Media Studies

Provides students with high level analysis and evaluation skills. Students choose Media Studies for a number of reasons: some may wish to follow a media-related career at university, others may have a keen interest in one or more aspects of the modern media and have a curiosity as to how it works, what influence it has on us as individuals and on our culture.

Why should I come to Runshaw to do Media Studies?

Taking A-level Media Studies at Runshaw College offers students a range of insights into one of the most influential aspects of modern life – the mass media.

The teaching staff are experienced and have a range of academic and professional specialisms and are also writers and examiners. Students will have access to technical equipment and the department has its own reference library.

In addition enrichment activities are available to students who may wish to develop practical media skills including helping produce the student magazine or joining the Video Production and/or Film Club.

The department runs a Media Academy which offers extension seminars and has close links with universities. A-level Media Studies runs a range of trips including a residential trip to New York and, closer to home, academic visits are made to universities, cinemas and museums.

The Media department is proud of the success of its students. 80% of Runshaw Media students regularly achieve an A or a B grade. Much of the students’ work was assessed as being the best in the country.

What will I study?

Media Studies is a dynamic contemporary subject which supports the development of analytical skills and enables students to develop critical autonomy, independent research skills and the application of theoretical concepts to a range of media texts. The first year focuses on introducing students to the main issues impacting on contemporary media production and consumption and looks at the relationships between traditional media forms (film, television, newspapers etc) and e-media using a case study approach. There is also an opportunity to work on the creation of media texts. The second year allows students to specialise in a self selected academic area and develop their practical skills further whilst also investigating more advanced conceptual and contextual issues. The course focuses on debates such as the media’s influence on contemporary culture and the way meaning is constructed in and by the mass media.

As all assessments involve essay writing, a B in English, preferably English Language, achieved at GCSE is one of the requirements for entry onto this course.

What will the course prepare me for?

Students can progress onto a wide range of related courses at university. A-level Media is excellent preparation for the study of English and cultural studies courses, film studies and other humanities based degrees. Some students study practical media production at university.

How is the course examined?

• coursework
• written examination

Download the latest Course Leaflet here

 Film and Media 2010/11 (514.04 kB)