Online Master's Degree in Photography

<p>An online master's degree in photography will train you to control and utilize the advanced tools of the photography trade; it usually takes 1-2 years to complete. You'll usually be able to learn an array of specialties within photography, which may include: commercial, portraiture, digital media, nature, travel or industrial photography. You may even be able to study a niche area like food photography or undersea photography. At this level, you are expected to refine your personal visual style. Online master's degree programs usually require the completion of a photography portfolio as a final project. </p> <p>For some schools, an on-campus project might be required. Often, if you need additional resources, schools will provide on-campus equipment for your use. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Education</b></td><td>Program teaches advanced tools of the photography trade; typically takes 1-2 years and a final photography portfolio for completion</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>High-speed photography, color management applications, digital imaging, properties of light</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Career Options</b></td><td>Teach photography courses, work for magazines, freelance, photojournalism</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)*</b></td><td>$41,280 <i>(Photographers)</i></td></tr> <tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)*</b></td><td>4% decline <i>(Photographers)</i></td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i> </p> <h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3> <p>Exact course offerings will vary according to the curriculum set in place by the program you are enrolled in. A photography master's degree program may include courses such as digital imaging, web design, high-speed photography, properties of light, color management applications and visualization. You may also take courses on documentary-style photography and printing. </p> <p>After you've completed your degree, you will have gained a working knowledge of cameras, lighting equipment, digital software and other tools. You'll apply these skills to create compelling visual images in various formats, such as still-life compositions and human poses. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatWouldMyJobBeLike">What Would My Job Be Like?</h3> <p>You can seek salaried work with a magazine or other publication that focuses on the subject matter in photography you're most interested in. If you like to keep up-to-date with news and events, you might pursue photojournalism. Freelance photography is another option to consider; you'd sell your work to various personal clients, companies and media outlets or even open your own business. With this advanced degree, you can also opt to teach photography. </p> <p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment growth in the photography field will decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. The BLS reported that the decreasing costs of digital photography equipment, increasing number of amateur photographers, and widely available online stock photos will limit employment growth (<i>www.bls.gov </i>).</p>