Photographic Imaging Technology

Courses

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VCOM Web SiteThe Visual Communication program department has its very own Web site. View the program Web site to access more information such as testimonials, student work, student employment, transfer opportunities, and instructor biographies.

Major Description

Students in Photographic Imaging Technology use their creative abilities to set up and take the unique photograph, process the film, and produce the professional quality display print. The Photographic Technology major is designed to provide skills in photography, film and paper processing, quality control, professional printing and digital imaging techniques. Students learn in a facility equipped with various types of studio equipment and in a well-equipped lab that replicates the industry. This highly artistic and technical industry requires both training and experience to produce the results that consumers demand.

Nature of Work

The wide variety of careers in this industry allows students to use their creative ability, technical expertise and equipment knowledge, as well as their eye for details to become successful in the field of their choice. Good skills in traditional photography and processing are paving the way into careers in electronic imaging as many photo companies diversify into other technologies. Graduates have become photographers of all types, darkroom and custom printers, and chemical and equipment specialists, as well as service and sales representatives for larger companies.

Career Opportunities

As the industry begins to move toward electronic imaging, equipment will become more sophisticated and will require better trained personnel. Opportunities in the new areas of imaging, as well as the traditional areas continue to grow as technology provides both amateur and commercial customers a larger variety of products and services. Knowledgeable and well-trained people are in demand by companies in the metro area and across the country.

Program Delivery

Students can begin this program in the Fall semester only. Courses are offered primarily during the day, however, some courses are made available in the evening. Full- or part-time starts are available.

Advanced Standing

Previous college courses, certification, licensure and training may be considered for credit in the major. The responsibility for seeking credit rests with the student and can be initiated by completing the course SMGT2950 Prior Experiential Learning Portfolio Development (1 elective credit).

After DCTC

DCTC has transfer agreements for this program with the following colleges: Bemidji State University, Metropolitan State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead, Southwest Minnesota State University and Saint Mary's University. See Transfer Credits for more information.

Student Outcomes

  1. Graduates completing the Photographic Imaging Technology program are prepared for employment in photographic imaging technology industries.
  2. Students will gain a variety of traditional and digital technical skills (photography, film and paper processing, quality control, professional printing, and computer and software operation) to enable them to make well-informed career decisions within the photographic technology industry.
  3. Students will be provided a blend of traditional and advanced imaging technology to enable them to keep pace with future industry development.
  4. See General Education outcome statement

Academic Advisor

Dean

  • Sherralyn Cox
    Dean of Design and Health/Human Services

Faculty

Tangen, Darrell 651-423-8584 darrell.tangen@dctc.edu BIO
Eilers, Bill 651-423-8364 william.eilers@dctc.edu BIO
Latner, Peter 651-423-8590 peter.latner@dctc.edu BIO
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