Pathshala introduces their first bachelor’s degree

Pathshala, a South Asian media institute, started their journey in 1998, aiming to provide a platform to young enthusiasts who are interested to pursue a career in media. With its two departments being photography, and film and television, this institute offers basic, foundation, and long courses, along with residency programmes and workshops. For the first time since their establishment, Pathshala, in affiliation with University of Dhaka (DU), has introduced a Bachelor of Social Science (BSS) in Photography programme at their institution.

The BSS in Photography is a four-year undergraduate programme with 32 courses. Each course has four credits. Students need to complete a total of 128 credits for graduation. "Many young and talented individuals want to pursue higher studies in photography. However, a one or two-year diploma does not suffice an undergraduate degree. As a result, many are unable to pursue their passion and turn towards other accepted academic subjects while pursuing an undergraduate degree," says Tanvir Murad Topu, Head of Photography Department at Pathshala. "Students who will graduate under this course will be eligible to apply not only in the development sector and art related fields, but also in government jobs, including BCS and bank jobs. They can also directly apply for a master's degree at both home and abroad."

This programme is especially designed for the youths who are passionate about photography. "Any student who has our required grades in their SSC and HSC, or O'Level and A'Level examinations, are eligible to apply for this degree," says Tanvir. Candidates need to appear for a written examination for evaluation first. Students who will pass the written examination will be shortlisted for a viva. "The certificate for this BSS in photography will be issued under DU," he adds.

Pathshala is waiting to transform promising young individuals into future photo journalists, documentary photographers and other creative professionals. Their ongoing intake session concludes on December 20.