Photography
Full-time
Three year
September 2025
In a nutshell
By providing you with a solid foundation in photographic theory and practice, this photography course will offer you the opportunity to take risks, explore ideas and realise your creative potential. This photography degree course aims to create flexible, resourceful, and creative photographers with well-developed transferable skills, that can be applied to a broad range of commercial, and art-based careers.
You will work with industry-standard equipment and studios to support you from image capture through to exhibition. You will learn to apply a range of practical contemporary photographic and digital skills to explore the creative and intellectual potential of existing, experimental, and digital photographic techniques and their application within the creative arts and media industries.
Some of the career routes that photography graduates go on to include, archivists, art directors, curators, digital artists, exhibiting photographers, freelancers, picture researchers, printers, retouchers, studio managers, teachers, videographers. You will also have the potential to move across into related careers in marketing, branding, technical support, and PR.
Want to learn more about studying a Photography degree course at Salford? You can sign up for an Open Day, or attend a campus tour.
You can also find out about our 'Salford Photography Presents...' events on Eventbrite.
You will:
- Learn to develop your individual creative ability with the support of dedicated practitioners and tutors who have extensive experience in the field
- Learn to explore a range of professional photographic specialisms
- Learn your practice with an emphasis on hybrid, experimental and trans-media platforms
students accepted
Course accreditations
This is for you if...
You want to work with industry-standard photography equipment and in professional studios.
You want to gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to be creative while exploring contemporary photography practices.
You’re a creative thinker who is fascinated by the potential of images to tell a story
All about the course
Your first year on our Photography degree is all about gaining the skills, knowledge, and confidence to let your creativity run wild. With this aim in mind, you’ll explore contemporary photographic practices through a combination of practical and academic modules.
As you progress into your second year, you’ll get a better understanding of photography in a professional context. You’ll learn about the opportunities that are available to you and how you can make a living from photography. As well as that, you will also develop your skills and understanding in areas such as moving image, experimental image making and exhibiting.
The third year of this photography course further develops your independent approach to photography. You will focus on realising your creative potential by undertaking a major self-directed project. This project will be underpinned by extensive practical and theoretical research, and the writing of a dissertation, in which you will explain the reasoning and methods behind your work.
Read about Ishmael's study experience of BA (Hons) Photography
Gain a deeper understanding of what you’ll explore within each module below.
Imagined communities
In this module you are introduced to analogue capture and processing of images in the darkroom. Over six weeks you will learn skills such as camera handling, editing, and printing on traditional media. In addition to this, you'll be introduced to historical and contemporary debate in relation to documentary image making. The skills and knowledge gained during this module will form the foundation from which you'll build your own unique approach towards image making.
- Camera Control (shutter, aperture, ISO)
- Processing 35mm B&W film
- Darkroom techniques (contact printing, enlarging, graded printing, presentation)
Urban and Rural
In this module you are introduced to traditional and more experimental approaches to image capture and basic digital post-production including Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. Over six weeks students learn about space, place and environments, mapping, and more diverse presentation methods. In addition to this, students are introduced to historical and contemporary debate in relation to the representation of landscape, space/ place, authorship, and the city.
- Appropriated capture and mapping
- Digital post and interpretation of statistical and geographical data
- Hybrid and large format output
Street and Studio
In this module you are introduced to studio and location-based lighting, and develop your digital post production skills including image manipulation, printing, and the finishing of printed images. Over six weeks, you will learn skills such as advanced camera handling, lighting, and archival pigment printing and mounting. In addition to this, you will be introduced to historical and contemporary debate in relation to portraiture, identity and working with people. The skills and knowledge gained during this module build upon your previous module to make you a more informed and aware image maker.
- Digital Camera Control & Tethered Capture
- Introduction to digital post production (Adobe Photoshop), studio and location-based lighting
- Archival pigment printing & archival mounting and finishing
Photography and the Book
In this module you are introduced to photography and it’s relation to self-publishing and Artist’s books. Over six weeks students learn about layout, desktop publishing and basic binding techniques. In addition to this, students are introduced to historical and contemporary debate in relation to publishing and artists’ books.
- Digital post production (Adobe PhotoShop) & desktop publishing (Adobe InDesign)
- Stitching and binding techniques
- Book design & production techniques (concept, editing, printing)
Establishing Frameworks
This module introduces you to the importance of elements of working as a professional, and presenting your work to a defined market. Over 24 weeks you will learn about researching skills, photographic careers, and benefit from visiting lecturer opportunities, where you will get to interact with other year groups. Copyright and legal debates are covered, and you will develop your presentation skills.
- Presentation and research skills
- Introduction to copyright and legal issues
- Constructing a portfolio for defined markets
Exploring Creative Contexts
This module is designed to encourage you to explore, consider and reflect on a range of perspectives in the field of creative practice. Sessions focus on issues affecting photography and visual culture. Over twenty-four weeks you will be introduced to a range of approaches towards critical analysis of visual and text based sources.
