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Media Studies A Level

Course Overview

Media Studies A Level offers an engaging and analytical exploration of how media shapes society, influences audiences, and reflects cultural values. By examining the relationship between text, audience, and industry, you will consider the ideologies embedded within media products and their impact on our everyday lives.

Throughout the course, you’ll develop critical thinking, analytical, and creative production skills, gaining a deeper understanding of media theory, history, and practice. QMC’s Media Studies A Level provides excellent preparation for further study and careers in film and television production, journalism, marketing, and public relations.

Student Graphic work

What Topics Will I Study?

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of key media sectors while developing essential skills in creative thinking, problem-solving, communication, and self-management all of which are highly valued by universities and employers.

Core Areas of Study

The curriculum covers nine major areas of media, providing both theoretical and practical insight into how each operates:

Advertisements
Magazines
News (print and online)
Television Drama
Film
Gaming
Radio
Music Videos
Online Media

Through these topics, you will explore media language, representation, industries, and audiences analysing how meaning is constructed and how media reflects and challenges social and cultural ideas.

As part of the course, you will complete a Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) project, which forms 30% of your final grade.

How Will I be Assessed?

Exam Board: OCR
Assessment Structure:

70% Examination – Two written exams (2 hours each) assessing media language, representation, industries, audiences, and case studies.
30% Coursework (NEA Project) – A creative cross-media production project based on set briefs.

This balanced assessment approach enables students to demonstrate both analytical and creative skills, preparing them for higher education and media-related careers.

Entry Requirements

To study A Level Media Studies at QMC, you will need:

Five or more GCSEs at grade 4/5 or above, including English Language (and ideally Mathematics).
No prior study of Media Studies is required only curiosity, creativity, and an eagerness to explore how media shapes our world.

This course is well suited to students who enjoy analysing culture, exploring current affairs, and expressing themselves through creative projects.

Future Pathways

Media Studies offers an excellent foundation for degree-level study in:

Media and Communication
Film and Television Production
Journalism and Digital Marketing
Advertising, Public Relations, and Graphic Design

The skills developed from critical analysis to creative production are also transferable to a wide range of professional fields in the creative, cultural, and communications industries.