Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This three-year undergraduate programme emphasises image-making, visual research and professional practice. You will develop core technical skills in digital capture, studio lighting and analogue darkroom processes alongside compositional and narrative approaches to still imagery.

• Foundations in Photography — introductory workshops in exposure, camera use, lens choice and basic digital workflow.
• Analogue and Darkroom Practice — black-and-white film processing, printing and alternative photographic processes.
• Digital Imaging and Editing — RAW workflow, colour management, retouching and image sequencing using industry-standard software.
• Image-Making Projects — studio and location projects that explore portraiture, still life, documentary and commercial briefs.
• Contextual and Critical Studies — histories and theories of photography, visual culture and contemporary practice.
• Professional Practice and Enterprise — business skills, portfolio development, pitching, pitching to clients and exhibition planning.
• Final Major Project — a sustained, self-directed body of work presented in a public exhibition or a professional portfolio with an accompanying contextual statement.

Teaching methods include practical workshops, seminars, lectures, one-to-one supervision and group critiques. Assessment is predominantly by practical projects, portfolios, presentations and critical essays.

Entry requirements

Admissions take a holistic view of candidates. You are normally expected to have an appropriate level of prior study such as A-levels, BTEC or equivalent qualifications. Practical experience and potential are assessed through a portfolio of work and a personal statement; an interview may also be required.

• Portfolio: a selection of recent photographic work demonstrating technical ability, visual awareness and a willingness to experiment.
• Academic qualifications: successful applicants typically hold recognised secondary-level qualifications or vocational qualifications appropriate for undergraduate entry.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English should provide evidence of competence through a recognised English language qualification at the level required for undergraduate study.
• Mature applicants and those with non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged to apply; relevant experience and a strong portfolio can be particularly important.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of roles across the creative and cultural industries. Many go on to work as freelance or staff photographers in fields such as editorial, advertising, commercial and documentary photography. Others progress into gallery and curatorial roles, photojournalism, image editing, digital content production, archive management or arts education.

Typical career pathways include:

• Freelance photographer (commercial, portraiture, weddings, editorial)
• Photojournalist or documentary photographer
• Creative roles in advertising, fashion and media production
• Curatorial or conservation roles in galleries, museums and archives
• Image editing, post-production and digital content creation
• Continued study on postgraduate courses in photography, fine art or related subjects

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a studio-focused photography programme with access to well-equipped digital labs, analogue darkrooms, photographic studios and exhibition spaces. Teaching is delivered by staff active in contemporary practice and research, and the course places strong emphasis on professional skills, employability and external engagement.

The university’s location close to the city of Oxford provides cultural and networking opportunities with galleries, festivals and media organisations, while links with industry and opportunities for live briefs and placements help students build contacts and real-world experience. Students benefit from centralised student support services, dedicated technical technicians and careers guidance tailored to creative professions.