Art Degrees Online

BA in Photographic Media Course Content

Year 1: Learning
Semester 1
Photographic Techniques
Practical Photography
Ways of Seeing
Research & Writing Skills

Semester 2
Applied Photography
Photographic Theory
Digital Photography
History of Art and Photography

Year 2: Consolidation

Semester 1
Photo-essay/Editorial Photography
Media Law & Ethics
Layout & Graphic Design
Professional Development

Semester 2
Commercial Photography
Media History
Web Design
Structured Photo Project

Year 3: Application

Semester 1
The Business of Photography
The Politics of the Image
Elective Specialism
Video Production
Large-Format Photography
Action Photography
People Photography

Semester 2
Final Photographic Project (double credit)
Professional Practice

Learner protection for this programme is provided in accordance with section 43 of the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act 1999.

CAO Code GC 470
Points Level 2008 AQA – All Qualifying Applicants
Framework Level Level 7

Course Duration
Full-Time 3 years
Part-Time 3 years

For further information please contact the Admissions Office at GCD
Phone +353 1 415 0400
Email admissions@gcd.ie

About the Course
This visual media industry is currently in rapid change and progression. Elements like DTP and the world wide web have created a pressing need for highly trained visual arts professionals with a high level of new skills and creative artistic and communications talent.

Griffith College’s Faculty of Journalism and Media has over eight years experience in providing industry standard photographic training. The delivery of award winning courses has gained us an enviable reputation in the Irish photographic industry. Former students are now working in the field in all spheres of photographic practice and we have long enjoyed the support of our colleagues in the Irish professional Photographer’s Association. In addition, Griffith students have won seven of the eight photographic awards in the national student Media competitions between 2005 and 2007.

This BA Degree course is offered on a three year full-time basis or on a part-time version, the first time this level of study has been offered in this format in Ireland. The emphasis of our course is on commercial photography, professional approach allied to analytical skills and creative judgment. Our graduates will be highly skilled and experienced, capable of adding to the visual arts media in Ireland and abroad. On completion of this course graduates will be versed in the skills necessary for further study at even higher levels.

Progression
Further study is an option for students who successfully complete this course; the logical progression is to take the final year of the BA (Hons) in Journalism and Visual Media.

Framework Level HETAC Level 6
Course Duration
Full-Time 1 year
Part-Time 1 year

Diploma in Photography Course Content
Semester 1
Photographic Techniques
Practical Photography
Ways of Seeing
Research & Writing Skills

Semester 2
Applied Photography
Photographic Theory
Digital Photography
History of Art and Photography

Progression
Further study is an option for students who successfully complete this course; the logical progression is to procede to 2nd year of the BA in Photographic Media.

The B.F.A. program in Photography is designed to prepare students to succeed in the competitive world of professional photography while at the same time maintaining the standards and the aims of a NCA education. The NCA Photography program has an applied emphasis designed to prepare B.F.A. graduates to enter one of several professional fields of photography, including but not limited to advertising, illustration, editorial, portrait, journalistic or a fine art sub-discipline.

Graduates of the program develop photographic skills with fine art aesthetics, visual problem solving, and traditional and digital imaging photographic media as evidenced in their personal portfolios. Students also develop an understanding of both historic and contemporary photographic trends and masters. Collectively these attributes are gained through classroom instruction, work production, exposure to working professionals, and internships.

Students in the Photography program develop quality photographic projects with the final goal of a presentation portfolio.

INT300 Internship 3 credits
Required during the junior year, INT300 provides the opportunity for real world experience through the Internship & Apprenticeship Program. Students complete a minimum of 120 hours on-site as an intern with a business or as an apprentice with an established artist. Other requirements include keeping a journal, writing a reflection paper and attending a debriefing seminar with other interns and apprentices. A learning contract outlining educational objectives as well as work duties and responsibilities is completed prior to starting INT300.
Prerequisites: Junior level standing
Fulfills: Internship Requirement (All Concentrations)

PH203 Introduction to Photographic Media 3 credits
This course introduces the basic tools, techniques and concepts of photographic media. Students are introduced to a variety of photographic methods for generating and outputting images, with a primary emphasis on lens based representation and production. Modes of image generation and output that are addressed include black and white and color film, digital, and time-based visual imaging systems. Students explore the aesthetic aspects of photography while they complete a series of assignments geared towards developing their technical and conceptual abilities. Issues related to camera vision, representation and picture interpretation are also explored.
Prerequisites:
Fulfills: Introduction to Photographic Media Requirement (Photography and Graphic Design students); Lens, Technology, Time Elective; Studio Elective

