BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year at Southampton Solent University is your pathway into a dynamic visual arts landscape, preparing you for a career where you can shape perceptions and tell compelling stories through images. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring photographers who wish to develop a deep understanding of both historical and contemporary photographic practices, exploring themes from representation and visual culture to the relationship between photography and landscape. You will cultivate essential technical skills alongside critical thinking, making this course ideal for students eager to explore the creative, conceptual, and professional dimensions of photography.

This full-time, on-campus programme spans four years, beginning with a foundational year dedicated to building core creative, technical, and research skills through modules like Creative Applications and Contextual Practice. You will engage in hands-on learning, progressing to delve into advanced topics such as Image Lab, Photographic Concepts and Themes, and Professional Practice, culminating in a significant Final Major Project. You will graduate with a robust portfolio and the professional readiness to pursue diverse career paths in the creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Photography program offers a comprehensive exploration of photographic practice, beginning with a foundational year focused on creative applications, contextual practice, and research. Subsequent years delve into image manipulation, historical and theoretical frameworks, representation, and visual exploration. Students will engage with advanced concepts, thematic studies, and diverse photographic methods, culminating in a final year dedicated to contemporary practice, professional development, and the completion of a major project.

1 Foundation year

Creative Applications
Contextual Practice
Materials and Methods
Research and Ideas Development
Personal Development Planning
Degree-related Project

2 Year one

Image Lab
Orientation
Photography History and Theory I
Photography History and Theory II
Representation
Visual Exploration

3 Year two

Image Text Analysis I
Photographic Concepts and Themes
The Figurative Image
Image Text Analysis II
Photographic Methods and Approaches
Photographic Ecologies

4 Final year

Contemporary Photographic Practice
Contemporary Photographic Journal
Professional Practice
Final Major Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 99,243.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 693.00 - USD 1,552.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on East Park Terrace campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate Finance & TreasuryDigital MarketingDigital Media & Online PublishingEconomic Research & PolicyEvent Promotion & ManagementIndustrial & Mechanical EngineeringJournalism & ReportingProduction & Operations ManagementQuality Control & AssuranceTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Ikea

Sky Group

Why Study BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year at Southampton Solent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Southampton Solent University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year at Southampton Solent University

Can I work while studying?

You can work up to 20 hours per week while studying. However, if you hold a Student visa for a part-time course, you cannot undertake any work in the UK.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Please confirm accreditation details directly with the institution.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English language proficiency can be demonstrated through tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, or IELTS, with specific minimum scores required for each. Make sure to check the requirements that apply to you before applying.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as photographers, photojournalists, curators, or multimedia artists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers essential topics like photographic history and theory, as well as advanced concepts like image-text analysis. You'll develop both technical skills and critical thinking necessary for a successful career in photography.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year accepts new students in January and September. This flexibility allows you to choose the best start time for your academic journey.
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