| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-19 | - |
| 2024-01-09 | 2023-11-04 |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Photographic History MA program at DMU equips students with the knowledge and skills to explore photographic materials, practices, and critical field scholarship. Delivered online and part-time, the program offers flexible study options and culminates in an independent project completed for an external photography organization, providing valuable professional experience. The program focuses on both social and cultural photographic practices, expanding students' knowledge of the cultural and social significance of photography throughout its history.
Program Outline
Photographic History MA
Degree Overview:
Objective:
To equip students with the skills and knowledge to explore photographic materials, practices, processes, and critical field scholarship. To provide students with real-world professional expertise through fieldwork experience at well-known photography organizations.
Description:
This program is delivered online and part-time, allowing students to study around their existing commitments. It offers flexible study options, including full-time, part-time, and per-module, allowing students to progress at their own pace. The program culminates in an independent project completed for an external photography organization, providing students with valuable professional experience. The program focuses on both social and cultural photographic practices, expanding students' knowledge of the cultural and social significance of photography throughout its history. This program also examines the changing socio-political role of photography and its cultural conception, considering both digital and analogue photography.
Outline:
Content:
The program covers a wide range of topics related to the history of photography, including:
- Material Histories
- Photography, Ethics and Emotions
- Producing and Consuming Photographs
- Photographic Historiography
- Photography and Politics
- Photography, Science and Technology
- Fieldwork Experience
- Dissertation or Heritage Project
Structure:
The program is divided into two terms, with each term consisting of four modules. The modules are delivered through a blend of asynchronous lectures, activities, research, and reflection accessed through DMU's learning platform. Tutorials are arranged by appointment to facilitate individual learning.
Course Schedule:
The program is offered online and delivered part-time. The course schedule for each term is as follows:
Term 1:
- Learning Photographic History Online (Zero credits)
- Material Histories (15 credits)
- Photography, Ethics and Emotions (15 credits)
- Producing and Consuming Photographs (15 credits)
- Photographic Historiography (15 credits)
Term 2:
- Photography and Politics (15 credits)
- Photography, Science and Technology (15 credits)
- Fieldwork Experience (30 credits)
- Dissertation or Heritage Project (60 credits)
Individual Modules:
Learning Photographic History Online (Zero credits):
This introductory module provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the online learning platform and engage with the program's resources.
Material Histories (15 credits):
This module explores photographic images as objects, encouraging students to analyze and interpret primary source material.
Photography, Ethics and Emotions (15 credits):
This module examines the ethical considerations surrounding photography, including issues of representation, sensitivity, and responsibility.
Producing and Consuming Photographs (15 credits):
This module investigates the economic and social contexts of photography, exploring the production, circulation, and consumption of photographic images.
Photographic Historiography (15 credits):
This module delves into the history of photographic scholarship, examining key theoretical frameworks and their influence on the field.
Photography and Politics (15 credits):
This module analyzes the role of photography in political contexts, exploring its use in shaping state narratives, social movements, and individual experiences.
Photography, Science and Technology (15 credits):
This module examines the relationship between photography and science, exploring the role of photography in scientific research, communication, and knowledge production.
Fieldwork Experience (30 credits):
This module provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a relevant organization, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.
Dissertation or Heritage Project (60 credits):
This module allows students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice, culminating in either a traditional written dissertation or an embedded project.
Assessment:
The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
- Essays
- Presentations
- Projects
- Portfolios
- Examinations Assessment criteria are designed to evaluate students' knowledge, understanding, critical thinking, and research skills.
Teaching:
The program is taught by a team of experienced academics with expertise in photographic history. The teaching methods employed include:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Online discussions
- Independent study The program also utilizes a variety of technologies to enhance the learning experience, including:
- Learning Zone
- Collaborate Ultra
- DMU Replay
- MS Teams
- Turnitin
- LinkedIn Learning
- Microsoft 365
Careers:
The Photographic History MA prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the culture sector, including:
- Research
- Archives
- Museums
- Galleries
- Curating
- Museum and gallery administration
- Digital cataloguing
- Publishing Many graduates have also pursued further academic studies, including PhDs in the UK, Germany, Switzerland, and the USA.
Other:
The program also offers students the opportunity to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including:
- Research seminars
- Workshops
- Conferences
- Networking events These activities provide students with valuable opportunities to further develop their knowledge, skills, and professional connections.
UK 2024/25 fees:
£9,435 (full-time) per year. 2024/25 full-time DL tuition fees for international students: £15,800.
De Montfort University
Overview:
De Montfort University (DMU) is a public university located in Leicester, UK. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, foundation, and distance learning courses. DMU is known for its focus on employability and its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Services Offered:
Courses:
- DMU offers a diverse range of courses across various disciplines, including undergraduate, postgraduate, foundation, distance learning, post-registration healthcare courses, and courses starting in January.
Accommodation:
- The university provides a variety of accommodation options for students, including on-campus residences and private housing.
Campus Tours:
- Prospective students can take virtual or in-person tours of the campus to get a feel for the environment.
Employability:
- DMU has a dedicated Careers Team that provides support and guidance to students in their career development.
Fees and Funding:
- Information on tuition fees and funding options for both domestic and international students is available on the university website.
Student Support:
- DMU offers a comprehensive range of student support services, including academic advising, mental health support, and disability services.
