Photography Courses in USA

If you’re thinking about turning your passion for photography into a profession, exploring photography courses in the USA might be the perfect next step. For example, top-ranked universities such as Endicott College and Utah Tech University consistently place among the nation’s best. 

Meanwhile, data from Intelligent’s 2025 rankings also spotlight standout Photography courses at Arizona State University and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. 

With over $40 billion contributed by international students in recent years, the U.S. remains a top destination for creative education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects steady growth in photography careers, with a median pay of $20.44 per hour, making it an exciting time to pursue this field.

This blog covers top universities, eligibility, course details, costs, scholarships, and career opportunities. It includes everything you need to plan your application smartly. Let’s get started!

Photography Courses in the USA: Overview

A photography course in the USA goes far beyond just learning how to operate a camera. Several top universities in the USA, like Southern Utah University and Rice University, offer excellent photography programs. 

These programs are designed to sharpen your creative instincts, teach you technical skills, and prepare you for careers in advertising, fine arts, journalism, and types of digital content creation.

Before getting into university options, let’s take a look at the key highlights of studying photography in the USA.

Note: Fees and costs are approximate and may change depending on exchange rates and university policy.

Next, let’s see why you should pursue photography courses in the USA. 

Why Pursue Photography Courses in the USA?

As of 2025, photography remains a specialized but top field of study in the United States. There are over 100 accredited colleges and universities in the USA offering degree programs in photography. 

The Visual and Performing Arts field has seen substantial growth, with a 3.24% increase in graduates in the US. With top-tier facilities, strong internships, and a booming arts market, U.S. programs fast-track your growth in this field.

Here’s why you should go for it:

• Advanced facilities and technology access: U.S. photography programs often feature state-of-the-art labs, studio spaces, and equipment, like retina iMac Pros, strobes, advanced lenses, and darkrooms, which give students hands-on exposure to the tools professionals use.
• Structured career support and networking: Universities such as Harrington College of Design and NYFA offer dedicated career services, including résumé reviews, portfolio development, interview preparation, and internship/job placement assistance.
• Immersion in a $1.2 trillion arts economy: The U.S. arts and cultural sector contributed $1.2 trillion in 2023, over 4% of GDP, with employment reaching 5.4 million workers. This creative ecosystem offers sweeping opportunities for photographers to grow. 
• Practical experience through internships:Photography courses in the U.S. emphasize hands-on learning and internships, which strengthen technical skills, expand portfolios, and build key industry connections, benefits supported by programs like those listed on GoAbroad. 
• Exposure to diverse photographic disciplines: U.S. programs expose students to a wide range of genres, from documentary and fine art to fashion, commercial, and digital media, helping them discover their niche and become versatile professionals.
• Strong economic potential across creative careers: Photographers in the U.S. earn an average of $33,968 (INR 2,945,890) annually, with job growth projected at 4% through 2032. Studying here provides access to stable career pathways in both traditional and emerging photographic fields.

Now, it is time to explore some of the top Universities in the USA that offer courses on Photography. 

Top Universities For Studying Photography Courses in the USA

Several excellent universities in the US offer top-notch photography courses. Top U.S. universities, such as Endicott College and Utah Tech University, offer popular photography courses, including BS, BA, and BFA. 

Here are some of the top universities in the USA that are offering photography courses.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

In addition to these universities, there are other institutions offering photography courses in the United States.

Popular Universities to Study Photography Courses in the USA 

Having the best options in hand is great, but it is also safe to have some alternative options too! Along with the aforementioned top universities, there are other institutions, such as California State University and Curry College, that offer photography courses in the US. 

Here are some of the alternative options.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

Next, let’s see what eligibility criteria you need to pass to start photography courses in the US. 

Eligibility Criteria for Photography Courses in the USA

As many universities in the US offer photography courses, most follow a similar framework. You’ll generally need to submit academic transcripts, a portfolio of work, and proof of English proficiency.

International applicants must also meet visa requirements and provide supplementary documents, such as letters of recommendation or a statement of purpose.

Let’s look at the eligibility criteria in detail below.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

Next, let’s see the detailed step-by-step process for applying to these top universities in the US for photography courses.

Application Process for Photography Courses in the USA

Applying for US photography programs requires strategic preparation and attention to detail. Top institutions, such as California State University and Rice University, maintain selective admissions, often emphasizing artistic potential and academic excellence.

Getting ahead by understanding specific requirements will significantly boost your acceptance chances and ensure a smooth transition to study in the US. Here are the steps to follow to apply for photography courses in the US:

Step 1: Research Program Details & Requirements

Investigate each university’s photography offerings, whether it's a certificate, BFA, or MFA, and note application components such as portfolios, entrance interviews, or academic prerequisites.

Step 2: Prepare & Curate Your Portfolio

Select 8–20 pieces that showcase your vision across genres. Graduate-level applicants should provide 10–15 photos plus descriptions, along with storyboards and video samples. Clean editing and explanatory context are essential.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Use trusted platforms or direct authentic university links. For this, you require:

• Academic transcripts (translated and notarized if not in English)
• Portfolio 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal essay
• Letters of Recommendation 
• English proficiency test scores 
• Copy of valid passport 
• Resume 
• Application fee payment receipt 
• School-specific supplemental forms

Step 4: Demonstrate English Proficiency

If English isn't your native language, provide TOEFL (80–100+), IELTS (6.5–7.0), or equivalent scores. At Rice, for instance, the minimum TOEFL iBT is 100, IELTS 7.0, or Cambridge C1/C2 at 185, and Duolingo 130.

