Photography: The Image and Electronic Arts at Goldsmiths, University of London - UCAS

Course options

Course summary

Photography is a key medium of the 21st century. We record every aspect of our lives with smartphone cameras, consume knowledge through image flows, are exposed to constant surveillance via security cameras while feeding computer databases with our social media images. Photography itself is undergoing a radical transformation in its encounter with CGI (computer generated images) and AI (artificial intelligence). This MA programme gives practitioners and theorists the opportunity to research and develop the new boundaries of image-making made possible by technological change within the context of post-industrial culture. The programme joins theory and practice, equipping you to develop and achieve highly in the new image media culture. The practice uses both digital and analogue technology, still and durational photography, as well as the study and production of interactivity. It also allows for specialisation in photography and/or electronic arts – which, in addition to still photography, can include interactive, durational, and internet work – but encompasses a broader interpretation of practice. You'll look at the meaning, production, and distribution of images in their present and historical contexts, and at the relationship between theory and practice in image production and management. You will also participate in enabling sessions in photography:

  • medium/large format cameras
  • portable and studio lighting technologies and their use
  • film technology
  • cinematography
  • digital imaging
  • output systems and processes
and/or in electronic arts:
  • computer and video graphics
  • post-production
  • computer-aided design
  • digital publishing
  • animation
  • animatics
  • 2D and 3D computer animation
  • still and durational image production and manipulation
  • web construction
  • interactivity
The Department of Media, Communications and Cultural Studies has been ranked 2nd in the UK for 'world-leading or internationally excellent' research (Research Excellence Framework, 2021) and 12th in the world (2nd in the UK) in the 2022 QS World Rankings for communication and media studies.

Modules

You will study Photography: Durational & Still; Analogue & Digital Electronic Imagery: Motion & Still Visualisation: Stand-alone & Interactive The programme draws on a broad range of cultural references and technical practices. It offers the opportunity to take stock of evolving practices and developments in image media culture and is structured to develop the intellectual imagination within each individual student. This is achieved through a combined study of practice and theory, with extensive instruction through 'enabling sessions' which engage technical familiarity; tutorials; The Ascent of the Image module and additional theoretical and practical study. Recognising the rapidly changing definitions and context of these practice areas, and the value/positioning of traditional practices, these categories may also be understood through a variety of practices that involve image construction and presentation both still and durational, including: film/video, animation, interactivity, installations, motion graphics, and hyperspace constructs, as well as evolving new exploratory categories. You will have the opportunity to develop and/or research aspects of visual style and draw on a broad range of cultural references as well as aesthetic and technical approaches engaged through ‘Practice Theory Sessions’, visiting lectures and the Ascent of the Image module. Fundamental to the programme is the space that it creates to make it possible for you to explore, question, change and consolidate your work and your ideas. Image Construction, Manipulation, and Management 60 credits The Ascent of the Image 15 credits Portfolio/Project/Viva Voce 90 credits Photography and After 15 Credits *Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.

Assessment method

Original portfolio submission; coursework and essays.


Entry requirements

You should have (or expect to be awarded) an undergraduate degree of at least upper second class standard in a relevant/related subject as well a level of practical experience in a relevant area. If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 7.0 with a 7.0 in speaking and no element lower than 6.5 to study this programme.


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Additional fee information

No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.

Sponsorship information

AHRC.

Photography: The Image and Electronic Arts at Goldsmiths, University of London - UCAS