BA (Hons) Photography

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Photography program at the University of Salford equips students with a comprehensive foundation in photographic theory and practice. Through a blend of practical workshops, theoretical lectures, and individual projects, students develop their creative vision, technical skills, and critical thinking abilities. The program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the photography industry and related fields, including professional photography, fine art, and education.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BA (Hons) Photography program at the University of Salford is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both photographic theory and practice. The program aims to create flexible, resourceful, and creative photographers with well-developed transferable skills, applicable to a wide range of commercial and art-based careers.

Objectives:

• Equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue their creative potential in photography.
• Encourage students to take risks, explore ideas, and experiment with different photographic techniques.
• Foster development of critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to engage with photography in a broader context.
• Provide a platform for students to develop a broad range of transferable skills, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Prepare students for a successful career in the photography industry or related fields.

Description:

This three-year program combines practical workshops, theoretical lectures, and individual projects to create a comprehensive learning experience. Students gain hands-on experience working with industry-standard equipment and in professional studios. The program also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and contextual understanding. Students analyze historical and contemporary photographic works, engage with theoretical frameworks, and explore the relationship between photography and various social, cultural, and political issues. Through a combination of individual projects, group collaborations, and independent research, students develop their creative vision and refine their technical skills. They learn to articulate their artistic intentions, present their work effectively, and navigate the professional landscape of the photography industry.

Outline:

Year One:

• Focuses on building foundational skills and knowledge in photography.
• Introduces students to basic camera operation, lighting techniques, analogue and digital workflows, and historical and contemporary contexts of image-making.
• Modules include: Imagined Communities, Urban and Rural, Street and Studio, Photography and the Book, Establishing Frameworks, and Exploring Creative Contexts.

Year Two:

• Builds upon the skills learned in the first year and introduces more advanced concepts and techniques.
• Encourages students to experiment with various photographic media, explore different presentation formats, and engage with critical discourses surrounding photography.
• Modules include: Photography in Context, Exploring Possibilities, Constructing Worlds and Meanings, Opportunities and Industry, Developing Frameworks, and Responding to Creative Contexts.

Year Three:

• Culminates in the development of a major photographic project, showcasing students' individual artistic vision and technical expertise.
• Encourages students to conduct independent research, refine their creative practice, and engage with professional opportunities.
• Modules include: Towards Resolution, Resolution, Applying Frameworks, and Independent Research Project.

Structure:

• The program follows a trimester system, with three semesters per academic year.
• Students typically attend lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual tutorials twice a week.
• Significant time is dedicated to independent study and project work.

Course Schedule:

• The specific schedule varies each year and is available on the University website.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods include:
• Project work (individual and collaborative)
• Presentations
• Essays
• Portfolio development
• Participation in class discussions
• Critical analysis of photographic works
• Feedback is provided throughout the program to help students improve their work and develop their skills.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by experienced photographers, artists, and researchers with expertise in various photographic practices and theoretical frameworks.
• The teaching methods include:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Individual tutorials
• Guest lectures by industry professionals
• Field trips to museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions
• Students have access to dedicated studio spaces, darkrooms, digital labs, and other facilities to support their learning and creative exploration.

Careers:

• Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in the photography industry, including:
• Professional photographer
• Freelance photographer
• Commercial photographer
• Editorial photographer
• Fine art photographer
• Photojournalist
• Curator
• Artistic director
• Picture researcher
• Studio manager
• Teacher
• Videographer
• Marketing and branding specialist
• Technical support specialist
• Public relations specialist
• The program also prepares students for further studies at the postgraduate level in photography or related fields.

Other:

• The program encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, such as photography competitions, exhibitions, and workshops.
• Students have access to a supportive network of peers, faculty, and alumni.
• The University of Salford is located in a vibrant city with a thriving arts and culture scene, providing students with ample opportunities for inspiration and networking.

| Type of study | Year | Fees | |---|---|---| | Full-time home | 2024/25 | £9,250.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2024/25 | £17,040.00 per year | | Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,250.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,650.00 per year | Additional costs Optional costs may include £150 for field trips and £250 for a European visit per year. In addition, students will be required to pay from £100 for show participation in their final year. Costs are approximated based on the current academic year. You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.