Masters in Photography in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Level of study

Streams

Countries

Cities

Fees

Exams Accepted

Course Duration

Masters
Clear All

5 results found

Art & Design: Photography, MFA

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA

DURATION
2 Years
FEES
INR 24.37L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

View details

Art and Design - photography and digital media

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, USA

DURATION
2 Years
FEES
INR 11.55L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

View details

Photography, M.F.A.

Temple University, USA

DURATION
2 Years
FEES
-
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

View details

Photography - MA

Ohio University, USA

DURATION
1 Year 6 Months
FEES
INR 6.19L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
AUG 2025

View details

Master's in Photography in USA: Overview

A Master's in Photography in USA is typically a two-year, studio-based program, most commonly offered as an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) that emphasizes visual research, critical thinking, technical expertise, and creative production. Programs often include exhibitions, internships, and collaborative seminars.

Here's a detailed overview:

Aspect	Details
Duration	2 years (full-time)
Intakes	Fall (August/September) Spring (January)
Tuition Fees	USD 61,564/year (INR 53.3L /year) USD 63,966/year (INR 55.4 L /year)
Entrance Requirements	Bachelor's in Art/Photography Portfolio Statement of Purpose LORs English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS)
Living Costs	USD 96,136 (INR 80L approx.) (Includes tuition, housing, food, travel, supplies)
Eligibility	Bachelor's in a relevant field GPA varies strong portfolio SOP LORs Language proficiency
Top Universities	• Parsons School of Design (New York) • Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) • School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) • CalArts (California) • NYU Tisch (New York
Popular Courses	MFA in Photography MFA in Fine Arts (Photography) MFA in Visual Arts with a Photo focus
Job Opportunities	Photographer Art Director Photo Editor

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

Next, let's see why you should study a Master's in Photography in US.

Why Pursue a Master's in Photography in USA?

The U.S. is home to 27 graduate photography courses awarded at the master's level, offering great global appeal and academic credibility. Around 2,175 photography degrees were granted, and though that was a 0.4% dip, master's degree holders accounted for 33.6% of photography professionals.

Here's why the U.S. stands out for photography postgraduates:

Top-Ranked Programs with Low Acceptance Rates: Yale School of Art, ranked among the best globally, accepts just 5.7% of applicants to its MFA Photography program.
High proportion of advanced degrees: One-third of photography pros hold a master's, adding academic clout to their creative portfolio.
Strong income growth: Median wage is $70,742 (approx. INR 59 L), jumping nearly 9% in one year, well above inflation.
Industry size and stability: The industry's revenue has increased at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% over the past five years, reaching an estimated $16.2 billion (INR 1.35 lakh crore) by the end of 2025.
Regional creative hotspots: New York County, NY awarded 230 photography degrees, the most of any US county.
Affordable public options: Public state-school photography master's programs cost about $7,070 (approx. INR 5.9 L) in-state, versus $38,400 (approx. INR 32 L) at private institutions.

These figures show that a U.S. master's in photography provides academic merit, a strong alumni base, solid career earnings, and regional advantages, especially in creative epicenters.

Now, it's time to see some of the top universities in the USA that are offering a Master's in Photography.

Top Universities For Studying Master's in Photography in USA

The U.S. features some of the most acclaimed MFA Photography programs globally, often ranked in the top 5 for fine arts. Yale School of Art, for instance, offers just 10 seats per year in its 2‑year program and consistently ranks #1 for Photography by U.S. News & World Report.

Meanwhile, top-tier state schools like the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offer more accessible programs. There are 33 graduate students enrolled in Photography MFA programs, and annual non-resident tuition is USD 30,356 (INR 24.4L).

Here are the leading institutions, annual tuition fees, and program duration:

University	Program	Tuition Fees/year	Duration & Deadline (2025)
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	MFA in Photography (Art & Design)	USD 30,356 /INR 24.4 L (non-resident)	2 years; Deadline: January 15, 2025 (Closed)
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE)	MFA in Photography & Digital Media	USD 17,293.50 /INR 13.9 L (int’l)	2 years; Rolling admissions
Temple University (Tyler School of Art)	MFA in Photography (60 credits)	USD 1,727/credit /INR 1.4 L/credit ≈ USD 41,300/year	2 years; Deadline: Feb-March (Closed)
Yale School of Art	MFA in Photography (10 seats/year)	USD 48,500 /INR 38.8 L	2 years; Deadline: Dec 1, 2024 (Closed)
Ohio University	MA in Photography (Photography + Integrated Media)	USD 9,500 (resident), USD 17,500 (non-resident) /INR 6.2 L /INR 11.4 L/year	1.5 years; Intake: August 2025
Parsons School of Design (The New School)	MFA in Photography	USD 58,350 /INR 50.5 L	2 years; Deadline: Feb 1, 2025 (Closed)
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)	MFA in Photography	USD 61,564 /INR 53.3 L	2 years; Deadline: Jan 15, 2025 (Closed)
School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)	MFA in Studio with Photography focus	USD 57,978 /INR 50 L	2 years; Deadline: Feb 1, 2025 (Closed)
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) MFA in Photography and Media	MFA in Photography and Media	USD 25,332 (estimated average) /INR 21.9 L	2 years; Deadline: Jan 10, 2025 (Closed)

