Photography is a fast-growing industry. Since there is a never-ended need for moments to be captured, stories to be told, messages to be communicated and products to be advertised by individuals and businesses alike, the demand for talented photographers will most likely continue to increase.

While a degree is not a requirement in pursuing a career in photography, having one would give you the advantage of learning the fundamental techniques, understanding the industry’s history and evolution, trying out advanced photography equipment available in universities, and receiving feedback and guidance from experts and professionals in the field.

Another thing that would make your application stand out would be having a degree in a prestigious university in a country that is known for its remarkable photography programs. This would give potential clients and employers the impression that you are not only knowledgeable in the field, but also have employability skills such as problem-solving, independence, and professionalism.

If you have dreams of studying abroad and having a successful career in photography, here are some of the countries for photography that you would want to consider going to.

Which Courses Are Best for Photography?

If you want to enter the world of photography, the best courses to undertake are either Bachelor of Arts (general) or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography (specific). Please keep in mind that you can always boost your career experience by starting it all by yourself.

If you really like taking photos, buy an inexpensive camera and start to develop your skills from there. By taking the initiative, you can easily figure out if this path of photography is the right course for you or not.

Check Also: Available Programs for International Students

Which Colleges Are Best for Photography?

The top colleges in photography are the California Institute of the Arts and Tokyo Zokei University. First and foremost, the California Institute of the Arts is a private art university that is located in California. Also known as CalArts,  this institution was supported by Walt Disney and his brother when it was established.

Tokyo Zokei University is also a private art university that is one of the best in the nation. Focused on various types of photography, this institution teaches its students first-hand by implementing workshops, internships, and various other programs.

Best Countries to Study Photography

1. Switzerland

  • Reasons: High Quality of Education, Affordable Tuition Fees, Stable Economy
  • Related Links: Student Visa, Work Visa

Switzerland has consistently been among the best countries to study photography. And though the quality of education is considered one of the best in the world, tuition fees in the country are relatively more affordable, and several universities offer scholarship programs for both Swiss and international students.

Photography students get the preparation that they need through lectures and professional projects with businesses that Swiss universities collaborate with. Switzerland also has a stable economy and a low unemployment rate, so there’s a high chance of you landing a job right after graduation.

Some of the leading universities that offer photography courses are Vevey Vocational Education Center, Zurich University of the Arts, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, and Webster University.

2. France

Studying in France would allow you to visit its famous tourist spots, galleries, and museums, get to know the sophisticated French people, immerse in their rich culture, eat their delicious food, and receive a top-notch education at an affordable rate. The country is also known to be the place where the first photograph was taken in 1826, by French inventor Joseph Nicéphore Niépce.

Photography classes in French universities give students access to modern equipment and facilities while being taught by individuals who are successful professionals in the field. Some classes use English as the medium of teaching, but most use French, so it is a great opportunity for international students to be fluent in a new language while studying there.

Some universities in France with the best photography programs are Spéos International Photography School, Parsons Paris, and Paris International Film School.

3. USA

  • Reasons: Knowledge of Basic/Advanced Techniques, Good Tech/Equipements, Internship Programs
  • Related Links: Student Visa, Work Visa

In most programs in the United States, lessons range from teaching students basic photography skills and techniques to making them knowledgeable on how to use advanced equipment and technology.

Students are encouraged to express their creativity, practice critical thinking, and explore the various options they have to identify which particular area of photography they would like to focus on. They also gain experience and get a chance to expand their portfolio through internship programs. These reasons are why the US is one of the top countries to study photography.

Here are some of the top photography universities in the US: California Institute of the Arts, New York Institute of Photography, Parsons School of Design, International Center of Photography, Rochester Institute of Technology, and School of Visual Arts.

4. Australia

  • Reasons: Cultural Diversity, International Student Support, Laid-Back Lifestyle
  • Related Links: Student Visa, Work Visa

Australia is one of the most culturally diverse English-speaking countries. The country’s government also largely supports international students by providing scholarship programs and guiding them in finding a job after graduation. You will also enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle, warm climate, and get close to nature even while living in the city.

Photography courses in Australia allow the students to apply their learnings and showcase their skills by involving them in several projects and collaborations with other majors.

Some institutions that offer photography courses in Australia are Griffith University, RMIT University, Deakin University, and CATC Design School.

5. Germany

Germany is one of the top countries for studying photography for international students because of its reputation for providing high-quality education. Tuition fees for higher education in public universities are subsidized by the government and yes, it applies to both German and international students. You will only have to pay for administration, transportation, and other fees each semester, depending on which university you choose to enroll in.

The educational system in Germany focuses on the concept of “praxis”, meaning students learn by applying their theoretical knowledge to practical, real-life activities. So studying photography in this country will involve several trips, exhibits, and projects that would greatly prepare you for your future career.

Here are some of the best universities to study photography in Germany: Köln International School of Design, the University of Europe for Applied Sciences, the University of Fine Arts, and SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences.

6. India

  • Reasons: Low Cost of Living, Cultural Immersion, High Academic Quality
  • Related Links: Student Visa, Work Visa

Money-wise, pursuing a degree in India is a smart choice because of the budget-friendly tuition rates and cost of living. Immersing in this developing country’s day-to-day living will be an amazing cultural and educational experience for you.

Several colleges offer photography courses in India wherein students get access to advanced photography equipment, facilities, and infrastructure. Faculty members include famous Indian photographers, filmmakers, and other notable individuals in the field. Top photography colleges in India include the National Institute of Photography, Delhi College of Photography, Sir J.J Institute of Applied Arts, Light and Life Academy, and The One School Goa.

7. Japan

  • Reasons: Advanced Technology, High-Quality education, Sponsored Study Programs
  • Related Links: Student Visa, Work Visa

Japan is known to be one of the most technologically advanced countries, and the quality of education provided in this country is considered one of the best in the world. There are several sponsored study abroad and internship programs that would make it easier for international students to enroll in a Japanese university.

The study of photography in Japan largely involves mastering theory and artistic expression which will help students in gaining a detailed, in-depth understanding of what photography is all about and how it works in different areas of society, making them competent professionals after graduation.

Here are some universities that offer photography courses in Japan: Tokyo Zokei University, Nihon University, Nippon Photography Institute, and Tokyo Polytechnic University.

 

We hope this article on the best countries to study photography was informative and insightful. To know more information on studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students.

About the Author: Hyun Lee

Hyun is the founder at Global Scholarships. He has received a full-tuition scholarship at Birmingham-Southern College as well as $1,000 Burger King Scholarship for his undergraduate degree and has been offered a fully funded scholarship consisting of tuition, living stipend, and health insurance for computer science Ph.D. program at North Carolina State University. Read more about his scholarship journey here.

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