BA (Hons) Photography with Foundation

Here’s how experiential learning is built into BA (Hons) Photography with Foundation at the University of Plymouth — giving you real, hands-on access to facilities, collaborative projects, and industry exposure that develop skills you’ll carry into the creative world:

From your very first days, you’ll dive into practical, studio-based work, experimenting with both digital and analogue photography techniques. You’ll make full use of the Scott Building’s dedicated photography studios and darkrooms, creative spaces, exhibition areas, and print labs to bring your ideas to life.

You won’t just work alone — much of your learning is collaborative and project-based. Often, you’ll respond to “live briefs” from external partners or venture out on field trips, such as Dartmoor outings, to shoot in real-world environments.

As you progress through the course, your projects grow in scale and ambition. In your final year, you’ll plan, produce, and exhibit a major body of work, often showcased in a summer degree show.

You’ll also benefit from artist talks, workshops, and networking opportunities built into the curriculum, helping you understand how your work connects with the creative industries.

Hands-on learning and technical tools:

• Work with both analogue and digital cameras, darkrooms, film processing, digital workflow, and various printing methods, from inkjet to C-type.

• The Scott Building studios are fully equipped for lighting setups, backdrops, and controlled environments for portrait, still life, or commercial shoots.

• Exhibition spaces and creative studios give you real opportunities to curate and show your work.

Project-based and collaborative work:

• From the early stages, you’ll take on live briefs set by external stakeholders, collaborating in groups to produce narrative-based photographic solutions.

• Field trips, like those to Dartmoor National Park, allow you to shoot with purpose, engaging with landscapes, local environments, and site-specific projects.

Capstone, exhibition, and portfolio work:

• In your final year, you’ll develop a major personal project for publication or exhibition — your chance to showcase your unique vision.

• Your work is showcased in the summer degree show, giving you public exposure and experience in curating for audiences.

Industry linkages, talks & professional exposure:

• Industry professionals and alumni regularly give artist talks and workshops, helping you connect classroom learning with real-world practice.

• You’ll collaborate with creative businesses, charities, and external organizations, working on projects with real clients and contexts for your photography.

Support systems, resources & library:

• Access a digital learning environment where lectures, resources, submission systems, and reading materials are hosted.

• The University library supports your practice with books, journals, digital media, special collections, and subject-specific resources.

• As a foundation-year student, you’ll also benefit from academic support sessions, mentoring, and structured skill development to ease your transition into degree work.

Graduate Outcomes Summary
Within roughly 15 months of graduating, around 97% of Plymouth’s photography graduates are either in work or continuing their studies. Many go on to creative and communication-focused roles, including positions as photographers, image editors, creative marketers, or visual content producers.

Here’s a snapshot of how your future could look after completing this degree:

Typical Job Roles You Could Aim For

• Professional Photographer (editorial, commercial, fashion, events)

• Image/Picture Editor or Post-Production Specialist

• Visual Content Creator (for brands, media, e-commerce)

• Marketing or Creative Assistant roles in agencies or in-house

University Services That Support Your Employability

• Careers Support: One-to-one appointments, career guidance, workshops, help with CVs, interview coaching, LinkedIn advice, and networking events.

• Integrated Employability Resources: The curriculum includes tools like “5 Steps to Being Graduate Ready,” career fairs, and employer networking opportunities to help you build your portfolio and job-search skills.

• Internships and Placements: Students have gained hands-on experience with organisations such as Fotonow, working on media workshops, video, and audio projects.

Employment Statistics & Salary Figures

• About 85% of BA Photography graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduation.

• Average earnings for photography graduates 15 months after finishing the degree are around £24,000 (typical range £22,000–£25,000).

• Over a longer term (around 5 years), typical earnings are approximately £21,500 (range £18,000–£25,000).

University–Industry Partnerships and Real-World Experience

• Partnerships with organisations like Fotonow provide internships and community media opportunities.

• Students may also benefit from connections with BBC South West, ITV, and Twofour Productions for mentoring, placements, and collaborative projects.

• The School of Art, Design & Architecture encourages engagement with real-world projects and visiting lectures from industry professionals.

Long-Term Value and Industry Recognition

• While photography is not a regulated profession, a degree from Plymouth carries strong credibility in the creative industries.

• The professional network, portfolio, and reputation you build during your studies continue to hold value beyond graduation.

• Employers recognise a degree in photography from a respected university with industry links, enhancing your credibility when seeking commissions or roles.

Graduation Outcomes in More Detail

• Some graduates work as commercial freelancers or exhibiting artists, as well as picture editors, art directors, designers, lecturers, or company directors.

• Others apply their visual, project, and storytelling skills in marketing, the civil service, or charitable organisations.

• Many graduates report finding meaningful work that aligns with their long-term goals, with 70% saying their current role fits well with their future plans.

Further Academic Progression
After completing a BA (Hons) in Photography, there are several options for further study:

• Pursue a Master’s degree in related areas, such as MA Communication Design or MA Experience Design.

• Consider MFA or MA programs in Fine Art or Photographic Arts at specialist art schools or universities.

• If research interests you, you could continue to MPhil or PhD studies in photography, visual culture, media studies, or related creative practice fields.

• Short postgraduate modules or certificates (e.g., in curating, digital imaging, arts management, or visual culture) are available for deepening niche skills or specialisms.