Build Your Skills in Digital and Film Photography
The associate of fine arts (AFA) in photography at St. Louis Community College gives you a foundation in digital and film photography, studio techniques, darkroom printing, editing and visual storytelling.
You’ll learn how to use lighting, composition and photographic techniques to create stronger images while developing your own creative style. Through studio projects, field assignments and portfolio development, you’ll prepare to transfer to a four-year college or explore opportunities in photography and visual media.
What is Photography at St. Louis Community College?
Photography combines technical knowledge with creative decision-making. At STLCC, you’ll work with both digital and analog processes while learning how to plan, capture, edit and evaluate photographs.
You’ll learn how to:
- Capture and edit digital photographs.
- Develop film and create darkroom prints.
- Use lighting and composition to shape an image.
- Complete studio and location photography projects.
- Communicate ideas through visual storytelling.
- Develop a personal style and cohesive portfolio.
Coursework gives you opportunities to experiment with different approaches while building a strong foundation in photographic technique and visual communication.
What Can You Do with a Photography Associate Degree?
The AFA in photography is designed to prepare you for continued study at a four-year college or university while also building skills that can support freelance and entry-level photography work.
Your coursework and portfolio can help prepare you for opportunities in areas such as:
- Portrait photography.
- Event photography.
- Photojournalism.
- Real estate photography.
- Studio photography.
- Creative and visual media.
STLCC also maintains photography transfer agreements with several four-year institutions, giving you options for continuing your education after completing the AFA.
AFA in Photography
- Degree offered: Associate in fine arts
- Locations: Florissant Valley, Forest Park, Meramec, Online
- Hours to complete: 60-61
- Florissant Valley program contact: Christine Giancola, cgiancola1@stlcc.edu
- Forest Park program contact: Jamie Kreher, jkreher@stlcc.edu
- Meramec program contact: David Hanlon, dhanlon@stlcc.edu
Tuition for district residents is $127 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Accreditation
Institutional art and design programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD): Florissant Valley and Meramec.
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Photography Program
Schedules Built for Your Busy Life
Fitting a quality education into your busy life is easy with the flexibility STLCC offers, including day and evening classes, in-person and live virtual lectures, as well as online and hybrid options.
Multiple Locations Near You
With four campuses and multiple education centers, STLCC has locations around the St. Louis metropolitan area that are close to your home or work, which makes for an easy commute.
Graduate with Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save over $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third less than other local institutions.
Hands-on Learning
You'll have access to professional-level studios and equipment to learn the latest techniques in photography.
STLCC. What's your reason?