Open University Online Courses
Two 10 week online courses, developed by The Open University and supported by the RPS, for beginners and those who wish to develop their photography further.
Next start date: 2 March, register by 22 February
OU course code: TG089
Price: Available worldwide for £215
Duration: 10 weeks, 10 hours per week
Delivery: Online
Who is it for? Beginners
Courses start: March and October
Next start date: Next start date: 2 March, register by 22 February
This short course is ideal for those who are just starting out in photography. Delivered on the OU’s online learning platform, the course will develop your technical and visual skills as you learn the principles of digital photography and image editing. The course will also provide a foundation for those intending to undertake the RPS Licentiate Distinction (LRPS) qualification.
On completion of the course you will be entitled to apply for an RPS certificate and receive a discount on Distinctions 1:1 advice. Find out more here.
"I have just passed the TG089 Digital Photography Course and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you for allowing students, including students like myself from overseas, to study photography and become part of a great community of fellow photographers via the Royal Photographic Society." S.K., The Netherlands
Next start date: 25 March, register by 25 March
OU course code: TZFM201
Price: Available worldwide for £500
Duration: 10 weeks, 10 hours per week
Credits: 10 credits at undergraduate level
Delivery: Online, via FutureLearn
Who is it for? Competent photographers with prior learning on the basics
Courses start: Typically March and October
Next start date: 25 March, register by 25 March
This microcredential is aimed at competent photographers who have mastered the technical basics of photography and now wish to develop their creativity, knowledge and skills. It is not suitable for beginners, but it is an ideal next step for those who have completed Digital photography: creating and sharing better images (TG089).
Delivered on the OU’s social learning partner platform, FutureLearn, the course will give you a broad overview of a number of photographic genres and the knowledge, skills, and techniques to create better photographic narratives. You will learn how to work to a brief and how to prepare and take images to create a body of work within these subjects that tell a visually cohesive story.
The FutureLearn social learning experience is designed to encourage learners to interact and benefit from a stimulating learning community. Throughout the course you’ll take part in weekly activities to support and consolidate your learning. You will share ideas, experiences and get feedback on images from your co-learners. On-course mentors will encourage collaboration between learners and offer guidance. After you’ve completed the course, you’ll receive detailed, personal feedback on your assessment from academic and subject matter experts.
On completion of the course you will be entitled to apply for an RPS certificate and receive a discount on Distinctions 1:1 advice. Find out more here.
This course replaces Digital Photography: Creating a Professional Portfolio (OU course code: TZFM200.) It is a completely new course, however, the assessment is similar in shape and level. If you have any questions please contact FutureLearn prior to enrolling.
Student Story: Sharon Powell
If you'd like to learn a little more about what it's like attending the Digital Photography: Creating and Sharing Better Images course, RPS member Sharon Powell has outlined her experience of the course including practical details as well as tips to get the most out of the course.
Image credit: Sharon Powell
RPS AGM 2022 - The photographers Journey
Hear from the Open University's Professor Stephen Peak, and two photographers who took part in the Open University courses ran in partnership with the RPS.
Find out about other qualifications
The RPS offers qualifications, Distinctions and certificated courses to cater for every level of photographic experience. There are also opportunities with the OCA, boomsatsuma and Falmouth University. Qualifications are an excellent way of setting yourself educational challenges and projects to help further your skills and focus your work.