Photography
Explore your passion for photography at Prairie State College. Our comprehensive program
offers hands-on training and expert instruction in a supportive environment.
About the Curriculum
Our program meets the growing demand for formal education in photographic arts. Graduates
must master both traditional film and digital photography. We offer practical experience
in creative and vocational applications, challenging students to solve visual problems
in commercial, social, and aesthetic contexts. Specializations in print or studio
production are available, with a curriculum covering black and white photography to
advanced digital color production. Cameras are provided for required direct digital
capture coursework.
PSC students can earn an Associate of Arts degree, specializing in photography. The
comprehensive program is one of only two such specialty programs in the state.
Students learn professional techniques in a stimulating, creative atmosphere, using
state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Our studio and lab classes use cutting-edge
technology and focus on both commercial and expressive applications.
Whether pursuing an A.A. or A.A.S. degree or a certificate, students in the program
will be exposed to the fundamentals of photographic theory and daily practice in camera,
lighting, and digital imaging techniques
Degree and Certificates
For students likely to apply to a major in Photography, Photojournalism, or Professional Photography, this suggested curriculum provides basic courses for building technical competency as well as the general education foundation needed to enhance creativity and appreciation for aesthetics. These suggested courses satisfy the Associate in Arts Degree requirements at Prairie State College and provide the basis for transferring to a four-year institution. This program meets the guidelines of the IAI (Illinois Articulation Initiative) General Education Core. Students should obtain a copy of the Prairie State College Associate in Arts Degree Advising Guide and should visit the IAI website at www.iTransfer.org for additional information.
Portfolio Review: Students are encouraged to begin development of a substantial personal photography portfolio. Students planning to pursue a baccalaureate degree should be aware that transfer admission to photography-related programs is competitive and most schools require a portfolio review for admission to programs, or for registration in advanced courses in photography, and/or for scholarship consideration.
Foreign Language Requirements: Some universities have a foreign language requirement. Generally, four years of a single foreign language in high school or four semesters of language in college will fulfill this requirement. It is recommended that students complete the entire sequence at one institution.This program is designed to thoroughly prepare students in specific photographic techniques of portrait photography. Participants gain substantial experience creating successful studio and location portraits while working in a professional studio/lab environment. It builds a technical and visual foundation using photographic techniques while encouraging students to become effective communicators with their cameras.
This program is designed to thoroughly prepare students in specific photographic techniques of portrait photography. Participants gain substantial experience creating successful studio and location portraits while working in a professional studio/lab environment.
Contact Us
Rebecca Slagle
Associate Professor, Visual Communications and Multimedia Arts
Coordinator, Photography
email: rslagle@prairiestate.edu
Office: 4263 | Lab 4164
Associate Professor, Visual Communications and Multimedia Arts
Coordinator, Photography
email: rslagle@prairiestate.edu
Office: 4263 | Lab 4164