BA (Hons) Level 6 Degree (Top-Up) Home Study
Work Placement
Graduates of this course are eligible for a one month work placement with a photography company. All placements are organised through the British Academy of Photography, within the greater London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh areas.
Read More- Study Option
- Home Study
- Course Level
- Level 6 on the FHEQ
- Entry Requirements
- 18 years old or over
A recognised BTEC level 5 qualification (or equivalent) in Photography,
If English is not your first language, you must have at least level 5.5 IELTS or the equivalent. - Assessment
- 16 online practical assignments
- Enrolment Process:
Enrol today to secure your place on this intake. All BA Top-up candidates must submit evidence of eligibility through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process.
Learn more here.- Awarding Body
The Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Photography is awarded by the University of Hertfordshire.
You will be enrolled on a Level 6 top up programme delivered through the British Academy of Photography. This programme is validated, quality assured and awarded through the University of Hertfordshire. The BA (hons) Level 6 top-up in Photography represents 1200 total learning hours and 120 credits at level 6 (undergraduate degree-level) study.
In this programme, you will develop a specialised knowledge of Photography. You will work closely with a team of subject specialist tutors who will help you to develop advanced academic abilities and a sophisticated professional practice. Throughout your studies, your tutors will provide support, guidance and feedback, allowing you to progress in your studies, build an independent practice or pursue a career in the industry. Designed around 16 assignments that are delivered through 4 distinct topic modules, this degree programme will provide an academic structure to your studies. It will help you to establish your own reputation and distinctive approach to photography.
As a Home Study student, you will have full access to our Online Learning Centre. This is your virtual campus and contains all your course content, learning resources, access to online learning services, tutor support and assessment materials. You will also have access to our popular student forum where tutors and students engage in discussion about course assignments, and share work and feedback.
The programme is aligned with statutory body requirements, such as the QAA Quality Code, QAA Subject Benchmarks, the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ), and Advance HE principles, ensuring an academically rigorous and professionally relevant learning experience. It also adheres to the Herts Learning Approach, (University of Hertfordshire) which emphasises active learning, inclusivity, and a supportive learning community.
Topics
The BA (Hons) Top-up programme includes 4 compulsory modules of study.
Each module has a completion timeframe of six months.
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- Module 1 - Advanced Practice
In this module, students will engage with multiple conceptual briefs, selecting two to develop in depth. For each chosen brief, students will be supported to explore creative ideas through visual research, experimentation, and critical analysis. This process will include mood boards, concept statements, and contact sheets to guide project development. Incorporating feedback and refining their approach, students will ultimately produce two portfolios featuring final images, technical documentation, and reflections on their creative process, demonstrating both conceptual depth and technical skill.
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- Module 2 - Dissertation
In this module, students will be supported to develop topics and research questions, understand research design, and explore research methods suited to visual studies, including content analysis, discourse analysis, and semiotics. The differences between qualitative and quantitative research and primary and secondary research techniques are examined, with insights into how each can be applied effectively within the context of photographic inquiry. Academic writing, referencing styles, analysis of research findings and academic conventions are covered. Students will also gain skills in independent research practice.
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- Module 3 - Major Project Ideation and Development
In this module, students complete a self-directed photography project, focusing on fine art aesthetics and a personal area of interest. They develop a proposal through independent research and tutor feedback, documenting their creative process in a visual diary from concept to finished work. The project emphasises advanced technical skill, semiotics, project management, and a clear artist statement for a defined audience. Culminating in a published portfolio, the work reflects critical engagement with context, technique, and creative vision under a tutor's guidance.
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- Module 4 - Major Project Implementation
This module marks the culmination of students' studies and serves as an introduction to professional practice. Students have the opportunity to showcase their skills and creative work to potential employers, collaborators, and clients, demonstrating their readiness for the industry. Students present their achievements and celebrate their progress by sharing their work with family, friends, and professional networks. This final project enables students to highlight their unique creative practices and positions them for future career opportunities.
Tutors
All our tutors are photography professionals working in the industry.
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Hugo
FelixCourse Tutor
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Steve
ForrestCourse Tutor
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Ana
Vieira de CastroCourse Tutor
The British Academy of Photography
Our philosophy at the British Academy of Photography is to make high-quality education accessible to all by empowering people to do what they love. Through the power of online and blended learning, our students are able to harness their creativity and practically apply it to succeed in their chosen careers.
Pursue your ambition - because the future is today!
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