TUT National Diploma in Photography

Capturing Life Through the Lens: National Diploma in Photography

If you have a passion for photography and dream of turning your love for visuals into a fulfilling career, the National Diploma in Photography could be your path to success. Let’s take a closer look at this exciting program and what it has to offer.

Qualification Details

• Qualification Code: NDPG96
• NQF Level: 6
• Campus: Arts Campus

Important Notice to New Applicants

If you’re planning to enroll in this qualification for the first time in 2017 or later, please note an important change. Starting from 2020, the Baccalaureus Technologiae program will no longer be available. It will be replaced by qualifications aligned with the newly-implemented Higher Education Qualification Sub-Framework. Keep an eye on the university’s website for updates on new qualifications not listed in this prospectus.

Admission Requirements and Selection Criteria

Admission requirements and selection criteria vary depending on your educational background:

For Applicants Who Obtained a Senior Certificate Before 2008:

• Admission Requirement: A Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification.
• Selection Criteria: Admission is subject to evaluation, which includes completing an assignment (including a questionnaire) and a personal interview. Additional photographs may also be submitted with the assignment.

For Applicants Who Obtained a National Senior Certificate in or After 2008:

• Admission Requirement: A National Senior Certificate with a bachelor’s degree or diploma endorsement, or an equivalent qualification, with an achievement level of at least 3 for English.
• Selection Criteria: Applicants must have an Admission Point Score (APS) of at least 18. This involves preparing a digital photographic portfolio and completing a comprehensive questionnaire.

For Applicants With a National Certificate (Vocational):

• Admission Requirement: A National Certificate (Vocational) with specific subject requirements.
• Selection Criteria: Applicants must have an Admission Point Score (APS) of at least 27.

Program Duration and Presentation

This diploma program spans three years and is presented through day classes. New students are admitted in January each year.

Exclusion, Readmission, and Recognition of Prior Learning

For details on exclusion, readmission, and recognition of prior learning, refer to Chapter 2 of Students’ Rules and Regulations and Chapter 30 of Students’ Rules and Regulations.

Subject Credits

Subject credits are indicated in brackets after each subject, helping you track your progress throughout the program.

Curriculum Overview

Let’s explore the curriculum for each year of the National Diploma in Photography:

First Year:

• Applied Photography I (APH100T): Covers practical photography, including general and specialized applications, digital technology, and editing software.
• Professional Practice I (PFP100T): Introduces entrepreneurship, business concepts, and financial aspects related to photography.
• Theory of Photography I (THP110T): Provides foundational knowledge on light, image formation, cameras, exposure control, and digital photography concepts.
• Visual Communication I (VCM110T): Focuses on design, aesthetics, and the history of nineteenth-century visual arts.

Second Year:

• Applied Photography II (APH200T): Establishes moderately advanced photographic practices, preparing you for a career in professional photography.
• Professional Practice II (PFP200T): Explores terms and conditions for professional photography, model agencies, marketing, and business ethics.
• Theory of Photography II (THP210T): Builds on theoretical knowledge, covering camera equipment, optics, lighting, pre-production, and post-production.
• Visual Communication II (VCM210T): Expands on the history of twentieth-century visual arts and the development of South African photography.

Third Year:

• Applied Photography III (APH300T): Focuses on advanced commercial photography, specialized fields, multimedia applications, and work-integrated learning.
• Professional Practice III (PFP300T): Covers Internet business concepts, client needs, entrepreneurship, and business establishment.
• Theory of Photography III (THP310T): Provides advanced knowledge of general and specialized photographic applications, modern advancements, and independent thinking.
• Visual Communication III (VCM310T): Introduces basic principles in research in the arts, preparing you for future research projects.

Conclusion

The National Diploma in Photography is your gateway to the world of professional photography. Whether you aspire to capture stunning visuals, explore the art of photography, or launch your own photography business, this program equips you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. Embrace your passion for photography and turn it into a rewarding career with this exciting qualification.