Scripps College launches new Sports Photography for Communication Certificate

Ohio University’s Scripps College of Communication is launching a new undergraduate certificate this fall for students interested in combining sports, photography and strategic communication.

 

Offered through the School of Visual Communication, the new Sports Photography for Communication Certificate integrates visual communication with sports management and marketing. The 21-credit-hour program is designed to prepare students for careers that can include sports photojournalism, team and event photography, wire service photography, video storytelling, athletic communications, and sports marketing and branding.

 

“We were motivated to make this certificate because of the rising student interest in sports photography, and because of rising employment opportunities in the sports industry,” said Josh Birnbaum, professor of instruction in the School of Visual Communication. “This certificate brings together classes and experiences in photojournalism, business, and sports administration to create a unique experience that could lead to careers in sports photojournalism, wire service photography, team and event photography, video storytelling for athletes, media communication for athletic organizations, and marketing and branding for sporting companies.”

 

The certificate is open to students in any major. Admission requires an application and interview with a School of Visual Communication photojournalism instructor. During the interview, faculty will discuss the student’s goals, review their portfolio and determine whether the certificate fits into their academic plan. Applicants must also have access to a full-frame professional digital camera and at least one lens with an aperture of f/2.8 or greater. Students must complete at least 21 credit hours and maintain an overall GPA of 2.5 or better.

 

Most courses in the program are already offered through Visual Communication, Business and Sports Administration. A new sports photography practicum will add hands-on instruction and professional perspectives through guest lectures, virtual conversations and workshops featuring accomplished alumni and other working photographers.

 

The launch comes as interest in sports photography continues to grow among students, said Tim Goheen, director of the School of Visual Communication and director of the certificate program.

 

“Sports photography seems to be the most popular form of photojournalism with young people,” Goheen said. “The gallery show will showcase work from several VisCom alumni who are professional photojournalists working as sports photographers for Getty Images.”

 

The Sports Photography Exhibit will run from Nov. 11, 2026, through Jan. 9, 2027 in the VisCom Focus Gallery in Schoonover Center. The exhibition will feature work by VisCom alumni Maddie Meyer, Emilee Chinn and Sarah Stier, all professional sports photographers with Getty Images.

 

The VisCom Focus Gallery showcases work by students, alumni and visiting visual communication professionals and provides students with opportunities to engage with professional work and participate in the exhibition process. The gallery is located in Room 140 on the first floor of Schoonover Center and is free to visit.

 

Learn more about the Sports Photography for Communication Certificate, including admissions requirements and curriculum.