Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging
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Program Overview
Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging
The Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging is a vocational program designed to further develop students' creative practice and hone their photography skills. This practical, industry-led diploma is suited for individuals seeking to build a career in photography and related fields.
Program Overview
The program focuses on developing students' artistic practice and creative skills, with an emphasis on practical and highly transferable skills across various industry contexts. These include commercial, advertising, documentary, editorial, institutional, and fine art photography.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the diploma, graduates will possess a sound theoretical and practical knowledge base, as well as the skills to use a range of specialized and technical skills to plan, execute, and evaluate photography and photo imaging services.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this diploma may pursue careers as freelance photographers in various fields, including commercial, advertising, editorial, fashion, food, wedding, portrait, sports, travel, stock library, illustrative, and scientific and technical photography. They may also work as photographic assistants or technicians in these fields or in professional image retouching, digital image operation, events and corporate photography, or media and documentary photography.
Entry Requirements
- There are no minimum academic entry requirements for this course.
- Applicants must meet the minimum university entry requirements.
- All applicants must submit a selection task.
Selection Tasks
The selection task has three options:
- RMIT Guaranteed Pathway: For applicants who have successfully completed or are due to complete an RMIT University pathway program.
- External Qualification: For applicants who have successfully completed a nationally recognized qualification in photography and digital imaging.
- Folio with Supporting Evidence: Applicants must provide a folio consisting of a minimum of 8 images showing a variety of digital imaging outcomes, along with any other supporting evidence demonstrating previous or current experience in the creative industries.
English Language Requirements
To study this program, students must complete one of the following English proficiency tests:
- IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 5.5 (with no individual band below 5.0)
- TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 50 (with minimum of 5 in Reading, 5 in Listening, 14 in Speaking and 15 in Writing)
- Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 42 (with no communication band less than 36)
- C1 Advanced: minimum of 162 with no less than 154 in any component.
Program Structure
The diploma requires the completion of 17 subjects, including 4 core subjects and 13 electives. These subjects cover a range of topics and competencies, including visual communication theory, trends and emerging technologies, lighting techniques, pre-press processing, commercial, media, technical, and illustrative photography, styling and merchandising, user interface creation, and more.
Tuition Fees
- 2026 government-subsidized place: AU$12,250 per annum
- 2026 full-fee place: AU$18,500 per annum
- 2026 total for international students: AU$25,250
Additional Expenses
Students will also be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve the student experience. The maximum fee for 2026 is $373. Other expenses may include field trips, textbooks, and equipment.
Pathways and Further Study
Upon successful completion of the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging, students are guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Photography or the Bachelor of Fine Arts with a Photography Major, with credit exemptions applicable. Alternatively, students may be eligible for entry into other RMIT vocational study or undergraduate programs.
Industry Connections
The program has close links with the industry, providing students with opportunities to work in various environments, including marketing, community-based projects, and exhibitions. The teaching staff are practicing photographic professionals with extensive industry experience, enriching the learning experience. An Industry Advisory Committee, comprising industry professionals, provides input and guidance on the development and delivery of the diploma.