Business Studies

Business Studies gives students an invaluable insight into how organisations meet the discerning needs of stakeholders in a constantly changing environment. Students discover how businesses operate and engage in the decision-making and risk-taking processes at all levels in the organisation. Students develop a greater awareness of the ethical dilemmas and responsibilities that organisations and individuals face as they conduct their business. They also have the opportunity to develop valuable transferable skills that will help them to access further education courses or become a valued employee. This course offers an excellent foundation for a career in marketing, finance, accountancy, management, human resource management or self-employment.

 Business Studies has four assessment units: two at AS level and two at A2 level

The AS units introduce students to the world of business. Students develop an understanding of the importance of quality and gain an appreciation of growing a business through marketing activities and e-business. They also learn about the importance of financial information and its use in decision-making.

Students who continue to A2 explore business planning and risk management when developing business strategies and develop an appreciation of the role of accounting and financial information in making strategic business decisions. They gain an understanding of the macroeconomic and global framework that organisations operate in. They develop an appreciation of how ethics and sustainability affect business decision-making and organisational culture.

Specification at a Glance

The table below summarises the structure of the AS and A level courses: