Program Overview

Photography BA(Hons)

The Photography BA(Hons) course at the University of Huddersfield is designed to help students develop the skills needed to succeed in the field of photography. The course focuses on visual culture, visual communications, lighting, graphic communication, and art practices, while also exploring the role of a photographer in society.

Course Overview

The course is a three-year full-time program, with an optional one-year placement in the UK or abroad. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of photography, including commercial pathways, histories, and contemporary practices.

Course Structure

The course is divided into four years:

• Year 1: Introduction to techniques of photography, breaking the photograph, experimental practices of photography, and introduction to critical languages.
• Year 2: Collaborative photographic practice, screen and time, narrative-edit-sequence, ecologies of practice, and expanded critical languages.
• Year 3 (optional placement year): Students can spend up to 48 weeks in a graduate-level role, gaining hands-on experience and building their professional skills.
• Final Year: Advanced research strategies, applied critical languages, and personal practice portfolio.

Teaching and Assessment

The course is taught through a combination of lectures, studio-based projects, workshop demonstrations, and practical sessions. Assessment includes production of photographic images, developmental studio work, exhibition and presentation of work, and written assignments.

Facilities

The University of Huddersfield has state-of-the-art photographic facilities, including studios, digital and analogue darkrooms, and high-quality print and book-making facilities.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the course have gone on to work in a variety of roles, including freelance photographer, studio photographer, art director, visual stylist, and image maker or manipulator. Some have also gone on to work in curatorial scenarios, galleries, or museums, or as picture editors and archivists.

Fees and Finance

The maximum fees for UK-based students on undergraduate courses in 2025/26 will be £9,535 per year for full-time students. Additional costs include materials, which may vary based on the materials and quality chosen, with an estimated total cost of £70 to £100 in the first year, £150 to £200 in the second year, and £500 to £1000 in the final year per student.

Accreditations and Professional Links

The course has links with industry partners, including Photography Works, Box Photographic, Flawless Photography Studios, and Chique Photography.

Student Support

The University of Huddersfield offers a range of support services, including careers advice, student support, and research excellence. The University is committed to providing a high-quality student experience, with a focus on teaching excellence, research, and employability.