Media Studies

Examination board: CIE
Existing Media Studies A Ievel last examination in June 2018
New Media Studies A Ievel first examination in June 2019

The media landscape is in a constant state of change and development. Convergence between media is opening up a proliferation of opportunites both for the mass media as well as the individual. The digital revolution requires a literacy and an understanding of so many forms of communication in order to take full advantage of it. An A level in Media Studies offers that opportunity.

Our Media Studies course is a highly creative one that encourages students to develop their ability to communicate fluently through all forms of media, and to understand the media and its influential role in today’s society (through topics such as hyperpublicity/privacy, democracy) as well as placing it in an historical context. The course will also explore new media, the Internet, and social media. This is a lively and challenging subject where students gain an understanding of the key media concepts as well as producing highly effective media texts. Students are afforded a great deal of freedom to choose exactly which means of communication they wish to explore and develop, and can work on anything from producing a short comedy film, to the opening credits, to a full feature horror movie, to designing the cover for a lifestyle magazine.

Media Studies is a great springboard for a career in the media as well as giving students the tools to be independent producers, distributors, and exhibitors of media artefacts. Media Studies also supplements the study of a number of other courses provided at Fine Arts College, such as Graphic Design, Photography, and Film Studies. Some previous students have gone on to follow degree courses such as Communications, Journalism, Film & Television, and Media Practice & Theory at universities including Sussex University, Leeds University, Middlesex University, and Birmingham City University.