The Photography program at The Art Institute of Colorado offers a strong foundation in fundamentals and principles that are designed to encourage students to challenge the established ways of seeing. Within the program two degree levels are offered: a Bachelor of Arts and an Associate of Applied Science.

Photography is a form of immediate communication that has the ability to cross language and cultural barriers. Photography students are challenged to think innovatively about the form and content of their work. As they progress in the program, students have the opportunity to explore different areas of the industry, including business skills and portfolio creation.
The program offers students a working understanding of the role of photography in a variety of commercial and social contexts.

Students in both programs are introduced to the basic principles and history of photography, along with technical skills in lighting, metering, and printing (both traditional and digital).
Students then have the opportunity to build upon the foundational and technical skills associated with photography and begin to explore the different concentrations and specialty areas within the industry.

Students in the Bachelor of Arts degree program have the opportunity to examine different career options and create a comprehensive portfolio of original, professionally relevant work based on their self-selected career path. Emphasis is placed on conceptual thinking, business, management, and marketing. Students should be able to work in a variety of media and place their work in an historical context.