MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
BA (Hons) Photography
Locksbrook campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Photography program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a stimulating and supportive learning environment within dedicated studio spaces, darkrooms, and digital imaging labs. It is structured to progressively build foundational technical skills and visual literacy in the first year, encourage experimentation and the development of individual photographic approaches in the second, and culminate in self-directed major projects, professional practice studies, and a public degree exhibition in the final year. Students benefit from dedicated studio space, access to a wide range of photographic equipment, regular individual tutorials with experienced photography practitioners and academics, group critiques that foster critical dialogue, and opportunities for collaborative projects. A key element involves encouraging students to explore diverse photographic genres, develop their critical thinking about visual culture, and articulate their photographic intentions with clarity and confidence. The program fosters a vibrant and challenging creative community where experimentation and innovation are encouraged.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Photography program is designed to provide a broad and in-depth engagement with contemporary photographic practices and theories. The first year typically introduces core technical skills (camera operation, lighting, darkroom processes, digital imaging) and fundamental visual concepts. The second year encourages greater specialization in chosen genres and the development of individual projects, alongside studies in photographic history and theory. The final year centers on the production of a cohesive body of work for the final degree exhibition, professional practice skills (including portfolio development, marketing, and understanding the photographic industry), and critical analysis of their own and others' work. Students will engage in intensive studio practice, location shooting, darkroom work, digital image manipulation, tutorials, group critiques, seminars on photographic history and theory, and workshops on specific techniques and technologies. Assessment is primarily through coursework, including photographic portfolios, written assignments, presentations, and the final degree exhibition.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Photography program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within the Bath School of Art, Film and Media. Faculty members are actively engaged in their own diverse photographic practices and scholarly research across a wide range of photographic genres, visual culture studies, and the history and theory of photography. This research informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current debates in contemporary photography, innovative image-making methodologies, and critical perspectives on the role of photography in society. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests through their photographic practice and written assignments, fostering a critical and intellectual engagement with the medium.
Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's BA (Hons) Photography program actively fosters connections with the professional photography industry. The program may facilitate guest lectures by practicing photographers, picture editors, curators, and agents, providing students with valuable insights into the contemporary photography market and career pathways. Students often have opportunities to participate in exhibitions, workshops, and projects in collaboration with local and regional galleries, arts organizations, and commercial clients. The curriculum includes professional practice modules that equip students with essential skills for navigating the photography world, such as portfolio development, self-promotion, understanding copyright, and networking.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Photography program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by exploring diverse photographic traditions and contemporary image-making practices from around the world. The curriculum may include the study of non-Western photographic histories, the impact of globalization on photographic styles and dissemination, and discussions on international photographic movements and critical debates. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on photography. Furthermore, the program may touch upon topics such as the global photography market, the role of photography in documenting global issues, and the impact of digital technologies on the global reach and consumption of photographic images, preparing graduates to engage with a diverse and interconnected global photographic community.
Location
Locksbrook campus
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17670
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
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 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 110.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Undergraduate Scholarships: For undergraduate international students, Bath Spa University offers scholarships that range in value and are awarded to high-achieving students. These scholarships are intended to provide financial assistance to those who demonstrate excellent academic performance and commitment to their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
Graduates from the dynamic and critically engaged BA (Hons) Photography program at Bath Spa University develop a highly valuable and versatile skillset, positioning them for a wide range of fulfilling careers within the visual communication and creative industries. The program's emphasis on technical proficiency, conceptual development, and professional practice equips graduates for diverse roles in shaping visual narratives.
Professional Photographer (Freelance/Commissioned): Working independently or on assignment for clients across various genres like portraiture, editorial, commercial, or fine art.
Photographic Assistant: Supporting established photographers with technical tasks, lighting, and studio management, gaining valuable industry experience.
Picture Editor: Selecting, editing, and managing photographic content for magazines, newspapers, websites, and other publications.
Studio Manager: Overseeing the daily operations of a photographic studio, managing equipment, bookings, and staff.
Digital Imaging Technician: Specializing in the post-production of photographic images, including retouching, color correction, and file management.
Photography Curator: Organizing and managing photographic exhibitions in galleries, museums, and other cultural institutions.
Photography Technician/Educator: Working in educational settings, providing technical support and instruction in photographic processes and equipment.
Social Media Content Creator (Photography Focus): Producing visually engaging photographic content for brands and organizations on social media platforms.
Archivist (Photographic Collections): Managing and preserving historical and contemporary photographic archives.
Further Study (MA in Photography, Visual Communication, or related fields): Pursuing postgraduate studies to specialize further and enhance career prospects in specific areas of photography or visual culture.
