Get in touch with the instructors. Chances are, they've been in the field for a long time and have the inside scoop on deals for photography supplies. You may find out that some essential materials are provided with the course.
Scout the department bulletin boards. There will always be students set to graduate and looking to get rid of their supplies. Most often the materials are advertised as a bundle for one low price.
Join the ranks of the bidding wars! Online auction sites are excellent resources for finding photographic equipment at reasonable prices. They can be especially useful when shopping for the higher-end items such as cameras.
Pool your efforts. Consider ordering items like film and enlarging paper in bulk from a photographic supply company and splitting the cost with classmates.
Check your local directory for small, privately-owned photo shops. They are often run by photography enthusiasts who are happy to offer discounts to students looking to break into the field.