Documentary and news photographers and videographers inform and influence our grasp of current events; commercial photographers meet the image needs of business and industry, and fine art photographers help us comprehend culture and society. Since photography and video are mediums that contribute to both the cultural and economic aspects of society, their students are well-positioned to pursue art as a life’s work.
In Pennsylvania College of Art & Design’s photography and video program, vision – design sophistication and the ability to see photographically – is of primary importance, regardless of its application. Students discover how craft and vision are inextricably bound, and develop strong visual skills and knowledge of traditional, digital, and experimental photographic processes and video.
A required internship provides an opportunity to make contacts within the industry and discover aspects of photographic and video practices that correspond with one’s abilities and interests. These professional opportunities, in addition to coursework, prepare students for life after graduation.
Whether you’re just starting to learn about PCA&D or ready to submit an application, connect with us. We offer a range of ways to visit, from on-campus visits to online info sessions and 1-on-1s with an admissions counselor.
Large Format Photography: Description and Contemplation
3.0
PH 317
Intermediate Video
3.0
Spring Semester - Junior Year
PH 307
Advanced Color: Theory & Practice
3.0
PH 311
Professional Practices I
1.5
PH 328
Medium, Form & Concept
3.0
PH 431
The Documentary: Objectivity & Influence
1.5
Course Number No.
Course Title
Course Credits
Fall Semester - Senior Year
PH 401
Senior Thesis I
3.0
PH 425
Web Arts: Self-Promotion to Self-Expression
3.0
PH 417
Emerging Lens-Based Technologies
1.5
Spring Semester - Senior Year
PH 402
Senior Thesis II
3.0
PH 407
Professional Practices II
1.5
PH 427
Video Projects
3.0
Course Number No.
Course Title
Course Credits
Fall Semester - Sophomore Year
PH 223
Photographic Techniques II: Color Craft & Image
3.0
PH 226
Photo History I
1.5
PH 224
Digital Photo I
3.0
PH 221
Fundamentals of Lighting
1.5
Spring Semester - Sophomore Year
PH 227
Photo History II
1.5
PH 225
Digital Photo II
3.0
PH 318
Advanced Lighting for Studio & Video
1.5
PH 220
Intro to Video
3.0
Fall Semester - Junior Year
PH 326
Advanced Digital Photography
3.0
PH 323
Large Format Photography: Description and Contemplation
3.0
PH 317
Intermediate Video
3.0
Spring Semester - Junior Year
PH 307
Advanced Color: Theory & Practice
3.0
PH 311
Professional Practices I
1.5
PH 328
Medium, Form & Concept
3.0
PH 431
The Documentary: Objectivity & Influence
1.5
Fall Semester - Senior Year
PH 401
Senior Thesis I
3.0
PH 425
Web Arts: Self-Promotion to Self-Expression
3.0
PH 417
Emerging Lens-Based Technologies
1.5
Spring Semester - Senior Year
PH 402
Senior Thesis II
3.0
PH 407
Professional Practices II
1.5
PH 427
Video Projects
3.0
Students who successfully complete the program will...
Demonstrate the ability to integrate form, content, and context in the service of clear visual communication.
Demonstrate the technical skills needed to produce a body of work in still and time-based digital technologies, as well as film-based processes, that meet professional standards for fine art and applied photography.
Demonstrate knowledge of historic and contemporary issues in the practice of the medium and understand its relevancy to their work.
Demonstrate the ability to work as professionals both in class and in preparation for postgraduate careers in photography.
