Applicants come from across Canada for the "triple threat skill set" of multimedia storytelling through digital photography, video capture and news and feature writing.
This program will be delivered in a blended format (remote and in-person) for Winter 2021.
Find your career
Intensive training in Canada’s only multi-year Photojournalism program gives Loyalist graduates a competitive advantage as photojournalists, reporter-photographers, multimedia producers and editors, picture and assignment editors, freelance photojournalists and photographers, and digital publishing specialists.
Working across Canada in news organizations, ranging from the biggest dailies to smaller weekly newspapers, wire services, websites and other publications.
Is it for you?
People who thrive in Photojournalism come from different backgrounds. They are usually described as:
- Inquisitive, curious
- Storytellers
- Visually oriented
- Creative
- Engaged
Our grads get great jobs
- Photographer/Reporter, Postmedia Network Inc.
- Photo Editor, The Canadian Press
- Photographer, The Toronto Star
- Reporter/Photographer, The Record
- Photographer/Editor, Maclean’s
- Videographer/Editor, Maclean's, Rogers Media
Award-winning grads & students
2019 National Pictures of the Year Awards:
Photojournalist of the Year
- Winner – Ben Nelms (2010) – CBC
- Finalist – Darren Calabrese (2005) – Independent
Student Photographer of the Year
2017 World Press Photo Awards:
- Giovanni Capriotti placed first in the Sports Stories category
- Darren Calabrese placed third in the Sports Stories category
To view examples of student work, please visit loyalistcollegephotojournalism.ca.
Experiential learning
Get a well-rounded set of skills through hands-on learning in our Digital Media Centre:
- Learn how to create cross-platform content, photograph and write stories in an accurate, detailed, balanced, professional and timely manner to meet client needs for a variety of audiences.
- Work independently and collaborate as a member of an editorial and/or production team to develop and critique stories and content to meet the needs of various audiences.
- Develop strategies for personal and professional development to gain and update technical and non-technical skills required to work in the media industry.
- Gain experience with production equipment to prepare and distribute and/or publish content for designated media platforms.
- Comply with relevant Canadian legislation, standards and the principles and best practices of journalism.
- Interpret and express the context for designated publications and/or productions to meet client needs for a variety of audiences.
Finish your studies with a four-week field placement:
- Learn on the job with a 140-hour placement with a magazine, newspaper, website, wire service, photo agency, or an editorial photographer.
- Students have done placements at the Canadian Press, the Toronto Sun, the Ottawa Citizen, the Ottawa Sun, the Calgary Herald, the Windsor Star, the Montreal Gazette, the Record, Reuters, Outpost Magazine and Vue Picture Agency.
Outstanding faculty make the difference
- Learn from respected photojournalists.
- A well-connected, broad-based advisory committee helps connect students with jobs.
- First Year - Semester One
- PHJN1016 Civics for Photojournalists 1
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An entry-level course in civics with a focus on basic civic and political structures, with an emphasis on how the visual journalist must understand and navigate the layers of Canadian life and government.
- PHJN1002 History of Photojournalism
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This course introduces the history of photojournalism and its impact and influences on current practices and industry trends. The course will include research projects, lectures, discussions and experiential assignments intended to develop an appreciation for visual communication. Through assignments and discussions, students gain exposure to multiple perspectives and processes involved in effective visual communication.
- PHJN1001 Introduction to Photojournalism
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This course is an introduction course for all first-year students. This course covers cameras and their handling, composition, use of light, basic flash usage, and special techniques used by photojournalists. Part of the course is dedicated to the appreciation and critiquing of photographs, and to basic editing techniques.
- PHJN1003 Photo Seminar
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A seminar and project course that features respected industry professionals as guest speakers to introduce students to the realities, expectations and standards of the photojournalism industry and its professional activities.
- PHJN1005 Photojournalism Software 1
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This is an introductory course to provide students with the skills necessary to work in newsrooms, utilizing the latest computer picture handling tools. The course consists of practical assignments to familiarize students with the industry-standard software. The basic skills taught include procedures used to colour correct images including the use of camera RAW format, understanding file size/compression, setting correct resolution/colour profiles for printing, transmitting of large files and the organization/archiving of images.
- WRIT1004 Writing for Photojournalists 1
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This course addresses the basic techniques of interviewing, reporting and writing news and feature stories and captions, applying the standards and guidelines of Canadian Press Style.
