Media Studies (A Level)
Details
Qualification
A LevelExamination Board
EduqasSpecification
What Do I Need To Study This Course?
Level 5 in English Language.
What Will I Study?
In A Level Media Studies, you will gain a critical understanding of how media industries operate, how audiences are influenced, and how meaning is shaped through language, representation and technology. As part of the course, you’ll explore a wide range of contemporary and historical media products and create your own, giving you hands on experience in planning, designing and producing texts for different audiences. Students will also gain practical training in industry standard tools, learning to use Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro, as well as developing professional level skills in DSLR photography and filmmaking.
A Level Media Studies engages students in the in-depth study of media products in relation to the four areas of the theoretical framework:
- media language
- media representation
- media industries
- media audiences.
Students will study media products from all of the following media forms:
- television
- film
- radio
- newspapers
- magazines
- advertising and marketing
- online, social and participatory media
- video games
- music video
How Will I Be Assessed?
Assessment constitutes two final exams at the end of course that form 35% each of the final grade. The exams involve applying the media studies theoretical framework to a range of close study products specified by the exam board and also a number of unseen media texts. During the course, students complete a Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) and this involves producing a cross-media production for an intended audience. The NEA makes up 30% of the final grade.
What Next?
A Level Media Studies equips students with a blend of analytical and creative skills that are highly valued by both universities and employers. Our alumni have gone on to work in television and film production, marketing, journalism, gaming, and the online media sector, showing just how transferable the skills gained in Media Studies can be. With the UK’s creative industries contributing £124 billion to the economy in 2023 (Department of Digital, Culture, Media & Sport), this subject offers excellent preparation for those considering a career in one of the country’s fastest growing and most dynamic sectors. Media Studies is an engaging, thought-provoking course that encourages you to think critically, work creatively and understand the vital role media plays in shaping society today.
Suggested Reading List
What is Media Studies? Key concepts explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qE-B_XkoAgQ&t=22s
Media Studies – Why everyone should study it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrGzzbOgdJw
Textbooks for the course: