Course Overview

Entry requirements

GCSE Average Points Score: 4.25, Grade 5 English Language GCSE, Grade 4 Maths GCSE

Course information

This course develops a critical, applied understanding of contemporary media across platforms and genres. You will analyse how media language, representation, industries and audiences shape meaning and influence society, and you will apply this framework to a wide range of set texts and case studies. Study spans advertising and marketing; film (e.g., Straight Outta Compton, I, Daniel Blake); magazines (Vogue, The Big Issue); music video (Beyoncé, Dizzee Rascal, Vance Joy); newspapers; online media (Zoella, DesiMag); radio; television (Life on Mars, Humans, No Burqas Behind Bars); and video games (Assassin’s Creed III: Liberation). You will also situate media products within their social, cultural, economic, political and historical contexts.

Assessment consists of three parts in the second year. Component 1: Media Products, Industries and Audiences is a 2 hour 15 minute written exam worth 35%, with Section A on media language and representation and Section B on media industries and audiences. Component 2: Media Forms and Products in Depth is a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 35%, with Section A on television in the global age, Section B on magazines, and Section C on media in the online age. Component 3: Cross Media Production is an individually produced cross-platform project created over sixteen weeks in response to set briefs, applying the theoretical framework and digital convergence, worth 30% of the final grade.

Key topics

Media language: forms, codes, conventions and techniques
Representation: portrayal of events, issues, individuals and social groups
Media industries: production, distribution and circulation across platforms
Audiences: targeting, reach, address, interpretation and response
Television in the global age
Magazines: mainstream and alternative media
Media in the online age and digital convergence
Advertising and marketing
Film case studies (e.g., Straight Outta Compton, I, Daniel Blake)
Music video case studies (e.g., Beyoncé, Dizzee Rascal, Vance Joy)
Newspapers, radio and video games (e.g., Assassin’s Creed III: Liberation)
Online media (e.g., Zoella, DesiMag)
Contexts of media: social, cultural, economic, political and historical
Media platforms: broadcasting, digital and web-based media, print
Media debates: reality TV, news values, moral panics
Media theories: gender and ethnicity, consumption and production, genre theories
Cross media production: planning, creating and evaluating an independent project

Why study at NCC?
- We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
- Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
- Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
- Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
- One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
- Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
- Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
- Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed
If you’re aiming for university, a top career, or just want to keep your options open, A Levels at New City College give you the perfect springboard.

You’ll study in a focused, supportive environment at our specialist sixth form campuses, choosing from a wide range of subjects to create the right combination for your goals. Alongside your studies, you’ll develop key skills in critical thinking, research, communication and leadership, all highly valued by universities and employers.

With strong links to top universities and regular support from expert tutors, you’ll get the guidance you need to progress to higher education, apprenticeships, or straight into the world of work. Plus, enrichment opportunities like guest speakers, study trips, university visits and societies make your time with us more than just classroom learning.

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Dates

Start: 01/09/2026

End: 07/07/2028

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What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study or employment.

A Level Media Studies is an excellent preparation for careers in media, journalism, marketing, and advertising, and is a popular university degree choice.

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