Philadelphia - 3141 Chestnut Street - PA 19104
The Drexel University Photography Program stands out as one of the most innovative and professionally focused photography programs in the United States. Offering a Bachelor of Science in Photography, it combines visual literacy, technical mastery, and real-world experience to prepare students for success in a rapidly evolving creative industry. The program’s approach bridges the gap between fine art and professional practice, beginning with traditional darkroom studies and progressing to advanced digital imaging, motion, and video production. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of photography’s aesthetic, conceptual, and commercial dimensions.
Drexel’s curriculum is designed to mirror the demands of the contemporary photography marketplace. Students engage in intensive studio coursework, learning about lighting, composition, editing, and digital workflow, while also studying photographic history, theory, and business practices. What sets Drexel apart is its signature six-month cooperative education (Co-op) program, which provides students with hands-on experience working for industry leaders in photography, media, advertising, and design. This unique integration of professional practice with academic study ensures graduates are ready to enter the workforce with confidence and skill.
The program’s reputation for excellence is reflected in the achievements of its alumni, who have earned distinctions such as the Pulitzer Prize for Photojournalism and the Guggenheim Fellowship. Their work appears in world-renowned publications including *Time Magazine*, *Architectural Digest*, and *Italian Vogue*, and in the permanent collections of major institutions like the Library of Congress and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
At Drexel, students are encouraged to push the boundaries of image-making, exploring both the creative and technical sides of photography. Supported by expert faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and professional mentorship, Drexel photography students graduate with the creative vision, technical expertise, and professional acumen to make a lasting mark in today’s image-driven world.
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