The KU Department of Design announces the creation of a new undergraduate photography and digital media major, photomedia. With the launch of this new program, KU becomes the only school in Kansas to offer a comprehensive and professional-based photography and media program.
In the past, the design department has offered photography classes but never a photo-based major. Over the course of the spring 2007 term, Gregory Thomas, chair of the Department of Design, and his faculty created the program proposal. The new program became a reality this summer when the Kansas Board of Regents approved it.
"Our research suggested we were losing at least 15-20 students per year just from local area high schools because we did not offer a photo major," said Thomas. "Additionally, the number one major asked for by prospective students has been a BFA or BA photography." Thomas added, "We need to service this demand for a KU photo program while also providing education that is unique and in-depth, and is constantly addressing the professional and artistic markets."
Photomedia will officially launch in spring 2008, but students will be able to take needed course equivalencies in the fall. Photomedia will incorporate traditional film photography skills as well as more contemporary media formats inclusive of digital photography, video and multimedia. The coursework will include education in digital media, visual literacy, photographic composition, computer imaging, motion graphics, and more. This concentration is for students who want to prepare themselves for the changing needs of the field of image capturing and dissemination.
"The name of the program is unique because it was created with the idea of synergizing the traditional film-based roots of photography with the current era of digital photo, video and motion graphics," said Thomas. "When we found out that very few Big 12 schools offered anything similar, and no other area Universities had a program structured like ours, we knew what we had to do."
Plans are underway to create a comprehensive state-of-the-art photo area within the Art & Design Building. The current photo labs will be converted into multimedia classrooms, digital labs and photo studios. Thomas also added that cultivation of industry partners such as Apple, Nikon, Cannon and Epson are being discussed.
"Given the ever-changing nature of technology and image capturing, photomedia will incorporate many different resources and a focused curriculum that will allow our students to have greater exposure and breadth." Thomas added, "Most importantly it will be the first new undergraduate concentration to the design department in years. We are excited that the eighth area of study will strengthen the position of the department as a leader in design education." -- www2.ku.edu
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