Visual Media Option - Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA Option


Visual Media Option
Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA
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585‑475‑2747, fjcppr@rit.edu
School of Photographic Arts and Sciences
Overview
The visual media option allows students to integrate the graphic communications professions of photography, media design, and business. Most visual media students earn a minor in business. This option prepares students for a career as a visual media specialist or other professional positions that have a demand for photographically skilled professionals who can work effectively with graphic designers, print media specialists, multimedia and social media professionals. This option is part of the Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA program.
The visual media curriculum emphasizes photographic proficiency, in both photographic and digital imaging techniques, and has two specialized focuses on media design and business (management and/or marketing). Students also may utilize electives to broaden their interests.
This option is ideal for students who wish to experience various aspects of the graphics industry. Students are strongly encouraged to spend time in internships to strengthen their education and to gain hands-on experience. Upon graduation, students are diversely skilled visual media professionals who are ready to enter an exciting career in photography, media design, business management, marketing (including art directing and project management), social media, or advertising.
Visual media internships
Students apply for internships with some of the nation’s most respected print and online photographic, graphic design firms, and printing/publishing venues. They work behind the camera or in creative collaboration in a variety of professional photo and multimedia environments, and have the opportunity to learn firsthand from photographers, picture editors, art directors, publishers, designers, and other professionals. Students receive assistance from their professors, as well as from the Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education, in identifying and applying for internships, which provide real-world work experience and is a invaluable part of students’ educational experience.
Career opportunities in visual media
Visual media graduates go to work as graphic designers, multimedia designers, picture editors, social media and app developers, web designers, and advertising project managers. Recent employers include companies such as Crate and Barrel, Zipcar, Geico, MLB.com, and organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, CURE International, and the Museum of Modern Art.
Industries
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Design -
Advertising, PR, and Marketing
Typical Job Titles
Art Director | Branding Specialist |
Business Owner and Entrepreneur | Business Strategist |
Graphic Designer | Photo and Graphics Editor |
Photographer | Project Manager |
Social Media Strategist | Web, App and Print Designer |
Featured Profiles
Engineering Excellence
Robert Latorre
Robert Latorre ’75 (photography) is an award-winning photographer responsible for creating a famous and widely used camera system that quickly creates eye-popping visual effects.
Latest News
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November 7, 2019
Photography students get taste of industry with NYC, DC trips
The New York Times. White House Photo Office. Magnum Photos. And much more. Students met with the most well-known news organizations, agencies, artists, studios and alumni during the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences' annual networking trips to NYC and DC.
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November 6, 2019
Hundreds attend RIT's National Portfolio Day
In support of the college admission process, prospective students from around the country received portfolio reviews from RIT faculty and reps from other leading art and design colleges.
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March 6, 2019
Real-world experience: Photo students cover Special Olympics
Students from RIT's photography school — along with those from other disciplines across campus — filled a website with compelling images, videos and stories from the 2019 Special Olympics New York Winter Games.
Admission Requirements
This option is part of the Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA. Please visit the degree program page for admission requirements.
Learn about admissions and financial aid