Photography with foundation year

Photographs are the most exciting and important visual form of global communication, forming a significant part of everyday life. Estimates suggest that 5.45 billion people now use the internet (1) and that nearly 2 trillion photos are taken each year (2). 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 the University of Bolton's BA (Hons) Photography with foundation year course. 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'll explore an array of core techniques relating to the creative arts industries, including drawing, painting, sculpting, and finishing techniques, investigating both traditional and digital technologies. 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 and fine art.

We’ll invite industry experts to share their knowledge during guest lectures and offer you opportunities to work on placements, ‘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.

(1) https://www.statista.com/statistics/617136/digital-population-worldwide/ accessed 10 October 2024
(2) https://photutorial.com/photos-statistics/ accessed 10 October 2024