At the heart of Photographic Center Northwest (PCNW) is exploration of the photographic arts and a commitment to lifelong learning. Our Certificate in Fine Art Photography (53-credits) offers the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the study and practice of photography, at any stage of life, through a unique and rigorous program. Led by our faculty of engaged professionals, courses within the Certificate Program are technically and creatively demanding, delving into the history, theory, and practice of creating photographic work. During their studies students develop their own style of photography, engage in critical discussion, establish their work within a historical and contemporary photographic/fine art context, and build the foundation to sustain their creative practice. Our Certificate in Fine Art Photography offers the unique opportunity to build your photography skills from the ground up. Certificate students first gain a solid education in the fundamentals of photography through the Photo I-III sequence, digital workflow/editing, contemporary color and studio lighting classes. Further building on that foundation are classes in history, professional practices and project development. Our advanced students customize their education, pursuing elective classes that align with their own style and vision. Certificate students then refine their ability to conceptualize and create a body of work through the Junior Seminar and Senior Seminar series, followed by the capstone course, Thesis, which is a year-long course. During the Thesis year students meet as a cohort with designated faculty advisors, along with selecting an individual advisor to work with throughout the year to develop a body of work for exhibition in thePCNW gallery. Thesis students who are successful in preparing an exhibition gain invaluable professional experience through the process of selecting the final work and installation approach, coordinating with a gallery and fellow artists, promoting their work, and engaging with audiences in the context of an exhibition reception and artists talk.