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Overview
This MA Photography course will build upon your existing skills and passion for photography and visual arts, supporting you as you develop and refine your unique photographic practice and gain confidence in relevant research methodologies.
By extending your photographic work to postgraduate level, you’ll be encouraged to pursue an understanding of the contexts that situate your practice, engage with the debates informing and underpinning contemporary photographic practices, and hone your authorial voice.
This Master’s in photography degree course will provide you with the core knowledge and skills to work effectively across photography-related industries as an artist, educator or researcher, or in broader creative and artistic roles like writing, curating and picture editing. It will also equip you to pursue further study and research at PhD level.
With many opportunities to network, publicise and market your work publicly, you'll be better prepared to take your creative career to the next level once you graduate.
Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and international students.
Course highlights
- Utilise our extensive photographic studio facilities, including: flash and tungsten lighting set ups, digital and traditional darkrooms supporting colour and black and white photography, high-end negative scanners, ink jet printers and projection facilities
- Optimise and fine tune your portfolio with our powerful PCs and Macs, loaded with the software used by professionals, high-spec printers, and film, video and photography editing facilities
- Take part in study visits to galleries and photography festivals
- Connect with internationally-renowned visiting speakers and practitioners – recent speakers have included: Anna Fox, Oliver Chanarin, Maisie Cousins, Faisal Abdu'Allah, Eric Kessels, Laura Pannack, Tom Hunter, Eva Stenram, Bettina von Zwehl, and Sunil Gupta
Joining us as an international student
Joining us as an international student
You'll feel at home in our international community and our diverse city. You'll be joining over 5,000 international students from more than 150 countries who are studying with us.
Learn more about international student life and how we can help you with visas, applications, arrival and settling in.
What you'll study on this MA Photography degree course
Full-time
All modules on this MA Photography degree course are core.
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Articulate key issues related to the debates about research methods for Art, Design and Media and practice led research.
- Critically evaluate and select appropriate research methods from a range of disciplinary and cross disciplinary models evidencing ethical awareness in research design.
- Demonstrate individual research skills and techniques for developing, recording and analysing research enquiry through their application to a research question.
- Demonstrate a high level of critical engagement with theoretical/historical/contemporary sources.
- Make effective use of appropriate presentation tools for the communication of their research findings and offer personal reflection of the research journey.
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Systematically synthesise exploratory research and practice into a clearly focused project proposal
- Utilise and critically evaluate techniques and processes by selecting and experimenting with a range of materials and a variety of methods and sources
- Provide evidence of the theoretical, critical and historical contexts and knowledge frameworks, which inform the proposed research programme and identifies key questions in relation to the proposed research
- Independently develop a project management strategy, that articulates in a systematic way the proposed research programme and its sources, contextual framework, methodologies and the basis upon which it may be innovative, challenging and extending knowledge
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Design a research programme and its appropriated methodologies in order to demonstrate reflection, evaluation and independent judgement
- Develop and produce a critical context paper that documents, evidences and articulates research, in relation to critical enquiry, evaluating theoretical texts and visual practice in contextualisation and with reference to own practice
- Contextualise own practice within a critical and appropriate position
- Define a relevant career path and extend interest and practice into the external world
- Identify personal aims and action plans to enable and to move towards achieving the above
- Engage and promote a personal online presence within the appropriate professional sphere
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Reflect and provide evidence of a development, concept and method at an advanced level, mindful of analytical and professional skills, producing a resolved self-directed body of work within the area of contemporary photographic practice
- Engage in research, which demonstrates a maturity of interaction and application of theoretical texts, and related practices, to practice and relevant contemporary photographic debate
- Produce and resolve an extended body of work, using photography or related media, to a high professional standard. Evidence advanced practical skills, together with innovative and creative conceptual interpretation
- Exercise independent creative and aesthetic judgement and problem solving in production, editing and finalisation of the work demonstrating advanced specialist knowledge
- Develop a confident understanding and contextual positioning of work both in intention and resolution within a clearly defined framework
- Justify decisions taken in an informed manner identifying a clear understanding of how the work will be positioned in relation to an intended audience and the wider field of contemporary photographic practices within which it will be situated
Part-time
All modules on this MA Photography degree course are core.
