<p>RIT has one of the best co-op programs in the nation. Are you more interested in the art of photography or portrait photography or technical photo?? The facilities at RIT are pretty impressive. They have many successful graduates. I would say it is the best, especially for technical and professional aspects of photo. You should speak with someone there about their program.</p>
<p>Brooks institute of Photography</p>
<p>phorto is right; Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara is pretty well known for professional photographers.</p>
<p>I am sure that Brooks Institute has a fine photography program BUT:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>It isn't NASAD accredited ( national association of schools of art and design)</p></li>
<li><p>Isn't AICAD accredited</p></li>
<li><p>Isn't ranked by any organization as being in the top of anything.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Again, it may have a fine program, but it seems a bit risky.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.art-photography-schools.com/%5B/url%5D">http://www.art-photography-schools.com/</a> - a lot of schools</p>
<p>About RIT--
Their photography/fine arts programs really are some of the best in the nation. The School for American Crafts is there, which is unbelievably selective. Regarding photography, though, RIT has the only program in the nation for biomed photography and truly is renowned in that sense and in others. Better yet, the faculty is very enthusiastic and friendly, very passionate about the field, and is more than willing to answer any questions people have. I would recommend emailing them and seeing if RIT would suit your needs.
If you're concerned about jobs, RIT tends to be fairly professionally oriented. The co-op program is fantastic; I'm from the area and have several friends and acquaintances who've actually managed to make a fair amount of money and get a foot in the door through the co-op. Don't think placements are limited to just the Rochester area, too-- I've known someone who ended up in Texas working co-op, so opportunities abound, whether across the nation or across the world.</p>