic Technology – Portrait and Wedding Photography Concentration focuses on portraying people at their best and capturing special moments on camera. Specific courses under this program include Professional Portraiture, Professional Wedding Photography, and Contemporary Portraiture. Students have to complete 68 credits to earn their degree.
- The AAS in Photographic Technology – Multimedia Journalism Concentration focuses on documenting events, people, and the world through the camera. It includes specific courses such as Photojournalism, Multimedia Journalism, and Documentary Photography/Multimedia. This program requires 64 credits for students to graduate.
The common courses under these three AAS programs include the following:
- Fundamentals of Photography
- Basic Studio Lighting
- Small Format Photography
- Digital Image Technology
- Business of Photography
The students will also have to take some General Education courses, including English/Communication, Mathematics, Humanities and Fine Arts, and Social Sciences.
On-the-job internships are also a part of the curriculum.
SACSCOC has approved the accreditation of Randolph Community College to award associate degrees.
Is an Associate degree necessary even if I’m talented in Photography?
Enrolling in an Associate in Photography degree program, even if you’re already talented in photography, can offer several valuable benefits, such as the following:
- Gain a formal credential that can boost your credibility as a photographer.
- Refine your natural skills and talents, as you’ll learn techniques, concepts, and principles that you might not have explored on your own.
- Obtain in-depth training in the technical aspects of photography, like camera operation, lighting, and printing.
- Have opportunities to work on a variety of projects that can help you build a diverse and impressive portfolio.
- Have networking opportunities with fellow students, professors, and industry professionals that are invaluable for future collaborations, job opportunities, and getting your work noticed.
- Receive constructive feedback and critique on your works that can help you identify areas for improvement and push your creative boundaries.
- Obtain industry knowledge by completing courses on the history of photography, modern trends, and business practices in the industry, among other related topics.
- Discover new interests and expand your skill set, as a degree program can expose you to the various aspects of photography, like portrait, landscape, commercial, and documentary photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from an Associate in Photography degree program?
Under a Photography degree program at the Associate’s level, you can expect a well-rounded education and training that covers various aspects of photography, such as camera operation, image-capturing techniques under various environments, and post-production processing.
Often, the program may include hands-on projects and assignments to help you build a portfolio that showcases your abilities and personal photography style.
It should also be noted that some programs may include the business and marketing aspects of a photography career or entrepreneurship.
Furthermore, General Education courses will always be present in Photography programs at the Associate’s level, especially if they prepare you for transfer to a four-year Bachelor’s program.
Keep in mind that the exact curriculum may vary among institutions, so it’s essential to review specific program details to ensure they align with your goals.
What are the career opportunities after completing an Associate in Photography degree program?
Graduates of Associate in Photography programs have diverse career opportunities. First, you can pursue a specific expertise in photography, such as commercial and advertising photography, portrait photography, wedding and events photography, and photojournalism.
Second, you might also want to become a photography business owner, a photo studio manager, or a freelance photographer. Third, you can also work in related fields, such as photo editing and retouching, or even as a creative director.
Moreover, an associate degree can move you up the academic ladder if you wish to specialize or advance with a bachelor’s degree.
As a tip, be prepared to build practical experience and a strong portfolio during and after your Associate program to enhance your job or business prospects.
Do I need to invest in or be adept with a specific camera before enrolling in an Associate in Photography program?
No, you don’t. Although having a camera can be advantageous, you do not necessarily need to own or be proficient with a specific camera before starting an Associate in Photography program.
These programs are designed to accommodate students with varying levels of experience and equipment. Most programs provide access to photography equipment, including cameras, during your coursework.
However, having your camera will allow you to become more familiar with your equipment and its capabilities. If you already own a camera, you can use it to learn how to maximize its potential.
Still, many programs introduce students to a range of camera types and models, ensuring you gain a broad understanding of photography equipment.
Take note also that a few Associate degree programs may require you to procure a specific type of camera for certain courses.
So, it’s advisable to review the specific requirements of the program you intend to enroll in and communicate with the program coordinator to determine whether you need to invest in particular equipment or if the program provides the necessary resources.
Summary Points
- Talent alone is not sufficient to be successful in your photography career. An Associate in Photography program can provide you with education, training, skills refinement, professional networking, credentials, and many other benefits that level up your career opportunities.
- While the curriculum of Associate in Photography degree programs can vary, they typically include a combination of General Education and Core courses. These courses provide students with a well-rounded foundation in photography basics to ensure they’re equipped with essential skills and knowledge for their specialization.
- Career opportunities for graduates of an Associate in Photography program are not just limited to being photographers and photojournalists. They can also become photo/image editors, graphic designers, photography business owners, creative or art directors, marketers/advertisers, art gallery curators, product stylists, public relations, and many others.
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