Online Photography Degree Bachelor’s in Digital Photography
Program Overview Why get an online photography degree?
Your creative instincts hold true career potential. Tap into them with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Digital Photography from Southern New Hampshire University. This degree program will provide you with technical photography skills and a foundation in the humanities — from an accredited university with one of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. Along the way, you'll create works to establish a branded identity and compile a professional portfolio.
Skills you'll learn:
- Digital camera operation
- Light equipment techniques
- Post-production editing
- Entrepreneurial expertise
- Brand-building tactics
- Legal rights and responsibilities
Courses & Curriculum Online photography degree classes that ignite your imagination
Beyond the technical aspects of photography, this program will show you how to market yourself and manage your brand as a self-employed photographer. You'll also get key feedback from instructors and peers, so you can hone your artistic vision.
Want to explore other academic interests at the same time? This transfer-friendly program features 36 free electives, so you can take complementary classes in marketing, communication or graphic design.Online photography degree courses
Taught by industry-leading faculty, these classes will give you a strong understanding of photography theory, practice and history. You'll also explore entrepreneurial skills, like how to work with clients and agencies, develop contracts, set pricing and manage overhead.
Courses may include:
Visit the course catalog to view the full BA in Digital Photography curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
---|---|
Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
---|---|
Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Required Photography Equipment:
- Interchangeable-lens camera (ILC) either DSLR or mirrorless models with manual and semi-auto modes allowing for shooting in RAW and control of the ISO, white balance, aperture, and shutter speed. The camera must have a hot shoe center pin on the top to attach a flash unit and other compatible accessories.
- Wireless camera remote control
- Tripod
- Lighting Kit
NOTE: Phone and/or tablet cameras are not permitted for use in this course. They lack the technical functionality to properly complete required assignments.
Required Software:
Adobe Creative Cloud is required for all students in the digital photography program. Creative Cloud licenses are available at an educational discount directly through Adobe.
Adobe’s terms and conditions require a full-year contract for Creative Cloud.
System Requirements:
Please refer to the requirements for Adobe Photoshop, which demands the most technical requirements of the Adobe Creative Cloud and is used throughout the digital photography program. Given that current system requirements can change without notice from Adobe, it is best to consult the most up-to-date requirements on the Adobe website.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: January 06, 2025 | March 03, 2025
Next term starts:
Oct. 28, 2024
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty carry with them decades of experience in the arts. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in this ever-evolving field.
Featured Faculty
Colleen Vandenberg
After earning an MFA, Colleen Vandenberg began her teaching journey, educating students of all ages in photography, visual arts, commercial art and art history. Currently, Vandenberg owns and operates a visual arts business, teaches art to homeschooled and co-op students and sits on the board of Jess Connects. In her free time, she creates fine art and short films — one of which was selected by the Brooklyn Film Festival in 2023.
Position
Adjunct Faculty, Liberal Arts
Joined SNHU
2016
Education
- MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts & Media from Columbia College Chicago
- BA in Photography from Brooks Institute
What our instructors have to say
SNHU professors reflect on the importance of our online photography degree:
"Earning your online degree at SNHU will afford you the opportunity to lay the foundation of being an expert in your craft and have a deeper understanding of professional photography."
Colleen Vandenberg, adjunct faculty
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
It's easy, fast and free.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online undergraduate tuition
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$9,900 $14,850 $19,800 $24,750 $29,700If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Career Outlook What can I do with an online photography degree?
The goal of our BA in Digital Photography program is to help you build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in your career – whether you’re just starting out or taking it to the next level. With each class, you'll sharpen your photography expertise and open the door to new creative paths.
Occupations
Once you complete our online photography degree program, you'll have a skill set that's directly applicable to a number of roles, including:
Capture individual subjects or groups for special occasions, business head shots or keepsakes.
Create a cohesive look and feel for magazines, photo shoots, products, campaigns — even movies.
Lay out photos and copy, create digital images, and use color and typography to bring ideas to life.
Help businesses of all sizes market their products to customers with high-quality photos.
Use your background in photography as a foundation for shooting and editing videos.
Tell stories for news outlets (including newspapers, magazines and television) as a photojournalist.
Increase in job openings for photographers through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, taking photography classes online is a great way to earn your degree, especially if you need a program that fits into your busy life.
At SNHU, the online digital photography degree is designed with flexibility in mind. You can attend class when it’s convenient for you, with course materials accessible 24/7.
While you'll need to have your own photography equipment, including a suitable camera, the photo-editing software used in your courses is available online. This allows you to learn key editing skills from the comfort of your home or anywhere else you complete your coursework.
We infuse the digital photography workflow process throughout the program, so you can practice digital image work from creation to output. You then can receive key feedback from your instructor and peers via your digital portfolio and/or online discussion forums.
