Key features
A new and exciting opportunity to study ideas in depth while developing your fine art studio practices
A supportive environment in both classroom and studio.
Internationally recognised staff and excellent facilities.
What our students say
“Tutors put great effort is put into making links among the subjects’ Richard Boulton, current student.
‘Enjoyable and Rewarding’ Tom Northcote, former student and Procurement Specialist with the Department of Health.’
What it’s about
Philosophy, fine art and photography are all important and complementary ways of understanding the world around us. It is rare, however, to have the chance to study these subjects together, in a genuinely interdisciplinary single honours degree.
On the philosophy side, you will have a series of taught modules that will explore the underpinnings of human thought, experience, ethics, perception and expression. These are taught by staff who are active researchers in the field but who also provide a welcoming and supportive environment. If you are tired of being pigeon-holed as either an ‘arty’ or a ‘thoughtful’ type then one of these new programmes is for you.
What you do
Both of these degree programmes are interdisciplinary — that is, they are not two halves of a degree sitting side by side. Instead, the modules you take are designed to ‘talk’ to each other by encouraging reflection on the inter-relation between philosophy, fine art and photography; several modules, including the final year project, are co-taught by members of staff from the different departments. The philosophy part of your award includes modules on ethics (how should I live my life?), metaphysics (ie the nature of reality, freedom), epistemology (what can be known, and how?), and the nature of the self (who am I?). In addition, you will be taking modules specifically on visual modes of thinking, such as ‘Philosophy Goes to the Movies’ and ‘Thinking with Hands and Eyes.’ Here, it is our practice to learn philosophy by doing it: by talking, writing, debating and reading the important original texts. Assessment of modules is normally by written work, such as essays – there are no examinations.
Students in Photography and Philosophy will be involved in the production of practical work from the beginning of the first year. The core approach of understanding ‘visual communication’ is developed through study of the many and varied conceptual and analytical approaches to photographic practice. You will be learning how to use the latest technology from high-end digital equipment to the studio environment, but with access to traditional processes as well. You will also participate in lectures and seminars that encourage lively discussion of ideas in photography. This work will enable you to become a skilled and creative photographer, with an in-depth awareness of how photographs communicate.
Where next
As a graduate you will be able to think clearly and critically, be adaptable and open-minded and able to communicate and collaborate with others in analysing and solving problems. All these are skills highly prized by employers and have led past philosophy students to careers in business, law, teaching, management and the Civil Service, among others. The photography or fine art side of your degree means you are eminently employable and entrepreneurial in a whole range of creative industries, including promoting your personal or professional practice, or working in publishing, museums, galleries or visual industries such as advertising. Production skills, communication skills,
team-working skills, initiative and an innovative approach to problem solving are desirable attributes to employers and individuals alike.
Fact FileQualification:
BA(Hons)
Faculty/School:
Faculty of Arts, Media and Design
Location:
Stoke Campus
Course Length: Normally three years full time
Entry Requirements: All applicants will be invited for interview to include a discussion about your portfolio of practical materials. All applicants are individually assessed on their qualifications, skills and experience. However a typical three A level or BTEC National Diploma offer will be 200 UCAS tarriff points.
UCAS Code:
Route A VW56, Route B Awaited