- GNED General Education Elective
- General Education Courses
- First Year - Semester Two
- PHJN1017 Civics for Photojournalists 2
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Building on Civics for Photojournalists 1, this course expands the working context of the visual journalist into the provincial, federal and global spheres.
- PHJN1007 Lighting for Photojournalists
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This course is an introduction to the techniques of field lighting using portable flash units. The techniques of using bounce light, multiple flash with slave units and fill flash combined with ambient sources are covered.
Prerequisite: PHJN 1001
- PHJN1018 Multimedia for Photojournalists 1
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Course description not available
- PHJN1010 Multiple Pictures
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The course introduces the concept of using pictures in various multiple formats, including shooting and editing the basic sequence, photo story and essay production, and the concepts of designing and laying out photo pages for newspapers and magazines.
Prerequisite: PHJN 1001
- PHJN1006 News Photography
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This is a basic course in newspaper photography for Photojournalism students who have completed the prerequisites in semester one. Content includes news, feature and sports photography using a variety of lenses. The development of a portfolio is also covered.
Prerequisite: PHJN 1001, WRIT 1004
- PHJN1011 Photojournalism Software 2
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An advanced course designed to provide students with the advanced skills necessary to prepare images for use in creating digital portfolios and multimedia presentations. After preparing the images, students create a number of digital portfolios and multimedia presentations, some of which will include both photographic stills and multiple audio tracks. The use of a number of computer programs in the creation of these multimedia presentations will help students bridge the transition to video editing and make them more marketable in this competitive industry.
Prerequisite: PHJN 1001
- PHJN1008 Portfolio Development
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This is an introductory course in the development of a working portfolio. Students build a photojournalism print portfolio worthy of presenting to prospective employers that will showcase their best work. Emphasis will be placed upon content impact and presentation.
Prerequisite: PHJN 1001
- WRIT1005 Writing for Photojournalists 2
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Students learn how to cover various basic beats found on most newspapers. Students further develop hard news writing skills, editing and critical thinking.
Prerequisite: WRIT 1004
- GNED General Education Elective
- General Education Courses
- Second Year - Semester Three
- PHJN2007 Documentary Photography
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Documentary is an advanced course in the planning and execution of picture stories and photo essays for Photojournalism students. Emphasis is placed on developing a story or theme that may be explored by students over a long period of time, perhaps years. Students are encouraged to explore the “truths” in a story and challenge themselves in their visual approaches to that story. Improving student portfolios is emphasized.
- ENTR2004 Freelance & Business Practices 1
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The course prepares students for part- and full-time freelancing. It addresses aspects of small business operation, marketing and presentation techniques for the freelancer with ambitions in newspaper, magazine and editorial photojournalism.
- PHJN2010 Multi Media for Photojournalists 2
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This is an advanced course in video storytelling for still photojournalists. Building on PHJN1015, this hands-on course will further explore the tools and software used in multimedia photojournalistic storytelling. Students are challenged to use these tools to tell more complex narratives.
- PHJN2009 News Photography 2
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This course in editorial photography includes news, feature and sports photography content, using a variety of lenses and techniques.
- PHJN2001 Photo Editing
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This is an advanced course in the decision-making process of photojournalistic editing. Students are exposed to a wide variety of editing situations from self-editing to editing the work of others, with an emphasis on the thought processes involved in both.
- PHJN2003 Portfolio and Web Presence
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Students learn advanced online skills to utilize new media as an important research and promotional tool. Students create a web page and a digital published version of their portfolios.
- WRIT2002 Writing for Photojournalists 3
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A course tailored to the writing needs of photojournalists. The marriage of words and pictures for maximum impact as a communicative tool is covered.
- GNED General Education Elective
- General Education Courses
- Second Year - Semester Four
- PHJN2006 Daily Assignment Photography
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This is an intensive, deadline-oriented course, providing students with reality-based experiences similar to freelance photojournalism assignments or those given by a daily newspaper, website or magazine. Improving student portfolios is emphasized.
- PHJN2011 Documentary Publishing Project
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Documentary is an advanced course in the planning and execution of picture stories and photo essays for photojournalism students. Emphasis is placed on developing a story/theme that is/may be explored by the student over a long period of time, perhaps years. Students are encouraged to explore the 'truths' in a story and challenge themselves in their visual approaches to the story. Improving student portfolios is emphasized.
