A Level in Media Studies

How to Apply for Maritime Academy Sixth Form

Applications open - 9.00am Monday 2 November 2026

Apply via KentChoices using this link - https://www.kentprospectus.co.uk/login.

Entry Requirements - 4 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above (subject specific entry requirements apply)

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Whilst we do not have a deadline for receiving applications, to avoid disappointment applicants are invited to be submitted their applications as soon as possible as courses will be offered on a first come first served basis (subject to entry requirements).

Media Studies offers you the opportunity to explore how the media shapes our understanding of the world around us. You will analyse a wide range of media products, including television, film marketing, newspapers, magazines, advertising, music videos, video games, radio and online media, exploring how media language, representation, audiences and industries influence the meanings we take from them. You will also investigate the social, cultural, political, historical and economic contexts in which media products are created and consumed, applying a range of media theories to develop your critical thinking and analytical skills. Alongside this theoretical study, you will develop your own creative and practical media production skills, producing a cross-media project for a specific audience and purpose. The course is ideal for students who are curious about contemporary culture and enjoy analysing, discussing and creating media, while developing valuable skills in research, communication, creativity and independent thinking.

• Analyse media products – explore how films, television, newspapers, magazines, advertising, music videos, video games and online media communicate ideas and engage audiences.
• Understand media language – learn how images, sound, editing, layout, colour and other media techniques are used to create meaning and influence how audiences respond.
• Explore representation – investigate how people, groups, places, events and issues are represented in the media, and consider how these representations can shape attitudes and perceptions.
• Understand audiences and media industries – examine how media organisations create, distribute and market products, and explore how different audiences consume and respond to media.
• Apply media theories and contexts – use key theories to analyse media products while considering their social, cultural, political, historical and economic contexts.
• Create your own media – develop practical skills by planning and producing your own media product for a specific audience and purpose, allowing you to combine creativity with the analytical skills developed throughout the course

Five GCSEs grades 4-9.

A Level Media Studies can lead to university, apprenticeships and careers across the media and creative industries, including journalism, film and TV, advertising, marketing, publishing, digital media and public relations. It also develops valuable skills in creative production, communication, research and critical analysis.