Program Overview

The Photography in the Arts programme encourages you to consider where photography sits within contemporary art practice and visual culture. You will be expected to undertake a far-reaching, risk-taking enquiry into the possibilities of the photographic medium. With an emphasis on conceptual thinking, you will explore the aesthetic, ethical and social contexts of both the individual and the collective human experience.

The programme is designed to encourage the use of diverse media, using traditional, digital, and experimental materials and processes, and to develop skills that will serve you throughout your working life. Allowing for a flexible approach to image making, in relation to both subject matter and technique, where you will explore and challenge the conventions of contemporary photographic art practice.  

The photography department has strong links with both the art and commercial media industries, which are utilised and strengthened by a regular series of visiting lecturers. Skills developed during the course are transferable to many careers within the creative industries and while the needs of industry are always a major consideration, the quality and academic rigour of the degree is paramount.

Alongside our expert, specialist lecturers and technicians, you will make connections through the industry via our vibrant visiting lecturer programme, which provides opportunities for students to hear, see and meet a range of professionals working within the field of photography.

You will learn what is required to have a successful career within the visual arts, and you can expect to join our recent alumni in the fastest growing sector, the creative industries. Examples of graduate employment range from self-employed business owners, editorial and advertising photographers, artists, curators and gallery directors.

The photo department at Swansea College of Art has superb, state-of-the-art facilities and a very friendly atmosphere with small class sizes offering exceptional student to staff interaction. For more information, please get in touch or visit us on one of our upcoming open days. Open days are a great chance to look around our studios, meet our staff and ask any questions you may have.