New Zealand Diploma in Photography (Level 5)

at Universal College of Learning

This programme consist of 120 credits. The courses includes;

UCOL's New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 5 is a one-year diploma followed by the New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 6.

Semester 1

Photographic Practice 1A - Solving visual problems through idea-generation, composition, lighting, use of equipment,image processing and presentation.

Digital production 1A - Introduction to skills and knowledge in communicating visual ideas, through understanding digital imaging technology. (Photoshop, Bridge and Indesign)

Semester 2

Photographic Practice 1B - Develop knowledge and skills in solving visual problems through idea generation, composition, and lighting using digital imaging technology.

Digital production 1B - Skills and knowledge in communicating visual ideas, through understanding digital imaging technology.

Both semesters

Photographic Communication 1C - History of photography - technological, social and political approaches. Explore cultural and artistic ideas, and identify photographic practitioners and differentiate their stylistic approaches.

Photographic Industry & Business 1C - Understanding of the professional photographic environment. Develop a broad understanding of the skill and knowledge required to operate a photographic business. Intellectual property law and the copyright act in relation to photography in a New Zealand context.

Domestic Entry Requirements

The general conditions of the New Zealand Diploma in Photography, Level 5, state learners must hold a Level 3 qualification or be able to demonstrate equivalent skills and/or knowledge.

English language proficiency

If English is not your first language, you must also demonstrate English language skills equivalent to an IELTS overall band score (academic) of 5.5 with no band score less than 5 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible)

International Entry Requirements

In addition to the Domestic Entry Requirements, the following applies to international student applicants.

English language proficiency

International student applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic  score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible). UCOL is a TOEFL iBT testing centre. 

Under 20 years of age

For international applicants under 20 years of age who do not hold NCEA, International Academic Qualifications Entry Criteria apply.

Domestic Fees: *
$7973.00

International Fees:*
$21,500.00

Graduates of this qualification will be able to:

• Apply problem-solving skills to a range of design challenges within a photographic context
• Apply conceptual, creative and technical skills in photographic imaging
• Apply knowledge of image making and use of technologies relevant to a range of photographic applications and genres
• Create a range of photographic imaging works
• Analyse and evaluate own photographic work and the work of others
• Self-manage photographic project briefs within defined guidelines
• Behave professionally in a photographic work environment.

Employment options include working in junior technical or assistant roles within a photography environment.