PhD Research:
- The university has a Doctoral College that supports students pursuing PhD research degrees.
Study with a DMU Partner:
- DMU collaborates with partner institutions to offer joint programs and study abroad opportunities.
Information for Parents:
- The university provides resources and information specifically for parents of prospective students.
DMU Global:
- This program offers international students support and resources to help them adjust to life in the UK.
- Student Life and Campus Experience:
Campus:
- DMU has a modern and vibrant campus with a variety of facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and student unions.
Student City:
- Leicester is a multicultural and vibrant city with a thriving student population.
Open Days:
- Prospective students can attend open days to meet with academics, current students, and explore the campus.
Campus Tours:
- Virtual and in-person tours are available to help students get a feel for the campus environment.
Student Support:
- DMU provides a range of support services to help students succeed academically and personally.
DMUsport:
- The university offers a variety of sports and fitness activities for students.
DMU Careers Team:
- The Careers Team provides support and guidance to students in their career development.
Employability Focus:
- DMU is known for its strong focus on employability, with a dedicated Careers Team and a range of programs designed to prepare students for the workforce.
Supportive Learning Environment:
- The university provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment with a range of student support services.
Modern Campus:
- DMU has a modern and vibrant campus with a variety of facilities.
Vibrant Student City:
- Leicester is a multicultural and vibrant city with a thriving student population.
Research Success:
- DMU is recognized for its research excellence in various fields.
Academic Programs:
Undergraduate Courses:
- DMU offers a wide range of undergraduate courses across various disciplines, including business, law, engineering, and the arts.
Postgraduate Courses:
- The university also offers a variety of postgraduate courses, including master's degrees and PhD programs.
Foundation Courses:
- DMU provides foundation courses for students who need to improve their academic skills before starting a degree program.
Other:
Tef Silver:
- DMU has been awarded a silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which recognizes its high-quality teaching and learning.
International Presence:
- DMU has campuses in Dubai and Kazakhstan, and it offers a range of programs for international students.
Research Excellence:
- DMU is recognized for its research excellence in various fields, including health, technology, and the arts.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
- While the context mentions some aspects of student life and campus experience, it does not provide a detailed description.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Studying at De Montfort University (DMU) offers several unique advantages for students. Here are some key reasons why many choose to study there:
1. Strong Employability Focus
- Work Placements and Internships: DMU has strong industry links and offers a range of placement opportunities across various fields. These placements help students gain real-world experience.
- DMU Works: This dedicated careers and employability service helps students find employment opportunities, develop CVs, and improve interview skills.
- High Graduate Employment Rates: DMU has a strong track record of graduates finding employment or pursuing further study shortly after graduation.
2. Diverse Course Offerings
- DMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in fields like business, arts, engineering, health, law, and more. It’s known for innovative programs and interdisciplinary approaches.
3. International Opportunities
- DMU Global: This program offers students opportunities to study or gain experience abroad, enhancing their global perspective and employability. DMU has links with institutions worldwide and organizes study trips to various countries.
4. Inclusive and Diverse Environment
- DMU is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with students from various cultural backgrounds, making it a vibrant and supportive campus community. The university emphasizes a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
5. Excellent Campus Facilities
- DMU’s campus is modern, featuring state-of-the-art labs, workshops, and creative spaces. The Vijay Patel Building, for example, is renowned for its design and creative arts facilities.
- The Leisure Centre and Library offer high-quality resources for student well-being and study.
6. Innovative Research
- DMU is a research-focused institution, with particular strengths in areas like sustainability, health, creative industries, and technology. Students have the opportunity to work alongside academics on cutting-edge research projects.
7. Leicester – A Great Student City
- DMU is located in Leicester, a city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, affordable cost of living, and excellent student-friendly atmosphere. Leicester also has a vibrant arts and music scene, with plenty of social activities for students.
8. Commitment to Sustainability
- DMU is a leading university in sustainability, striving to make a positive environmental impact. It encourages students to engage in sustainable initiatives and research, making it a good choice for those passionate about green issues.
9. Supportive Learning Environment
- DMU offers a variety of student support services, including academic support, mental health counseling, and student advice. The university fosters a nurturing environment to help students thrive both academically and personally.
10. Creative and Cultural Hub
- The university has strong links with the creative industries, particularly in arts, fashion, media, and design. DMU organizes numerous cultural events, exhibitions, and showcases, allowing students to engage in creative practices and gain exposure.
- Together, these factors make De Montfort University an attractive destination for students looking for a well-rounded educational experience with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Entry Requirements:
UK/EU Students:
- Typical Entry Requirements: Applicants should possess an equivalent of a 2.2 or above UK bachelor's honours degree in a relevant field such as history, museum studies, art history, photography and lens-based media, history of science, heritage studies, or literature.
- Non-standard Applicants: Applications from individuals with non-standard qualifications will be carefully considered. Interviews may be conducted for such applicants.
International Students:
- An IELTS score of 6.5 overall with 5.5 in each band, or equivalent, is mandatory for applicants whose first language is not English.
- English language tuition is available before and during the course through the British Council accredited Centre for English Language Learning.
- All applicants, regardless of qualifications, are encouraged to submit a study-related enquiry form.
- The course welcomes applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
International Students:
- An IELTS score of 6.5 overall with 5.5 in each band, or equivalent, is required for applicants whose first language is not English.
