MSc Computer Engineering
The MSc in Computer Engineering program at Solent University is designed to equip stude...
BA (Hons) Photography (Top-up)
Southampton City Centre
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Photography (Top-up) program at Solent University in Southampton, UK, offers students the opportunity to build upon their existing photography knowledge and skills, providing a pathway for those who have completed a relevant foundation or diploma program to earn an undergraduate degree. This intensive one-year program is designed to enhance students' technical proficiency, creative vision, critical thinking, and professional practice in photography. Through a combination of practical assignments, theoretical lectures, and industry projects, students develop a comprehensive understanding of contemporary photographic practices and prepare for careers in the dynamic field of photography.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Photography (Top-up) program is structured to provide students with a broad range of learning experiences and opportunities for specialization. Building upon foundational knowledge, students explore advanced topics in photography, including experimental techniques, alternative processes, conceptual approaches, and professional practice. They engage in practical assignments that challenge them to push the boundaries of their creativity and technical skills, while also deepening their understanding of critical theory and visual culture. The program culminates in a final major project where students have the opportunity to pursue a self-directed body of work under the guidance of faculty mentors.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Photography (Top-up) program encourages students to develop their research skills and critical thinking abilities, fostering a culture of inquiry and exploration within the field of photography. Students engage in research-focused modules that introduce them to key theoretical concepts, debates, and methodologies in photography studies. They learn to critically analyze photographic images, interrogate dominant narratives, and situate their own practice within broader historical, cultural, and social contexts. Through independent research projects, students have the opportunity to explore topics of personal interest, develop their own unique perspectives, and contribute to the ongoing discourse in photography.
Industry Engagement: Solent University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement, providing students in the BA (Hons) Photography (Top-up) program with opportunities to connect with professionals, organizations, and creative communities within the photography industry. Through guest lectures, workshops, studio visits, and industry placements, students gain valuable insights into contemporary photographic practices, emerging trends, and career pathways. They have the opportunity to collaborate with industry partners on real-world projects, build their professional networks, and gain hands-on experience in professional settings. Industry engagement activities help students develop the practical skills, industry knowledge, and professional connections needed to succeed in the competitive field of photography.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Photography (Top-up) program at Solent University embraces a global perspective, recognizing the diverse cultural, social, and political contexts in which photography operates. Students are exposed to a wide range of photographic traditions, practices, and perspectives from around the world, enriching their understanding of global visual cultures and expanding their creative horizons. The university offers opportunities for international exchanges, study tours, and collaborations with photographers and institutions overseas, allowing students to engage with different artistic traditions, explore cross-cultural influences, and develop a global outlook in their photographic practice.
Location
Southampton City Centre
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 14250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Solent University should have completed their secondary education with a minimum of 65% or above in their respective national qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component.
- PTE Academic: A minimum score of 59, with no component below 59.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 100 is required.
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.
Solent University in the UK offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to assist international students in their academic journey. These scholarships aim to recognize and reward academic excellence, as well as provide support to those who may face financial constraints.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students who have achieved outstanding academic results. It provides a significant reduction in tuition fees for the duration of the student's course.
International Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies. It offers a partial tuition fee reduction and is awarded based on academic achievements and potential.
Solent Sports Scholarships: Solent University has a strong focus on sports and offers scholarships to talented athletes who have achieved excellence in their chosen sport. These scholarships provide financial support, training facilities, and coaching expertise to help athletes balance their studies and sports commitments.
Regional Scholarships: Solent University offers a range of scholarships specific to certain regions or countries. These scholarships aim to support students from particular regions and provide financial assistance to help them pursue their studies at Solent University.
External Scholarships: In addition to university-specific scholarships, Solent University also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. The university provides guidance and support in identifying and applying for external scholarships offered by organizations, foundations, and governments.
Financial Hardship Support: Solent University understands that some international students may face financial difficulties during their studies. The university provides support and advice through its Student Hub and Student Funding team, who can assist in exploring additional funding options and provide guidance on managing finances effectively.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Photography (Top-up) program at Solent University in Southampton, UK, are well-equipped to pursue a variety of exciting career opportunities within the field of photography and related industries. With a strong foundation in technical skills, creative vision, critical thinking, and professional practice, graduates have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in diverse roles within the dynamic and competitive photography industry.
Professional Photographer: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as professional photographers, specializing in various genres such as portrait photography, fashion photography, commercial photography, documentary photography, fine art photography, or wedding photography. They may work independently as freelancers, establishing their own photography businesses, or they may be employed by photography studios, media agencies, advertising firms, or publishing companies. Professional photographers capture images for clients, including individuals, businesses, organizations, and publications, and they may work on assignments such as editorial shoots, advertising campaigns, events coverage, or documentary projects.
Fine Art Photographer: Some graduates opt to pursue careers as fine art photographers, creating original photographic artworks for exhibition in galleries, museums, art fairs, and public spaces. They explore personal themes, concepts, and narratives through their work, experimenting with different techniques, processes, and formats to express their artistic vision. Fine art photographers may sell prints of their work to collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts, and they may also receive commissions for public art projects, site-specific installations, or editorial features.
Photojournalist/Documentary Photographer: Graduates interested in storytelling and social issues may choose to pursue careers as photojournalists or documentary photographers, documenting current events, social issues, and human experiences through visual storytelling. They may work for newspapers, magazines, online publications, news agencies, or nonprofit organizations, covering local, national, or international stories. Photojournalists and documentary photographers use their images to inform, educate, and provoke thought, and they may work on long-term projects, multimedia productions, or investigative reports that shed light on important social, political, or environmental issues.
Digital Imaging Specialist/Retoucher: Some graduates specialize in digital imaging and post-production, working as digital imaging specialists, retouchers, or image editors for photography studios, design agencies, or post-production houses. They use software tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or Capture One to enhance, manipulate, or retouch digital images, ensuring that they meet the technical and aesthetic requirements of clients. Digital imaging specialists may also provide technical support, training, or consultancy services related to digital photography workflows and technologies.
Photo Editor/Curator: Graduates with a strong eye for visual storytelling and curation may pursue careers as photo editors, curators, or image researchers for publishing houses, media organizations, galleries, museums, or online platforms. They are responsible for selecting, editing, and organizing photographic content for publication, exhibition, or online presentation, ensuring that it aligns with the editorial or curatorial vision and meets the needs of the target audience. Photo editors and curators may also commission work from photographers, license images for publication, or contribute to the development of visual narratives and storytelling projects.
Educator/Workshop Facilitator: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in education, sharing their knowledge, skills, and passion for photography with others as educators, workshop facilitators, or mentors. They may work in schools, colleges, universities, community centers, or arts organizations, teaching photography classes, leading workshops, or providing one-on-one tuition to aspiring photographers of all ages and skill levels. Educators and workshop facilitators play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of photographers, nurturing their creativity, technical skills, and critical thinking abilities.
