Overview

The Photography programme at the University of South Dakota provides students with a robust foundation in visual storytelling and technical expertise. This degree encourages artists to explore their creative potential through a combination of rigorous studio practice and innovative conceptual development. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances historical methods with contemporary digital applications.

Why Photography at the University of South Dakota?

Students are mentored by the only full-time photographic professor in the state's higher education system, bringing over 35 years of professional experience to the classroom. The University of South Dakota houses the only College of Fine Arts in the region, providing a unique environment for creative discovery. Facilities include a fully equipped camera studio with Nikon Digital SLRs, medium format cameras, and large-format 8x10 equipment.

The department features a black-and-white darkroom with 22 enlargers and a dedicated facility for alternative processes such as palladium and wet plate collodion. Digital resources include a professional printing shop with wide-format Epson printers. Students also gain exposure through regular exhibitions in campus galleries and interactions with visiting artists, fostering a professional network before graduation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13299 per year
National fee: USD 13299 per year
Local fee: USD 9687 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to transition students from fundamental techniques to advanced independent projects. Modules may include:

Print/Digital Photography
Photo Materials and Techniques
Historic Emulsions and Processes
Color Photography
Special Projects
Independent Study
Visual Arts Education
Experimental Photography
Studio Lighting

Careers with Photography

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths within the creative industries and education sectors. The B.F.A. in Art Education specifically leads to K-12 visual arts teaching certification. Other graduates pursue careers as professional studio photographers, fine artists, or digital imaging specialists. The programme's emphasis on problem-solving and technical mastery ensures that students are equipped for roles in commercial photography, gallery management, and visual communications.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Digital Photography
Photography
Photo Material & Techniques
Historic Photo Processes
Color Photography
Photography Special Projects

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Vermillion, United States

Disciplines

Photography View 199 other Bachelors in Photography in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Official high school (secondary school) transcript with grade point average equivalent to 2.6 on a 4.0 scale.
Demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following.
Application Fee
Passport
Official Statement of Finances

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Out-of-State

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9687 USD / year

≈ 9687 USD / year

Living costs

Vermillion

United States

1024 - 1781 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Photography.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Vermillion

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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