In addition to these universities, other institutions are offering Master's in Photography in the United States.

Popular Universities to Study Master's in Photography in the USA

While elite institutions like Yale or RISD are globally recognized for their photography programs, there are several other high-quality universities in the U.S. offering excellent graduate training in photography.

Many of these schools are known for their well-equipped studios, strong faculty profiles, and alumni success across commercial, editorial, and fine art fields.

The average tuition for an MFA in Photography at public institutions in the U.S. typically ranges from $7,000 to $20,000 per year (approximately ₹5.8L – ₹16.5L/year). In contrast, private universities often charge between $30,000 and $60,000 per year (approximately INR 24.7L – INR 49.5L/year), depending on the institution’s location, facilities, and global reputation.

Here are some reputable universities offering Master's in Photography in the U.S.:

University	Program	Tuition Fees (per year)	Duration & Deadline
Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD)	MFA in Photography	USD 42,460 /INR 3.53L	1.5–2 years; Deadline: Aug 1, 2025 (Closed)
Columbia College Chicago	MFA in Photography	USD 1,386/credit, ~9 credits/sem ≈ USD 25,000–30,000/year	2 years; Deadline: Jan 15, 2025 (Closed)
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	MFA in Photography	US35,915 /INR 29.82 lakhs	2 years
New York University (NYU)	MFA in Photography	USD 54,000/ INR 44.98 L	2 years
University of Memphis	MA / MFA in Photography	USD 12,700/INR 11.58 L	3 years; Deadline: Jan 15, 2025 (Closed)

The next part will discuss the eligibility criteria for you to start a Master's in Photography in the US.

Eligibility Criteria for Master's in Photography in the USA

Admission to MFA or MA Photography programs in the U.S. is highly competitive, with many top schools accepting fewer than 15–20 students per year.

For instance, Yale School of Art selects only 10 candidates annually for its MFA Photography program. Likewise, schools such as Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) are known to emphasize portfolio strength and creative depth as much as academic qualifications.

Here's a breakdown of the general eligibility requirements for MFA/MA Photography programs in the U.S.:

Criteria	Sub-Criteria	Details
Academic Requirements	Educational Qualification	A bachelor's degree in any field, preferably art, media, design, or visual studies, from an accredited university.
Academic Requirements	Academic Score	A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally expected.
Creative Requirements	Portfolio	10–20 original works (images, series, or video), showcasing technical skill and concept development.
Creative Requirements	Artist Statement	A 1–2 page document explaining your artistic interests, influences, and goals.
Standardized Tests	GRE	Usually not required for MFA Photography programs.
English Proficiency	IELTS	Minimum 6.5 overall band score (no section below 6.0).
	TOEFL	iBT score of 80–100, depending on the school.
	Duolingo	105+ accepted by select universities.
Visa Requirements	Passport	Valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.
	Admission Letter	Must have a formal admission offer from a SEVP-certified U.S. university.
	Proof of Funds	Bank statements or financial aid documents showing the ability to cover one year of tuition and living costs.
	Health Insurance	U.S.-recognized health coverage is required throughout the study.
Other Documents	Letters of Recommendation	2–3 academic or professional references, ideally from professors or mentors in photography or visual arts.
Other Documents	Statement of Purpose (SOP)	A well-written essay describing your academic background, creative goals, and why you're applying to the program.

Next, let's examine the detailed step-by-step process for applying to these top US universities for a Master's in Photography.

Application Process for Master's in Photography in the USA

Applying to an MFA or MA in Photography in the U.S. involves multiple steps, ranging from preparing your creative materials to submitting academic documents and securing a student visa.

Most applications are made directly through university portals, with deadlines typically between December and February for Fall intakes.

Here's a simplified breakdown of the key steps:

Step 1: Research & Shortlist Programs
Identify MFA/MA photography programs that align with your creative vision. Review each university's deadlines, portfolio specifications, and admission criteria.
Step 2: Prepare Creative Materials
Develop a curated portfolio of 10–20 original works (images, series, or mixed media). Write an artist statement and Statement of Purpose (SOP) that explains your creative approach, influences, and goals.
Step 3: Gather Academic Documents
Collect official academic transcripts from your undergraduate institution. Some universities may require international transcripts to be evaluated through credential agencies like WES.
Step 4: Take the English Language Proficiency Test
Appear for TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo as per university requirements. Aim for a TOEFL iBT score between 80–100 or an IELTS band of 6.5 or higher.
Step 5: Submit Application Online
Apply via each university's official application portal. Upload your SOP, transcripts, test scores, and portfolio, and pay the application fee (usually USD 75–125 / INR 6,200–10,300 approximately).
Step 6: Send Letters of Recommendation
Request 2–3 letters from professors or creative professionals familiar with your academic or artistic capabilities. These should be submitted directly by your referees through the application portal.
Step 7: Prepare for Interviews (If Required)
Some programs may conduct virtual or in-person interviews to assess your fit for the program. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio, ideas, and goals.
Step 8: Receive Admission & Start Visa Process
Once admitted, the university will issue your I-20 form. Use this to apply for the F-1 student visa. You'll also need to provide proof of financial support for tuition and living costs.

Next, let's see the core subjects universities offer for a Master's in Photography in the USA.

Course Details for Master's in Photography in the USA

Master's in Photography programs in the U.S. are offered as MFA (Master of Fine Arts) or MA (Master of Arts) degrees and span 1.5 to 3 years, depending on the university.

Students benefit from one-on-one critiques, faculty mentorship, artist lectures, and gallery installations. Many programs, such as those at Yale, RISD, and SCAD, include interdisciplinary opportunities across visual arts, film, performance, and digital media.

Some also offer teaching assistantships, allowing students to gain classroom experience while offsetting tuition costs.

Below are the course details for the Master's in Photography in the USA:

Category	Details
Core Subjects	Studio Lighting Analog & Digital Photography Visual Storytelling History of Photography Photobook Design Critique Seminars
Specializations	Documentary Photography Fine Art Photography Fashion & Editorial Photography Digital Imaging & Post-Production Photography and Social Practice
Other Key Offerings	Final Thesis Exhibition Teaching Assistantships Artist Residencies & Fellowships Portfolio Development Access to Interdisciplinary Labs and Studios

Next, let's see how much it will cost to pursue a Master in Photography in the USA.

Cost of Pursuing a Master's in Photography in the USA

A Master’s in Photography in the U.S. involves both academic and living costs, which can vary widely based on the location and type of university. Private art schools such as RISD, NYU, and SCAD charge between $40,000–$65,000 (INR 33L–54L) per year in tuition.

On the other hand, public universities like UCLA and the University of Memphis offer relatively lower tuition, with some programs costing around $12,000–$30,000 (INR 10L–25L) annually.

Based on cost data from College Board and Numbeo, students living in cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco typically spend 40–60% more on rent and living expenses than students in smaller cities such as Columbus or Memphis.

Below is an estimate of the total cost of living in the USA:

Expense	Monthly (USD)	Monthly (INR)
Tuition & Fees	$8,000–15,000*	INR 6.7 L – 12.5 L
Housing	$1,200–2,500	INR 1.0 L – 2.1 L
Food & Groceries	$300–500	INR 0.25 L – 0.42 L
Course Materials	$150–300	INR 0.12 L – 0.25 L
Transportation	$150–300	INR 0.12 L – 0.25 L
Health Insurance	$200–400	INR 0.17 L – 0.33 L
Miscellaneous	$200–400	INR 0.17 L – 0.33 L

You can apply for various scholarships and funding options to help pay for your education.

Scholarships for Master's in Photography

Graduate photography programs in the U.S. can cost between $20,000 and $65,000 per year (INR 16.6L–54L), depending on the institution and program structure.

Top U.S. universities such as RISD, Yale, Parsons, and SCAD award generous scholarships, assistantships, and tuition discounts to high-performing applicants. Yale School of Art reported that over 85% of its MFA students received need-based aid, while SCAD offers merit awards worth up to $20,000/year (INR 16.6L) for qualified students.

In addition, external scholarships and grants from organizations like Fulbright, NEA, and the Joan Mitchell Foundation enable international students to access professional networks, mentorships, and fully funded artistic opportunities.

