Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for MA Photography Programmes in Germany
Are you a budding photographer aiming to take your career in photography to the next level? Pursuing an MA Photography programme in Germany may be the key to unlocking exciting career paths in the creative industry.
Whether you’re exploring ways to turn a hobby into a profession or seeking expert guidance to develop new techniques and essential photography skills, find out how to apply for a photography course in Germany today.
What is MA Photography?
An MA Photography programme is a postgraduate degree usually delivered over 18 months with three terms of study and a dissertation. MA Photography degrees offer subject-specific expertise and interdisciplinary skills to help professionals thrive in the rapidly evolving world of photography.
Combining theory and practice with an emphasis on creative expression and critical thinking, a master’s in photography in Germany adopts an experiential learning approach where students navigate the diverse photography field, from traditional techniques to innovative technology.
MA Photography programmes are designed in line with emerging industry trends and aim to prepare students for the photography industry, where adaptability and creativity are paramount to success. Many programmes encourage collaboration with students from other creative disciplines, like film and graphic design, to reflect the dynamic creative industries.
Master’s in Photography Germany: How to Apply
Applying to study photography at university can sometimes feel like applying for a job, but it shouldn’t! Following a few simple steps makes applying for a master’s in photography in Germany quick and easy.
How to apply for a photography course in Germany:
- Find an MA Photography programme tailored to your personal and professional goals
The first step is establishing what you want from an MA Photography degree. Your goals and ambitions, including career progression and skill development, should shape your research into photography programmes in Germany.
You can then use your personal and professional goals to find the most suitable MA Photography programme and start the application process.
- Ensure you meet the programme requirements
Once you find the perfect programme to elevate your career and photography skills, you must meet the specific programme requirements.
Photography master’s programmes in Germany typically have a minimum age limit of 21 and require students to have completed a bachelor’s degree or relevant experience in the creative industries to demonstrate the ability to study at the postgraduate level. Universities with English-taught MA Photography programmes may also require proof of English language certificates. You can access BSBI’s Proof of English Guide (UCA) here.
- Create an account and select the programme and intake
Now you have found a programme you meet the requirements for, it is time to begin the application. To apply for a photography course in Germany, you usually need to create an account directly on the school’s website.
After creating an account, you can select the MA Photography programme and the intake that suits you.
- Fill in the application details
The next step is to fill in your personal details, including your name, age and nationality. Most MA Photography programmes in Germany invite international students to apply, but this is worth checking before starting an application.
- Provide supporting documents
Submitting supporting documents is essential during the application process for a master’s in photography in Germany. Supporting documents include school leaving certificates, degree certificates and diplomas, course transcripts with grades, letters of motivation, CV/résumés, reference letters, proof of English language proficiency and recent passport-size photographs.
- Submit a photography portfolio
A standard application for any photography programme will include a portfolio submission. This is a collection of your best work and an opportunity to showcase your skills and creativity. A portfolio also highlights what makes you unique, as no two portfolios are the same.
Your portfolio may contain sketches and paintings, digital art and designs, as well as sound work and short films. Portfolios often comprise around 12 pieces of work and any relevant links to external pages during applications for MA Photography programmes. They are usually submitted digitally via the application portal.
- Submit your application and prepare for the next steps
Once you have uploaded your supporting documents and finalised your portfolio, you should review every section of the application to ensure you haven’t missed anything or made any mistakes. Once you’re happy with the application, click submit.
Shortly after applying for a master’s in photography in Germany, you will be contacted by a member of the university’s admissions team, who will assist you throughout the next steps.
Top Application Tips for Photography Courses in Germany
Now you know how to apply for photography courses in Germany, read our top tips to secure your place in an MA Photography programme at an accredited German university today.
- Research, research, research
Our number one tip for those looking to apply for photography courses in Germany is research, from the programme accreditation to the modules and course content. It is essential to align your goals with the programme and understand how the programme will help you progress. Learning about the university, including its industry connections and faculty, is also key to gaining a clear picture before applying for an MA Photography degree.
- Create a diverse portfolio
As mentioned, a portfolio should shine a light on your finest work, making it an integral part of the application for an MA Photography programme. Even if your portfolio is tailored to your chosen specialisation, it is essential to showcase a diverse range of skills and techniques. A portfolio is an opportunity to impress professionals and express your creative flair, so show off your photography skills.
- Gather strong supporting documents
Supporting documents are another important part of the application process, which backs up the talent showcased in the portfolio. Providing strong supporting documents, including letters of recommendation from industry professionals, a creative CV and varied references highlighting your character, are all essential parts of the puzzle for universities to piece together.
Apply for a Photography Course in Germany Today!
A master’s in photography in Germany is a top option for professionals looking to access diverse roles across the creative industry, from graphic design to fine art. MA Photography students can gain transferable skills and develop creativity through experimentation and innovation.
Students can also establish a strong connection between research, theory and practical application to further their development and ability to communicate with diverse audiences.
The Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI) offers an 18-month MA Photography programme at its modern Hamburg campus in partnership with the UK-based University for the Creative Arts (UCA).
BSBI’s MA Photography programme provides students with the skills to become proficient photographers within their chosen specialisation, offering an extensive curriculum built around the core concepts of defining your practice, context and method, project development and realisation and dissemination.
Learn how to apply for BSBI’s MA Photography programme here and study photography in Germany today.
FAQs
Create an account on the school’s application portal
Select the programme and intake you want to apply for
Complete all sections of the online application
Submit the online application
Await contact from a member of the school’s admissions team