Step 5: Await Admission Decision & Accept Offer

Monitor your portal/email for the decision. If accepted, pay any enrollment deposit as required.

Step 6: Secure the I‑20 & Pay SEVIS Fee

Your school will issue the I‑20 form after verifying your finances and enrollment. Most universities process I-20s within 3‑5 business days, and students must pay the SEVIS I‑901 fee.

Step 7: Apply for an F-1 Visa

Complete the DS-160 visa application and schedule your consular interview. For this, you need:

• Form I‑20 (issued by the U.S. university after admission)
• SEVIS I‑901 fee payment receipt
• Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay)
• Form DS-160 confirmation page (visa application form)
• Visa appointment confirmation letter
• University admission letter
• Financial proof (bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor affidavit)
• Visa application fee receipt 
• Academic documents 
• Passport-sized photo (as per U.S. visa specifications)

Step 8: Plan Travel & Enrollment Logistics

Once your visa is approved, organize accommodation, purchase health insurance, and register for orientation. Many institutions, such as Rice, offer pre-arrival support and arrival guidelines for international students.

Next, let’s explore different course details for photography in the US.

Course details for Photography in the USA

Undergraduate and diploma programs cover key photography concepts like lighting, composition, post-production, and visual storytelling. Many universities also offer electives or concentrations in niche genres like commercial, fashion, or documentary photography. 

US institutions integrate capstone projects, internships, and portfolio development workshops to prepare students for diverse roles in the global creative economy.

Below are the course details for photography programs in the USA:

In the next part, let’s discuss the overall estimated costs for pursuing photography courses in the US. 

Cost of Pursuing Photography Courses in the USA

The overall cost of studying in the USA can vary significantly depending on the type of institution (public or private), program duration, and location. 

Tuition fees at public universities in the US typically range from about $10,000 (INR 86L) to $25,000 (INR 2,168,292) per year for in-state students, and can go higher for out-of-state students, often reaching $25,000 (INR 2,168,292) to $35,000 (INR 3,035,609) annually.

In addition to tuition fees, students should plan for living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, insurance, and course materials. 

Here is a breakdown of the major expenses involved in pursuing a photography degree in the U.S.

Note: Costs are approximate and may vary by city, university, and personal lifestyle choices.

Next, you will get to know about the available financial support for your photography courses in the US. 

Photography Courses in USA: Scholarships for Students

The cost of studying photography in the United States can be substantial, particularly at private institutions or specialized art schools. To support international and domestic students, universities, as well as independent foundations and government-backed organizations, offer a variety of scholarships. 

These financial aids can help reduce tuition fees and living expenses by up to 100%, making quality creative education more accessible.

Below is a detailed breakdown of internal and external scholarships available for students pursuing photography programs in the USA.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are awarded directly by universities and typically consider academic merit, creative portfolios, or financial need. Some are granted automatically during admission, while others require a separate application along with supporting documents like recommendation letters and portfolios.

For example, the RIT Visual Arts Scholarship offers up to $10,000 (INR 8.6L) per year to BFA photography applicants with strong portfolios.

Below are some popular internal scholarships to study in USA for photography and visual arts students.

Now, let’s see how external foundations and organizations can help you financially! 

External Scholarships

If you're planning to study photography or visual arts in the U.S., several third-party scholarships can help cover your expenses. Many of these are open to international students and accepted at accredited U.S. universities. For example, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program offers full tuition, airfare, and a stipend.

Here are some of the most popular scholarships you can consider for studying photography in the U.S.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

Now, it’s time to see what your future might look like if you successfully complete your photography course in the US. 

Job Opportunities After Photography Courses in the USA

Completing a photography course in the USA can lead to a diverse range of career options. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for photographers is approximately $42,520 (INR 3,687,831), with freelance and niche professionals earning significantly higher based on specialization, portfolio, and network.

Below are the popular highest paying jobs in the USA for graduates after a photography course in the USA.

Source: Indeed

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Now, let’s take a look at the top recruiters hiring people with photography certificates. 

Top Recruiters Hiring People with Photography Courses in the US

Graduates of U.S. photography programs are in high demand across industries like media, sports, real estate, and education. Top organizations, such as the Houston Astros and Fox Corporation, offer full-time positions with competitive salaries, ranging from $68,640 (INR 56.3L) to $104,000 (INR 85.3L), enabling photographers to build stable, long-term careers.

Here are some prominent U.S. recruiters hiring photography professionals, along with job roles and salary details.

Source: Glassdoor

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

After exploring potential job roles, let’s see how upGrad can help you pursue a photography course in the US. 

How Can upGrad Help You Study Photography Courses in the USA?

Studying photography in the USA involves more than just choosing the right college. From building a strong portfolio to handling visa formalities, each step needs expert guidance. That’s where upGrad steps in.

upGrad offers end-to-end support, from shortlisting universities to preparing SOPs and optimizing your creative portfolio. Their experienced counselors also assist with scholarships, application timelines, and test prep.

Whether you're applying to Parsons or a state university, upGrad ensures your profile stands out. You’ll also receive guidance for internships and post-study careers.

Want to turn your passion into a profession? Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts and kickstart your photography journey in the USA today!