Hello there. I was wondering if anyone could assist me in my search for schools that have a photojournalism program. I am going to be graduating with a bachelor's degree in political science in May 2001, and I was looking into photojournalism as a way to carry on school. My main problem is that most "art" schools have a requirement of undergrad degrees in art. I do have experience in doing my own photography and work. I have a portfolio, but I am having trouble finding where to apply. Thanks!

-- Jessica R (HaloGrey@go.com), December 31, 2000

Answers

Hello Jessica,

I would hignly recommend that you check with your political party and see if they need a photographer, stringer. A continuim of schooling could be very costly and I personally believe that unless you have bounds of cash for education, a grant, etc. I would highly recomend that you sharpen your craft by actually taking photographs. Photography may actually be a great aid with your Poly Sci degree via working for your political party. As for schools, the web is the best place to find that answer particulary dependent on your geographical area. Good Luck, John Quinn Sunartist.com

-- JQuinn (jquinn@sunartist.com), January 08, 2001.

Jessica; The answer to your question really depends on what type of educational experience you are looking for. Several schools have a reputation for excellent photojournalism programs, including Western Kentucky University, University of Missouri, Indiana University, Ohio University. Most of these offer a BA in photojournalism on a 4 year program. I grew up in the Midwest, and attended IU in Bloomington, Indiana, so I am most familiar with these schools. Although you may not be interested in spending another 4 years in school, you also may want to consider looking into the programs at such schools as Daytona Beach Community College, (they offer photojournalism, as well as commercial photography) or the Ft. Lauderdale Art Institute, where award winning Washington Post staff photographer Carol Guzy graduated from. Bottom line: It really isn't the school that you attend, its the program, the students you're working with, internships, and your efforts that will get you where your goals are.

-- Gary Bogdon (gbogdon@orlandosentinel.com), January 11, 2001.