This course equips students with transferable skills, and explores the use of photography in modern society, through the use of a hybrid of old and new media. The course team places a great emphasis on integrating critical theory and practice in all years and modules. The course is taught by practising photographers and experienced lecturers who provide a supportive framework to encourage self-motivated research and experimentation.
Course Structure

The first year provides a thorough grounding in both technical and critical skills. Students will be introduced to historical, theoretical, cultural and political debates surrounding lens-based media. This study is directly linked to the use of all camera formats as well as the specific qualities of analogue and digital photography. The traditional genres and their convergence are explored in the studio and on location.

In the second year students continue to develop technical and contextual skills at a higher level. Risk taking, collaborative and interdisciplinary methods of working are introduced. Specific contact points are developed with industry through placements, visiting lecturers, field trips and exhibition visits.

The third year enables students to establish their own direction and to place themselves within a contemporary context. Critical professional debate about visual culture is encouraged. Ways of distribution within the creative, media and arts industries and entrepreneurship are investigated and applied. By the end of the final year students will be independent and confident practitioners who will hit the ground running.
Assessment

The course is assessed through a variety of methods including practical projects, essays, seminar presentations, exhibitions and portfolios.
After the Course
Career opportunities in photography include editorial, documentary, portraiture, advertising, fashion, music, architecture, newspaper, medical, wildlife, police photography, reality based visualisation or computer generated imaging and publishing. Other areas graduates can move into are fine art practice, picture research, editing and curatorial posts, gallery or project management, technical support and PR.