M.A. Photography

• Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
• Model: full-time
• Language: English
• ECTS: 120 ECTS
• Duration: 4 semesters/2 years
• Location: Berlin

The Master's programme in Photography offers critical perspectives on photography and new visual media. You will gain the tools to critically reflect on your own work and that of your peers. At the same time, you will explore the world around you – the professional realm of image-makers and the historical roots of the photographic medium. The programme provides enough space and flexibility for you to refine your personal photographic direction and artistic practice.

The M.A. Photography prepares you for immediate entry into the diverse world of visual arts. This could include working as an independent artistic or commercial photographer, image editor, art buyer or art director. Thanks to the programme’s strong theoretical focus, you’ll also be equipped to pursue a career as a curator for museums and galleries. The international “Master of Arts” degree also opens up opportunities for an academic path, including doctoral and postdoctoral studies.

The Master's degree programme in Photography offers a comprehensive education that focuses on various aspects of photography and its contextualisation. Students complete several modules that include both practical and theoretical components. Key topics include the development of individual photographic practices, methods of image analysis and an examination of the history of photography.

The modules are divided into different phases, starting with basic laboratory courses and integrated practical projects that focus on exploring the medium of photography. Advanced courses deal with specific topics such as photography as an object, printing techniques and interdisciplinary approaches. A particular focus is on the relationship between photography and space and the critical examination of contemporary photographic practices.

In addition to practical projects, theoretical foundations are taught, including media and photographic theory. Students have the opportunity to develop their own projects and present them as part of excursions and practical projects. The programme ends with a Master's colloquium and a Master's thesis, in which students present their research findings and creative work.

1st Semester

1. Orientation in the Medium – 6 ECTS
2. Individual Development – 6 ECTS
3. Work in Progress – 6 ECTS
4. History of Photography – 6 ECTS
5. Site-Specific Learning – 6 ECTS

2nd Semester

1. Image and Medium – 6 ECTS
2. Photograph as Object – 6 ECTS
3. Boundaries of the Medium – 6 ECTS
4. Issues in Contemporary Photography – 6 ECTS
5. Spatial Shift – 6 ECTS

3rd Semester

1. Spatial Shift – 6 ECTS
2. Photograph and Space – 6 ECTS
3. Beyond Photography - Manifesto – 6 ECTS
4. Critical Perspectives on Photography – 6 ECTS
5. Back to the Future – 6 ECTS

4th Semester

1. Master Colloquium – 6 ECTS
2. Master Thesis – 24 ECTS

Today, soft and social skills are crucial in addition to hard skills and expertise. That's why SRH University's innovative, successful, and award-winning CORE principle promotes independent and active learning so that you can apply your knowledge directly to projects and your future career—for a clear competitive advantage.

To apply for the Master’s programme in Photography, you will need to provide

• University or university of applied sciences degree (Bachelor or Diplom) (Please submit your degree certificate and your transcript of records. If you have not graduated yet, apply with existing transcripts.
• Letter of motivation
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Certificate of general or advanced technical college entrance qualification
• Curriculum vitae
• Copy of your identity card or passport

English language requirements:

Accepted English Proficiency Certificates (valid within 2 years), with at least the indicated score:

• IELTS Academic: 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: 87 points
• TOEIC Listening/Reading 785, Speaking 160, Writing 150
• Duolingo Certificate: 110 points
• Cambridge CAE or CPE (grade A, B, or C)
• Pearson English Test Academic (PTE-A): 59 points
• Linguaskill: 176 - 184 (CES) - all four skills required