Course summary

Photography has the ability to reach a global audience presenting information concisely that can delight, educate, express a view or record a fragment of time. The University of Bolton's BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year degree is designed to prepare you for professional roles in a wide range of specialist areas. Photographs are the most exciting and important visual form of global communication, forming a significant part of everyday life. It’s estimated that 5.35 billion people now use the internet (1) and that around 1.81 trillion photos are taken each year (2). The image has become the most widely used international language, and the ability to communicate concise visual statements that engage audiences is at the heart of our course and teaching. Starting with foundation studies that offer a structured introduction to a wide range of materials, processes and techniques, we’ll support you as you develop your own line of visual enquiry, explore different areas of art, design and photography, and develop a sound portfolio of creative work. Following the foundation year, our broad-based degree offers you a unique pathway of visual self-discovery. You’ll benefit from the freedom to pursue your own interests while receiving expert support from our industry-experienced tutors, developed with help from a panel of industry professionals. We offer a supportive market-aware environment in which you can explore various photographic genres such as documentary, fashion, editorial, photojournalism, commercial advertising, portraiture, architectural, wildlife, landscape and fine art. We’ll invite industry experts to share their knowledge during guest lectures and offer you opportunities to work on placements, ‘live briefs’ and commissions. Our industry links will help to enrich your learning experience and provide you with invaluable ‘insider’ information and possible employment opportunities. You can be part of this fully integrated programme of practical and theoretical knowledge, building your confidence and skills, ready for a career in this dynamic industry. Alternatively, you can opt to transfer to one of our other degrees on successful completion of the foundation year, including Animation and Illustration, Fashion, Fashion Photography, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photojournalism and Documentary Photography or Textiles and Surface Design. You can also explore transferring to another subject area offered by the University of Bolton, such as Special and Visual Effects or Games Art. (1) https://www.statista.com/statistics/617136/digital-population-worldwide/ accessed 6 February 2024 (2) https://photutorial.com/photos-statistics/ accessed 6 February 2024