Visual Media Option - Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA Option
Visual Media Option
Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA
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.
A virtual career exploration event
50+ future-focused workshops for rising high school seniors to plan for college.
Industries
Careers and Experiential Learning
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 |
Salary and Career Information for Photographic and Imaging Arts BFA
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.
Visual Media Internships
Students in the visual media option 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 an invaluable part of students’ educational experience. RIT co-op is designed for your success.
Creative Industry Day
RIT’s Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education hosts Creative Industry Day, which connects students majoring in art, design, film and animation, photography, and select computing majors with companies, organizations, creative agencies, design firms, and more. You'll be able to network with company representatives and interview directly for open co-op and permanent employment positions.
Featured Work
Capstone Projects
A unique capture of RIT's transforming campus, documenting the stories of women in Rochester, a rebranding and an exploration of rare type design are some of the themes in the RIT Visual Media Class...
Posters of a Pandemic
Students in the Elements of Visual Media class designed posters related to the global coronavirus pandemic. Main design by Caroline Brodt.
Grace Blondell
Featured Profiles
Connecting Creatives
Will Moran '20 created Cabin Fever, an online publication highlighting worked created by artists while in quarantine.
Industry-standard Photography Equipment
RIT's School of Photographic Arts and Sciences Cage is an unparalleled checkout space housing a range of photography equipment you won’t find anywhere else. From specialty lenses to camera...
Why You Belong in RIT's College of Art and Design
Todd Jokl, Mari Jaye Blanchard, Melissa Dawson, Clay Patrick McBride
Get an in-depth look at RIT's College of Art and Design from our faculty and students. Let us share with you how our community of artists pushes the boundaries of creativity and innovation. And...
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, cost, and financial aid
Latest News
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April 29, 2022
![three people making the American Sign Language sign for cheese.]()
Pioneering RIT and NTID collaboration garners the Coca-Cola Refreshing Films Grand Prize
Say Cheese, a pioneering, heartfelt film directed and produced by two RIT students, took home the top prize in the Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program announced during the final night of CinemaCon in Las Vegas late Thursday. The project featured the combined creative efforts of students, faculty, and staff in RIT’s School of Film and Animation and NTID.
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April 20, 2022
![Sydney Lewandowski's recreation of Grace's Garden at Golisano Children's Hospital.]()
Student uses creativity to raise awareness about childhood cancer
Visual media student Sydney Lewandowski '22 created the brand Glimpse of Gold to help further the mission of C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association, a local nonprofit supporting families whose children have cancer or a blood disorder.
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April 12, 2022
![A group of students and instructors look at high-tech studio photography equipment.]()
Photography students explore cutting-edge technology in expert-led workshop
Senior Lecturer Clay Patrick McBride teams up with photography virtuosos Dave Gallagher '91 and Scott Nidermaier to offer a one-credit course focused on innovative digital technician workflows.
