Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
A Level Media Studies is a vibrant and intellectually stimulating course that explores how media shapes our understanding of the world. Through the critical analysis of media texts and hands-on creative production, students will develop a deep understanding of how media influences identity, culture, and society.
This course is particularly suited to students interested in psychology, audience behaviour, and the creative industries, offering a unique blend of academic theory and practical application.
In addition to subject-specific knowledge, students will gain a wide range of transferable skills that are highly valued in both higher education and the workplace.
Topics may include:
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Deconstructing media texts using theorectical frameworks
- Communication styles for different audiences and purposes
- Creative and technical skills, including the planning and production of original media content
- Editing and design
- Independent research
- Project management.
Assessment Methods
Regular feedback through formative work is giving in a wide variety of methods. However, final grades for the course is assessed through a combination of two written exams (35% each) and a cross-media non-exam assessment production (30%).
Progression Options
Many students go on to study related subjects at university, including Media and Communication, Film Studies, Journalism, Digital Marketing, Cultural Studies, and Psychology. The course also provides a strong foundation for creative degrees such as Graphic Design, Animation, and Television Production.
Beyond higher education, the analytical, technical, and creative skills developed are highly transferable to careers in advertising, public relations, content creation, social media management, and broadcasting.
For those interested in more vocational routes, the course supports progression into media apprenticeships and entry-level roles in the creative industries. Whether students aim to become filmmakers, media analysts, digital strategists, or educators, this qualification equips them with the critical insight and practical experience to thrive in a media-rich world.
Entry Requirements
You need five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range, including maths and English. A keen interest in media, culture, and communication is essential.
A creative subject (e.g., Art, Drama, Music, or Media) is advantageous but not critical.
Entry is subject to a successful interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.