Program Overview

The Photography degree course at University of Suffolk offers students the opportunity to understand and explore in depth the practices, technologies and debates associated with the photographic image. Students will develop their ability to produce photographic work in a range of media, using techniques that are sensitive to the works context and audience.  Central to the philosophy of the course is an emphasis on individual identity and authorship over your own ideas in producing creative, expressive, and risk-taking work, which also engages with critical and theoretical approaches.

In the first year, students will be introduced to historical, theoretical, cultural and political debates surrounding lens-based media, digital imagery and artificial intelligence. This study is directly linked to the use of all camera formats, as well as the specific qualities of analogue and digital photography and wider discussions around the role of imagery in contemporary society.

In the second year students continue to develop technical and contextual skills. Students are encouraged to take risks with their work and start to develop their own individual practice. They are also trained in book making and book binding as they are asked to apply their creative vision and voice to hand made photobook. Specific contact points are developed with industry through placements, visiting lecturers, field trips and exhibition visits.

The third year enables students to develop their own visual imagery, theoretical engagement and professional practice and culminate their learning as a full competent and independent practitioner.

The course team comprises experienced lecturers, practicing photographers, writers, and artists using photography. Their work has been recognised nationally and internationally through publication and exhibition. The course is supported by a full time subject specific technical team.  In addition to the experienced lecturers and practitioners on our teaching staff, the course is supported by visiting lecturers and guest speakers of the highest calibre who have included Martin Parr, Gareth McConnell, Anastasia Taylor-Lind, Tom Hunter, Andreas Schmidt, Bettina Von Zwehl, Steve Macleod, Michael Collins and Eamonn McCabe.

The course is proud to have a range of industry partnerships, including two awards with Metro Imaging, London.  Each year, a 2nd year student has the opportunity to be awarded the Ambassador Scheme which allows them to develop a body of work under the guidance of Metro Imaging. This award offers a yearlong bespoke mentoring scheme under the supervision of leading industry specialists with a view to resolving a body of work ready for exhibition and publication.  It offers extensive networking opportunities and £1000 towards the costs of producing the work.