L2 Media Studies

NCEA Level 2 Media Studies (2MED)

In this University-approved course, you’ll explore how the media shapes the way we see the world — and how you can shape the media in return. You’ll study a genre of film to learn to question the messages, analyse media texts, and understand the powerful role media plays in culture and everyday life.

Even better — you won’t just study media, you’ll make it. You'll plan and produce your own media project, such as a short film, podcast, magazine, or online campaign. You'll get hands-on experience with creative tools while developing skills in storytelling, design, production, and audience awareness.

"Media Studies at Level 2 was one of the most creative and practical subjects I’ve taken. I learned how to plan and produce real media projects, from writing a screenplay to filming and editing a short film. It wasn’t just about using cameras and software – we explored how stories are told in different genres and how media influences audiences.” - Kaipara College Student

Media Studies prepares you for careers in film, journalism, communications, digital marketing, game design, broadcasting, and content creation, and builds key skills for any future involving creative thinking, collaboration, and strong communication.

Curriculum Skills and Key Competencies

Thinking 

• Students develop critical and creative thinking by analysing how media texts are constructed to influence audiences. They examine issues such as representation, bias, power, and purpose, and use this understanding to question how the media reflects and shapes society.
• For example, students compare the portrayal of gender roles in a  film genre over time and evaluate the effect on audience perception.

Using Language, Symbols, and Texts

• Students interpret and create a range of visual, written, and digital texts, learning how to use language, design elements, and technology to communicate ideas. They explore the codes and conventions of a film genre. 
• For example, students storyboard, script, film, and edit their own short media product, using industry-style planning and terminology.

Managing Self

• Students learn to take responsibility for their own learning by planning and managing long-term creative projects, meeting deadlines, and responding to feedback. They build resilience by problem-solving through technical and creative challenges.
• For example, students manage all stages of a production project from initial pitch to final edit, including time and resource planning.

Relating to Others

• Collaboration is central to Media Studies. Students work in teams during production tasks, learning to communicate clearly, resolve conflict, share responsibilities, and support one another’s ideas.
• For example, students form production groups, take on assigned roles (e.g., director, editor), and work together to complete a short film or digital media campaign.

Participating and Contributing

• Students engage with real-world issues by creating media that responds to social, cultural, or community-based topics. This helps them understand how media connects to current events, public opinion, and civic engagement.

By the end of Level 2 Media Studies, students are not only more media-literate — they are confident communicators, critical thinkers, creative makers, and active participants in their world.

Careers and Pathways

Media Studies opens exciting pathways in our digital-first world. 

This course supports a wide range of career and further study opportunities by building the communication, analytical, and creative skills valued in both academic and vocational fields.

During their time at Kaipara College, students can use the skills developed in this course to:

• 7 University Entrance Literacy Writing credits are available.
• Build strong skills in written, visual, or media work for scholarship applications.
• Gain credits that contribute towards Vocational Pathways such as Creative Industries, Social & Community Services, and Service Industries.

Career Pathways & Further Education Opportunities:

• University study in fields such as Media Studies, Communications, Journalism, Education, Law, Marketing, or the Arts.
• Polytechnic diplomas in Digital Media, Graphic Design, Broadcasting, Event Management, Public Relations, or Creative Writing.
• Apprenticeships and Trades that benefit from strong communication and customer-service skills, such as Printing & Signwriting, Broadcasting Technician, or Tourism & Hospitality roles.
• Tertiary training in film production, or digital content creation.
• Workplace pathways including copywriting, social media management, advertising, retail management, or public-facing government roles.

Real-world applications:

• Producing and editing media content for community projects or businesses.
• Presenting and pitching ideas to employers or clients.
• Analysing and interpreting information to make decisions in business, community, or creative contexts.

By the end of the course, students will have gained a set of transferable skills—critical thinking, collaboration, digital literacy—that provide a foundation for success in both further study and the workplace.