Photography

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography at Concordia University offers students an comprehensive and immersive experience in the art and craft of photography, blending technical skills with artistic exploration. This program is designed to develop students' abilities to envision, create, and critically analyze photographic images across a variety of genres including fine art, commercial, documentary, and experimental photography. Students will engage with both traditional photographic processes and contemporary digital techniques, gaining proficiency in camera operations, lighting, composition, and post-production workflows. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in visual literacy, conceptual development, and critical thinking, encouraging students to explore issues of identity, society, and environment through their photographic practice.

Throughout their studies, students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated darkrooms, digital labs, and scanning suites, providing space for experimentation and professional development. The program fosters a vibrant community of artists and scholars, offering numerous opportunities for exhibition, collaboration, and critique. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, artist residencies, and international exchanges to broaden their perspectives and enhance their portfolios. The BFA in Photography prepares graduates for diverse careers in the visual arts, advertising, editorial, fashion, and media industries, as well as for further academic pursuits. With a curriculum designed to balance technical mastery with conceptual innovation, students graduate ready to contribute meaningfully to the evolving field of photography and visual culture.

The Photography program at Concordia University offers students a comprehensive and immersive education in the art and practice of photography. Designed to develop both technical skills and artistic vision, the program provides a strong foundation in the history, theory, and contemporary practices of photography. Students will engage with a wide range of techniques, including digital and analog methods, studio and location shooting, and post-processing. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and encourages students to explore various genres such as portraiture, documentary, fine art, and commercial photography.

Throughout the program, students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced camera equipment, darkrooms, and editing suites. They will participate in hands-on projects, collaborative assignments, and exhibitions that foster professional development and portfolio creation. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of photography within social, cultural, and commercial contexts, preparing students for careers as photographers, photo editors, art directors, or educators.

In addition to technical mastery, students will examine contemporary debates surrounding ethics, representation, and the impact of digital technology on photography. Through lectures, critiques, and independent research, they will learn to articulate their creative concepts and develop a distinctive artistic voice. The program encourages experimentation and innovation, pushing students to challenge traditional boundaries and explore new visual languages.

Graduates of the Photography program will be well-equipped to pursue opportunities in various fields, including commercial photography, photojournalism, fine art, advertising, and media production. They will emerge with a strong portfolio, a deep understanding of photographic practice, and the skills necessary to succeed in a competitive industry. With a focus on both personal expression and professional readiness, Concordia's Photography program aims to nurture the next generation of visionary image-makers.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography at Concordia University typically requires students to complete a combination of core courses, electives, and a final project or thesis. Students must fulfill foundational coursework in visual arts, including introductory classes in photography techniques, digital and analog imaging, and contemporary photographic practices. Advanced courses focus on area-specific skills such as studio lighting, printmaking, and multimedia applications, encouraging experimentation and conceptual development. To ensure a well-rounded education, students are often required to take courses in art history, theory, and critical analysis related to photography. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with practical studio work and field assignments forming a core part of instruction. Students may also engage in collaborative projects and participate in exhibitions to develop their professional practice and presentation skills. Additionally, there might be requirements for internships or industry placements to provide real-world experience. To graduate, students typically must complete a designated number of credits, including a final portfolio or thesis project that demonstrates their technical proficiency, conceptual depth, and artistic voice. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in fine art photography, commercial photography, photojournalism, or further academic study. Specific admission requirements may include a portfolio review, academic transcripts, and personal statement, with competitive entry processes ensuring students demonstrate their passion and potential in the field of photography. Concordia University’s facilities support these requirements with dedicated studios, darkrooms, digital labs, and equipment access to facilitate comprehensive learning in contemporary photographic arts.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Photography program at Concordia University offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Undergraduate students can access a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs designed to make education more accessible. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, creative portfolio submissions, and potential contributions to the university's artistic community. Additionally, need-based bursaries are available for students demonstrating financial hardship, helping to cover tuition fees and living expenses. Concordia University also participates in government student aid programs, including loans and grants provided by federal and provincial agencies, such as Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) or other regional support systems, depending on the student's residence and eligibility. The university's financial aid office provides personalized guidance on applying for these programs and navigating the application process.

Students enrolled in the Photography program are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities as well, including private scholarships, foundations, and arts organizations that support emerging photographers. Concordia University also promotes work-study opportunities on campus, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income. Tuition fees for the Photography program vary depending on the student's residency status, with domestic students benefitting from comparatively lower rates than international students. The university periodically updates its fee schedule, and prospective and current students are advised to consult the official Concordia University website for the latest information. Payment plans are available for qualified students, enabling them to distribute the cost of tuition across multiple installments throughout the academic term.

Furthermore, some students may qualify for specialized funding streams, such as research grants or teaching assistantships, especially those pursuing graduate levels or involved in scholarly or artistic projects. These opportunities not only provide financial assistance but also enhance professional development and academic experience. Concordia University emphasizes an inclusive approach to financing education, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have access to necessary resources. The university’s financial support programs are designed to complement the academic offerings of the Photography program, enabling students to focus on their creative and technical development without undue financial burden. Overall, Concordia University provides a comprehensive support system to facilitate student success financially, both during and after their studies.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography at Concordia University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with both technical proficiency and artistic sensibility in the field of photography. This program emphasizes the development of individual artistic voice through a combination of studio practice, theoretical coursework, and critical analysis. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including digital labs, darkrooms, and printing studios, which support a wide range of photographic practices from traditional film to contemporary digital techniques.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to explore various genres of photography, such as documentary, fine art, commercial, and experimental photography. The curriculum integrates courses in visual literacy, image analysis, and contemporary photographic theory, fostering an understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of photographic practices. Critical thinking and conceptual development are core components, enabling students to produce innovative and meaningful work that responds to current social and artistic issues.

In addition to technical skills, students engage in ongoing critique sessions and exhibitions, providing opportunities for professional development and public presentation of their work. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinarity, encouraging collaborations with other departments such as art history, media studies, and design to broaden creative perspectives.

Students are supported by experienced faculty members who are active professionals in the field, offering mentorship and guidance throughout their studies. The program also maintains strong connections with the broader arts community through internships, exhibitions, and partnerships with galleries and cultural organizations. Graduates of the BFA in Photography at Concordia University are well-prepared for careers as professional photographers, artists, curators, educators, and image-makers across various industries. The program's combination of technical training, artistic exploration, and critical engagement ensures that students graduate with a versatile skill set and a confident artistic voice ready to contribute to the evolving landscape of visual arts.