Skip to main content

It looks like you have JavaScript turned off

Pretty much everything should work. But you may find some components look slightly off as a result. You can find out what JavaScript is here. If you don't have JavaScript turned off, or if something doesn't work that you think should do, please email hidden; JavaScript is required.

Photographic Practice BA (Hons) Degree (Level 6) — Full-time

Course outline

The new BA (Hons) degree in Photographic Practice is designed to enable you to build the skills to work effectively as a professional as a freelancer or in the creative industries.

You'll develop a detailed understanding of the technical aspects of photography work including units on studio practice, sports photography, photo journalism and product photography. You will develop your understanding of the use of software such as Photoshop throughout. You will also learn how to manage a business effectively – through units that look at managing finances and working with customers.

Crucially, you will be given the skills and understanding to use digital marketing in creating your own online presence and also explore how this is used by a wide range of employers and organisations. As a result you will be able to use your photographic talents in this rapidly-developing area.

The programme will be delivered at our ultra-modern City Hub campus in Nottingham City Centre, providing access to professional industry-standard equipment, studio spaces and software such as Adobe Creative Suite. You'll also have numerous opportunities to engage and collaborate with other students aiming to get into the creative industries and work in response to live industry briefs.

What you will cover:

Year 1 (Level 4) is designed to provide clear foundations on which to build skills in both practical photography and the concepts behind it.

You will undertake practical units in camera, editing and studio technology whilst studying ideas and concepts in analysing visual imagery, interpreting narratives and understanding audiences.

Indicative Year 1 modules:

  • Visual imagery
  • Finding an audience in photography
  • Camera skills
  • Technical production skills

Year 2 (Level 5) gives the chance to continue to build and develop skills in specialist areas of photography and exhibiting your work.

Indicative Year 2 modules:

  • Exhibiting photography
  • Journalism and event photography
  • Studio and product photography
  • Contextual studies

Year 3 (Level 6) gets you ready to launch your photography career with units designed to give you the ability to exhibit, pitch for work, build a portfolio and build your own brand.

Indicative Year 3 modules:

  • Dissertation
  • Advanced photography skills
  • Enterprise and exhibition

Useful links:

Nottingham College is proud to have been awarded the Teaching Excellence Framework Bronze Award for high quality student experience and outcomes. You can read more about this on the Office for Students website.

    You can view the fantastic works of our Media, Photography & Performance students on our showcase website run by our media faculty team.

    View showcase

    How to apply for this course

    Entry onto this course is via UCAS.

    • Institution code: N30
    • UCAS code: PHT3
    UCAS

    Want to find out more first?

    Would you like more information? Email our HE team.

    Download a guide Browse careers Get in touch
    Location Date Fees / reductions
    111 Canal Street
    Nottingham
    NG1 7HB

    Start: Monday 23rd September 2024

    The tuition fee is per year.

    Various bursaries are available for some Higher Education courses.

    Tuition fee: £8,250

    Course code: C042174 / Q042175

    Qualification

    BA (Hons) Degree in Photographic Practice validated by The Open University

    Duration

    3 years

    Level Level 6
    Entry requirements

    We expect applicants to be working at (or to demonstrate competency at) Level 2 or above in English/literacy and maths/numeracy. We accept GCSE passes in English Language and maths at Grades 9 to 4 (previously A* to C).

    Applicants must also have a minimum of 64 UCAS points from study at Level 3:

    • At least two A Levels at A2
    • BTEC Diploma or Extended Diploma
    • International Baccalaureate
    • Access to HE Diploma
    • T levels

    Other combinations of qualifications and experience will also be considered, as will Level 3 qualifications not currently listed on the UCAS tariff.

    Mature applicants not meeting the standard entry criteria but with relevant industry or life experience are very welcome to apply.

    Teaching & assessment

    A mixture of traditional and innovative assessment methods will be used, including individual and group presentations, discussions, report writing, case studies, presentations, research and project work, examinations, reflective journals and work-based projects.

    Progression

    Graduates will be well-equipped to progress to postgraduate study or seek work in a variety of creative roles. Many photographers work in advertising, media, fashion, sports, weddings, and more! Possible careers include: photographer, sports photographer, fashion photographer, press photographer, picture editor, exhibition curator, visual merchandiser, videographer, retoucher, digital marketeer, photo-journalist, blogger or teacher.

    Additional information
    The Open University logo


    Nottingham College is approved by The Open University as an appropriate organisation to offer higher education programmes leading to Open University validated awards.

    You can view the Open University Students Guide 2022 here.

    In addition, you can view the OU Validated Award Regulations here.

    About the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)

    The TEF is a national scheme run by the Office for Students (OfS) that aims to encourage higher education providers to improve and deliver excellence in the areas that students care about the most: teaching, learning and achieving positive outcomes from their studies.

    Learn more about the TEF