A Level Business Studies is a very relevant and interesting subject, which covers a wide range of issues of topical concern to students who are consumers, will in the future be employees (and employers!) and to those who are interested in the welfare of society generally.

Business organisations vary in size, in ownership, in objectives and most certainly in how they go about achieving those objectives. The business environment in which firms operate, is increasingly complex and fiercely competitive having a huge effect on us all - sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse! The course will help you understand the background to the business
decision-making process, and encourage you to establish informed opinions and views.

Destinations and Future Career Opportunities

Students with an A Level in Business Studies have access to a wide range of possible careers and higher education opportunities.

You learn and use a variety of transferable skills throughout the course. These include:

• Collecting and analysing financial and other economic information from different sources
• Development of written communication skills
• Development of problem-solving and evaluation skills.

These skills are in great demand and are recognised by employers, universities and colleges as being of great value. Universities have many discreet Business Courses as well as Foundation Business Courses which can lead to specialisms, such as Accounting, Personnel Management and Marketing.

What are the entry requirements?

Five or more GCSEs Grade 9-4 or equivalent, including English and Mathematics. Grade 4 in Business if studied.

What will I study?

The course provides an interesting, relevant and current insight into a range of issues and activities affecting organisations in the modern business environment. Issues including:

• The impact of globalisation
• The importance of environmental and ethical objectives
• The pace of technological developments.

The course will help you to develop an understanding of business organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. In looking at this from the perspective of different stakeholders, a range of different disciplines are employed, taking an integrated approach in analysing the complexity of decision-making.

Study also gives you the opportunity to develop a range of skills including analysis, problem-
solving, decision-making and interpreting data in a variety of formats.

How will I be assessed?

There are 3 exam papers at A Level, all lasting 2 hours. Each paper is worth a third of the total A Level. All three papers consist of a variety of question types and can assess any of the information studied over the two-year period.