Bachelor of Fine Arts
As a photography student at UD, you'll gain technical and conceptual skills in the field, with opportunities to collaborate across a wide range of fields and disciplines within the art world and beyond.
Why Study Photography at UD?
At UD, photography students learn how to use the latest lighting and camera technologies while working on individual and collaborative projects related to art, fashion, portraiture, product photography and community-based projects.
Photography majors collaborate with students from a variety of other majors to investigate issues related to food justice, sustainability, community organizing and human rights. We focus on developing our skills as artists and photographers through local action and global reflection.
Our seniors produce a cohesive, research-driven body of photo-based work that is shared with the greater Dayton public at a local gallery. Students also gain experience in curating, producing and even selling their own art work.
The University of Dayton is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
Ready to take the next step? Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about photography at UD.
Degree Information and Sample Plan
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography teaches technical skills while furthering the development of aesthetic understanding of the transformative effects of photography.
Progress Review
Though there is no portfolio application/entrance requirement, all majors in the department go through a major review upon completion of the foundation courses.
In this review — known as the Exchange — all majors are evaluated by a committee of three faculty members from the department. The review is 30 minutes and results in a written evaluation of student progress toward their degree.
Sample Plan of Study
This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2025-26 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and your personal goals and interests. Please contact your holistic advisor if you have any questions.
Semester 1
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ASI 150 – Introduction to the University Experience1
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HUM 101 – Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times3
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CMM 100 – Principles of Oral Communication3
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VAF 104 – Foundation Drawing3
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VAF 112 – Foundation 2-D Design3
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VAP 101 – Foundation Photography3
- Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 2
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HUM 102 – Marie Thérèse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good3
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VAF 117 – Foundation 3-D Design3
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VAF 216 – Design and Color3
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VAP 201 – Photography II3
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Elective Studies (possible minor)3
- Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 3
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VAH 201, 202 OR 203 – Survey of Art: I, II OR III3
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VAP 240 – Digital Processes I3
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VA Elective3
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Elective Studies (possible minor)3
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CAP Natural Science with Lab4
- Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 4
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VAH 382 – History of Photography I3
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VAP 302 – Color Photography I3
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VAR 299 – The Exchange0
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ENG 200 – Writing Seminar II3
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VA Elective3
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CAP Social Science3
- Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 5
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VAH 483 – PostColonial and Global Art Histories3
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VAP 330 OR 420 – 330: Alternative Photography I; 420: Documentary Photography3
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VAP 340 – Digital Processes II3
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CAP Mathematics3
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CAP Practical Ethical Action3
- Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 6
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VAP 320 – Studio Practice I3
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VAP 410 – Advanced Photography3
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VA Elective3
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CAP Faith Traditions3
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General Elective3
- Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 7
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VA Elective3
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VAH Elective (300-400 level)3
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Elective Studies (possible minor)3
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CAP Advanced Religious Studies3
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CAP Advanced Historical Studies3
- Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 8
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VAP 499 – Senior/Professional Seminar II - Photography3
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VAP Elective3
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Elective Studies (possible minor)3
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CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies3
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CAP Diversity and Social Justice3
- Total Credit Hours 15
* Elective Studies: 12 credit hours in a non-visual arts field but relevant to the student’s major and assists the student in achieving career goals. Including but not limited to: business, sustainability, human rights, marketing, communication, women’s and gender studies, theatre, etc. These courses may fulfill CAP requirements.
** Choose from VAP 410, 450 or 490.
** Choose from VAP 410, 450 or 490.
At the University of Dayton, our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP), encourages you to integrate knowledge — and put it to use.
Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.
Visit the Academic Catalog for official major requirements, prerequisite(s), course descriptions and more.
Equipment, Software and Supplies Requirements
The department requires the purchase of a MacBook Pro for all photography majors at the start of classes in the first semester. Additional computer requirements information can be found on the UDit website.
In the second year, photography majors will purchase a subscription to the Adobe Creative Cloud. See the Adobe website for student pricing.
Related Degrees and Programs
Additional Art and Design Programs
Related Programs
Students can double major or minor with the B.F.A. but will need to work closely with an advisor in scheduling classes.
Admission Information
At the University of Dayton, applying is free and test scores are optional. When you apply, you'll automatically be considered for a merit scholarship.
Learn about our admission process, then apply using UD's application or the Common App.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.
To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.
Success After Graduation
Get more than your foot in the door — get ready for success. At our College of Arts and Sciences, you will have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows you to further sharpen your skills. It’s a key reason why employers love hiring our students — they can hit the ground running.
Helping You Soar
Preparing for Takeoff
At UD, you're never alone. Your holistic advisor will guide you through your college journey, and resources across campus are available to help you succeed academically, build community, gain real-world experience and prepare for your career.
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Ready to Study Photography?
Let’s create your future. Now you know what we’re about: community, personal attention, hands-on learning, integrity and global thinking. Take the next step and connect with us today.
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Art and Design Faculty and Staff
Our faculty and staff are here to support you throughout your photography journey at UD.