Dakota State University students, alumni and community members will have the opportunity to explore Europe while developing photography skills during a 15-day Photography Study Tour planned for spring 2027.

The tour, tentatively scheduled for May 12-27, will be led by Digital Art Professor Dr. Thomas Jones and Mathematics Lecturer Dr. Kimberly Jones, who have organized the program since 2011. Participants will travel through England, France and Scotland, with stops in London, Paris and Edinburgh, along with additional day trips and surprise destinations.

Organizers say the course is open to participants of all experience levels and academic backgrounds. Along the way, travelers will learn photography techniques such as composition, lighting and camera settings while capturing historic landmarks, city streets and landscapes. Students taking the course for credit will also complete projects such as photo journals or portfolios, with selected work featured in a campus exhibition.

Beyond photography, the program emphasizes cultural immersion. Rather than traveling by tour bus, participants will navigate European cities using buses, trains and subways, including a trip aboard the Eurostar beneath the English Channel.

Kim Jones said many students have never traveled internationally or used public transportation, but quickly gain confidence as they learn to navigate unfamiliar cities. Thomas Jones said the experience often inspires participants to continue traveling and applying the skills they learned long after returning home.

Deposits for the spring 2027 study tour will be accepted beginning in October, with organizers encouraging interested participants to begin planning early. The program is open to students from any major, as well as alumni and members of the community.