BFA in Commercial Photography

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography is a 120 credit hour limited access program that provides an intensive background in theoretical knowledge and professional skills. BFA students will develop a personal vision, a high level of competence in technique, and harness the ability to make sound artistic decisions.

As one of the few stand-alone photography degrees in the state of Texas, the BFA in Photography prepares students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving profession alongside expanding technologies and applications in digital imaging, video, multimedia, and motion graphics. Photography majors build upon a common sequence of foundational art and photography courses to pursue a focus on the business of commercial photography. Students graduating with the BFA in Photography leave A&M-Commerce with a well-rounded background in professional practices and a versatile set of practical skills. Our long history of commercial photography education and strong relationship with successful alumni give students a distinct advantage when advancing into a professional career.

To receive a degree in BFA Photography, students must successfully complete a minimum of one-hundred-twenty (120) credit hours. Students must also remain in the program for a minimum of three long semesters. Students must enroll in “Photography Seminar” their year of graduating, culminating in an advancement review and graduation exhibition. Students must also complete their internships before graduating. Students admitted to the BFA program are exempt from any foreign language requirement. Students in the BFA major are not required to select a minor. The BFA Advisor can provide additional guidance with regard to entrance and degree requirements.

Academic Performance and Retention
Students are required to have a C or above in all foundation courses to maintain good standing in the Department of Art.  The work and progress of students pursuing baccalaureate degrees will be evaluated both within the classes they take and by the departmental standards established for each major programmatic area (BA in Art, BFA in Studio Art, BFA in Visual Communication).

The Department of Art reserves the right to discontinue enrollment of art majors at any time if satisfactory academic progress is not being made.  Students who have accumulated three unsatisfactory grades (U, D or F) in studio art or visual communication courses at A&M-Commerce or elsewhere may not be permitted to continue, be readmitted, or graduate with a degree in art.  Courses with grades of D or F may be repeated for a grade of C or higher only once.

Photography Coordinator: Chad Smith, 903-886-5208, Chad.Smith@tamuc.edu