Photography Minor
Learn to see with a camera — lighting, composition, and digital editing — in small studio classes with access to professional equipment.
Program Overview
The photography minor at Shawnee State University offers students from all majors the opportunity to develop strong visual storytelling and digital imaging skills—valuable assets in both creative fields and today’s media-driven industries. Whether you’re looking to pursue photography professionally or simply expand your creative expression, this minor in photography provides a hands-on, skill-focused experience that complements a wide range of academic and career goals.
In this 15-credit-hour photography minor, students learn the technical, conceptual, and artistic aspects of photography, including lighting, composition, and digital editing. With a flexible curriculum that allows for elective choices, you’ll tailor your photography courses to suit your interests and build a versatile portfolio.
At Shawnee State, you’ll benefit from small class sizes, access to professional equipment, and support from experienced faculty who are practicing artists and educators. Combined with the university’s affordable tuition and vibrant campus community, the minor in photography is a smart way to enhance your education and creative skillset.
At A Glance
Photography Minor
Degree
Minor
Format
On campus
Length
Complete alongside your major
Credits
15
Class Size
12:1
Location
Main Campus, Vern Riffe Center for the Arts
Why Study Photography Minor at Shawnee University
You'll learn technique that lasts — lighting, exposure, composition, and digital editing — not just preset filters and shortcuts.
Small studio classes mean faculty know your work and can guide critique in a way that helps you grow.
You'll have access to digital labs and studio equipment most students don't get outside of dedicated programs.
Three upper-level electives let you specialize — portrait, documentary, studio, or experimental work.
The Photography Minor requires 15 credit hours across five courses — two required courses and three upper-level photography electives.
- ARTS 2511 — Photography 1
- ARTS 2512 — Photography 2
- Three upper-level (3000–5000 level) photography-focused ARTS electives (9 credits)
The Photography Minor is a strong fit for students majoring in:
- Studio Arts, Graphic Design, or Game & Simulation Arts
- Communication or journalism
- Marketing or public relations
- Digital media and content creation
- Any major where strong visual communication adds value
Classes meet in the photography studios and digital labs on the Shawnee State campus in Portsmouth, Ohio.
Photography Minor Frequently Asked Questions
A DSLR or mirrorless camera is helpful for the upper-level courses. The department can advise on what to buy or borrow, and lab equipment supports much of the foundational work.
The minor is primarily digital, with editing in Adobe tools. Some electives may include analog or alternative process work — check the schedule each term.
Yes. Each course adds to a body of work you can show employers or graduate programs.
Photography pairs with majors that lead to careers in marketing, journalism, design, public relations, and content creation — and many students continue photography as a freelance practice.
