Master of Arts/Master of Fine Arts in Photography & Image-making

In this program, students explore digital image-making through practice-based and process-oriented research. At the intersection of visual phenomena, new media, critical studies, and creative production, the program offers a unique blend of studio practice, and theoretical and art historical training.

The MA/MFA in Photography and Image-Making focuses on new types of visual storytelling: still image, moving image, and multimedia, with a curriculum that emphasizes new media and transdisciplinary skill sets, and understands photography as a hybrid and emerging art form.

The program explores digital image-making as a force, and it is designed as a practice-based and process-oriented program. Based on the intersection of visual phenomena, new media, critical studies, and creative production, the program offers a unique blend of studio practice, and theoretical and art historical training.

Students who pursue the program at Paris College of Art have the potential for connection-building while they are still in the program.

At PCA, students can complete either a Masters of Art (MA) or a Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) in Photography and Image-Making. The first two semesters (fall and spring) of these programs follow a common curriculum. MFA students continue for two semesters of study in the following academic year (fall and spring) to receive the MFA degree.

The program combines technical knowledge and principles of photography and image-making research and theory. Studio classes and workshops conducted by professionals emphasize the mastery of contemporary techniques and professional practices, while theory-based and methodology courses help students develop their personal creative visions.

Thanks to internships during the photo events held in Paris several times a year and ongoing partnerships between PCA and relevant Parisian institutions, students will be well prepared to enter the job market and will have started to create a professional network by the time they graduate.

What are the advantages of studying in Paris?

Paris is an epicenter for emerging contemporary photography and image-making, between the great photo fairs and events like Paris Photo, Fotofever, Festival Circulations, and photo venues like the Maison Européenne de la Photographie, LE BAL, and the Jeu de Paume. Students will have direct access to Parisian networks and the opportunities to visit these venues regularly, participate in calls for projects and exhibitions.

For many decades, Paris has been considered the center of avant-garde art and, without a doubt, as the hub for new photography in Europe since the 1920s. If the French capital became a forum for photographers from so many different countries and backgrounds, this was because it stood as a model of modernity and a beacon of economic hope in the aftermath of the First World War, but also because it was a haven of political and religious freedom for those forced into exile. Furthermore, the international dimension of both the city and Paris College of Art provides a unique platform for students who would aspire to experience an internship or work abroad.

Paris College of Art is a dynamic forum for exchanging ideas, methods, and professional experience. Our students and faculty combine curiosity, experimentation, and enthusiasm in the pursuit of learning.

At Paris College of Art, we believe that finding a design solution, creating a work of art, and facilitating the production of a creative team are intellectual processes of undeniable value. Developing critical awareness through hands-on research and discussion is essential to professional maturation and individual growth. Artistic practice demands a high level of personal commitment and discipline, and we expect our students to participate actively in class so that they can explore differing points of view and engage our creative resources.

Paris College of Art is rooted in a city of primary art and design production. Experiencing the uniqueness of the Parisian metropolis provides a rich source of visual inspiration. Sharing this experience with individuals from over 40 different countries gives our students a unique perspective on the variety of expressions existing throughout the world.

Paris College of Art is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in education and employment, and prohibits discrimination against and harassment of any student, applicant, employee, or community member because of race; color; national or ethnic origin; age; religion; disability; sexual orientation; gender; gender identity and expression; genetics; veteran status; and any other characteristic protected under applicable law. We expect all PCA employees, students, and community members to join with and uphold this commitment.

The legacy of Paris College of Art and its successful graduates is something to be proud of and to contribute to in the years to come.

Mission

Paris College of Art, a new name for a college with over 30 years of experience, promotes the artistic and intellectual maturation of promising students into exceptional artists, art historians, photographers, designers, and design managers.

Grounded in the Parisian landscape, informed by the European art and design world, nourished by a faculty of leaders in the creative industries from the world over, and replenished by students from over 50 countries, Paris College of Art is a truly international college.

Paris College of Art was established as an independent degree-granting institution with the mission to:

• Provide the highest international standard of art and design education taught within an American pedagogical paradigm while being influenced, informed, and drawing from our French/European environment;
• Open up French educational opportunities to the world and international education to the French.

Vision for 2023

Paris College of Art serves a multi-national student body that enriches the educational experience by bringing the values and experiences of their respective traditions to the studio/classroom and assures that each graduate will understand herself in a global context and be prepared for the contemporary professional marketplace in art and design.