- Critical and contextual awareness
- Knowledge and understanding of contemporary image making
- Research and communication skills
Photography in Context
In this module you are asked to respond to an outside venue with a group photography exhibition. Over six weeks students learn art handling, promotion and working with others. In addition to this, students are asked to engage and reflect upon historical and contemporary debate in relation to experimental research, image making and dissemination.
- Art handling and curation
- Marketing and exhibition promotion
- Making site specific work
Exploring Possibilities
In this module you are asked to respond to experimental modes of image making and presentation. Over six weeks students learn camera-less photography, emerging forms of media (including 3D capture and output), and varying forms of presentation and dissemination. In addition to this, students are asked to engage and reflect upon historical and contemporary debate in relation to experimental research, image making and dissemination.
- Introduction to convergent, 3D, hybrid capture
- Experimental modes of presentation
- Engage with the interdisciplinary nature of photography
Constructing Worlds and Meanings
In this module you are asked to respond to the construction of meaning and narrative in relation to both still and moving images. Over six weeks students learn about set construction, large format and moving image capture and post production. In addition to this, students are asked to engage and reflect upon historical and contemporary debate in relation to narrative, truth and photography.
- Set building
- HD video capture and large format camera control
- Proposal writing
Opportunities and Industry
In this module you are asked focus on and engage with the broad industry of photographic practices. Over six weeks students learn about a broad range of opportunities for employment and funding. Students are asked to engage and reflect upon their own skills and interests, communication strategies and developing funding proposals towards either a work placement or developed funding bid. Students can engage in placements in the trimester 2 module Opportunities and Industry. Prior to arranging their placements students are given support in researching potential future careers paths and job opportunities. The type and duration of work placements depend on the experience the student is looking to gain and typically spreads over two to six weeks. Students are supported in finding opportunities and are assessed on the supporting course work material they develop as part of the module. The placements themselves are not assessed. Examples of the kind of placements students have previously undertaken are: assisting commercial photographer, studio assistant, museum and gallery archive assistant and teaching assistant.
Developing Frameworks
In this module, you are asked to identify and engage with your personal and career aspirations. Over twenty-four weeks you will learn about photographic careers, marketing yourself in print and electronic forms, and photographic awards and competitions. Additionally, you will benefit from visiting lecturer opportunities, where you will get to interact with other year groups.
- Career development and planning
- Entering competitions and awards
- Constructing a portfolio and marketing materials
Responding to Creative Contexts
This module is designed to encourage you to investigate, collaborate and make connections across a range of contexts related to the theory and practice of photography. Over twenty-four weeks you'll be asked to engage with a range of approaches towards critical analysis of visual and text based sources.
- Presentation skills
- Structuring written assignments
- Research and referencing skills
Towards Resolution
In this module you will research, plan and test ideas leading towards a major body of photographic work. Over twelve weeks students will be guided towards investigating subject(s) of interest using photography (and/or expanded media). Students engage and reflect upon their research and practice in terms of personal, cultural, social and/or historical debates.
- Guided supervision
- Planning and research
- Investigation, experimentation and evaluation
Resolution
In this module you will undertake a major photographic exploration of identified subject(s). Drawing upon work that you have undertaken previously, you will manage your skills and knowledge and negotiate with supervisors to create an engaging major photographic (or related media) investigation of identified themes. Over twelve weeks students will be guided towards finalizing a major body of photographic work (and/or expanded media). Students engage and reflect upon their research and practice in terms of personal, cultural, social and/or historical debates.
- Guided supervision
- Extended project conception, execution and output
- Applying appropriate skills and processes
Applying Frameworks
In this module, you are asked to identify and engage with your personal and career aspirations. Over twenty-four weeks you will learn about photographic careers, marketing yourself in print and electronic forms, and photographic awards and competitions. Additionally, you will benefit from visiting lecturer opportunities, where you will get to interact with other year groups.
- Personal career planning for graduates working in photography (and related fields)
- Exhibiting and promoting your work
- Constructing a final portfolio and marketing materials
Independent Research Project
This module provides an opportunity for you to engage in a detailed examination of an aspect of visual culture of your choice. Over twenty-four weeks you are encouraged to explore connections between your proposed study and your studio practice in a connected but distinct programme, thereby underpinning and strengthening your own practice and providing an intensification of understanding.
- Advanced presentation skills
- Structuring extended written assignments
- Advanced research and referencing skills
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
Be a part of a creative, supportive community
All our Art and Design courses are delivered by the Salford School of Arts, Media, and Creative Technology. Our focus is to ensure that you have the skills you need to pursue your dreams, and we encourage our students, past and present, to collaborate with each other and achieve great things.
