S seeking art degree in photography-suggestions?

Parents Forum
1

<p>S2 is heading off to college this September to study photography. He has some real talent and is excited about following his passion. He has already received and ED that he got into one state college which is very reasonably priced and has guaranteed him 4 years of housing-relatively unheard of now-a-days; however, it's art program is never mentioned as one of the top schools for that major in New England. We cannot afford RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) as S2 is one of 4 siblings. For now we are concentrating on state schools due to financial restraints. His top choice so far is Mass Art and we are awaiting word. I am wondering if we need to be concerned on the type of college he attends based on his major? Isn't it the end product that really matters? Any suggestions?</p>

2

<p>Try the arts major forum. They'll have lots of good suggestions for you.</p>

3

<p>Rochester Institute of Technology: Rochester New York</p>

4

<p>I'm on the west coast, so can't offer specifics on schools on the east coast, but as a production designer, I have some general advice. If your son is truly interested in a professional career in the arts, he should really strive for the best program he can get into and afford in the country. Making a living at any art can be extremely rewarding, but very hard to break into. A good art school will have connections to galleries and may have internships with professionals available. There are many smaller art colleges that aren't as pricey as RISD that have working professionals as instructors. Many state colleges have professional teachers as instructors. In the arts where and with whom you learn your craft is very important. Do more research on well regarded programs and have him work work work on his portfolio and he may get a scholarship.</p>

5

<p>There are many state schools with strong faculty. Look closely at the websites of all the schools you are considering -- they will show faculty and often list their awards, credentials, and sometimes show their work. SUNY Purchase has a good reputation in art, I don't know about photography specifically.</p>

<p>You might look at these lists:

[quote]
Photography</a> - Fine Arts - Best Graduate Schools - Education - US News and World Report

[/quote]

[quote]
Search</a> - Fine Arts - Best Graduate Schools - Education - US News and World Report

[/quote]
</p>