Bachelor of Arts (Hons) - Photojournalism and Documentary Photography
- 3 years
- Duration
- 30,890 GBP/year
- Price
- September
- Start
- June
- Deadline
- Bachelor
- Degree
- Campus
- Format
- London / United Kingdom
- Location
Program description
The BA (Hons) Photojournalism and Documentary Photography course is delivered at London College of Communication and engages with real-world issues to foster a new generation of practitioners who critically reflect on photography's role in social change. Deeply committed to diversity, inclusivity, and ethical storytelling, the course explores how image-makers relate to and impact the subjects of their stories.
Viewing documentary as an umbrella term for photojournalism, still image, and moving image, the curriculum equips students to navigate these evolving genres in a self-defined and creative way. By developing an understanding of cultural, social, and ethical contexts, the course challenges historical legacies of representation and empowers students as contemporary storytellers. Project outcomes range from photo stories and photobooks to documentary films and research-driven installations.
Program structure
Year 1
- Introduction to Photojournalism and Documentary Photography (20 credits)
- Multi-Platform Storytelling (20 credits)
- Histories and Theories of Photojournalism and Documentary Photography (20 credits)
- Collaborative Publication (20 credits)
- Moving Image (20 credits)
- Media Ethics and Media Law (20 credits)
Year 2
- Contemporary Documentary 1 (40 credits)
- The Live Brief (Industry, Community and Collaboration) (20 credits)
- Contemporary Documentary 2 (40 credits)
- Reading and Writing Practice (20 credits)
Year 3
- Major Project 1 (20 credits)
- Research Project (40 credits)
- Major Project 2 (40 credits)
- Creative Futures (20 credits)
Optional Diploma between Years 2 and 3
Price
Tuition fee:
- 30,890 GBP per year*
*Tuition fees for international students may increase by up to 5% in each future year of your course.
During your studies, you may need to cover extra costs which are not included in your tuition fees. You might need to budget for materials and equipment specific to your course. You may also need a laptop or other digital tech/software.
Requirements for applicants
The standard entry requirements for this course are as follows:
104 UCAS tariff points which can be made up of one or a combination of the following accepted full level 3 qualifications:
- Three A Levels at BCC or above (preferred subjects include: English; History; Media; Business; Art and Design, or other subjects within Social Sciences).
- Distinction at Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (Level 3 or 4).
- Distinction, Merit, Merit at BTEC Extended Diploma (preferred subjects: Art and Design, IT & Computing, Media, Music and Performing Arts).
- Merit at UAL Extended Diploma.
- Access to Higher Education Diploma (preferred subject: Digital and Creative Media, Film and Production) – 104 tariff points.
- OR equivalent EU/International qualifications, such as International Baccalaureate Diploma at 24 points minimum
- And 3 GCSE passes at grade 4 or above (grade A*-C).
If you do not meet these entry requirements but your application demonstrates additional strengths and alternative relevant experience, you may still be considered. This could include:
- Related academic or work experience;
- The quality of the personal statement;
- A strong academic or other professional reference;
- A combination of these factors.
Each application will be considered on its own merit. We cannot guarantee an offer in each case.
English language requirements
- IELTS level 6.0 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
About the university
The University of the Arts London (UAL) produces and encourages the creativity essential for a better future. Its colleges have been at the forefront of innovative education since 1842, creating work with a lasting impact on people and the planet, driven by curiosity, imagination, and purpose.
London is fundamental to UAL's identity, providing a vital context where the university connects and exchanges ideas with individuals from all walks of life. Globally, its creative network influences education, culture, business, and society.
Through innovative research and creative instruction, UAL's faculty and staff bring fresh perspectives to education. The university enables students to build the careers they desire by working with them at every level - from pre-degree to postgraduate, and from short courses to online learning.
UAL's colleges
Ranked second in the world for art and design, UAL comprises six distinct colleges:
- Camberwell College of Arts
- Central Saint Martins
- Chelsea College of Arts
- London College of Communication
- London College of Fashion
- Wimbledon College of Arts
Together, they form a community of creatives, innovators, trailblazers, and storytellers, united in their mission to reimagine the future.
Courses in the visual arts, animation, screen, communication, fashion, media, and performance are available at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
