SouthamptonSouthampton
The Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Photography is a nationally recognised qualification run by industry professionals and is a natural progression from the HNC. It can lead you onto a full degree at university or directly into skilled employment. The HND is a far more cost effective option than studying a degree at university.
You will work independently on a choice of live project briefs that will provide you with invaluable work experience and professional practice. You will demonstrate your abilities in a range of techniques, skills and areas of work both on location and in our state-of-the-art photography studio. The year will culminate in a public exhibition where you will showcase your work in a professional setting to the public, local employers and higher education institutions.
The aims of this course are to encourage and nurture your creative and technical skills. Develop advanced photographic skills and techniques working on location and in our state-of-the-art photography studio. Lighting techniques both in the studio and on location. You will have the opportunity to work on client led live briefs and will have the opportunity to explore your choice of specialist areas of photographic practice.
Classes take place in specially designed photography studios and involve a range of activities including group and individual work. You will be encouraged to build on your strengths and develop further in areas for improvement. There is an overarching priority to build confidence and enable you to develop your own creative style. This is a practical course with some written units. There are no written exams.
The HND in Photography is classified as a full-time course but you will only be required to attend college two days per week. It is equivalent to the second year of study on an undergraduate degree at university.
Facilities
Large and fully equipped photography studio with industry standard equipment. Digital and analogue technology. Photography dark room. Suite of Apple Macs featuring latest Adobe CC software for editing and processing. Gallery exhibition space.
Awarding Body
This qualification is awarded by BTEC Edexcel, 190 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7BH. Telephone 0844 576 0026
Financial Assistance
Did you know you can take out a Higher Education Loan to pay for this course? The Student Loans Company provides loans and grants to students at college studying Higher Education and you don’t start repaying until you earn over a certain amount.
Policies
For our HE Fees, Admissions and Student Protection Policies, please visit our Policies page.
You will need to have successfully completed a Level 4 qualification in photography, e.g. HNC in Photography. You will also require a strong creative portfolio of work, to be presented at interview, and a strong commitment and interest in photography.
You may be considered without formal qualifications if your skills and experience are of an appropriate standard – this would be assessed at interview.
Equipment
A digital SLR camera is essential for this course. You are also advised to purchase a USB memory stick of 1GB or more.
Upon successful completion of the Level 5 HND, you may top-up your qualification to a relevant BA Hons degree at university. Alternatively, you can do freelance work or move into skilled employment in the photography industry.
Our HND programme has an established record of progression to employment both locally and in London, and university top-up degree courses ranging from photography to advertising. We now also have graduates who have progressed onto a Masters Degree.
College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.
Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.
