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Creative Media Studies

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Key Details

Levels

Level 3

FT / PT

FT

Location

Lowestoft

Duration

2 years

Do you have a high level of language skills and want to develop these further by exploring academic areas within the media, including critical analysis, evaluation and textual analysis? Are you keen to understand how media products are constructed, how they represent individuals and groups, how audiences interpret them, and how the media industry functions?

You can choose to study Media as an A Level in Media Studies or as a Creative Media BTEC (Single). The media plays a central role in contemporary culture, society and politics, shaping our perceptions of the world and offering you the opportunity to develop an informed understanding of key issues through critical exploration, analysis and debate. You will develop high-level communication skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively. You will also develop your knowledge of digital processes and software through practical projects, which are advantageous if applying for future roles in marketing, media sales, publishing, website development and content creation. Through the A Level, learners can focus on theoretical content, alongside practical print production methods and website design, giving you the opportunity to put the theory you have learnt into practice. Essay writing forms an essential part of the course, and the academic and specialist skills gained are intended to be transferable to further study or employment. Through the BTEC, learners gain a broad understanding of the subject and develop the skills needed to produce media artefacts. They develop their ability to analyse and deconstruct media images and representations, while learning the communication and planning skills needed to work effectively in teams through vocational media projects.

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Course Information

(A Level) At least five GCSEs at grades 9-4 in one sitting. An average GCSE score of 5 or more is preferred. GCSE English and Maths at grade 4.

(BTEC) Four GCSEs at grades 9-4, or a Merit in a full Level 2 BTEC Diploma. GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 preferred. (If combining a BTEC with an A Level, the entry criteria for that A Level will need to be met too).

This qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and is designed to be studied alongside other Level 3 qualifications. Assessment is a combination of externally assessed units and internally assessed coursework projects. Students complete practical production assignments, industry-focused tasks, presentations and controlled assessments throughout the course.

  • Camera Techniques
  • Audio Production
  • Video Editing
  • Post-production Processes
  • Media Sectors and Organisations
  • Concept Development
  • Storyboarding
  • Production Schedules
  • Budgeting and Risk Assessment 
  • Responding to Client Briefs
  • Portfolio Development 
  • Games and Animation Content
  • Interactive Media
  • Social Media Content Creation

This qualification is strongly vocational and project-based. Students spend most of their time creating media products and developing digital production skills, while also studying industry knowledge and theory. Approximately 60-70% practical / 30-40% theory.

This subject area will prepare you for a range of degrees and employment opportunities, including film production, digital film technologies, writing and film, journalism, public relations, drama and film, media studies, film studies, American studies and more.

Want to stay local? The University of Suffolk at East Coast College offers degree courses such as Visual Effects and Post Production or Literary Studies and Creative Writing, allowing you to gain a degree on your doorstep.

Career opportunities include roles in journalism, broadcasting, advertising, marketing, public relations and creative fields such as graphic design or film, as well as roles including programme researcher, television producer, advertising art director, runner and marketing executive.

Develop a fantastic range of transferable skills, including cognitive and problem-solving skills, intrapersonal and interpersonal skills for employment and university study.

Consider a variety of media forms, including advertising and marketing, television, magazines, online media, music videos and newspapers, offering you an insight into the power of the media in an ever-developing technological world.

Experience connections to the media industry, potential career pathways and opportunities for real-world experience through placements or projects, delivered by industry-practising teachers.

Career Pathways