Are There Good Photography Schools in North Carolina?

Hi! I'm considering pursuing a degree in photography and was wondering if there are any reputable photography schools or programs in North Carolina. Has anyone had any experiences with these schools?

Hi there! North Carolina does indeed have reputable schools with strong photography programs. Here are a few worth checking out:

1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)

UNC offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography. This program provides a strong foundation in the techniques, history, and theories of photography. It emphasizes both digital and traditional film processes while also encouraging students to explore interdisciplinary approaches.

2. East Carolina University (ECU)

ECU has a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with a concentration in Photography. This program covers both analog and digital processes, with courses focusing on darkroom techniques, digital imaging, and studio lighting. ECU also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary exploration and encourages students to connect their photography practice with other media.

3. Appalachian State University

At Appalachian State, you can pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum which covers traditional processes, digital techniques, and alternative photographic practices. Students have access to well-equipped darkroom and digital facilities and are encouraged to develop their unique visual language and approach within the medium.

4. University of North Carolina at Asheville (UNCA)

UNCA offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art with a concentration in Photography and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with a concentration in Photography. Both programs provide comprehensive and hands-on instruction in various photographic techniques, from traditional darkroom to digital processes. The BA program allows for more flexibility if you're interested in exploring other disciplines, while the BFA program focuses more intensively on photography.

While I don't have personal experiences at these schools, many students have found these programs to be well-rounded, engaging, and supportive. To get more information, I recommend visiting each school's website and reaching out to current students or faculty members in their photography programs.

Finally, if you're looking for ways to polish up your profile before applying to a photography program, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which lists a range of summer programs in the arts, many of which will allow you to focus on photography specifically, designed for high school students: https://blog.collegevine.com/high-school-art-summer-programs/. Admissions officers love to see that you're pursuing your interests outside of the classroom!