Documentary Photography - BA (Hons)

Graduates from this course go on to diverse careers as commissioned photojournalists for world leading magazines like the New York Times, National Geographic, and Time Magazine, or work with prestigious news agencies such as The Associated Press. Others become photographic artists, publishing photobooks and exhibiting at prestigious galleries like Tate Modern and events like the Venice Biennale. Many have earned international awards.

We're proud to celebrate the incredible achievement of USW graduate and New York Times photojournalist Ivor Prickett, who has been awarded a Pulitzer Prize for his powerful visual storytelling. His success highlights the real-world impact and global reach of our graduates.

Alumni also work as picture editors and researchers for magazines like GQ and institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery. There’s also the option to pursue a PhD or research degree.

You’ll have access to advice from the Careers and Employability Service throughout your studies and after you graduate. This includes one-to-one appointments with a faculty-based career adviser and extensive online resources for help with considering career options and presenting yourself well to employers. Resources include psychometric tests, career assessments, a CV builder, an interview simulator and application help. Our employer database has over 2,000 registered employers targeting USW students and students can receive weekly job email alerts.

The course has strong ties with industry in Wales, including Ffotogallery, the National Museum of Wales, and extends to the wider UK and international scenes. Recently, students have had the chance to be mentored by Magnum agency photographers, international curators, and experts from the National Portrait Gallery.