History of Photography

Program Overview

This MA in History of Photography program delves into the history, theory, and practice of photography, equipping students with critical and analytical skills to research, interpret, and discuss diverse photographic practices and cultures. The program offers a wide range of optional modules, taught by internationally recognized experts, and prepares students for careers in academia, museums, galleries, and the creative industries. Graduates are highly sought after for their critical thinking, research, and communication skills.

Program Outline

It equips students with the critical and analytical skills to research, interpret, and discuss diverse photographic practices and cultures from both past and present. The program fosters a dynamic learning environment where students can develop their interests, regardless of their background or future goals.

• Objectives: This MA program aims to provide students with:
• In-depth knowledge of the history of photography and its cultural contexts.
• A strong foundation in critical theory and research methodologies.
• The ability to analyze and interpret photographic images.
• Develop the ability to write persuasively and articulately about photography.
• Enhance critical thinking and transferable research skills.
• Description: This program offers an in-depth and critical study of photography, catering to individuals with various interests, whether academic, artistic, personal, or vocational.
It provides the opportunity to engage with leading figures in the field of photographic history and theory, benefit from a vibrant student community, and access exceptional research facilities. The program is designed to prepare students for further academic research or careers in photography, museums, galleries, and the creative industries.

Outline:

• Content: The program covers various aspects of photography, including:
• The history of photography from its invention to the present day.
• Major theoretical perspectives on photography.
• The relationship between photography and other media forms.
• The impact of photography on social, cultural, and political life.
• The analysis of individual photographers and bodies of work.
• The ethical considerations involved in the production and consumption of photographic images.
• Structure: The program is offered both full-time (one year) and part-time (two years) and includes:
• One compulsory module: Frameworks: Histories and Theories of Art, Architecture, Photography.
• A research exercise.
• Two optional modules chosen from a wide range of topics.
• A 15,000-word dissertation.
• Course Schedule:
• Full-time students attend classes two to three evenings per week between October and July.
• Part-time students attend classes one to two evenings per week between October and July.
• Modules: The program offers a diverse range of optional modules, some examples include:
• Art and Identity: 'Race', Ideology, Culture
• Art and Photography Since 1970
• Art Museums in a Global Age
• Contemporary Photography and the Index
• Curating Difficult Histories: Museums, Exhibitions, Art Activism
• Display, Exhibition and Spectacle in London, 1750-1850
• Exhibiting the Pain of Others: Museums, Violence and Memory
• Fashioning the Body
• Ideas Transmission History
• Impressionism Now
• Modernity's Waste Spaces
• Museum Cultures Work Placement
• Photography and the Brazilian 'Image World' circa 1840-1950
• Photography in the Archives: Issues for Nineteenth-Century Photography
• Queer and Black Photography in 1980-1990s Britain
• Silk Threads: Weaving Global Art Histories of Medieval Textiles
• The Book Unbound
• Visual Cultures of Disability

Assessment:

• Methods:
• Coursework assignments (essays, research projects, presentations).
• Research exercise (essay or project).
• 15,000-word dissertation.
• Criteria:
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Research skills and methodologies
• Writing and communication skills
• Originality and creativity
• Depth of understanding and knowledge

Teaching:

• Methods:
• Lectures and seminars
• Group discussions and presentations
• Individual tutorials and supervision
• Research workshops
• Field trips to galleries, museums, and archives
• Faculty:
• Internationally recognized experts in the field of photography
• Active researchers who are shaping the discipline
• Unique approaches:
• Emphasis on active learning and student participation
• Collaborative and supportive learning environment
• Focus on developing independent research skills

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Academic/teaching positions
• Museum/gallery curator
• Photographer/press photographer
• Community arts worker
• Advertising art director
• Opportunities:
• The program prepares students for diverse career opportunities in the field of photography and related industries.
• Graduates have gone on to work in prestigious institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, Tate Modern, and the National Portrait Gallery.
• Outcomes:
• The program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen careers.
• Graduates are highly sought after for their critical thinking, research, and communication skills.

Other:

• The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in study trips to various cities, including Florence, Paris, Venice, Vienna, Rome, Berlin, and Moscow.
The program structure, content, and faculty may be subject to change.

Part-time home students: £5,400 per year Full-time home students: £10,800 per year Part-time international students: £9,915 per year Full-time international students: £19,830 per year