New Zealand Diploma in Photography (Level 5)
Creative Media
A course by
UCOL
This diploma builds foundational professional photographic imaging skills, including creative, technical and conceptual photographic practices for a career in the photographic industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Palmerston North, Palmerston North
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 38 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Problem-solving in Photographic Contexts
Apply problem-solving skills to various photographic design challenges.
Creative and Technical Photographic Skills
Apply conceptual, creative, and technical skills in photographic imaging.
Technological Knowledge
Utilize industry-relevant image making and digital technologies for a range of photographic applications and genres.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 5 provides an introduction to photography as a creative medium, developing skills in idea generation, composition, lighting, equipment use, image processing, and presentation. The programme consists of 120 credits, typically one year in duration, covering photographic practice, digital production, photographic communication, and industry business aspects. Students gain industry-relevant knowledge, supported by award-winning lecturers, and access to specialised facilities and equipment. Entry requires NCEA Level 3 or equivalent. Graduates are prepared for junior technical or assistant roles, or further study at Level 6.
Course Content
- Photographic Practice 1A: Visual problem solving through idea generation, composition, lighting, equipment use, image processing, presentation
- Digital Production 1A: Skills in digital imaging technology including Photoshop, Bridge, and Indesign
- Photographic Practice 1B: Advanced visual problem solving using digital imaging technologies
- Digital Production 1B: Communication of visual ideas through digital imaging technology
- Photographic Communication 1C: History of photography - technological, social, cultural, and artistic perspectives
- Photographic Industry & Business 1C: Understanding professional photographic environment, business skills, intellectual property rights, and copyright law in New Zealand
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 3 or equivalent academic achievement or approval on a case-by-case basis by Executive Dean
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Photography
Creative Arts
Visual Media
Future employment opportunities might be
Junior technical or assistant roles within the photography industry