Foundation Degree Photography

Course overview

Pursue a personal specialism and build a career in photography with our foundation degree programme. You will gain the technical knowledge of how to use a variety of cameras and how to make the most out of available and studio lighting. Practical learning is underpinned by photographic historical and contextual understanding. You will explore multiple aspects of photography, ranging from refining your ideas and concepts, to working in the industry. You will develop your creative vision and produce a professional portfolio capturing your talent. You will also visit art and photography festivals such as Liverpool Look Festival and Derby Format Festival. We emphasise work-related learning so you’ll experience guest lecturers from industry speakers such as Tom Martin, Ian Beesley and Murat Özkasim. We also encourage international residential visits to engage with the international creative industry.

For all relevant policies and procedures and other relevant documents please see the University Centre Leeds website here.

This is a University Centre Leeds course, validated by Leeds City College

• Entry Requirements

  A typical offer would normally be made up of appropriate level 3 qualifications, such as full A levels or BTEC L3 Diploma. This could be translated as 2 x D at A level, or a Merit profile in a relevant BTEC National Diploma/Certificate, together with 5 of GCSE grades at C or above including English (Maths isn’t required). However, factors such as previous experience and performance at interview can support the application.

  We welcome applications from mature candidates who may not have met the academic criteria, but can demonstrate a wealth of experience in their chosen field. Candidates in this category and otherwise are likely to be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course and asked to provide a portfolio of evidence to support their application.

  In the absence of formal learning qualifications applications are welcomed from persons who can demonstrate relevant work experience, including work in a voluntary capacity.

  The course structure actively supports claims for Accreditation of Prior Certified Learning (APCL) and Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

  International qualifications will be assessed against these criteria. Speakers of other languages will need to possess an IELTS band score of 6.0 (with no-less than 5.5 in any one element) or a recognised English Level 2 qualification.

  Students on the course will be expected to go on work placement as part of the programme of study.

  All students are to present a portfolio and supporting academic text. This is undertaken during an interview or correspondence for distance applicants.

• Benefits/Skills
  The course is designed to build upon your previous knowledge and skills in photography developing your ideas through contextual studies; and preparing you for the photographic industry through work based sessions.
• Units/Modules

  Modules may include:

  Year 1 – Level 4

  • Introduction to the Photographic Industry
  • Photographic Discourse
  • Photographic Practice Ideas, Processes and Concepts
  • Photographic Practice Portfolio
  • Photographic Production Skills
  • Professional Development

  Year 2

  • Contextualising Photography
  • Contextualising Your Photographic Practice
  • Collaborative Project
  • Extended Photographic Project
  • Working in the Photographic Industry
• Careers/Progression

  Progression may include a top-up degree, or relevant employment.

  Job opportunities may include:

  • Freelance photographer
  • Photographic assistant
  • Picture editor
  • Curator
  • Photography teacher (further qualifications required)

  For all relevant policies and procedures and other relevant documents please see the University Centre Leeds website here. https://ucleeds.ac.uk/about-university-centre/policies-procedures-and-documents/

• Assesment Types
  You will be assessed in a variety of modes. This will vary depending on the style of module, you will be expected to undertake written work in the form of blogs, workbooks and essays. Presentations and portfolio reviews, along with practical submissions.