Top Photography Schools to Become a Professional Photographer

By attending one of the top photography schools in the nation, you will be well on your way to an exciting career in the photographic field. Whether you want to become a fine arts photographer, advertising photographer, news photographer or freelance artist doing everything from portraits to weddings, you have to get the right education and have the proper tools to succeed. The following are some of the top photography schools in the nation that you should consider if you're interested in pursuing a career in the photographic arts:

Academy of Art University- San Francisco: This large, private accredited university is located in one of the most creative cities in the world and has produced such graduates as Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Deanne Fitzmaurice.

The Art Institute of Colorado - Denver: The Art Institute of Colorado is a private arts and crafts college that has offered associates and bachelor's degrees in photography since 1952.

Brown College - Mendota Heights, Minnesota: Earn your Bachelor of Arts in Digital Photography and choose from fine arts, freelance, fashion and other specializations.

The Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University - Washington: While earning a Professional Photography Certificate from this institution you will learn camera techniques, lighting, workflow and much more.

The Illinois Institute of Art: There are two branches of the Institute of Art in Illinois in Chicago and Schaumburg. Both schools offer a variety of photography courses and degree programs in a vibrant setting.

International Center of Photography - New York City: This photography museum in the Big Apple offers full-time and continuing education classes in lighting, photojournalism and other areas of study related to photography.

Miami International University of Art & Design: This is another school from the network of colleges within the Art Institute. You can earn a BFA in photography while living in one of the most picturesque settings in the country.

School of Visual Arts - New York City: This prestigious fine arts school is among the finest of the top photography schools, and has been offering bachelor's and master's degrees in photography for generations.