Let's explore the scholarship options for Indian students to study in USA:

Internal Scholarships

Most top art schools offering MFA programs in Photography, such as RISD, Yale School of Art, SCAD, and Parsons, provide institutional financial aid. These include tuition waivers, graduate assistantships, and named scholarships awarded based on portfolio quality, academic performance, and need.

Here are a few internal scholarships you can explore:

University & Scholarship	Type	Details
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Presidential Fellowship	Merit-based	Eligibility: Exceptional MFA applicants nominated by faculty based on portfolio quality. Benefits: Full tuition coverage, mentorship, and development workshops.
RISD – Graduate Assistantships	Work-based / Need-based	Eligibility: Open to all enrolled MFA students. Benefits: Paid assistantship roles within departments + partial tuition support.
Yale School of Art – Tuition Support & Work-Study	Need-based + Work-study	Eligibility: All admitted students are assessed for need-based aid. Benefits: Tuition subsidies, work-study at $15/hour (approx. ₹1,250/hour), and access to emergency financial aid.
Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) – Graduate Scholarships	Merit-based	Eligibility: High GPA, strong portfolio, leadership or extracurricular excellence. Benefits: Scholarships up to $16,000/year (INR 13.3L).
Parsons School of Design – Dean's & Merit Scholarships	Merit-based	Eligibility: Automatically considered for all admitted MFA students based on artistic merit. Benefits: Tuition discounts of 25–50% of total fees.

Students may also explore financial assistance through government-funded and private external scholarships. Here's an overview of the available options.

External Scholarships

In addition to internal aid, students can apply for global grants and fellowships offered by foundations and government bodies. These awards support artistic talent and cultural exchange and are available to students across disciplines, including photography.

Here are some external scholarship options.

Scholarship	Type	Details
Fulbright Foreign Student Program	Government-funded, Merit-based	Eligibility: Open to international students with strong academic merit and a clearly defined creative or research proposal. Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living stipend, health insurance, and round-trip airfare.
NEA Grants for Arts Projects	Government-funded, Project-based	Eligibility: Artists or collectives working through U.S.-based non-profit organizations with a high-impact visual arts or community-centered project. Benefits: Funding between $10,000–$25,000 (INR 8.3L–20.8L) depending on project scope.
Joan Mitchell Foundation Grants	Private Foundation, Merit/Need-based	Eligibility: Emerging visual artists currently enrolled in MFA programs in the U.S. with strong portfolios and community involvement. Benefits: Variable grant amounts plus access to career mentoring and alumni support.
World Press Photo Grants	Nonprofit-funded, Project-based	Eligibility: Open to visual journalists and photographers working on long-term, socially impactful projects. Benefits: Funding for project execution, global visibility, and inclusion in international exhibitions.
Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant	Private Foundation, Merit-based	Eligibility: Early-career figurative artists (typically under age 40) enrolled or applying to an MFA or similar program. Benefits: Up to CAD 15,000 ( USD 11,000 , INR 9.1L) in grant funding, renewable based on progress.

Now that you've arranged your funding, it's time to explore the career opportunities after your bachelor's degree.

Job Opportunities After a Master's in Photography

In the U.S., photographers earn a median annual wage of $42,520, while the top 10% earn over $94,760, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That puts photography roles well above the national median wage of $38,252 for all occupations. This indicates strong earning potential for highly skilled professionals.

Below are the top in-demand jobs in the USA, along with their typical salaries and sources.

Job Title	Average Salary (USD)	Average Salary (INR)
Art Director (Photography Focus)	$77,358	INR 64.3 L/year
Film Developer	$94,983	INR 78.9 L/year
Model	$93,419	INR 77.6 L/year
Photography Professor	$61,014	INR 50.7 L/year
Photo Retoucher	$53,207	INR 44.2 L/year
Photo Editor	$49,965	INR 41.5 L/year
Video Editor/Videographer	$52,316 / $49,922	INR 43.5 L / INR 41.6 L/year
Lighting Technician	$56,351	INR 47.2 L/year
Makeup Artist (Photo Teams)	$46,341	INR 38.9 L/year
Stylist (Photo Shoots)	$45,317	INR 38.1 L/year
Graphic Designer (Photo Content)	$50,656	INR 42.6 L/year
Photojournalist	$39,564	INR 33.3 L/year
Commercial Photographer	$60,000–80,000	INR 49.6 L–66.6 L/year
Photography Assistant	$41,279	INR 34.3 L/year
Freelance Photographer	$40,658	INR 33.8 L/year
Visual Content Designer	$60,000	INR 49.6 L/year

Source: Indeed
Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Next, let’s explore the top recruiters hiring graduates after Masters in Photography in USA.