"I am thrilled that I will be able to check the box saying, YES, I have my BA in Photography," said Saryn Christina '22. "It has given me a lot more confidence in myself and my work."
The best online photography school is the one that most effectively prepares you for the career you want.
At SNHU, a digital photography degree can give you a strong understanding of the artistic and technical aspects of photography and can also prepare you for the professional world.
"I saw a commercial for SNHU and it really hit all the right buttons for me," said Susana Ellis '20. "Once I enrolled in SNHU, I found the staff extremely helpful, and the faculty always positive and ready to assist. The cost was the lowest I had seen; the online structure is easy to work with and flexible for any working student with a family."
You’ll learn how to manually control the camera and manipulate light, and you’ll explore how to use post-production programs (including Photoshop and Lightroom) to enhance digital photography.
You’ll also practice giving, receiving and applying feedback from instructors and peers – a key set of skills that can prepare you for receiving artistic criticism during your career.
"The techniques and tools you will acquire through the coursework in the SNHU digital photography degree programs will set you apart from the hundreds of thousands of photographers out there who have an awesome camera and know how to apply filters in Lightroom," said Colleen Vandenberg, an SNHU photography instructor. "SNHU wants to prepare you for any professional opportunity that comes your way.”
While smartphone cameras and photo editing apps have made taking photos easier than ever, a digital photography degree can still give you a leg up when starting a photography career.
Salaried photographer jobs can be highly competitive. That said, job prospects may be best for candidates who have a strong portfolio and related skills, such as editing photography or capturing digital video, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
A photography degree can also prepare you to become a freelance photographer or start your own photography business. According to the BLS, employment of self-employed photographers is projected to grow as more businesses work with contractors instead of employing in-house photographers.1
"I feel the online education I received is equal to what I would have received in person, if not better," said Susana Ellis '20. "It was definitely worth it, in value and in fulfilling my goals."
Ellis shared that she recommended the school to her husband, who also graduated with the class of 2020 and went on to pursue his master's. "We both talk about how much we have enjoyed fulfilling this college dream together and hope someday our children want to enroll at SNHU as well."
Not ready to commit to a bachelor's degree program? SNHU also offers a shorter online photography degree – the associate in digital photography.
It depends on the job you want. While many photographers don’t need a degree to get started in entry-level positions, a digital photography degree has the potential to give you a competitive advantage when applying for jobs.
For specialties like photojournalism and industrial or scientific photography, a bachelor’s degree in photography is often required, and coursework in the field in which you’re seeking employment is also a plus, according to the BLS.1
A degree that gives you a strong understanding of business principles, including marketing, pricing and licensing, can also help prepare you for a career as a freelance photographer or entrepreneur.
"With my new degree, I feel I have more experience and education to offer more professional freelance work," said Susana Ellis '20. "I can market myself and stay on top of the latest trends while also creating my own niche."
Starting a photography business requires a strong grasp of photography's technical and artistic elements, as well as a foundation in the legal, marketing and entrepreneurial aspects of the field.
At SNHU, you'll learn how to work with clients, manage overhead and beyond. You'll also get an inside look at how to use social media and other tools to differentiate your brand and market your business.
Additionally, you’ll develop a digital photography portfolio that showcases your professional work and demonstrates a cohesive creative vision – a key part of any successful photography career.
It depends. If affordability is top of mind, you should consider taking photography classes online.
With a full bachelor's tuition cost of $38,400, SNHU's BA in Digital Photography is available to you at a fraction of the cost of comparable programs. But the actual cost of your degree can vary based on any credits you transfer in, the courses you take and required materials.
While SNHU’s online degree programs aim to make use of free resources whenever possible (including ebooks, websites and training videos), you'll need access to a suitable camera, photo-editing software and other technical tools.
SNHU also has a generous transfer policy, allowing up to 90 transfer credits to be applied to your degree. With 36 free electives available in the digital photography program, you may be able to transfer previous college credits and save money.
Absolutely. Having a photography degree can make you a prime candidate for a range of jobs in the field, such as commercial photographer, photojournalist, digital photo editor, videographer or even an educator.
According to the BLS, the largest employers of photographers were1:
- Self-employed workers
- Photographic services
Self-employment makes up the majority of those employed and is still projected to grow. The demand for portrait photographers will remain as people continue to want new portraits and corporations continue to require the services of commercial photographers to develop compelling advertisements to sell products.1
“I decided to major in photography to fulfill a lifelong artistic dream of mine,” said Susana Ellis '20. “I knew I wanted an education and experience that would help me in this field.”
Sources & Citations
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/photographers.htm (viewed Feb. 21, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.