It may be possible to study this subject on a part-time basis. Media Studies is concerned with analysing, creating and evaluating all forms of media product from an audience and institutional perspective. Although there is a focus on television and film, you will also learn about the history, development and contemporary use and relevance of magazines, newspapers, the internet, radio and advertising. You will soon come to recognise the sheer scope and influence of the media – from forming personal opinion and taste to shaping national and international government policy. Indeed, a key aim of the course is to make you ‘media literate’ – questioning and discovering the ways in which the media govern individuals’ and social groups’ perspectives and attitudes.

Substantial careers in the media industries normally require at least degree level qualifications and often further vocational training, but employers generally value A Levels, in any subject, as a recognised and reliable measure of ability. Most A Level Media Studies students, however, go on to university. Some do degrees in Media Studies or related subjects; others use A Level Media Studies as a general entrance qualification relevant to a wide range of arts, humanities and social science subjects.