Photographic History and Practice MA/PG Dip – (M.A.)

* Examine cultural history, history of science and visual studies approaches, with an emphasis on the history of photography in Europe
* Develop skills in approaching and writing about primary source material in photographic history research, giving you the tools to approach photographs, cameras, technical apparatus, manuscripts, historical and theoretical writings
* Access photographs and manuscripts in local, regional and national collections and use the DMU photo-history research library, including many important photographic journals from the Kodak Research Library
* Gain the skills for further or ongoing work as a professional or build a platform of knowledge from which you may begin doctoral-level research
* Network and form research and work opportunities with our course partners, including the National Media Museum, Bradford; Birmingham Central Library; the British Library; and the University of Zurich, Switzerland.

Facilities

We have one of the best photographic research libraries in the UK, including many of the major journals of the 19th and 20th Centuries dealing with photographic matters. We have a full wet darkroom, scanning and digital photography resources and are situated close to the three largest collections of photographs in the UK, the British Library, Birmingham City Library and the National Media Museum.

We have digital and traditional cameras, DV camcorder kits, lights and microphones. Our purpose-built facilities include digital video editing suites, studios, a digital imaging lab and darkrooms. In each production area, you are able to call on the help and technical expertise of a skilled practitioner.

Career opportunities

The significant recent profiling of photographic history has led to prominent developments across Europe and the USA. As such, the agenda and profile of photographic history is increasing at a remarkable pace and is acquiring a considerable following in many fields of study, requiring a substantial demand for qualified practitioners.

Photographic history is a developing field of academic study, which by its nature seeks to interpret the creative and historical output and add to the theoretical and practical discourse currently found in history of art and history of science. The course will provide significant opportunities for hands-on research and further academic study.

The course will extend and enhance your professional development, through an emphasis on both theoretical and practical skills aligned with archive curating and history writing. You will be exposed to a variety of disciplines, including museum studies, conservation, visual anthropology, history of art, history of science and photography, and the wider cultural and creative industries.