A Level Media studies will equip with with an array of skills that are transferable into an undergraduate degree, and not just a Media related one, or employment. Media students are highly employable because of the broad skills base that they develop.

Skills that you will develop include:

• Critical analysis skills

• Research skills

• Design skills

• Creative skills

• Computer literacy

• Cultural capital

• Teamwork skills

• Academic writing skills

• Working to briefs

• Time management

• Communication skills

• Critical reflection skills

• Evaluative skills

• Problem solving

• Self-awareness

• Self-reflection

• Ability to use your initiative

An A level in Media Studies can lead directly to higher education, post A-Level apprenticeships or employment.

Higher Education

The UCAS website is a great starting point for looking at Media, Cultural, Film or non subject related degrees.

A common myth is that Media Studies will not look good on a University application - this is not true.

If you have a specific degree in mind always check the entry requirements because some degrees may specify required A Levels.

www.ucas.com/undergraduate/what-and-where-study/choosing-course/choosing-undergraduate-course

Post A Level Apprenticeships

There are a range of post A Level apprenticeships related to Media. Here are a few examples.

ITV Apprenticeship Scheme http://www.itvjobs.com/business-areas/entry-careers/apprenticeship-programme/

BBC Apprenticeship Scheme https://www.bbc.co.uk/careers/trainee-schemes-and-apprenticeships/apprentices

Sky Apprenticeship Scheme https://careers.sky.com/earlycareers/apprenticeships/

Channel 4 Apprenticeship Scheme https://careers.channel4.com/4talent/apprenticeships

Employment

A Level Media Studies will provide you with skills transferable to any industry but there are a range of subject specific jobs in the media sector. The Media sector is a growing sector and is one of the UK's biggest employers.

Here are some useful sites that you can explore

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/media-and-internet/graduate-media-jobs

https://targetcareers.co.uk/career-sectors/media/136-jobs-in-the-media-what-options-do-you-have

Students who take A Level Media Studies are provided with opportunities for work experience in the form of trips, guest speakers from the media industry and the opportunity to apply for media placements.

Teachers will share opportunities with you via email and google classroom. A lot of our students have undertaken self organised work placements at the Media Hub at Sunderland University.

mediaHUB Work Experience:

Sunderland University offer students aged 16+ a bespoke experience within the area of journalism in the mediaHUB. The student publication websites SportsByte, SR News, Fashion North and Northern Lights give students first-hand experience of what it would be like to study journalism and work in the industry. There is also the opportunity to gain experience with Spark FM, the community radio station based at the University.

They have slots available from mid-February - usually we recommend 2-3 days, 10am-3pm up to a maximum of three students per day. They can be very flexible with times depending on students’ availability and if they're required to do experience within college courses etc. They can also come in during Easter/summer holidays for shorter periods of time.