PH206 Introduction to Audio and Video Media 3 credits
This course combines viewing and discussion with video production to help students develop a critical point of view regarding video, electronic, digital and print media. Assignments examine the cross fertilization between art and media industries, covering topics that could include advertising, documentaries, the news, political campaigns, personal identity, media imaging and text. Students work on projects that involve the conception, production, and presentation of inter media works, which can include basic audio, video, and various other elements. Methods of critical viewing are applied to the consideration of the work of contemporary media artists as well as works produced by the class. Basic digital and multi media concepts are also discussed.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Time Based Media Requirement (Photography students); Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); Studio Elective

PH215 Landscape Photography in Italy (viterbo) 3 credits
This course is administered by the Director of the Italy Program and makes use of the environment and locale of the residency program in Italy. The structure of different types of photographic work, and the requirements and problems associated with each, will be used as tools to focus one’s photographic perception of the residency experience. Assignments are designed to narrow the student’s image choices, and produce images which go beyond generalization or literal representations. Weekly assignments will include editorial photography, visual narratives, and approaches to landscape/environment. Emphasis will be on producing images within each assignment that translate the experience of the photographer. Readings and slide lectures will introduce the concepts and potentials of each project. There will be weekly assignments and a final critique will occur in October, where all students will show their final portfolio.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); Studio Elective

PH225 3-D Computer Graphics 3 credits
This course is designed for the fine artist, illustrator, or designer who is interested in exploring 3-D computer modeling and rendering as a visualization tool for sculpture and 2-D image making. Students become literate in the conceptual and technical skills necessary to work within a 3-D computer environment while completing projects which are applicable to different areas of concentration. Students learn to build polygonal objects using 2-D to 3-D transformation techniques; apply and manipulate surface attributes; design and build 3-D environments; and create hybrid imagery using a variety of software tools and output options including print, video tape, and the web. This course covers a brief history of 3-D computer modeling, as well as discussions regarding contemporary issues surrounding animation and virtual reality, an introduction to key frame animation, and the work of artists working in the medium.
Prerequisites:
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); Studio Elective

PH230 Photographic Media II 3 credits
This course is devoted to extending the student’s awareness and understanding of photographic image making processes. Silver and digital processes will be examined as new options in content and craft are explored. Topics presented include visualization and camera vision, representation and picture interpretation, color theory and the use of color as a form of content. The context of meaning of the student’s work will be discussed within the scope of historical and contemporary photography. Students will work with a variety of photographic materials and processes. A self-generated portfolio of images is required as final.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Photographic Media II Requirement or Studio Elective

PH299 Topics in Photography and Video 3 credits
This course provides an in-depth study of a topic in Photography and Video. The topic may be selected to take advantage of special events, to allow further exploration of a subject covered in a preliminary way in other courses, or to explore areas not sufficiently covered by the regular class rotation.
Prerequisites: Prerequisites will be developed in conjunction with the course description for each topic.
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography Students); Studio Elective

PH305 Studio Photography 3 credits
The studio has become the chosen area of many contemporary fine art photographers. This course addresses technical and conceptual skills, stresses individual solutions to assigned problems, and places special emphasis on lighting (daylight, tungsten, and strobes). Work by contemporary studio-based photographers will be discussed.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); Studio Elective

PH315 Photographic Applications 3 credits
The goal of this course is to give students an understanding of the various professional and fine art aspects of the photographic medium. Editorial, architectural, documentary, advertising and stock photography will be discussed. Assignments will be geared towards the exploration of each area.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Photographic Applications Requirement (Photography students); Photography Elective (Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH325 Digital Photography 3 credits
This course will acquaint students with the technical as well as aesthetic possibilities of digital photography. Computer manipulation of photographic film and prints from image conception to output will be examined through a series of sequential assignments.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Digital Photography Requirement (Photography students); Photography Elective (Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH326 Multi-Media I 3 credits
This course is an introduction to interactive non-linear thinking using digital tools. A series of short exercises explore the relationships and transitions between images and other forms of information such as video, animation, sound and text. The various functions of interactive media are covered and may include CD-ROM production, kiosk design and Internet applications.
Prerequisites: Digital Photography or Using Images or equivalent computer literacy or permission of instructor
Fulfills: Time Based Media Requirement (Photography students); Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH327 Multi-Media II 3 credits
Using the technical and conceptual skills developed in Multi-Media I, students continue their investigation of time-based media, animation and interactivity. A series of advanced exercises focusing on usability, information management and interface design lead to a final project. Through research and the development of flowcharts and storyboards, students build a final presentation supported by in-class discussion and review.
Prerequisites: Multi-media I
Fulfills: Time Based Media Requirement (Photography students); Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH330 Advanced Projects in Color Photography 3 credits
This class is an opportunity for advanced students to explore in depth current issues in color photography. In addition to completing assigned problems and readings, the students choose projects using the color materials best suited to their subject. They produce a set of photographs, a book, or an installation of color work. Digital concepts in color photography are discussed.
Prerequisites: Photographic Media II or permission of instructor
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); Studio Elective

PH335 Video Projects 3 credits
This class concentrates on the production and viewing of video work. Students work on individual and group projects throughout the semester. Emphasis is placed on exploration of the elements of time, sound, narrative and non-narrative structure within a context of personal experience and the traditions of video art.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Audio and Video Media
Fulfills: Time Based Media Elective (Photography students); Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH340 Contemporary Issues and Photography 3 credits
This class offers students an opportunity to work with different combinations of photographic imagery. Students are encouraged to experiment with original and appropriated elements and image/language combinations to create new meanings. Explorations include such issues as identity, gender, culture or religious beliefs in the context of contemporary thought. Students will be required to produce of cohesive portfolio that demonstrates their ideas and ability to work in depth within a given topic.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH345 The Electronic Portfolio 3 credits
This course is for students from all concentrations who have a sufficient body of work and wish to explore electronic methods of representation. It is an in depth exploration of editing and sequencing options, using a wide criteria for selection (some of which are content, production methods, color, order, etc), while always focusing on the changing relationships of the parts to the whole. It covers a large variety of portfolio production options such as: CD & DVD, web, and hard copy generated from computer files. Photography will be the main vehicle for image transfer from different mediums to the computer, via slides, scans or digital capture. The integration of design elements and imagery is essential for the final projects.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Time Based Media Elective (Photography students); Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH352 Digital Photography/Advanced Concepts 3 credits
A continuation of digital concepts in photography with a strong emphasis on the combination of concept and print craft as defined by digital manipulation, resolution and output. A variety of topics, including contemporary advances in digital technology and their effect on the field of fine art photography, both in print output options and portfolio presentation on CD ROM are discussed.
Prerequisites: Digital Photography
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH355 Advanced Traditional Photographic Processes 3 credits
In this advanced course students make exhibition-quality prints using silver based, black and white photographic processes. Topics covered in this class are technical as well as conceptual, they include: issues of traditional photographic representation in a digital world, the cross fertilization of digital and traditional processes, advanced exposure and development of negatives, archival processing and presentation, and techniques that provide for optimum control in the darkroom. Intensive darkroom time and demonstrations of advanced printing control will refine students printing skills. Assignments, independent projects, written and oral presentations, and critiques will challenge and expand students’ visual skills and their ability to communicate their ideas. A final portfolio of prints will be presented to receive credit for the course.
Prerequisites: Photographic Media II, or permission of instructor
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH356 Evolving Documentary Traditions in Photograph 3 credits
This course concentrates on one of the medium’s strongest traditions – the visual description of the relationships among the individual, social groups, culture, and the environment. Special attention is paid to both historical examples and contemporary theory and practice. Different documentary genres will be examined, some of which include oral histories, the visual essay and the journal. Theories of representation are studied in relation to still photographic and digital video media forms.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Photographic Media
Fulfills: Time Based Media Elective (Photography students); Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH358 Media Projects 3 credits
This is an opportunity for advanced students to work independently or in small groups in a structured critical environment. The final project of this course is a public presentation which incorporates one or more of the following media forms: video, audio, multi-media, film and stills.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Audio and Video Media
Fulfills: Time Based Media Elective (Photography students); Photography Elective (Photography and Graphic Design students); 300-level Studio Elective; Studio Elective

PH399 Topics in Photography and Video 3 credits
This course provides an in-depth study of a topic in Photography. The topic may be selected to take advantage of special events, to allow further exploration of a subject covered in a preliminary way in other courses, or to explore areas not sufficiently covered by the regular class rotation.
Prerequisites: Prerequisites will be developed in conjunction with the course description for each topic.
Fulfills: Photography Elective (Photography Students); 300-Level Studio Elective

PH900 Independent Study in Photography 3 credits
Advanced work in photography, supervised by a designated faculty member
Prerequisites: only open to third or fourth year students with permission of instructor
Fulfills:

The Photography and Video program at Montserrat is more diverse and dynamic than ever before. The program immerses students in photo studies, time based/video, and traditional 2D photographic media. Because of the critical and technological environment of photographic studies, we require students to take a sequence of courses, which support a broad range of approaches and imaging applications. Students complete their studies with the production of a comprehensive body of work that demonstrates fluency in contemporary photographic media language.