- PROF2016 Field Placement Seminar
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Students spend three weeks at a newspaper, magazine, agency or elsewhere in the print and electronic journalism industry. Students research and secure their own placements, which are approved by faculty. The supervising editor grades the student’s performance, ability and attitude in conjunction with the faculty.
- ENTR2005 Freelance and Business Practices 2
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Expanding on the introductory and survey nature of Freelance and Business Practices 1, this course focuses on developing a story proposal for funding. Using the crowdfunding model, students develop the proposal, with supporting documentation, a budget and a video pitch.
- ETHI2001 Photojournalism - Ethics
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Students learn how to recognize ethical challenges faced by journalists and engage in a sound decision-making process. Ethical codes and guidelines will be explored through case studies in order to help the student journalist navigate through the grey areas of ethical decision making.
- WKPL2026 Photojournalism Field Placement
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Students spend three weeks at a newspaper, magazine, agency or elsewhere in the print and electronic journalism industry. Students research and secure their own placements, which are approved by faculty. The supervising editor grades the student’s performance, ability and attitude in conjunction with the faculty.
- PHJN2005 Publication Lab - The Pioneer
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Students work in the journalism news lab to produce The Pioneer, a weekly newspaper distributed throughout the community. Students learn how to apply their photographic and writing skills in an environment of teamwork. They are rotated through a series of positions so they can acquire experience in the newsroom as reporters and photographers.
In this culminating learning experience, students produce the award-winning online publication The Pioneer, putting into practice all aspects of the “triple threat skill set” of photography, writing and multimedia production.
- WRIT2003 Writing for Photojournalists 4
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Students continue to explore the relationship between images and words as they create integrated news and documentary pieces for publication.
*Courses subject to change.
Turn your diploma into a degree
Many universities across Canada and abroad will provide credit recognition for your diploma studies at Loyalist. The following is a list of agreements that are currently in place. There are many more options, and new agreements are added annually. Contact your university of choice to make individual arrangements.
- Algoma University – B.A.; B.B.A.; B.Sc.; Bach. Computer Science
- Athabasca University – Bachelor of Professional Arts in Communication Studies
- Brock University – various*
- Davenport University – Bachelor of Arts in General Business
- Griffith University – Bachelor of Photography
- Lakehead University – various*
- Laurentian University – various*
- Laurier Brantford – any honours program
- Nipissing University – various*
- Royal Roads University – Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication
- Seneca College – Bach. Interdisciplinary Studies
- Ontario Tech University – B.A. Adult Education and Digital Technology
- University of Waterloo – various*
- Wilfrid Laurier University – various*
- York University – various*
*Various potential degree pathways. Please confirm details with the receiving institution.
Post-grad at Loyalist
- Graduates from the Photojournalism program are encouraged to apply to the Public Relations – Event Management post-graduate certificate program at Loyalist
- Students must apply through ontariocolleges.ca
How much will it cost?
Approximate costs (2020 – 21)
- Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08
- Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,462.43
- Total: $4,184.43
- Students should be prepared to spend approximately $3,500 on the purchase digital SLR camera equipment at the start of the program.
Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.
*Please visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.
Equipment and supplies
Students entering the first year of the program must have a full-function digital SLR camera, as described in the equipment list. For required camera details, please refer to the Photojournalism Equipment and Supply List, mailed to each student when their application is received by the College. You can also download the list as a PDF file: Photojournalism Equipment List
Bursaries and financial assistance
Loyalist has a number of scholarships, bursaries and academic awards available to students. Our Financial Aid Office can help you explore your options, or assist you with a student loan.
Admission requirements
Required academic preparation
- OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND
- Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent
OR
Additional requirements
- Computer laptop with program-specific software package(s). Specific computer requirements will be recommended.
- Full-function digital SLR camera.
- A College vehicle is available for use on assignment by students with a G-level driver’s license and Driver Abstract (insurance provided).
Recommended academic preparation
- Computer literacy, basic photography, current events, history, geography and public speaking.
Advanced Standing (PHJF)
- Applicants with a degree, diploma, or journalism experience can apply for advanced standing to graduate in just two semesters (8 months). Students should apply by April 30.
- Qualified students with prior post-secondary education may apply for advanced standing in January. Applicants are accepted through Nov. 30. Limited seats are competitive, based on a portfolio submission and interview.
- Applicants must have prior post-secondary education and be prepared to demonstrate competency in the basics of photography and journalism, based upon the outcomes in semesters one and two.
