Bachelor of Arts (Photography)

3 years full-time

Learning and teaching

The school is housed in ultra-modern facilities right in the heart of Melbourne. With generous studio facilities, modern lecture theatres and state-of-the-art Apple Macintosh computer labs, you will experience cutting-edge education in this vibrant and multicultural city.

RMIT offers a variety of learning and teaching approaches including lectures, seminars, studios, workshops, presentations, group discussions and syndicate work. These are primarily in English.

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

Ongoing assessment throughout the semester includes examinations, essays, reports, oral classes, presentations, group projects, research projects, laboratory projects and practical assignments.

Program structure

You’ll pursue your interests throughout the degree through our wide variety of study options and specialisations including advertising, architecture, digital imaging, documentary, editorial, fashion, food, science, photojournalism, portraiture and product photography.

An investigation into the cultures of photography is offered at all year levels and forms the basis for developing an understanding of where your own practice will be situated within the broadening culture of local, national and international photographic interests.

Year 1

In your first year you’ll gain a solid grounding in core photographic techniques, materials, concepts, theories and processes.

Year 2

In your second year, you'll choose from a broad range of photographic specialist courses and student electives.

Year 3

In your third year you’ll work autonomously, developing your own ideas, and be required to form industry liaisons.

Honours

An Honours program is available.

The following program structure(s) is an example of what students are currently studying in this program.

The second and third years feature industry guest speakers. Professional photographers mentor final year students and graduate folios are assessed by a panel that includes 2 or more relevant industry practitioners. Industry also offers students exclusive high-profile competitions.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

You will be prepared for a range of photographic career options.

Graduates work in a wide array of fields, including:

• advertising
• fashion
• editorial photography
• libraries, museums and galleries
• education units
• film, TV and video production
• research
• medical research
• manufacturing industries
• secondary, TAFE and university-level teaching/lecturing.

Opportunities exist as:

• curators
• artists
• digital production consultants
• colour management specialists
• workflow consultants
• professional photographers
• imaging specialists.

Your range of career options is so broad that you’ll be encouraged to consider these during your final year to ensure you are prepared.

Students have the option to study overseas for a semester as an exchange or Study Abroad student. Past students have studied in America and Europe.

You must meet the University entry requirements for this type of program.

Program entry requirements

Prerequisites

Current Year 12 prerequisite units 3 and 4—a study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or at least 25 in any other English.

Selection tasks

Midyear intake for advanced level internal applicants only.

Form: Applicants must submit a statement as part of their direct application if they wish other information to be considered. Applicants should explain their reasons for wanting to study the program and include details of any relevant work or other experience.

1. Check program entry requirements and confirm you're eligible.

2. Check and complete the selection tasks (if applicable) by the relevant closing date - these tasks are listed in the program entry requirements.

3. Check the table below for how to apply.

4. Apply using the appropriate method by the closing date.

Application method

Equity access

If circumstances have interrupted or disadvantaged your access to education, RMIT offers equity access schemes that allow selection officers to give applicants extra consideration, which may improve your prospects of studying at RMIT.

Tuition fees vary according to program and are adjusted annually.

In a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) your tuition fee is shared between you and the Commonwealth Government - if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Fee assistance

As a Commonwealth supported student, you may be able to either:

• pay all or part of your student contribution up front and receive a 10% discount, or
• defer your tuition fees through the HECS-HELP loan scheme.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds. Learn more about RMIT Scholarships.

Other fees

In addition to tuition fees you will also pay the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF). You may be able to defer the fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

There may be other additional expenses and administrative fees associated with your studies.

Graduates of the Diploma of Photoimaging (RMIT TAFE) may be eligible to apply for exemptions.

Learn more about pathways or if you are eligible for credit transfer and recognition of prior learning.

Media and Communication

View programs by interest area