The Photography and Video department offers a full range of classes from traditional photographic processes to digital and electronic media forms. From the onset, courses engage students with the potential of the expanded media environment that now includes still, video, sound, and multimedia forms of expression. Progressive course offerings also provide for a range of technical and conceptual points of departure and aesthetic investigations. Yet in the department, the basic tenets and vocabulary of photographic imaging endures. Using film or flash ram, still or video imaging systems, with or without sound we are still looking through the lens of a camera. Issues of representation, the construction of content and meaning, the communication of ideas, and the dissemination of information continue to be integral components of the photographic dialogue.

The Photography and Video department’s facilities and technology support all course offerings. Our darkroom handles formats ranging from 35mm to 4×5″ negatives. Our shooting studio is equipped with strobes and continuous light systems, computer and archiving stations, and proofing devices. Our digital labs utilize Macintosh computers along with the most current editing software. Students also use professional digital cameras, flatbed scanners, high-resolution film scanners, archiving hardware, media converters, a 44″ wide-format archival inkjet printer, small format archival inkjet printers and color and black and white proofing devices. Still and video cameras, tripods, portable lighting kits, and other equipment are available for students for in-class and off-campus work.

You will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of photographic media, techniques and processes. You may use traditional methods and/or digital techniques. Researching the work of other Photographers and Artists is an integral part of the investigating and making process. You will produce a sketchbook/workbook/journal to underpin your work, documenting your research and recording the development of your own work. You should be able to express ideas and link your intentions to outcomes in a confident and assured manner.
Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language
Content and Assessment

AS Course – One Year
Unit 1 – Portfolio (50% AS mark, 25% of total A Level mark)
AS students should submit a selection of thoughtfully presented work that demonstrates the depth and breadth of the course.
At least one extended collection of work, based on an idea, concept, theme or issue.
Unit 2 – Externally-Set Assignment (50% AS mark, 25% of total A Level mark)
Question Paper containing a choice of five exciting starting points
Five hours supervised to produce final piece(s)

A2 – Second Year of Course
Unit 3 – Personal Investigation (25% of total A Level Mark)
Students develop work in response to an idea, issue, concept or theme of their choice. Students must include written material of a critical analytical nature. Written work linked to the practical work must also be included.
Unit 4 – Externally-Set Assignment (25% of total A Level marks)
Question Paper containing a choice eight exciting starting points. Fifteen hours supervised to produce final piece(s).
Students produce a clearly defined selection of work which will lead to a finished piece(s).
Coursework

Unit 1 of AS and Unit 3 of A2 are coursework, making 50% of the total marks.
Progression

A Levels can lead to exciting opportunities in Higher Education to do creative subjects and some practical aspects of the course are good preparation for the workplace.

Course content

The course encourages exploration of the photograph within practices such as art and independent photography, editorial, product, services and industry, performance and entertainment and communications. Encouraging progressivley independent learning, the course will include the development of working to client commissions, personal research methods and the study of photography in a variety of contexts and across a range of genres.
Stage one

Introduction to processes and techniques of photography (from the use of a 35mm camera, digital SLR to medium and large format photography, studio and location shooting and working in both the wet and dark rooms) and the consideration of the different conceptual approaches to photography, supported by theory lectures alongside fine art students.
Stage two

Development of a body of practical work around both fine art and commercial applications, supported by theory lectures on the place of photography within a variety of genres and the production of a folder of career development information.
Stage three

Consolidation of practical work, culminating in an exhibition and either a shorter dissertation and a professional development folder, or a longer dissertation for those with strengths in critical writing.
Typical modules include
Critical photographic practice
Lens-based images – archive/collection
Photography and design for communication
Photographic images in visual culture
Photography in arts practice
Photographic media – conceptual development
Photographic truth – photographic fiction
Practice exhibition
Understanding the visual
Career opportunities

A wide range of career opportunities exist in the commercial and public sector, marketing, public relations and specialised fields. Graduates can develop their practice as independent artists and pursue collaborations, commissions, publication and exhibition opportunities, or in postgraduate study. MA in the Arts (Fine Art) or (Curatorial Studies) are offered as progression in the School of The Arts.