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Your Curriculum

Professional Photography

Restricted Entry, Associate of Applied Science Degree Program (2008-2009)*

*Information regarding the requirements for this Restricted Entry program is available by accessing the Admission Requirements page.

MHCC Faculty Advisor:
Dana Spielmann: 503-491-7412 - Room AC1371 Dana.Spielmann@mhcc.edu

Graduates of the Professional Photography program will emerge after two years of coursework with solid technical and aesthetic photography skills. In addition, they will gain a strong foundation in business and marketing practices essential to survival as an independent operator. Current market demand offers our graduates entry-level positions in general commercial, advertising, industrial, editorial, and free-lance photography. Employment will also be found as technicians in professional processing labs, electronic imaging and multimedia service bureaus.

Success in the competitive field of professional photography not only requires mastery of the craft but also an aptitude for pre-visualizing, problem-solving, teamwork and communication. For this reason, the curriculum ranges from foundations in camera operation, digital editing, and professional practices. Second-year students have two terms of a photo business practicum that simulates business environments by servicing the colleges internal photographic needs. Students also have in-depth courses in design and web page construction. Finally, students gain experience in the field as interns with the professional photographers from the Portland metropolitan area.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of this program, the student should be able to:

• apply tools, techniques and processes to effectively communicate their ideas and to initiate, define and solve challenging photographic problems
• defend individual work and perspectives in relation to other work and to create multiple solutions to visual problems
• operate successfully within an owner-operator business environment
• identify connections between photography and other disciplines and creative media

Prospective students must satisfactorily meet admission program criteria and the application deadline to be considered for admission. Further information and application packets are available on the MHCC website at www.mhcc.edu/LR admissions. Note: Due to the sequencing of courses, students will be admitted only at the fall term. Alternates may be considered for mid-year entry if space is available. Students accepted in the program will be expected to complete prior to the first quarter ART 261 (Photography I) or have the program advisors waiver. If you would like more information on the application process call the Admissions, Registration and Records at (503) 491-7165 or contact Dana Spielmann, photography program director at (503) 491-7412 or Dana.Spielmann@mhcc.edu.

1 Students may not use demonstrated proficiency on the College Placement Test (CPT) to satisfy this requirement.
2 WE 280PH may be taken at any time in the second year. Maximum of 12 credit hours may be applied toward degree.

‡ See pages 7-10 of the printed catalog.