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Articulate key issues related to the debates about research methods for Art, Design and Media and practice led research.
- Critically evaluate and select appropriate research methods from a range of disciplinary and cross disciplinary models evidencing ethical awareness in research design.
- Demonstrate individual research skills and techniques for developing, recording and analysing research enquiry through their application to a research question.
- Demonstrate a high level of critical engagement with theoretical/historical/contemporary sources.
- Make effective use of appropriate presentation tools for the communication of their research findings and offer personal reflection of the research journey.
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Systematically synthesise exploratory research and practice into a clearly focused project proposal
- Utilise and critically evaluate techniques and processes by selecting and experimenting with a range of materials and a variety of methods and sources
- Provide evidence of the theoretical, critical and historical contexts and knowledge frameworks, which inform the proposed research programme and identifies key questions in relation to the proposed research
- Independently develop a project management strategy, that articulates in a systematic way the proposed research programme and its sources, contextual framework, methodologies and the basis upon which it may be innovative, challenging and extending knowledge
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Reflect and provide evidence of a development, concept and method at an advanced level, mindful of analytical and professional skills, producing a resolved self-directed body of work within the area of contemporary photographic practice
- Engage in research, which demonstrates a maturity of interaction and application of theoretical texts, and related practices, to practice and relevant contemporary photographic debate
- Produce and resolve an extended body of work, using photography or related media, to a high professional standard. Evidence advanced practical skills, together with innovative and creative conceptual interpretation
- Exercise independent creative and aesthetic judgement and problem solving in production, editing and finalisation of the work demonstrating advanced specialist knowledge
- Develop a confident understanding and contextual positioning of work both in intention and resolution within a clearly defined framework
- Justify decisions taken in an informed manner identifying a clear understanding of how the work will be positioned in relation to an intended audience and the wider field of contemporary photographic practices within which it will be situated
What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Design a research programme and its appropriated methodologies in order to demonstrate reflection, evaluation and independent judgement
- Develop and produce a critical context paper that documents, evidences and articulates research, in relation to critical enquiry, evaluating theoretical texts and visual practice in contextualisation and with reference to own practice
- Contextualise own practice within a critical and appropriate position
- Define a relevant career path and extend interest and practice into the external world
- Identify personal aims and action plans to enable and to move towards achieving the above
- Engage and promote a personal online presence within the appropriate professional sphere
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Studying the MA in Photography has been highly beneficial for my practice and career of an artist. Since graduating, I’ve exhibited my work internationally including a solo show in Berlin, and have been part of numerous artist talks and panel discussions. I’ve also started teaching and delivering workshops at leading British universities and galleries around Europe.
Facilities and specialist equipment
Photography studios and darkrooms
Our extensive photography facilities allow students to put learning into practice and get creative using high-end professional equipment.
Device loans library
Find out more about the equipment available for our students to borrow from our device loans library – from smart watches to Raspberry Pi devices.
Centre for Creative and Immersive Extended Reality (CCIXR)
Create stunning works for film, TV, music, gaming and immersive reality in the UK's first integrated facility of its kind.
CCI Open Access Suite
Our open-plan space includes PCs and Macs equipped with Adobe Creative Suite and other professional software.
Careers and opportunities
Careers this Master's in photography prepares you for
As a successful graduate of this course, you'll have developed and refined your individual photographic practice to a point where you will feel confident enough to exhibit your work within the context of professional art.
Through seminars, project work, training and work experience, the MA Photography course will help you to engage with the creative industries of photography and its ancillary industries to be better equipped for employment and further career progression.
