BA (Hons) Commercial Photography with Foundation Year

When you join the BA (Hons) Commercial Photography with Foundation Year at the University of Derby, you’ll be immersing yourself in a creative, practice-led environment where learning happens through doing. From your very first day, you’ll be working with professional-standard equipment, exploring specialist studios and darkrooms, and engaging in live, real-world projects. The course is designed to help you develop both the technical and creative confidence needed to thrive in the fast-moving world of commercial photography.

Here’s what experiential learning looks like throughout the course:

Use of specialist equipment and facilities:
You’ll have access to the Media Loan Hub, where you can borrow high-quality lighting, camera, and sound equipment. These resources give you the tools to experiment freely and develop a professional workflow that mirrors industry practice.

Darkroom and film-processing practice:
Get hands-on experience in analogue photography with access to both black-and-white and colour darkrooms. You’ll learn traditional film-processing techniques that deepen your understanding of photographic craft and visual storytelling.

Digital suites and industry-standard software:
On campus, you’ll work in Mac suites equipped with Adobe Creative Suite, and you’ll receive your own Adobe Creative Cloud subscription for home use. This ensures you’re fluent in the software tools used by today’s top photographers and creative agencies.

Practice-led workshops, seminars and tutorials:
Your learning will take place through an engaging mix of workshops, lectures, seminars and tutorials — often led by experienced photographers who are active in the industry. This blend of theory and hands-on practice helps you refine your technical skills while developing your personal style.

Live projects and commercial context:
You’ll take on real commercial briefs, from pitching ideas and marketing your work to presenting finished projects to clients or public audiences. These experiences will prepare you to work confidently and professionally in the photography sector.

Study visits and industry partnerships:
The course offers national and international trips, exhibition opportunities, and collaborations with major organisations like the FORMAT International Photography Festival and the Association of Photographers. These experiences give you valuable exposure and networking opportunities within the professional photography world.

Optional placement or professional practice year:
You can choose to spend a year in industry, applying your skills in a professional setting. This placement year is an excellent way to gain experience, build your portfolio and make industry connections before you graduate.

Portfolio-building and professional launch:
Throughout your studies, you’ll develop a strong professional portfolio showcasing your creativity and commercial awareness. The course culminates in a final degree show and professional presentation — your launchpad into the creative industries.

Learning resources and library support:
Photography students benefit from specialist labs, studios and digital facilities at the Markeaton Street campus, alongside access to the University’s comprehensive library and research resources.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Choosing to study BA (Hons) Commercial Photography with Foundation Year at the University of Derby sets you up for an exciting and creative career in the visual industries. This degree prepares you for roles such as commercial photographer, editorial or fashion photographer, picture editor, curator, or visual content producer—careers where the skills you develop during the course are directly relevant and highly valued.

Career Support:
From your very first day, the University’s Careers and Employability Service will be there to guide you—helping you explore career options, build your portfolio, and prepare for professional life. You’ll also continue to receive career support for three years after graduation, ensuring you have expert advice as you transition into the industry.

Graduate Success:
According to national graduate data, around 90% of Derby graduates from the broader cinematics and photography subject area were in work or further study 15 months after finishing their course, with average earnings of about £22,000 at that stage. These outcomes reflect the University’s focus on practical experience and career readiness.

Industry Connections:
You’ll gain valuable real-world exposure through Derby’s partnerships with organisations like FORMAT International Photography Festival, the Association of Photographers, GRAIN Photography Hub, and Magnum Photos. These collaborations bring opportunities for live briefs, exhibitions, workshops, and networking with professionals who are shaping the industry today.

A Recognised Qualification:
You’ll graduate with a full BA (Hons) degree that includes a Foundation Year—offering a structured path from introductory learning to advanced professional practice. This qualification is respected across the photography, visual media, and creative industries, giving you a strong platform for your career.

Graduate Outcomes:
Throughout the course, you’ll build both your technical expertise—in studio, location, analogue, and digital photography—and your transferable skills such as teamwork, project management, research, and communication. Many graduates have gone on to work as professional photographers, editors, curators, and visual content creators, both in the UK and internationally.

Further Study:
If you decide to continue your academic journey, you could progress to postgraduate study—such as an MA in Arts or a related field at Derby or another institution. This can deepen your creative practice, expand your research and critical thinking skills, and open doors to roles in teaching, advanced curation, or leadership within the creative industries.