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Applicants with work experiences or other types of non-credentialed learning may be eligible for credits at Loyalist. Graded credits (as opposed to exemptions) are granted. Click here for more information about our assessment and credit challenge process.
International students
Click here for information about how to apply, international student fees and more.
All teaching within Loyalist College is conducted in English. In order to be successful in a program, skills such as communication, listening, comprehension, and reading and writing must be at a level sufficient to meet the demands of post-secondary studies. All applicants to Loyalist College whose first language is not English, or whose previous education was in another language, will be expected to provide an English proficiency assessment for admissions approval. For more information, please click here.
Campus News
LOYALIST COLLEGE PHOTOJOURNALISM STUDENTS AND GRADUATES WIN TOP NATION...
Belleville, Ontario, May 21, 2019 – Twelve Loyalist College Photojournalism students and graduates received 2018 National Pictures of the Year (NPOY) awards and placed in 13 of the 17 award categori... Read More
LOYALIST COLLEGE PHOTOJOURNALISM STUDENTS AND GRADUATES RECEIVE NPAC...
Belleville, Ontario, May 3, 2018 – Loyalist College is proud to announce that 16 Photojournalism students and graduates received National Pictures of the Year (NPOY) awards and placed in 16 of the ... Read More
LOYALIST COLLEGE PHOTOJOURNALISM GRADUATES AND STUDENTS RECEIVE NATION...
Belleville, Ontario, May 30, 2017 – Loyalist College is pleased to announce that 17 Photojournalism alumni and students received National Pictures of the Year (NPOY) awards and recognition from the... Read More
LOYALIST PHOTOJOURNALISM GRADUATE GIOVANNI CAPRIOTTI WINS FIRST PRIZE ...
Toronto Exhibit of ‘Boys Will Be Boys’ Opens May 3 from 6 to 8 pm at The 519
Belleville, Ontario, May 2, 2017 – 2015 Loyalist College Photojournalism graduate Giovanni Capriotti won first priz... Read More
LOYALIST COLLEGE’S QNET NEWS RECOGNIZED AS BEST COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY N...
Belleville, Ontario, April 13, 2017 – At the Ontario Community Newspapers Association’s annual Better Newspaper Awards Gala on April 7, QNet News was presented with the Best College/University ... Read More
In the News
The Belleville Local
Belleville, Ontario, April 30, 2020 – Thirteen Loyalist College Photojournalism graduates receiv
Cision
Ontario Community Newspapers Association
Cision
2015 Graduate Annie Sakkab is NPAC's Student Photographer of the Year (2014)
Sakkab received the award from the News Photographers Association of Canada’s (NPAC) National Pictures of the Year (NPOY) awards competition, recognizing excellence in Canadian photojournalism, at the NPOY Gala on May 9, 2015 in Vancouver, British Columbia. More than 1,880 submitted images were considered for the 2014 awards. Click here to see the full list of 2014 recipients and their work.
2011 student Michelle Siu received News Photographers Association of Canada’s (NPAC) Photograph of the Year (2014) award
Oshawa, Ontario – November 9, 2014: "Thalidomide victim Bernadette Bainbridge, 52, has seal-like hands, one ear, partial facial paralysis and is completely reliant on her elderly parents." - Michelle Siu
Julia McKay wins Award of Excellence for spot news
Loyalist Photojournalism 2013 grad Julia McKay was the recipient of an Award of Excellence in the Spot News category in the 68th CPOY Photojournalism Competition. The winning image was made on her hour-long drive home to Kingston from Loyalist in January of 2013. Julia is now a staffer at the Kingston Whig Standard in Kingston, Ontario. Julia was also awarded the Paul Henry Award for commitment and dedication to spot news coverage while at Loyalist.
Hannah Yoon wins Tom Hanson Photojournalism Award
Photojournalism student Hannah Yoon won the prestigious Tom Hanson Photojournalism Award for 2014. Click here to see the full press release from the Canadian Journalism Foundation, which co-sponsors the award with the Canadian Press.This is the first time the award has gone to a student still in school. View Hannah’s submitted portfolio: See Portfolio
Photojournalism Student Work: Watch video
Throughout our two years at Loyalist College as photojournalism students, there have been a group of resilient yeasayers who have acted as an integral part of our development as photojournalists. Continually, members of the Belleville community accept eager, sometimes timid, budding photographers into their stores to photograph them working, take a portrait or simply get advice or contacts<