Overview
The course team places a great emphasis on integrating critical theory and practice in all years and modules. The course is taught by practising photographers and experienced lecturers who provide a supportive framework to encourage self-motivated research and experimentation. This course equips students with transferable skills, and explores the use of photography in modern society, through the use of a hybrid of old and new media.
Content and Modules
The first year provides a thorough grounding in both technical and critical skills. Students will be introduced to historical, theoretical, cultural and political debates surrounding lens-based media. This study is directly linked to the use of all camera formats, as well as the specific qualities of analogue and digital photography. The traditional genres and their convergence are explored in the studio and on location.
In the second year students continue to develop technical and contextual skills at a higher level. Risk taking, collaborative and interdisciplinary methods of working are introduced. Specific contact points are developed with industry through placements, visiting lecturers, field trips and exhibition visits.
The third year enables students to establish their own direction and to place themselves within a contemporary context. Critical professional debate about visual culture is encouraged. Ways of distribution within the creative, media and arts industries and entrepreneurship are investigated and applied. By the end of the final year students will be independent and confident practitioners who will hit the ground running.
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Further Information
Between year 2 and year 3 there is an opportunity to pursue a work placement. During the module Professional Practice students will be introduced to industry links and working methods that prepare them for undertaking placements
The course is assessed through a variety of methods including practical projects, essays, seminar presentations, exhibitions and portfolios
Career opportunities in photography include editorial, documentary, portraiture, advertising, fashion, music, architecture, newspaper, medical, wildlife, police photography, reality based visualisation or computer generated imaging and publishing. Other areas graduates can move into are fine art practice, picture research, editing and curatorial posts, gallery or project management, technical support and PR.