Photography with foundation year

In December 2024, the University of Bolton was granted permission by the Office for Students (OfS) to change its name to the University of Greater Manchester with immediate effect. While we work to update our systems, you may see both names used in the information we provide.

Photography can connect with people all over the world by quickly sharing moments that can inspire, teach, express a point of view, or capture a moment in time. The University of Greater Manchester's BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year undergraduate degree course prepares you for professional roles in a wide range of specialist areas.

Photographs are the most exciting and important visual form of global communication, forming a significant part of everyday life. The image has become the most widely used international language, and the ability to communicate concise visual statements that engage audiences is at the heart of our course and teaching. You can experience life at our supportive, student-focused, multicultural campus while developing essential knowledge and skills ready for a career in photography.

The foundation year allows you to discover and strengthen research, design, practical and communication skills that are essential for success as you study Photography. You will also have the opportunity to expand your creativity beyond photography experimenting with drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, installation, performance, AI, digital 3D, video and sound art. These skills will give you a multidisciplinary approach to producing visuals that can go beyond lens-based media. The foundation year also aims to build your confidence in academic skills such as literature searching, academic referencing and written and oral communication techniques.

Following the foundation year, our broad-based degree offers you a unique pathway of visual self-discovery. You’ll benefit from the freedom to pursue your own interests while receiving expert support from our industry-experienced tutors, developed with help from a panel of industry professionals. We offer a supportive, market-aware environment where you can explore various photographic genres such as documentary, fashion, editorial, photojournalism, commercial advertising, portraiture, architectural, wildlife, landscape, fine art, and more.

We’ll invite industry experts to share their knowledge during guest lectures and offer you opportunities to work on ‘live briefs’ and commissions. Our industry links will help to enrich your learning experience and provide you with invaluable ‘insider’ information and possible employment opportunities. We also aim to help you develop lifelong learning skills so that you can take ownership of your professional development for the future, maximising your potential for success. You can be part of this fully integrated programme of practical and theoretical knowledge, building your confidence and skills, ready for a career in this dynamic industry.