University Study-Sheffield Hallam University Unit 9

Photography

• Course length three years 
• Location City campus 
• UCAS W60

Course description

What you study
On this course you develop the skills, knowledge and understanding that enables you to fulfil your potential in the increasingly diffuse and continuingly evolving discipline of photography. You are introduced to a range of photographic techniques and key critical themes in order to develop your understanding of the relationship and integration of theory and practice.

Throughout this course you develop professional skills in research and communication, as well as the flexibility to work in a range of contemporary photographic contexts. You also gain professional skills in time management, professional practice, managing risks and developing innovative solutions to creative challenges. 

Key areas of study include • production skills • self directed creative practice • contemporary themes and practices • research, theory and critical analysis • historical practice and debates • project development • independent production • marketing and promotion • professional practice • exhibition organisation.

FacilitiesYou use our well-equipped photographic facilities to produce both digital and analogue imaging. Facilities include 
• two industry-standard photography studios 
• portable lighting equipment 
• a dedicated digital ‘darkroom’ including scanning, processing and printing facilities 
• colour and black and white analogue darkrooms with enlargers from 35mm to 5x4 
• black and white print darkroom with both wet and machine process facilities
• an extensive lending store where you can borrow industry standard equipment such as cameras, lenses and tripods

Work experience
The course offers you exhibition opportunities through which you gain skills and experience in presenting your work to a public audience, both inside and outside of the University. You also develop a portfolio of creative work and a range of professional tools that help you to prepare for your future career. A professional practice strand runs through the second and third year of the course, embedding key professional and industry skills.

During the first year, you gain a foundation in the technical, creative and theoretical aspects of photography. The second year encourages you to build on these skills and to begin to develop your own independent specialised practice. 

In the third year, you focus on developing an in-depth, self-directed project to a professional standard, culminating in the presentation of your finished work in a graduation exhibition.

Entry requirements

Normally GCSE English language and mathematics at grade C or grade 4 or above, plus one of the following

• 112 UCAS points from at least two A levels or equivalent BTEC National qualifications, including at least 32 points in a relevant subject. We accept AS levels. We accept General Studies.

Or

• 96 UCAS points from three A levels or equivalent BTEC National qualifications, including at least 32 points in a relevant subject. We accept General Studies.

• Access – an Access to HE Diploma with at least 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2. At least 18 level 3 credits must be at merit grade or above, in a media-related programme from a QAA-recognised Access to HE course, or an equivalent Access to HE certificate.

If English is not your first language you must have an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills or equivalent. If your English language skill is currently below IELTS 6.5 we recommend you consider a Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve an equivalent English score.

If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend a selection event with a portfolio of work to demonstrate your ability. Find out about the selection process and how to produce a strong portfolio.

We welcome applications from people of any age. There may be some flexibility in entry requirements provided you have other relevant learning or experience. This must show that you will benefit from and finish the course successfully.

* Relevant subjects are • media studies • film studies • English • photography • history of art • theatre studies • history.

Fees Home / EU student

Course fees may be subject to annual inflationary increase.

For the course fee and further information on scholarships and bursaries please visit our fees and funding ages.

International student

Course fees may be subject to annual inflationary increase. For further fee information see our international fees or scholarships and bursaries pages.

2016/17 academic year

Typically £12,250 a year

2017/18 academic year

Typically £12,750 a year

Additional course costs

This link allows you to view estimated costs associated with the main activities on specific courses. These estimates are based on feedback from past students and, as such, are only an indication of additional course costs. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.

Student Living: 

Our halls include a variety of room types from standard non en suite rooms to large, fully self-contained flats.

Sheffield Hallam Students' Union has over 40 sports and recreational clubs for you to get involved in so whether you want to play competitively or just for fun, we have something for you!

The Students' Union is home to over 50 societies ranging from course related societies such as the Law society to Tea Drinking Society and everything else in between. If you don't find a society that's right for you, you can start your own up with full support from the Students' Union!

During your time here with us as a student, you can come to our Student Services Centres to access a wide range of high quality support services. We want you to get the most out of your studies and your time here, and we offer information, advice and guidance to help you through your journey.