Media Studies
at Rushcliffe Spencer Academy, Nottingham · school or sixth form
What the college says
Aims of the course Malcolm X described the media as “the most powerful entity on earth.” In many ways, he was right: from television, film and radio to what we see on the internet, media is everywhere; it can entertain as much as it can influence. Media Studies at A Level offers students the chance to explore and evaluate the impact of the media and its role in our daily lives. With the inclusion of an independent media production task, there are also opportunities for creativity and the development of technical skills. What is the outline of the course content? The course is centred on four key concepts: media language, media representation, media industries and media audiences. Students will have the opportunity to acquire and apply their theoretical knowledge, practical skills and an up-to-the-minute awareness of the media industry in both an examination and non-examination context. There are two examinations, each worth 35% of the A Level qualification; the non-examination assessment is worth 30%. What key skills will I learn? The examinations will focus on skills of evaluation and in-depth critical analysis, independent research, problem-solving skills, debating, critical thinking and essay writing. The necessity for students to be aware of the world around them and the ever-evolving media landscape is vital. Students will also extend their practical skills in their chosen medium for the non-examination assessment, building their capacity for independent research and gai
What you need to get on
Grade 4 GCSE in Mathematics and English Language A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 5 and above including grade 6 in the subjects selected for A Level. *To study Further Maths a grade 7 in Mathematics GCSE is required A grade 5 in English is essential for accessing Business Studies, Economics, Government & Politics, Media, Philosophy & Ethics, Psychology and Sociology if you have not studied these subjects at GCSE. A grade 5 in Mathematics is essential for accessing Physics/Biology/Chemistry and also Business Studies, Computing, Economics and Product Design- if you have not studied these subjects at GCSE.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Rushcliffe School
Boundary Road West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 7BW
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 1 September 2026 · Nottingham
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
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