Photography BA (Hons)

On this course we nurture new talent, encouraging students to develop imaginative approaches to image-making, as well as the technical knowledge required to become leading industry professionals. This is one of the most established photography courses in the country, and the current team brings a wealth of experience from across the photographic and art sector – from editorial, advertising, public relations, fashion, documentary and art practices. We also have a team of Apple and Adobe certified technical instructors. This course is delivered through workshops, lectures, tutorials and visits from professionals from across the sector – including photographers, editors, stylists and artists. The first year of the Photography degree introduces key concepts relevant to contemporary photographic practice, through challenging practical projects, designed to improve technical abilities such as lighting techniques and processing and printing skills. You’ll be introduced to the history of photography and spend some time developing practical camera and communication skills. As you move through the programme, you will reinforce your emerging photographic practice through a sound knowledge of photography industry, taking part in research projects and public exhibitions. Contextual features of the course will encourage you to think critically about photography and its impact on culture and society. You’ll be taught in specialist studios with access to state-of-the-art digital and film cameras, Mac computers and industry standard lighting rigs. We also have black and white darkrooms, allowing students to print chemically. Optional study trip opportunities are offered to key cities such as New York, London and Paris, allowing you to visit exciting exhibitions and gain industry experience. The teaching on this course is firmly rooted in studio practice. You develop your skills across a wide range of project-based activities, which take place within a studio setting appropriate to the subject. Sometimes you will work in whole groups; sometimes you will work in teams, with presentations of your work to your peer group and the academic staff. At other times during your study, you will be working on individual self-initiated projects. During projects, there will be tutorial sessions with academic staff where you explore your practice in more detail. In addition, you take part in lecture and seminar activities which allow you to explore the contextual and professional background to the projects you are undertaking. These are led by your lecturers and also guest tutors from industry who bring their specialist insight into the sessions. You also participate in technical skills instruction sessions with Technician Instructors enabling you to enhance you’re making and digital skills across a wide range of techniques and approaches. Graduate destinations include: freelance photography, medical/forensic photography, picture editors, account executives, photography historians, photography agents, studio managers, digital re-touchers, teachers, technicians, food stylists, gallery curators, and exhibitions and publicity officers.