University of Northampton

Photography (Top-Up) BA (Hons)

University of NorthamptonWaterside Campus, Northampton

Course overview

Our Photography Top-Up programme takes a practical approach to exploring the photograph within a range of contemporary practices and contexts. This will extend to a critical understanding of the subject and allows the scope for you to develop your creativity and professionalism. We encourage you to develop an independent approach to your learning, with a focus on personal research methods and extending your individual practice through experimentation and critical thought.

We will challenge you to consider traditional silver processes and digital technologies, evaluating photographic production and studying the still image in relation to both the moving image and newer interactive technologies. Our BA Top-Up Photography programme has been ‘Approved’ by the Association of Photographers (AOP) as one of the ‘most respected photographic courses in the UK’.

Key highlights

  • Approved by the Association of Photographers (AOP)
  • Practical exploration of photography across contemporary practices and contexts
  • Covers both traditional silver processes and digital technologies
  • Studies the still image alongside moving image and interactive technologies
  • Emphasis on independent research and experimental individual practice

Entry requirements

  • IELTS: 6 — 6.0 IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands for study at undergraduate level.

Scholarships

  • ICAEW Foundation Bursary

    Three annual payments of £4,000

    Up to £12,000

  • John Lowe Accounting and Finance Scholarship

    Scholarship is paid as £1,000 in the second and third years of study.

    Up to £2,000

  • Northampton Energy Elite Athlete Scholarship

    This scheme offers the student athlete a support network enabling them to balance the demands of performance sport with academic study.

  • Reid Science, Engineering, and Computing Bursary

    £500 per year of study

    Up to £1,500

  • TD Lewis Scholarship

    The T D Lewis Scholarship provides both undergraduate and postgraduate students with financial awards of up to £1,000.

    Up to £100

  • The Chancellor's Fund

    Up to £50

  • The University of Northampton International Scholarship

    The University of Northampton International Scholarship Scheme is a merit-based scholarship that provides up to a £4,000 reduction in tuition fees.

  • Wilson Endowment Scholarship

    Successful students will receive three annual payments of £500, one for each year of study.

    Up to £1,500

Careers this course leads to

  • Photographer
  • Commercial photographer
  • Photographic artist
  • Photographic assistant
  • Picture editor
  • Digital imaging technician

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790 per year | International: £18,500 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Northampton, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

Ready to start?

Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to a September 2026 place.

Apply Now
Download Free Guide