Photography (MFA) - MFA

At the Belfast School of Art we strive to develop unique photographic voices, which sit firmly at the cutting-edge of a contemporary international context, while also mining the specifics of our unique geographical and cultural position.

We have been profiled by the British Journal of Photography as one of the most significant photography schools in Europe. Our graduates work internationally between the book, gallery, web and magazine, continually challenging photography’s place within contemporary society and the way we photograph now.

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

Applicants must hold:

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Graduates are prepared for advanced careers in the field of photography. They go on to work as photographers in the fine art, cultural and commercial sectors, as well as securing roles in all aspects of the publishing, design, education, and museum sectors. Photography is the central medium of our age and the course introduces students to the new aesthetics and technologies now evolving in a fluid industry. Course team members are internationally recognised for their exhibitions, as well as their publications, curating and world leading research. They use their professional networks to offer students experience and knowledge drawn from the widest aspects of industry. Key skills development in communication strategies, portfolio development and preparation for industry enable our graduates to build a strong and enhanced platform from which to progress into the branch of the industry most suited to them.

The programme is complemented by a series of master classes and advanced skill workshops; an annual field trip to Paris and regular site visits to a variety of cultural institutions such as museums and galleries in Ireland, the UK and Europe.