Graduates of this course have gone onto roles in:
- Freelance photography
- Editorial photography
- Picture editing
- Publishing
- Digital printing and retouching
- News / Press industries
- Picture agencies
- Curation
- Galleries and museums
- Design
- Teaching
- PhD research / Research related careers
Career outcomes shown are sourced from the latest available graduate outcome surveys. The data shows career outcomes at 15 months after graduation.
Career planning
During your course, you'll have expert career support from your tutors and from our Careers and Employability Centre, which you can access for 5 years after you graduate.
You'll benefit from:
- Networking events
- 1-to-1 appointments
- CV and cover letter advice
- Interview preparation and practice
- Workshops to enhance your employability skills
- Recruitment events including the Student and Graduate Opportunities Fair
- Support starting your own business
How you'll spend your time
We recognise that you'll probably be juggling more demands when you do your Master's degree, as you may be working or you may have family responsibilities.
We'll give you as much indication here as we can of how much time you'll need to be on campus and how many hours you can expect to spend in self-directed study, but please note that these indications are always subject to change. You should receive your full timetable several weeks before you start with us.
It is our expectation that all international students will join us here on campus in Portsmouth.
Course structure
This Master's degree will take:
- 12 months (full-time study)
- 2 years (part-time study)
You can expect:
- 1 day of teaching per week (pro rata for part time students). At the moment, teaching takes place on Tuesdays, leaving you the rest of the week for self-guided study.
- Around 30–35 hours of independent study and use of facilities each week (pro rata for part time students).
Teaching
Master's study is deeper and more specialised than an undergraduate degree. This means you'll focus on something that really matters to you and your career as you work closely with academics committed to the subject.
You'll spend more time in independent study and research than you did for your undergraduate degree, but the majority of your teaching time will be in-person and face-to-face.
Teaching on this course includes:
- lectures
- seminars
- tutorials
- project work
Assessment
You'll be assessed through:
- written coursework
- practical coursework
Undertaking an MA in Photography was an immensely rewarding experience. It provided me with the time, motivation and academic framework to research a subject thoroughly and then produce and exhibit a highly professional body of work.
Meet your course leader
Dr Jonathan Baggaley
Term dates
September start
The Master's academic year runs from September to the following September. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter. Over the summer you'll be writing your project/dissertation.
Supporting your learning
Master's study is more focused on independent learning than undergraduate study, but you'll get lots of support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:
Types of support
Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.
You'll have regular contact with your personal tutor in learning activities or scheduled meetings. You can also make an appointment with them if you need extra support.
In addition to the support you get from your personal tutor, you’ll also have access to a Faculty student support advisor. They can give you confidential, impartial advice on anything to do with your studies and personal wellbeing and refer you to specialist support services.
If you need support with software and equipment or you want to learn additional skills (including skills not covered on your course), our creative skills tutors provide free workshops, activities and one-on-one tutorials. Skills you can learn include life drawing, film camera operation and video production.
You'll have help from a team of faculty academic skills tutors. They can help you improve and develop your academic skills and support you in any area of your study.
They can help with:
- improving your academic writing (for example, essays, reports, dissertations)
- delivering presentations (including observing and filming presentations)
- understanding and using assignment feedback
- managing your time and workload
- revision and exam techniques
Computing support staff are always available to give technical support in the Faculty's computer suites during normal working hours. There's also some support available from 5.00pm to midnight at busy times of the year.
As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University's Academic Skills Unit (ASK).
ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:
- academic writing
- note taking
- time management
- critical thinking
- presentation skills
- referencing
- working in groups
- revision, memory and exam techniques
If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.
They'll help you to
- discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
- liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
- access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
- liaise with external services
Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.
You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.
Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.
The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.
If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees (September 2024 start)
- Full-time: £8,900 (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time: £2,970 for Year 1; £5,930 for Year 2 (may be subject to annual increase)
(Including Transition Scholarship)
- Full-time: £8,900 (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time: £2,970 for Year 1; £5,930 for Year 2 (may be subject to annual increase)
- Full-time: £18,100 (may be subject to annual increase)
- Part-time: £6,030 for Year 1; £12,070 for Year 2 (may be subject to annual increase)
University of Portsmouth graduates may receive a 20% alumni tuition fee discount.
Fees are subject to annual increase. Read our tuition fees terms and conditions.
You'll be able to pay your fees in instalments. Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Funding your studies
Explore how to fund your studies, including available scholarships and bursaries.
If you're a UK student, you may be eligible for a Government Postgraduate Master's Loan, which you can use to help with course fees and living costs.
If you're a UK student who achieved a first in your undergraduate degree you may be eligible for a £3,000 University of Portsmouth scholarship.
Loans, scholarships and bursaries
Browse funding such as the Government Postgraduate Loan, our scholarships for new and returning students, and subject specific loans.
Funding for international students
Learn more about sponsorships, scholarships and loans for students applying from outside of the UK.
Fees and funding for Master's courses
Discover how you can fund your Master's study at Portsmouth – including loans, scholarships and bursaries – and read our guidance on topics like how to budget, and how to get support if you're disabled or have dependents.
Additional costs
These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees, so you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending. Additional costs could include:
- Accommodation: Accommodation options and costs can be found on our accommodation pages.
- Recommended reading: You can borrow key texts from the library and if you choose to purchase these texts they may cost up to £60 each.
- General costs: Such as photocopying, memory sticks, printing charges, binding and specialist printing. We suggest budgeting £75 per year.
- Final project transport or accommodation: where necessary, which related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
Read more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Entry requirements
Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and International students.
September 2024 start
- A minimum of an upper second-class honours degree in a related subject, or equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications.
Please get in touch if you're not sure if your undergraduate subject is relevant to this degree.
Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will also be considered, such as previous study, employment, voluntary work and training courses, including courses and qualifications you didn't complete. Learn more about our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
If you're applying as an international student with a non-UK degree, you’ll need to show you meet the UK entry requirements listed above.
To find out if your non-UK degree or other qualification is accepted, please visit our page for your country and view the UK equivalent of your qualification.
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.
You do not need an IELTS or equivalent certification if:
- you have a UK degree
- you have a degree from a majority English-speaking country (not taught by Distance Learning)
- you are a national of a majority English-speaking country
Degrees taught solely in English from non-majority English-speaking countries will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Find out more about our English language requirements.
If you do not meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
All applicants will be invited to attend an interview or be asked to submit a online portfolio in support of their application.
For more information on how to put together a portfolio for your application, read our MA Photography portfolio guide.
How to apply
Unlike undergraduate applications, which go through UCAS, applications for this Master's course are made directly to us.
There's no deadline for applications to this course. We accept applications right up until the start date in September, as long as there are places available. If you wait until September to apply, you may find that the course is full.
If you're applying as an international student, remember that you'll need to leave plenty of time to get your visa organised.
You can find more advice about applying in our Master's application checklist. International students and current students and recent graduates of the University of Portsmouth also have some different application options, which are detailed below.
Extra information for international students
If you're an international student, you can apply directly to us using the same application form as UK students.
You could also get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region. To find out what to include in your application, head to the how to apply page of our international students section.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Ready to apply?
I'm a current Portsmouth student, or a recent Portsmouth graduate
If you're currently in your final year of study at Portsmouth, or you graduated since July 2023, you're eligible to make a fast track application. You'll have:
- a shorter application form to complete
- access to the 20% Alumni fee discount
- a guaranteed conditional offer, for most Master's courses
After you apply
Once we receive your application, we may ask you for further information. We will then either make you an offer or suggest alternatives if your application is unsuccessful.
You'll usually get a decision within 10 working days, so you shouldn't have to wait too long. Some courses have an interview stage – we'll let you know if you need to prepare for one.
Learn more about how we assess your application.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.