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Accessibility statement
An image to illustrate the BA (Honours) Photography
Transform your passion for photography into a powerful means of visual communication with our BA (Honours) Photography degree. This innovative online programme blends technical mastery with creative exploration, encouraging you to push the boundaries of photographic expression. Guided by industry professionals, you'll develop a critical eye for image-making in the digital age while building a portfolio that reflects your unique perspective. The flexible nature of this course allows you to balance your photographic journey with other life commitments.
Key features:
Course details:
This honours degree in photography has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
Stage 1 (120 credits)
You'll begin your photographic journey by building a solid foundation in technical, creative, and analytical skills. Throughout this stage, you'll explore the boundaries of contemporary photography, moving images, and visual communications. You'll develop your ability to create and analyse imagery across various genres, experimenting with different techniques and approaches. As you progress, you'll also start to engage with the history and theory of photography, providing context for your practical work and preparing you for more advanced study.
Stage 2 (120 credits)
Building on your foundation, you'll develop your photographic voice while deepening your understanding of photographic practices, histories, and ideas. You'll explore the ethics of visual representation in individual and global contexts, considering the power and responsibility of the photographer in today's world. Throughout this stage, you'll engage more deeply with digital imagery and visual culture, examining how images are consumed and disseminated in contemporary society. You'll also have opportunities to specialise in areas that interest you most, whether documentary, fine art, or commercial photography.
Stage 3 (120 credits)
In this final stage, you'll undertake a substantial, sustained body of work showcasing your unique photographic vision. You'll choose from three informal routes – dissertation, external project, or holistic practice – to tailor your final year to your interests and career aspirations. Throughout this stage, you'll refine your technical skills, deepen your conceptual understanding, and develop a professional approach to your practice. You'll create a portfolio demonstrating your readiness for the professional world of photography, synthesising all you've learned into a cohesive body of work representing your distinctive photographic identity.
We welcome aspiring photographers from all backgrounds to this open-access degree. No formal qualifications are needed – simply bring your creativity and willingness to learn. You'll need basic digital skills, a stable internet connection, and English language proficiency at CEFR B2 level to fully engage with this online programme.
This online course is available through our college dedicated to the creative arts, the Open College of the Arts.
The Open College of the Arts (OCA) logo
This degree is delivered by The Open University's Open College of the Arts.
To explore this course in detail, including entry requirements, fees and funding options, and how to apply, visit the Open College of the Arts website.
This online course is available through our college dedicated to the creative arts, the Open College of the Arts.
The Open College of the Arts (OCA) logo
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