How Popular Is Media Studies in the UK?
- Mastering Media
- Jun 5
- 2 min read
How Popular Is Media Studies in the UK?
Media Studies remains a significant and popular subject in the UK education system, especially at GCSE and A-level, where it provides essential skills in media literacy, critical thinking, and cultural analysis. In 2024, Media Studies saw around 20,000 to 25,000 GCSE entries, marking a 3% increase compared to the previous year. This growth is part of a broader rise in SHAPE subjects (Social sciences, Humanities, and the Arts for People and the Economy), which collectively experienced a 4.8% increase in entries from 2023 to 2024.
At A-level, the picture is slightly different. Media Studies experienced a small decline, with entries decreasing by about 1.3% in 2024, totaling roughly 4,000 to 6,000 students. This drop aligns with a wider trend seen across expressive arts subjects, which have faced reduced participation in recent years. Despite this, Media Studies remains an important and recognized qualification that equips students for various careers in media, journalism, and creative industries.
When compared internationally, the UK stands out for having a formal, exam-based Media Studies curriculum at the secondary level, which contributes to its popularity and consistent enrolment figures. In countries like the United States, Media Studies is less often a standalone subject in high school and is more commonly embedded within English or Social Studies curricula. Similarly, Australia and Canada offer Media Studies or Media Arts at senior secondary levels, but with smaller student numbers and less standardized national frameworks.
The UK's structured approach through exam boards such as EDUQAS, OCR, and AQA ensures clear pathways and recognition for students, helping maintain Media Studies’ status as a valuable and growing subject. Its focus on analyzing media’s role in society and combating misinformation makes it increasingly relevant in today’s digital age.
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