Top Recruiters Hiring Master's in Photography Graduates in the USA

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, photographers earn a median hourly wage of $20.44 (approx. $42,520/year) in May. The top 10% earn over $62,480, indicating strong income potential in advanced roles. Employers that hire MFA/MA graduates typically offer higher salaries and more specialized positions.

Here are some prominent U.S. recruiters hiring Master's graduates in Photography in the US.

Recruiter / Organization	Role	Typical Annual Salary (USD / INR)
Photo Agencies (e.g., Prime Collective, VII)	Documentary / Editorial Photographer	$55,000–75,000 (INR 45.8L–62.6L)
Media & Advertising Agencies	Senior Photographer, Art Director	$60,000–110,000 (INR 50.1L–91.6L)
Universities / Colleges	Photography Professor / Lecturer	$108,000–143,000 (INR INR 90L–1.19Cr) base + stipend
Nonprofits & Photo Centers (e.g., Light Work)	Artist-in-Residence, Lab Technician	$45,000–60,000 (INR 37.5L–50L)
Government & Research Contractors	Visual Content Specialist, Videographer	$55,000–85,000 (INR 45.9L–71L)

Source: Indeed
Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

If you're aiming for top photography roles in the U.S., the right preparation matters. upGrad can help you get there.

How upGrad Can Help You Study a Master's in Photography in the USA?

Applying for a Master’s in Photography in the USA involves more than academic credentials. It requires a strong portfolio, compelling essays, and a clear understanding of each institution’s expectations.

upGrad simplifies the process with expert support for selecting the right MFA or MA programs, preparing application materials, and meeting deadlines. From portfolio development and SOP writing to scholarship guidance and visa assistance, upGrad helps you create a competitive application for top U.S. art schools.

Start your creative journey today. Book a free 1:1 session with upGrad's experts.

FAQs

Is a background in fine arts necessary for applying to a photography master's program?

No. While a fine arts background can help, many schools like Columbia College Chicago or the University of Memphis welcome students from other disciplines as long as they submit a strong portfolio and meet academic standards.

Can I pursue a Master's in Photography in the USA without a formal undergraduate degree in photography?

Yes. Programs at institutions like New York University and SCAD accept students from diverse academic fields, provided they show technical skills and creative depth through their portfolio.

Are there part-time or low-residency MFA photography programs in the USA?

Yes. Schools such as Maine Media College and the School of Visual Arts (SVA) offer low-residency MFA programs that are ideal for working professionals or international students needing flexible schedules.

Do U.S. photography programs offer industry internships or practical training?

Definitely. Programs at Parsons School of Design, UCLA, and Yale School of Art often include internships with studios, media agencies, galleries, or teaching assistant opportunities as part of the curriculum.

What types of portfolios do U.S. universities expect for MFA Photography?

Most schools, including RISD and Columbia College Chicago, require 15 to 20 original images that reflect a coherent body of work. These are evaluated based on artistic concept, technique, and vision.

Are there optional courses in filmmaking or digital media alongside photography?

Yes. Interdisciplinary electives are available at New York University, SCAD, and Parsons, covering topics like video art, photobook design, mixed media, and digital storytelling.

Do international students get health insurance through the university?

Yes. Institutions such as UCLA and NYU require international students to enroll in university-provided health insurance or approved third-party plans that meet U.S. standards.

Is teaching assistantship common in photography master's programs?

Yes. Many schools, including Yale School of Art and RISD, offer graduate teaching assistantships. These often come with tuition support and stipends, especially for second-year MFA students.

How often do students exhibit their work during the program?

Regular exhibitions are common at institutions like SCAD, Parsons, and Columbia College Chicago. Students typically participate in midterm reviews, semester-end shows, and final thesis exhibitions.

What kind of visa do I need to study photography in the USA?

International students must apply for the F-1 student visa. This requires a valid I-20 from a SEVP-certified school such as UCLA or NYU, along with financial documentation and a visa interview.

Can I work in the U.S. after completing my MFA in Photography?

Yes. Graduates can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is valid for 12 months. If your coursework includes STEM-designated interdisciplinary fields such as digital media at NYU, you may qualify for an OPT extension of up to 36 months.

Explore Your Options

Other Universities

Calculators

Masters Courses

Bachelors Courses