Media Studies

OCR Level 3 National Certificate in Media (equivalent to 1 A-level)
OCR Level 3 National Diploma in Media (equivalent to 2 A-levels)

What does studying this subject involve?
Media Studies will allow you to explore the different aspects of one of the world’s largest industries. No matter what career you choose, you will almost certainly become involved with media issues and contexts to a greater or lesser extent. In this course you will learn how to create various media texts and evaluate how they impact people around you. You will also learn how to

How will I know if I’m good at it?
This course is ideal for students with a sound ability in English and who enjoys working with practically based assignments towards different client briefs. Do you consider yourself creative or can you imagine yourself working on a film set or in a design or music studio in the future? If you like to learn and work with different technologies and if you are open to working as a part of a team then this course is made for you.

What skills will I develop and where could studying this subject lead me?
Each course will develop a range of production skills to develop your understanding of the form and conventions of the magazines, television, advertising, radio, film, newspaper and music industries etc. During these courses you will become confidant and competent with desktop publishing, digital photography, video and picture editing. Besides developing your practical skills you will also improve you analytical skills by looking at different media texts using the following key concepts: audience, representation, institution, genre and regulation.

The are a wide range of subjects and degrees that work very well together with Media studies such as English, Advertising, Public Relations, Film studies, Marketing, Communication Studies and Multimedia Design.

Important things to consider
There is a high expectation of attendance and punctuality and that deadlines are kept throughout the course. A number of Media Studies trips are also planned throughout the year. We always intend to make them as cheap as possible, but at times there will be payment required. These costs have ranged from £5-£20.

As a Media student will complete a one week work experience in the media industry, tailored to your interests and future career plans. Previous placements have led students to summer work and contacts for the future in their chosen field.

Entry requirements
4 GCSE

Which other subjects does it combine well with?
It works well to combine this course with courses such as AS Photography, AS Sociology, AS Film Studies.

Similarities between the subject at GCSE and A level
It covers all aspects of the GCSE Media Studies course and it goes into greater detail of the different Media industries. This course is also more practical and hands-on compare with a normal A-level course.

Modules and assessment information
In these courses, there are no exams, so you are not under pressure to perform in a one-off test. Instead, assessment and learning support throughout the course give you a much better indication of your progress, and a greater chance of success. The courses cover areas such as television production, advertising, radio production, photography filmmaking, design and layout and many more…

Examination Board
OCR

Other useful information
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/ocrnationals/media_level_3/index.html