Arts, Design & Culture Arts Management

The programme aims to:

1. enable students to pursue in-depth academic studies (criticism and theory) and practical skills in photography;

2. introduce students to the historical background, development, and contemporary challenges of vintage & modern photography;

3. examine existing visual art theories and related critiques from historical, technical, and philosophical perspectives;

4. explore contemporary lens-based photography through a curriculum integrating culture, theory, and practice;

5. provide students with the opportunity to critique and reflect on their photographic learning through projects and written essays.

 

On completion of the programme, students should be able to:

1. apply their knowledge and skills in contemporary photographic criticism and practice; 

2. critically review and evaluate items of photographic artwork;

3. develop their own creative style and genres in photographic art; and

4. communicate their creative experience and journey with local arts and cultural personnel as well we those working in their regions, especially the GBA. 

This 1-year full-time face-to-face programme consists of 4 modules:

Module Title	Brief Description	No. of Credits
History and Criticism of Photography	Topics include: History of photography; Evolution of technology which affects photographic standard; Social political contents in photographic images; From subjectivity to objectivity, new vision and new genres of photography; Digital evolution and its influence on the traditional paradigm of photography	12
Contemporary Issues in Photography	Topics include: The reading of photographs; The relationship of Modern Art Movements and photography; Post-modernism currents; Photography in the new millennium; Selected issues in contemporary photography	12
Paradigm of Photography	Topics include: Early photographic processes, from Daguerreotype to Dry Plate; Celluloid film in the Modern Age; Color film from 1940’s; Revolution of digital tools in the New Millennium; Overview of cameras up to date; and, Referring to items 1-4 above to creative photographic artworks.	12
Graduate Project	Students and teachers will discuss the aims and objectives of the project, its format, nature and scope. Each student will decide on a specific topic of their own interest and background. Once the topic is approved, students need to make a short presentation of topic in class and set up the schedule. Students may continue to consult the teachers while developing the project. A class presentation is expected upon completion of project.	24

Apart from lectures, students will attend field trips, seminars, workshops, and tutorials.

An exhibition of graduate work, as one of the non-lecture activities for the ‘Graduate Project’ module, will be organized at the end of the programme. (Exhibition will be held every 2 years.)

Assessment Methods

For each module, students will be assessed by a combination of the following components:

• Essay and Report Writing
• Group Project and Presentation 

All assessments will be in English.

There is a 70% attendance requirement per module for students. For students who do not meet the minimum attendance requirement, the School has the discretion not to allow these students to attempt any assessment and/or to graduate from the programme and/or to continue studies.

Award

Upon successful completion of all 4 modules with 60 credits and pass the required assessments, students will be awarded a “Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary Photography” within the HKU system through HKU SPACE. 

 

Application Code	2385-PE051A	Apply Online Now
Apply Online Now

Venue

• Sheung Shui Learning Centre

Common Enrichment Modules (CEM)

In addition to the credit-bearing modules listed above, students have the unique opportunity to engage in non-credit bearing Common Enrichment Modules (CEM) alongside peers from other postgraduate programmes. These CEMs encompass a diverse range of subjects, including leadership development, communication skills, business and academic writing, and the application of both artificial intelligence (AI) and ESG. By participating in these modules, students can expand their knowledge and skillsets, gaining valuable learning experiences that will better prepare them for their future careers.

 

Programme Specific Activities

During the study period, students will have the opportunity to participate in programme-specific activities such as field trips and career talks, all tailored to their individual needs. These activities are designed to foster stronger connections with the industry and provide students with invaluable hands-on experiences in the real business world. This exposure will help students set goals that align with their interests and aspirations. It will also facilitate their future career plans, ensuring they are well-prepared for their professional journeys.

Application Fee

HK$600 (Non-refundable)

Course Fee

• Course Fee : HK$120,270

• Applicants shall:

  a) hold a bachelor’s degree awarded by a recognised institution.

  If the degree or equivalent qualification is from an institution where the language of teaching and assessment is not English, applicants shall provide evidence of English proficiency, such as:

  i. An overall band of 6.0 or above with no subtests lower than 5.5 in the IELTS; or

  ii. A score of 550 or above in the paper-based TOFEL, or a score of 213 or above in the computer-based TOFEL, or a score of 80 or above in the internet-based TOFEL; or

  iii. HKALE Use of English at Grade E or above; or

  iv. HKDSE Examination English Language at Level 3 or above; or

  v. Equivalent qualifications.

  And

  b) have experience and knowledge in photography.

  Applicants are required to attend an interview and present a portfolio of their photographic works.

  Applicants with other qualifications will be considered on individual merit.

Online Application Apply Now

Application Form Download Application Form

Enrolment Method

Applicants may  (1) register online and upload a copy of their academic credentials, (2) submit the following documents in person at any of the college's registration centers, or (3) mail the documents to:

19/F, HKU SPACE Island East Campus, 494 King's Road, North Point, Hong Kong

1. a completed application form (SF26); and

2. a copy of your Hong Kong Identity Card or Mainland Resident Identity Card or passport; and

3. a copy of your visa (if applicable); and

4. copies of your academic qualifications (including certificates and transcripts), copies of your relevant professional qualifications; and

5. proof of English proficiency (If the degree or equivalent qualification is from an institution where the language of teaching and assessment is not English) (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL, HKALE, HKDSE or equivalent qualifications).

Payment Method