Media Studies A-level
90980
- Start:
- September
- Duration:
- 2 years
- Level:
- 3
Course Details
Violent films and games make audiences violent.
The news is all fake.
The media can’t tell us what to think, but it can tell us what to think
about.
Legacy media is dead – the audience are now the real producers of
media.
These statements can’t all be true, can they?
How do we find out information about what is going on in the world? For some it might be through TV news or news websites, for others it might be through social media. How can we rely on the fact that these representations are a true and fair version of the world? We can’t!
You will explore how we use the media and how it constructs our understanding of the world. Through analysis you will learn about how the media appeals to us and how multi-billion pound industries manage to encourage us to spend our money.
Students will study a variety of set media products across a range of different media types. Starting with Advertising and moving through Music Videos, Video Games, Radio, Newspapers, Magazines and Television - there is a holistic approach to analysing these products. Looking at how they create meaning for audiences through representations but also exploring their industry contexts. Lessons are often a mixture of analysing media products, application of new theories and discussion of contextual issues. The set products are often used as a springboard for relevant debates about the media’s place and impact on society.
Outside of the class students are expected to consume a variety of different media and be aware of how their own media consumption can connect with the ideas studied in class. The students will also independently plan and make a cross media product as coursework.
Basic stationery: files for lecture notes, lined paper, pens, pencils and highlighters. Access to a laptop or computer would be beneficial as students can access support materials, conduct research and complete assignments tasks.
Degrees and careers in Media and Film theory, Media and Film production, Broadcasting, Journalism, Screen Writing, Public Relations, Event Planning, Social Media and Physical Marketing.
You will need a minimum or five GCSEs, including English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4 together with three other subjects at grade 4 or above.
Additional entry requirements:
- No requirement to have studied a GCSE. If studied before, a minimum of grade 4 is required
The College will always treat each applicant as an individual. Should you not have or not expect to obtain the grades stated above, or not have relevant industry-related experience, the College would still welcome your application for this course as this will enable us to identify whether this course is, in fact, the right course for you or whether another course may be more appropriate.
University Guarantee
Every Sefton Sixth Form College student who successfully achieves a Level 3 qualification and meets attendance and entry requirements, is guaranteed a place on a course at the Hugh Baird University Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions that we are often asked:
Most students study 3 subjects, plus an Enhancement activity. Alongside these, students are assigned a Personal Development group and attend weekly sessions.
Yes.
Yes, students can access our Bursary Package that can help with associated costs, for example; travel, food and equipment. Find out more here.
Yes. During the interview process you will be introduced to a member of our Learner Support Team if necessary. We will take initial details of access arragements. This can be discussed again at enrolment, with follow up appointments with the team during the first few weeks of term.
Yes. You will have timetabled sessions each day of the week. There will be times when you are not in a lesson; this is your personal study time. During these sessions you will be completing activities which mean you are prepared for your subject lessons. This includes completing homework, revision, Brainscape decks, coursework tasks etc.
