Course content & format

A Level Media Studies is an exciting and contemporary course that explores how media products shape the way we see the world. You will study a wide range of media forms, analysing how meaning is created and how media reflects and influences society, culture, politics and identity.

This is a two-year A Level course, normally studied alongside two other A Levels or equivalent qualifications. The course develops both analytical and creative skills, combining critical study of media products with practical production work.

You will explore key areas including:

· Media Language

· Representation

· Media Industries

· Audiences

These areas form the basis of the Eduqas theoretical framework for A Level Media Studies and are applied across a range of set products and media forms. Learners study media including television, advertising and marketing, film, newspapers, magazines, radio, music videos, video games and online/social media.

At this college, the course will give you the opportunity to explore:

· Television and moving image media

· Advertising and marketing

· Newspapers and magazines

· Online, digital and social media

· Video games and music video

· Media industries and audience responses

As part of the course, you will also complete a practical production component. This allows you to apply your understanding of media language, audience and representation by creating your own cross-media production in response to a set brief.

Your unique experience

Media Studies is ideal for students who are curious about the world around them and interested in how media products communicate messages, shape opinions and influence behaviour. You will engage with a wide range of contemporary and historical media texts, from television and advertising to social media and gaming, while developing your ability to analyse, interpret and evaluate media critically.

You will also have the opportunity to develop practical and creative skills through planning, designing and producing your own media work. This may involve using digital production tools, working independently and collaboratively, and applying professional approaches to research, planning and audience targeting.

Students may also benefit from enrichment opportunities such as creative projects, visiting speakers, workshops and trips linked to the media and creative industries.

Entry Qualifications

Entry requirements for A Level courses

· Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics.

· A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen.

· A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment.

· An interview may be required as part of the application process.

Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.

How is this course assessed?

This course is assessed through two written examinations and one non-exam assessment:

· Component 1: Media Products, Industries and Audiences – written examination, 2 hours 15 minutes, 35%

· Component 2: Media Forms and Products in Depth – written examination, 2 hours 15 minutes, 35%

· Component 3: Cross-Media Production – non-exam assessment, 30%

The production component requires learners to create an original cross-media production for an intended audience in response to a brief set by Eduqas. This component draws on the knowledge and understanding developed throughout the course.

Final grading follows the A Level grading system: A to E*.

What can I do next?

A Level Media Studies prepares you for a wide range of progression routes by developing valuable transferable skills in analysis, research, communication, creativity and digital production.

Possible progression routes include:

· Higher Education

· Apprenticeships or higher-level apprenticeships

· Employment in creative and communications industries

This qualification can support progression into areas such as:

· Media and Communications

· Journalism

· Film and Television

· Marketing and Advertising

· Public Relations

· Digital Content Creation

· Social Media Management

· Graphic Design and Production

· Publishing

If you are interested in how media shapes society and want to develop both critical and creative skills, A Level Media Studies provides an excellent foundation for further study and future careers.