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Documentary Photography
- BA (Hons)
- 3 Years
- Full-time
- 21/09/2026
- Undergraduate
- Cardiff
- Awarded by:
- University of South Wales (Prifysgol De Cymru)
Course summary
Since it was established by Magnum photographer David Hurn in 1973, BA (Hons) Documentary Photography has established itself internationally as one of the premier courses at which to study documentary photography. USW has a history of 100 years of photography, and over 40 years of teaching Documentary Photography behind us.
Our definition of ‘documentary’ is broad. It blends the traditions of documentary storytelling with the most exciting innovations in contemporary photography. On this Documentary Photography degree, you’ll learn how to think critically and independently, and you’ll gain the technical skills to communicate your ideas in the most effective way.
Our Documentary Photography students regularly win the industry’s most prestigious awards. These include Lua Ribeira and Sam Laughlin, who were joint winners in the 2017 Jerwood/Photoworks Award. Lua Ribeira was also runner up in the prestigious 2016 Bar Tur Photobook Award. Daragh Soden made the Irish Times ’50 People To Watch In 2017’ list. Other winners included Sam Ivin, (Student Work Category of PDN’s Photo Annual 2015); Yasmin Balai, (2nd in IAFOR Documentary Photography Award) 2015 and Mira Andres (winner of the ESPY Award 2015).
Assessment method
Throughout the Documentary Photography course you will be assessed on practice-based modules, supplemented by self-reflective and context-based analysis. You will receive clear and detailed feedback that will help you reflect on, and develop your strengths.
This is supported by individual tutorials, seminars and workshops around business practice and professional skills.
How to apply
Apply by
14 January
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- 7G84
- Institution code:
- W01
- Campus name:
- Cardiff
- Campus Code:
- B
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
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Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 104 points
To include an Art & Design related subject.
A level - BCC
To include an Art & Design related subject.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - DMM
To include an Art & Design related subject.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 104 UCAS Tariff points to include an Art & Design related subject
Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (last awarded Summer 2024) - D - A*
We accept the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Diploma in lieu of a third subject.
GCSE/National 4/National 5
The University normally requires Mathematics/Numeracy and English at Grade C/4 or above, or their equivalent, but consideration is given to individual circumstances.
T Level - Pass (C and above)
Passing the T Level with Pass (C or above in the Core) to include an Art & Design related subject
Find out more about qualification requirements for this course.
Historical entry grades data BETA
This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
Not enough data available
We are unable to show previous accepted grades for this course. This could be because the course is new, it's a postgraduate course, there isn't enough historical data, or the provider has opted out of sharing their entry grades data for this course - learn more.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Location | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|
| EU | £9790 | Year 1 |
| England | £9790 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9790 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9790 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9790 | Year 1 |
| International | £16200 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
Students have access to a wide range of resources including textbooks, publications, and computers in the University’s library and via online resources. In most cases they are more than sufficient to complete a course of study. Where there are additional costs, either obligatory or optional, these are detailed on the University website (on individual course pages). Of course students may choose to purchase their own additional personal resources/tools over and above those listed to support their studies at their own expense. All stationery and printing costs are at a student’s own expense.
Students from Wales and the EU may be eligible for a means-tested Welsh Government Learning Grant. Please visit the University website for full details.
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Course contact details
Enquiries and Admissions Team
Email:enquiries@southwales.ac.uk
Phone:03455767778
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