UAL Level 3 Diploma & Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Photography

You should have:

• 5 GCSES at minimum grade 4 (C), including a creative subject, English and Maths or equivalent
• Basic computer literacy.
• A portfolio of your own photography.
• A passion for photography. Selection is by interview. We welcome applications from mature students. Other information such as assessment results and relevant experience may be taken into consideration at the College’s discretion.

You will be taught how to explore a variety of media in order to develop the artistic and technical skills needed for working within the creative and digital industries. An important part of the course will be looking at the work of others by researching from books, journals and the internet, as well as going to galleries and talking to professional photographers. You will work independently and also in groups, and you may have the opportunity to work with clients on a professional brief. A professional and committed approach will be expected from all students working on project briefs to prepare them for working in the industry. Where possible live projects are encouraged.

Year 1 (Diploma) covers the following subjects:

• 35 mm Black and White Film development and printing
• Experimental Darkroom Techniques
• SLR Camera Control
• Industry Standard Software  – Lightroom, Photoshop
• Contextualisation and photographic history
• Studio Photography Skills
• Zine publishing
• Work Experience – Arts Festival
• Final graded project and exhibition.

Year 2 (Extended Diploma) covers the following subjects:

• Book Making
• Moving Image
• Narrative Images
• Work Experience – Arts Festival
• Final graded project and exhibition.

*content subject to change

Look out for our end of year show dates on our website!

You will be continually assessed throughout the two years through practical assignments and research activity.  At the end of each year you will be graded in a final project which gives you your grade for the year.

This qualification is designed to enable students to develop the relevant industry skills, knowledge and understanding to access relevant entry level roles within the creative industries, higher level apprenticeships or apply to higher education.

The photography department has a range of cameras, both film and digital for 24-hour loan, as well as lenses and other accessories. Throughout the course, you will be required to buy your own film, photographic paper, large format print and other materials for presentation and display. It is recommended that each student purchase a 1TB portable hard drive or large capacity USB stick in order to save large image files and work.

You will be studying art and design first hand and you will be expected to participate in art department trips to museums and galleries, which will cost around £50 for each year. There is a small amount of financial support for those that meet the criteria, please enquire with Student Services.

If you are aged 16-18 as of 31 August on the year of enrolment – no course fee.

If you are over 19 as of 31 August and enrolling on a full-time programme of study a tuition fee will be applicable in most cases.