HNC PHOTOGRAPHY

Intro to the course:

Photography  is about capturing moments, expressing creativity, telling stories and communicating information. Building on a strong foundation of technical skills, our HNC Photography course offers the opportunity for you to develop all these elements to a professional level and build a strong portfolio of work to kickstart your photography career.

Top photographers in Scotland can now earn upwards of £600 a day. It's estimated that 7,800 jobs will need to be replaced or created between 2020 and 2023 in the creative industries and photography in Scotland, with the need for good quality images for advertising and content. This course will give you the skills to be a successful photographer. 

Our small class sizes facilitate a supportive learning environment where you can access industry-standard image editing software, and our newly fitted studio. We provide a fantastic opportunity to develop your creativity as well as your technical skills, allowing you to successfully build your own portfolio in preparation for working in an ever-changing digital environment.

Who is the course for?

This course is ideal for anyone wanting to develop their career as a photographer. It will suit school leavers or those looking to change career or progress in the industry.

What will I study?

You will study a range of photographic disciplines and develop skills for working in the sector, for example, Studio Still Life, Portraiture, Architecture, Landscape, Moving Image, and Image Editing. On this practical, project-based course, our experienced lecturers will support you as you learn through lectures, tutorials, work experience opportunities, groupwork, industry visits, expeditions, and from guest speakers. 

Next step course options

Direct entry to second year of the HND Photography if you achieve 14 credits and all the mandatory HNC units.

How will I be assessed?

Ongoing assessment through a range of research, planning, practical and evaluative activities. Your Graded Unit assessment is an opportunity to design and develop your own project.

Why should I choose this course?

Skilled photographers are in high demand with photography needed for websites, social media, promotion, photojournalism, social photography and more. On this course, you'll gain the skills you need to become a top photographer. You'll be taught in the college photography studios by experienced staff, who also work in the industry, and may have the chance of work placements. 

Where can this course lead?

Some students completing the HNC Photography course go into work as freelance photographers within the creative industries, often setting up their own businesses. 

Many go on to study HND Photography to further refine their skills in preparation for professional life. This also allows them the opportunity to apply for degree level Photography studies. 

Over the past few years, we have supported the progression of some of our HND Photography students to degree courses at Glasgow School of Art, Edinburgh College of Art, City of Glasgow College and Gray’s School of Art. 

What are the entry requirements?

One or more of the following: 

• One Higher 
• Relevant group of SQA National Qualifications or Foundation Apprenticeship at SCQF level 6 
• Equivalent recognised qualification 
• Relevant work experience with current reference

You should also have

• a portfolio of recent work 
• own or have the use of a DSLR camera for duration of the course
• have a  genuine interest in photography, digital media or video

If English is not your first language, ESOL at an appropriate level or IELTS or equivalent with an entry score of 5.5 or above is recommended.

What are the interview arrangements?

Your offer will be based on your application.  You may be invited to an informal group interview and information session.

Fees, finance and funding:

Fees and finances for full time:

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds.

Click here to find out more about fees, finance and funding options.

Other information: