BA Hons Photojournalism and Documentary Photography

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Photojournalism and Documentary Photography program at the University of Gloucestershire is designed to cultivate the skills of aspiring photojournalists and documentary photographers, enabling them to create compelling visual narratives and build successful careers. The course emphasizes a hands-on approach, encouraging students to actively engage in photography from the outset. A key highlight is the opportunity to be taught by experienced lecturers who are also working professional photographers, providing students with real-world insights and one-to-one guidance. The program aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills to be working photographers, have their work published internationally, and sustain a livelihood through their photography. The university also has a course picture agency, Pathos Images, which assists students in distributing their work to national and international publications.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Photojournalism and Documentary Photography course at the University of Gloucestershire is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field, encompassing both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Core modules often include an introduction to the fundamentals of photojournalism and documentary photography, exploring the technical processes and working methods used in the industry, from basic to advanced levels. Students typically delve into the history of photography, examining key developments and critical approaches to analyzing images in various contexts. A significant part of the curriculum involves practical project work, where students develop their ability to produce diverse photographic responses in different environments, including on-location at events and in both street and studio settings. As the course progresses, students are encouraged to refine their photographic perspective and undertake more self-directed assignments, leading to the development of a major research project in their final year. The curriculum also includes modules on documentary filmmaking, commercial photography, self-publishing, darkroom techniques, and exhibiting photography, providing a well-rounded skillset for a contemporary visual practitioner. Students often collaborate on projects, such as producing an annual newspaper to showcase their work.

Research Focus: The program's research focus is embedded within the practical and theoretical modules, culminating in a significant final-year project, often in the form of a dissertation or a major project. Students are encouraged to research and analyze a topic related to photojournalism and documentary photography, developing a critically engaged and self-reflective practice. The course emphasizes understanding the cultural, social, theoretical, ethical, and historical contexts of photojournalism and documentary photography. This includes exploring how photography can be a medium for social change and examining the ethical implications of visual storytelling, particularly concerning the relationship between the image-maker and the subjects of their work. The curriculum includes a module specifically on "Post-Truth and Fake News," indicating a focus on the critical analysis of media and the role of the photojournalist in the contemporary media landscape.

Industry Engagement: A strong emphasis on industry engagement is a defining feature of this program. Students have the opportunity for placements with various organizations, with past examples including the Associated Press, Daily Mail, South West News Service, The Sunday Times, Magnum Photos (New York), Photofusion, and WaterAid. 1 This provides invaluable real-world experience and opportunities to build industry contacts. The course is taught by lecturers who are professional photographers themselves, offering direct links to the industry. Furthermore, the program regularly hosts guest lecturers from the world of photojournalism, documentary, landscape, and commercial photography, providing students with insights into a range of professional practices. Students also have the chance to shadow working photojournalists on live briefs. The program's affiliation with AOP (the Association of Photographers) and accreditation with ScreenSkills further highlight its commitment to industry standards and professional development. The university's "UoG Connections Promise" aims to facilitate connections for students' future careers, including potential internships and lifetime career coaching for eligible graduates.  

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Photojournalism and Documentary Photography program at the University of Gloucestershire incorporates a global perspective throughout the curriculum. Students are encouraged to develop stories on local, national, and global issues, fostering an understanding of diverse contexts and the power of photography to address global challenges. The program has a history of organizing international field trips, with previous destinations reportedly including Paris, Berlin, New York, Tokyo, and Perpignan, in addition to UK field trips. For students undertaking a foundation year, there have been opportunities to work on documentary projects abroad, with recent examples including Thailand, the Caribbean, Iceland, the Philippines, and Israel (though additional costs may apply). The course team welcomes applications from a diverse range of backgrounds from all over the world, contributing to a multicultural learning environment. This global outlook prepares graduates to work in an increasingly interconnected world and to produce work that resonates with international audiences.