People today learn more from the media than any other single source of information. On this course, one of the most important things I’ve learnt is that if we want to understand what is going on in the 21st Century, we have to understand the media”
– Year 12 Huntington Media Studies student
Through studying Media Studies, students will view, evaluate and analyse a variety of media products, and develop practical skills spanning a range of media forms. You’ll find contemporary, diverse topics and varied and engaging content, helping students to develop research, problem-solving skills as well as their creativity. They’ll also refine their debating skills through the discussion of contemporary issues from a range of perspectives.
COURSE CONTENT: Eduqas A Level Media Studies
Media Products, Industries and Audiences: Written examination – 2 hours 15 minutes (35% of qualification)
In this component, learners will develop knowledge and understanding of key aspects of the theoretical framework – media language and representation – as an essential basis for analysing media products from a variety of forms. In addition, learners will study products from specific media industries and for specific audiences to develop their knowledge and understanding of those areas of the theoretical framework. Learners will also explore how media products relate to their social, cultural, historical, political and economic contexts. In this component, learners will also develop their ability to use relevant subject-specific terminology and theories.
Media Forms and Products in Depth: Written examination – 2 hours 30 minutes (35% of qualification)
In this component learners are required to study three media forms in depth, exploring all areas of the theoretical framework – media language, representation, media industries, and audiences – in relation to audio-visual, print and online products set by the exam board. The forms to be studied in depth are: television, magazines, blogs and websites. Learners will explore these three media forms through close analysis of the set products, comparing their use of media language and the representations they offer in relation to relevant social, cultural, economic, political and historical contexts.
Component3: (NEA: coursework)
Cross-Media Production: Non-exam assessment – internally assessed (30% of qualification)
This component synthesises knowledge and understanding of the media theoretical framework gained throughout their course by requiring learners to apply their knowledge and understanding of the media synoptically to a practical production. The production must be based on two media forms and completed in response to a choice of briefs set by the exam board.
An A Level in Media Studies is not your passport to a job in this field of work. However, media employers do look encouragingly at a student who can demonstrate an understanding of how the media operates. The Media industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world and university courses reflect employer’s demands for crucial skills in this discipline. Past Media students have enjoyed success across all aspects of the Media and related industries. Former students have commented upon the usefulness of the range of transferable skills that studying the Media has given them.
GCSE GRADE PROFILE
Students who study Media Studies must achieve five GCSE grades from 9 – 4 in a range of subjects, including a grade 5 in English and a grade 5 in another Humanities subject.
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