Media Studies – WJEC – AS 2291
Media Studies – WJEC – A2 3291
Course Outline
Media Studies encompasses comprehensive and integrated coverage of media theory and practice.
The course aims to develop critical autonomy as you study the media and the contemporary media
landscape, focusing on contemporary issues and debates, new media technologies and the
construction and analysis of media texts. Media Studies prepares students for progression into
work or higher education in a range of media-related areas.
Course Details
AS - Media Studies
Unit 1:
Media Representations & Responses
2½ hour written examination
3 compulsory questions
(50% AS, 25% A2 Level)
A2 - Media Studies
Unit 3:
Media Investigation & Production
Coursework module – students investigate a
media area of their choice and create a related
production.
(25% of total A Level)
Unit 2:
Media Production Processes
Coursework module – students fulfil a given
Coursework brief.
(50% AS, 25% A2 Level)
Unit 4:
Media : Text, Industry & Audience
2½ hour written examination
3 compulsory questions.
(25% of total A Level)
Assessment Criteria
The specification followed is the one offered by WJEC. The course, for both AS and A2 Level, is
assessed by one examined module and one coursework module.
Course requirement and progression
To study Media Studies within the Sixth Form you would be expected to meet the general
requirements for AS Level courses. In addition, because the subject is based on developing critical
analysis and written skills, a Grade C or higher at English Language and ICT is
recommended.
You do not have to have studied GCSE Media Studies in order to study the A- Level but if you
have studied Media Studies at GCSE, it is expected that you should have achieved a
Grade B or higher.
Many students use the knowledge acquired during Media Studies AS/A2 Level courses to go directly
into employment in a related field of work. When combined with Art, Economics, Business Studies,
ICT or English it makes a strong combination for a number of related degrees in fields such as:
Advertising, Marketing, Journalism, Creative Industries, Education and of course, the Media
Industry.