11 Top Photography Schools for Future Photo Journalists

Photo Journalist Programs

It is important for aspiring photojournalists to obtain the proper training and education to gain a competitive edge in their field.  Selecting a photography school to earn your degree can be a daunting, confusing process.  Don’t worry, we are here to help!  Below are 11 schools with excellent photography and photojournalism programs.

  1. The Art Institutes:  The great thing about the Art Institutes is that they’re offered in wide variety of cities across the country, with courses both online and on campus.  With famous alumni such as Annie Lebovitz, they’ve forged a highly regarded reputation for an excellent photography education.
  2. Pratt Institute:  This prestigious program is located in Brooklyn, New York and was named one of the country’s best values in private colleges.  The amount of applications they receive makes the entry process competitive, but worth it for the stellar education you receive.
  3. California Institute of Arts: This school was established specifically for the arts.  If you really want to learn and nourish your skills related to photography and photojournalism, then this should be your pick.
  4. Parsons: Photojournalism covers a wide array of industries, including fashion.  If you have an interest in the wild world of style, then this is the perfect school for you.  Parsons works closely with the New York fashion community.
  5. New York Film Academy: This should be your pick if you want to learn in the midst of a bustling city. This relatively small school has made its way to the list because it offers the easiest and simplest way to study and is located in large metropolitan cities including Paris, Los Angeles and New York City.
  6. Brooks Institute of Photography: Located in California, this school is for students who are seeking a solid foundation in photography, photo journalism and graphic design.
  7. Harrington College of Design: Located in Chicago, Harrington College of Design has a reputation as one of the best photography programs in the country.
  8. Brown University: With a widely renowned visual art department, your education at Brown University will be well rounded.  Be prepared to spend many hours in the studio!
  9. Center of Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University: Many people argue that digital is the future of photography.  If you agree with this, Boston University would be a great program for you.  Their focus is on digital art techniques and technology.
  10. University of New Mexico: Focused on the creative possibilities within photography, the University of New Mexico offers a great program for those who are looking to apply their skills to a wide variety of opportunities.
  11. Yale University:  The schools ranking as well as the exclusivity of the photography program is what gets Yale University on this list.  Expect an advanced, intensive education that is certain to pay off!
Photography requires passion; anyone with a love for art can be a great photographer.  One of the most distinguished branches of photography is photojournalism, the use of photography for news media reporting.   In short, photojournalists are expected to honestly, ethically, and impartially tell a story through their photography alone.  There are very strict ethical guidelines for photojournalists just as there are for reporters.  Due to the tumultuous environments photojournalists sometimes find themselves in (with camera equipment in tow), they are highly respected and revered amongst colleagues and the general public alike.