by our College Data Analytics TeamPhotography is a field worth a close look when choosing where to study. The schools below stand out for the quality of their photography programs.
College Factual analyzed 2 schools to build this 2027 ranking of the best photography schools.
What’s on this page:
Below are the schools that deliver the strongest overall photography education in Illinois.
Leading the list is College Of Dupage, our #1 school for photography. College Of Dupage is a very large public school located in the suburb of Glen Ellyn. There were roughly 21 photography students who graduated with this degree at College Of Dupage in the most recent data year. Graduates of the photography program make about $43,025 in their early career. College Of Dupage graduates carry a median of $12,492 in student loans. Read more about the photography program at College Of Dupage
Columbia College Chicago came in at #2 on our 2027 list of the best photography schools. Columbia College Chicago is a moderately-sized private not-for-profit school located in the city of Chicago. Roughly 52% of students complete a degree within six years here. There were roughly 51 photography students who graduated with this degree at Columbia College Chicago in the most recent data year. Graduates of the photography program make about $29,694 in their early career. Students borrow a median of $26,000 to complete this degree. See the full photography program report for Columbia College Chicago
This list is compiled by College Factual (MF_RANKING_2025), 2027 edition. Schools are scored on a blend of student outcomes (graduation rate, post-graduation earnings), affordability, and program focus, drawn primarily from the U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS and College Scorecard).
Ranking method: College Major Top Ranked · 2 schools evaluated.
More about our data sources and methodologies.