Photography

Overview

The photography program at UNT emphasizes intellectual, technical, and creative growth. Course work exposes students to a wide variety of photographic practices ranging from historical printing processes to contemporary web technology. Students are empowered though the development of self-discipline, cultural awareness, and personal voice.

Facilities and Opportunities

Denton's proximity to the Dallas and Forth Worth metropolitan areas offer a wealth of resources and experiences for UNT students such as renowned art museums and galleries. Internships with area galleries and photographers are available for students who wish to earn elective credit through work experience. Frequently, UNT students find employment after graduation as a result of contacts made during these internships.

The facilities at UNT included large format digital printers, up to date computer labs, a lighting studio as well as black and white, color and alternative processes wet labs. Opportunities to exhibit in on campus galleries exist through a juried application processes.

Undergraduate Program

As a photography major you will take courses that will give you the conceptual and technical skills necessary to excel as a photographer including digital and traditional techniques in photography, art history, painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Although you are not required to have a minor area of study, a wide variety of minors are available for those who wish to minor in other programs of study at UNT.

A portfolio is not required for admission to UNT or the College of Visual Art and Design; however, students who wish to major in photography must participate in an entry review during the semester they complete Photography II. An entry review is also required of transfer students, and those who have completed photography courses at other schools should be prepared to show a portfolio during transfer orientation to determine appropriate placement in the UNT photography program. Further information regarding the entry review is available from the photography faculty. As part of their BFA experience, senior students participate in an Senior BFA group exhibition that serves as the exit review for the degree.

The Photography faculty at UNT are established and active members in their field. Works from faculty are part of important collections such as the Bibliothéque Nationale in Paris, Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth, and the permanent collection of the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston.

Continuing UNT students may apply for scholarships that are awarded by the College of Visual Art and Design primarily on the basis of performance in the student's major. Academic scholarships are available through UNT's Student Financial Aid and Scholarships office.

• Suggested Undergraduate Curriculum for Photography 2013-2014 (PDF opens in a new window).
• Visit the Photo Student Organization Blog (opens in a new window).

Graduate Program

The mission of the Department of Studio Art is to promote excellence in the visual arts through a comprehensive educational program in its seven studio disciplines. The Department of Studio Art offers a Master of Fine Arts degree in seven areas of concentration: ceramics, drawing and painting, fibers, metalsmithing and jewelry, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. Our goal is to inspire creativity, foster critical thinking, and to develop the competencies necessary for effective leadership roles in art as expected of practicing professionals. Toward this goal, the resources of the entire school and university are utilized.

The Master of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in Photography is a terminal degree, requiring a minimum of 60 credit hours of graduate level coursework. A minimum of 24 credit hours must be in the graduate photography class. The student's master's thesis will take shape as a solo exhibition.

In addition to the graduate photography seminar, MFA students will take art history and other studio courses. Large private studios are available, and the College of Visual Art and Design supports an active visiting artist/scholar program. Teaching assistantships and scholarships are available on a competitive basis.

Faculty & Staff