Course Summary
How do media products influence the way we think, behave and understand the world around us? Media Studies explores the relationship between media, audiences and society, helping you understand how media messages are created, distributed and consumed.
You’ll analyse a wide range of media forms, including newspapers, magazines, advertising, music videos, radio, film, video games and television. Along the way, you’ll explore how media products represent people, events and issues, and examine the ways media organisations attract and engage audiences in an increasingly digital world.
The course combines critical analysis with practical creativity. As well as studying contemporary and historical media products, you’ll create your own cross-media production, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge and develop practical production skills.
Whether you’re interested in journalism, marketing, advertising, content creation or the wider creative industries, Media Studies offers an engaging introduction to the modern media landscape.
Key Topics
Explore media through four key areas:
- Media Language
- Media Representation
- Media Industries
- Media Audiences
Study a range of media forms including:
- Newspapers and Online Media
- Advertising and Marketing
- Magazines
- Music Videos
- Radio
- Film
- Video Games
- Long-form Television Drama
You’ll also create your own cross-media production in response to an industry-style brief.
Assessment
70% exams and 30% coursework.
Enrichment Opportunities
Progression
Academic Pathways: Media Studies provides a strong foundation for Higher Education and related degree courses.
Career Opportunities: The skills developed throughout the course can support progression into journalism, marketing, advertising, content creation and wider creative industries.
Entry Requirements
At least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths.