OCR A-Level Media Studies – H409
Course Leader: Philip Henton – philiphenton@kba.uk
Department Leader: Phil Henton
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Entrance criteria will be based on individual applicant profiles, with consideration given to performance in relevant GCSE subjects. Applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in Media and achievement in related subjects will be viewed favourably. All applications will be considered on their individual merits.
Students should be curious about the world around them, interested in how media influences society and confident in expressing their ideas, analysing information and developing creative work.
WHAT WILL I DO?
Media Studies is a dynamic and engaging subject that explores the media's influence on our lives, identities and society. You will investigate a wide range of contemporary and traditional media forms, including television, film, advertising, music videos, radio, newspapers, magazines, video games and online media.
Through the study of media products and industry practices, you will develop critical thinking, analytical and research skills while gaining a deeper understanding of how media messages are created, distributed and interpreted.
The course explores media from global and historical perspectives, encouraging you to consider the social, cultural, political and economic contexts in which media products are produced and consumed.
You will also develop your own creative skills through a practical production element, applying your knowledge and understanding to create original media products for a specific audience.
A-Level Media Studies is an excellent choice for students who are interested in careers related to media, journalism, marketing, communications, film, television, digital content creation and the wider creative industries. It also develops valuable transferable skills that are highly regarded by universities and employers.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
The OCR A-Level Media Studies course is divided into three components.
Component 1: Media Messages
You will explore how media messages are constructed and how meaning and representations are created across different media forms.
Areas of study include:
- Newspapers and online news
- Social and participatory media
- Advertising and marketing
- Magazines
- Music videos
- Media language and representation
You will investigate how media products communicate messages, represent individuals and groups, and engage with their audiences.
Component 2: Evolving Media
This component explores how media industries develop and respond to changes in technology, society and audience behaviour.
Areas of study include:
- Film
- Video games
- Radio
- Long-form television drama
- Media industries and audiences
- The changing nature of media production and consumption
You will study media products in their wider contexts, considering how industries operate, how audiences engage with content and how media continues to evolve.
Component 3: Making Media
This is the practical production element of the course.
You will respond to a set brief and create your own cross-media production for an intended audience. This gives you the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills developed throughout the course, demonstrating your creativity, planning, research and understanding of media conventions.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
A-Level Media Studies is assessed through a combination of written examinations and coursework (Non-Examined Assessment).
Component 1: Media Messages
- Written examination
- 2 hours
- 35% of the final A-Level grade
Component 2: Evolving Media
- Written examination
- 2 hours
- 35% of the final A-Level grade
Component 3: Making Media
- Non-Examined Assessment (NEA)
- Practical cross-media production in response to a set brief
- 30% of the final A-Level grade
Students develop their analytical, evaluative and creative skills throughout the course, with opportunities to apply feedback and improve their work.
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
A-Level Media Studies provides an excellent foundation for further study and careers across the creative industries and beyond.
Students may progress to university courses in Media Studies, Film Studies, Journalism, Marketing, Communications, Advertising, Digital Media and related subjects.
Potential career pathways include:
- Journalism and broadcasting
- Film and television production
- Digital marketing and advertising
- Public relations and communications
- Social media and content creation
- Graphic design and creative production
- Media research and audience analysis
The course develops valuable skills in communication, research, critical thinking, creativity and independent working, providing a strong foundation for higher education and future employment.