In media courses, the focus is on communication and its influence on society. One question that’s commonly explored is whether the media reflects society, or if society is shaped by the media. The content of your studies will depend on the course you choose. Generally, film and media studies programs take a theoretical approach, delving into topics such as linguistics and semiotics to understand communication. The courses place communication into a cultural, political, and historical context. Film studies courses, on the other hand, focus on the development of cinema and its cultural and industrial phenomenon. These courses also examine technological advancements, movements, and genres.
If you pursue a more practical program, you can expect to get hands-on experience testing the theoretical concepts. This can include writing news stories or producing audio and visual work. For instance, you might learn how to direct and film an interview, record dialogue, or write a feature. During your course, you’ll need to complete a work placement to gain further skills. For this reason, you should be a self-motivated individual.
The entry requirements for media courses can vary. Relevant A-levels such as English language/literature, sociology, psychology, media studies, or drama can improve your prospects.
Graduates of media courses may face stiff competition when entering their desired industry. However, there are still opportunities available in related fields such as publishing, marketing, advertising, and teaching.