Each year - through the Create Student Awards – our School rewards the incredible achievements and successes of our final year and postgraduate students.
Whatever you choose to study with us, you’ll be mentored and supported by experts. And once you graduate, it won’t end there. You’ll join a thriving alumni network across Greater Manchester and beyond, meaning you’ll be supported professionally and personally whenever you need it.
Art and design facilities
This degree in Photography is based at our £55 million New Adelphi building, the home of design and creativity on campus.
When you study with us, you’ll learn from our experienced tutors and demonstrators, who’ll teach you how to use our art and design facilities. These include:
- Studio space – dedicated areas for each course, giving you room to think and create.
- Marker Space workshop - create digital rapid prototypes using 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters and more.
- Photography studios - industry standard photographic studios, which you can use in conjunction with darkrooms and digital printing facilities.
- New Adelphi Theatre – industry-standard live 350-seat theatre at the New Adelphi which is open to the public. It’s three floors of tiered seating, it’s the largest of our performing spaces.
- Workshops – from print to textiles, wood to metal, our range of workshops allow you to take your ideas from page to reality and work in a variety of media.
- Mac suites - equipped with the industry-standard software you’ll need during your studies and in the world of work.
- Explore our Art and Design facilities at New Adelphi, or take a 360 tour of our New Adelphi building.
Meet the art and design teaching staff
Are you looking to learn more about the background of our Art and Design tutors and technical demonstrators or put a face to a name?
Find out who'll work with you throughout your academic journey at the University of Salford.
Explore the Art and Design faculty at the University of Salford
What about after uni?
Employment
You’ll open the door to a number of careers with a photography degree. Career paths available to you include becoming an exhibiting photographer, digital artist, art director, arts administrator, picture researcher, or studio manager, as well as the potential for running your own practice.
Thanks to the transferrable skills you learn during your time studying a photography degree at University of Salford, you could also move into a related field, such as marketing, branding, project management, technical support or PR.
Further study
Graduates showing strong academic and research skills can pursue a further postgraduate path through our Postgraduate programmes on a full-time or part-time basis subject to a satisfactory proposal.
Career Links
As part of this university Photography course, you’ll meet industry professionals, including guest speakers, curators, artists, organisers and/or affiliated non-profit organisations involved in the promotion of photography. Guest lecturers are part of the curriculum and are key to expanding your knowledge and enabling a broad understanding of the options available in the photographic field
What you need to know
Application profile
To gain a place on this Photography degree course, you’ll have to submit a personal statement and meet our entry requirements when you apply.
Within your Photography degree personal statement (up to 4,000 characters), we’ll want to understand:
- What motivates you and what current experiences do you have in terms of art and design and photography?
- How have you been involved and what did you do?
- Do you have any knowledge in the arts and photography techniques; are there any projects that inspire you?
- Why do you want to work in the visual communication and the photography sector?
- Why is the University of Salford and this Photography degree the right choice for your future goals?
For some applicants, you’ll be asked to provide us with a portfolio of work and potentially take part in an informal group seminar discussion or interview– either live or on camera – to demonstrate your skills.
Once you’ve made your application to study with us, we’ll contact you and let you know the next steps.
Want to learn more about studying a Photography degree course? You can sign up for an Open Day, follow our Photography Instagram, or attend a campus tour.
Our supportive course enquiries team can help you with any general questions you may have. You can also explore all of our Art and Design courses.
GCSE
English Language at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent) is required. Maths at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) is preferred but not essential.
You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.
UCAS tariff points
104-112 points.
A level
104-112 points.
T level
Merit
BTEC National Diploma
DMM Including Art & Design subject
BTEC Higher National Diploma
Applicants may be considered for entry on to year two
Foundation Degree
Applicants may be considered for entry into year three
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
Distinction = 112 UCAS points - if you have a Pass (80 points) or Merit (96 points), you must have additional qualifications to a total of 112 points.
Scottish Highers
112 points including an Art & Design subject
Irish Leaving Certificate
112 points including an Art & Design subject
International Baccalaureate
29 points including art and design related subjects
European Baccalaureate
Pass Diploma with 73% overall (relevant subject)
Access to HE
Pass Level 3 Access to HE Diploma with 112 points (relevant subject)
International students
We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.
If you are an international student and not from a majority English speaking country, you will need IELTS 6.0 with no element below 5.5.
We also accept a range of other English language qualifications. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English course. Or if you have finished high school in your country but don’t have the qualifications to gain entry to this course, you can take our International Foundation Year as a pathway to this degree.
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,250.00per year |
| Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,650.00per year |
Additional costs
Optional costs may include £150 for field trips and £250 for a European visit per year. In addition, students will be required to pay from £100 for show participation in their final year. Costs are approximated based on the current academic year.
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Scholarships for International Students
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. Explore our international scholarships.