| Awards/Outcomes | Credits | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Photography - A.A.S. Degree | 60 cr. | Rosemount |
| Photography - Diploma | 32 cr. | Rosemount |
| + Technical Management - A.A.S Degree | 60 cr. | Rosemount |
| + Individualized Studies - A.S. Degree | 60 cr. | Rosemount |
| Program Datasheet: Download the Professional Photography Datasheet | ||
Photography is a creative visual industry that requires highly trained people. The unique program at DCTC provides opportunities for students to learn all major aspects of photography through hands-on application of image capture, lighting, computer software, portraiture and print production. Required courses in design skills, video, color management, and business principles round out your experience as you get ready to enter the industry as a professional photographer. Whether you choose to start your own home-based business, or work for a large organization, you will find that your education at DCTC will provide both the foundational and advanced technical skills you need.
Those wishing to earn an A.A.S. degree may combine technical credits with a custom-designed curriculum path in Technical Management. The Technical Management degree prepares students for today’s modern business environment and is ideal for those wishing to enter the workforce after attending DCTC. More information on Technical Management is available in the Business & Management section.
Those wishing to earn an A.S. degree may combine technical credits with a custom-designed curricum path in Individualized Studies. An A.S. degree is ideal for those wishing to transfer to a four-year college or university. More information on Individualized Studies is available in the General Education section.
For more information, contact the Photographic Imaging faculty listed below.
All students enrolling in a photography program will be required to own a DSLR (digital single lens reflex) at the start of their first semester.
Nikon D5300 with 18-55mm lens
Students entering the program who already own a DSLR camera must obtain instructor consent that their camera is a reasonable equivalent within the first week of class.
This program offers Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). Seek credit for life experience to accelerate your progress toward a degree, diploma, or certificate. Visit the Credit for Prior Learning page to learn more.
| Professional Photography Degree • 60 credits |
Photography Diploma • 32 credits |
|
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $174/cr. | $174/cr. |
| Fees | $21.45/cr. | $21.45/cr. |
| Tools/Equipment | $800 | $800 |
| Textbooks | $250 | $250 |
| Supplies | $325 | $325 |
| Grand Total | $13,102 | $7,629.40 |
Each year, Dakota County Technical College and the DCTC Foundation make more than $200,000 in scholarships available to our students. Students are encouraged to create an account and apply for scholarships online.
Students looking for ways to help finance their college education can find part-time jobs on campus with various DCTC departments and programs. Deliver your completed Work-Study Application to the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid and search for openings at College Central Network Services. For more information, you can review Work Study Procedure.
Step 1: Apply now for financial aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
DCTC's Federal School Code: 010402
Step 2: After receiving an official award letter from DCTC, you may apply online for a Federal Stafford Student Loan. Visit the Loans page for more information.
Graduates become photographers of all types as well as traditional and digital imaging specialists. Opportunities in new technologies and niche areas continue to grow as clients expect a more sophisticated variety of products and services. Advanced computer and software skills along with solid equipment operation provide the graduate with the foundation needed to advance and grow with the industry.
Employment in the general areas of Arts, Design, and Media Occupations is expected to grow at a rate of seven percent from 2012-22, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the next decade, demand for freelance photographers may grow at a higher rate than the rate for full-time jobs, as discretionary income increases and as demand for contract photography jobs via internet marketing, magazines, social media, and commercial advertising increase.
Articulation Agreements are formal agreements between two or more colleges and/or universities to accept credits in transfer toward a specific academic program. DCTC has articulation agreements in place with a number of public and private colleges and universities.
MN Transfer.org is your official guide to a seamless transfer experience in Minnesota Higher Education. Use this resource to find agreements that DCTC has entered with other Minnesota State institutions.
Do you want to see how your courses transfer to programs at participating colleges and universities? Add the coursework you've taken and use Transferology to find out how it might transfer to any of the participating schools in the Transferology network. Get an account and create a plan now!
Whether you're a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or an international student or transferring from high school or a four-year university, DCTC will help you through the process. Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
The Photography program at DCTC is active throughout the year and makes headlines in college publications. Read about student success in design competitions and student field trips, the accomplishments of our photographic technology instructors, and the careers of program alumni.
As a student in DCTC's Photography program, you have many opportunities to make connections in the photography industry through your involvement in professional clubs and organizations.
DCTC features active, industry-relevant clubs for Photography students right on campus. Getting involved in these clubs allows you to make the most of your college experience and gives you an edge when seeking employment in the photography field. The following clubs are a must if you're at all interested in boosting your competitive moxie as a professional photographer:
SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is a national nonprofit organization for students at community and technical colleges across the U.S. The organization focuses on students in academic programs that lead to careers in the trade, industrial, technical and health care fields. Nearly 100 SkillsUSA competitions at the state and national levels relate to leadership skills or programs of study at DCTC.
In 2013, DCTC fielded 17 students at the nationals who ranked in the top 15 in the nation. For more information about the competition, read "DCTC Students Rock at SkillsUSA Nationals" on DCTC News.
DCTC Photons Photograhy Club
The DCTC Photons is a student run organization that is open to all students and faculty who are interested in photography and the visual communications field. The club offers hands on opportunities to learn more about the visual communications field, through networking, workshops, volunteering and photo walks. You must be a current or registered student at Dakota County Technical College to be a member. All DCTC students and faculty are encouraged to become DCTC Photons.
