MSc Accounting and Finance
Robert Gordon University (RGU) is a dynamic and innovative institution located in Aberd...
BA Photography (Top Up)
Aberdeen
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
Robert Gordon University (RGU) in the UK offers an enriching BA Photography (Top Up) program designed for students who already hold a relevant qualification, such as an HND or foundation degree, and wish to further their studies to a full Bachelor's degree. This program typically spans one to two years and provides students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of photography, refine their skills, and develop a professional portfolio.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA Photography (Top Up) program at RGU is carefully crafted to build upon students' existing knowledge and skills in photography. Courses may cover advanced topics such as conceptual photography, digital imaging techniques, studio lighting, and portfolio development. Students also have the opportunity to explore specialized areas of photography based on their interests and career goals. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical concepts and practical application, allowing students to refine their artistic vision and technical proficiency.
Research Focus: RGU places importance on research within the field of photography, encouraging students to engage in critical inquiry and creative exploration. While the BA Photography (Top Up) program may not have a dedicated research component like a traditional research-based degree, students are encouraged to develop their research skills through independent projects, critical analysis of contemporary photography trends, and exploration of theoretical frameworks relevant to photography practice. This research focus enriches students' creative process and fosters a deeper understanding of the broader context in which photography operates.
Industry Engagement: One of the strengths of the BA Photography (Top Up) program at RGU is its emphasis on industry engagement and professional development. The university collaborates closely with industry partners, professional photographers, and creative agencies to provide students with real-world insights and networking opportunities. Guest lectures, workshops, and industry projects expose students to the latest trends and practices in the photography industry, while also facilitating connections that may lead to internships, freelance opportunities, or employment after graduation.
Global Perspective: RGU recognizes the importance of a global perspective in photography education, given the increasingly interconnected nature of the photography industry and the diverse cultural influences shaping visual communication. While the BA Photography (Top Up) program may primarily focus on developing students' technical and creative skills, it also encourages students to explore global perspectives through the study of international photographers, visual cultures, and contemporary issues. This global perspective enriches students' artistic practice and prepares them to navigate the globalized landscape of photography in their future careers.
Location
Aberdeen
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17670
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Students should have completed their secondary education with a minimum of 60% or equivalent in their country's grading system. The specific entry requirements may vary depending on the chosen program of study. Some programs may have additional subject-specific requirements.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80 on the TOEFL is accepted, with no sub-score in any section falling below 17.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 56 with no individual score below 51.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Robert Gordon University (RGU) in the United Kingdom is fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment by offering a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing their higher education. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, encourage diversity, and provide financial assistance to students from around the world.
International Achievement Scholarship: The International Achievement Scholarship at RGU is designed to reward outstanding international students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies. This merit-based scholarship provides financial support towards tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Vice-Chancellor's Undergraduate Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students who have displayed exceptional academic performance. The Vice-Chancellor's Undergraduate Scholarship aims to attract top talents to RGU and assist them in achieving their educational goals.
RGU SPORT Scholarship: Recognizing the importance of sports and physical well-being, RGU offers the RGU SPORT Scholarship to international students who excel in sports. This scholarship supports athletes in balancing their academic and sporting commitments, promoting a holistic approach to student life.
Santander Scholarships: In collaboration with Santander Universities, RGU provides Santander Scholarships to international students. These scholarships aim to facilitate educational opportunities, cultural exchange, and global perspectives by supporting students in various academic disciplines.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: RGU participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, offering international students from eligible Commonwealth countries the chance to pursue master's level studies. This scheme covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses, promoting access to higher education for students with limited financial means.
Graduates of Robert Gordon University's (RGU) BA Photography (Top Up) program have a wide array of career options in the dynamic field of photography. Equipped with advanced skills and a comprehensive understanding of photography concepts, techniques, and industry practices, RGU alumni are well-positioned to pursue diverse opportunities in various sectors.
Professional Photographer: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as professional photographers, specializing in areas such as portrait photography, wedding photography, commercial photography, fashion photography, or fine art photography. As professional photographers, RGU alumni may work independently as freelancers or establish their own photography studios, catering to individual clients, businesses, or creative agencies.
Photojournalist or Documentary Photographer: Some graduates may pursue careers as photojournalists or documentary photographers, capturing stories and events through visual storytelling. Photojournalists and documentary photographers may work for newspapers, magazines, online media outlets, or non-profit organizations, documenting social issues, cultural events, and human interest stories with a focus on authenticity and journalistic integrity.
Advertising and Commercial Photography: Others may choose to work in advertising and commercial photography, creating images for advertising campaigns, product launches, and promotional materials. Advertising and commercial photographers collaborate with marketing agencies, design firms, and corporate clients to visually communicate brand messages and enhance product visibility through compelling imagery.
Fashion and Editorial Photography: Some graduates may specialize in fashion and editorial photography, working with fashion designers, magazines, and modeling agencies to create visually striking images for editorial spreads, advertising campaigns, and fashion portfolios. Fashion and editorial photographers collaborate with stylists, makeup artists, and models to bring creative concepts to life and showcase fashion trends and aesthetics.
Digital Imaging Specialist: With the increasing demand for digital content creation, some graduates may pursue careers as digital imaging specialists, retouchers, or post-production artists. Digital imaging specialists work in photography studios, creative agencies, or post-production companies, utilizing advanced software tools to enhance, manipulate, and edit digital images for various purposes, including advertising, publishing, and online media.
Fine Art Photographer: Others may choose to pursue careers as fine art photographers, creating expressive and conceptual artworks for galleries, exhibitions, and cultural institutions. Fine art photographers explore personal themes, narratives, and aesthetics through their work, challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of traditional photography to evoke emotional responses and provoke thought.
Educator or Workshop Facilitator: Some graduates may explore opportunities in education, teaching photography workshops, or courses at community colleges, art centers, or continuing education programs. Educators and workshop facilitators share their expertise, passion, and knowledge with aspiring photographers, fostering creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking skills in their students.
