MA Photojournalism: University of Westminster

Introduction

MA Photojournalism commenced in 2000 and is a highly respected and successful course with an international profile. Graduates go on to careers in the arts, media and photographic industries including art, documentary, fashion, journalism and education. It can also lead to further study as a PhD student. The course is based at the Harrow Campus in North West London, one of the foremost media education centres in Europe.

Course Overview

This course provides a unique combination of professional practice and critical understanding for photographers and journalists interested in entering the field of editorial and related photography. It builds on the international reputation of the journalism and photographic departments of the University.

MA Photojournalism at the University of Westminster is designed to provide an intensive experience of contemporary photojournalism and is the ideal stepping stone to a career in photography. Students will work on realistic assignments taken to a professional level, both individually and in groups, and will collaborate to produce a high quality magazine during the course. There will also be seminars and discussions about photographic theory relevant to the current practice of  photojournalism.

Part time students will negotiate their study programme with the Course Leader

Entry requirements

Students should normally possess a good first degree from a recognised university or institution of higher education or have relevant professional working experience to a level that will allow engagement with postgraduate study. We particularly welcome mature applicants with a background in the media, the arts or business seeking a change of direction in their career.

Qualities expected in applicants:

• a proven interest in visual communication
• an interest and ability to express ideas through photography
• an ability to research and present visual story ideas
• an awareness of the role and importance of text in photojournalism
• an ability to work creatively both individually and in groups
• an ability to think critically about the context of their work

The language of instruction and of journalism practice will be English and the intensive nature of this course requires that candidates must be able to speak and understand English fluently and write in English to a high standard.

Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds should have an overall IELTS score of 7.0. Alternatively they do also accept a minimum of TOEFL 650 (paper-based test) or TOEFL 280 (computer-based test) or TOEFL 115 (internet-based), plus a relevant academic or professional background.