chopsky

Hey guys,

I'm considering applying to study photography at SAIC, but I see there's no degree with a photography major, yet somehow their photography education is said to be one of the best in the nation. How does this work?
The guy in admissions said that their degree is conceptually based and you learn about all art. Does this mean if I want to study photography there, I have to devote just as much time to things like painting and illustration?

Is anyone who has maybe studied photography there or knows about their curriculum, able to explain this to me?

Thanks,
Grant

KindlyCuddly

My friend attends the school as a "Visual and Critical Studies" major and says the first year is devoted to foundation courses in various art forms, so that's probably what he means.

chopsky

And beyond the first year? And I'm referring to the normal BFA degree (with Photography specialization).
Anyone?

AdvMom

I believe SAIC will pretty much let you take any studio courses you want as long as you have the right number of studio hours for the BFA. I know Visual Communication is more specific about what courses you take and in what order, but I don't believe anything else is. SAIC courses are generally pass/fail unless you specifically ask for a grade. Their thought is you should be able to experiment without worrying about failing a class.