Economics and Business Studies

Exam Board: EdExcel

Head of Department: Mr J P Gregory

Am I suited to the course?

You do not need to have studied Business Studies and Economics at GCSE. The course is ideally suited to all those who want to experience the broad focus of economics in combination with the practical study of business decisions. If you enjoy a subject that affects your everyday life, then this is for you. The course is of particular value for those intending to study law, business, management, accounting, economics or politics courses at university - but, it will be of benefit to you because you will spend most of your adult life working in the economic and business world.

What will we study?

At AS two units are studied New Business Development and Business Economics. Some of the issues covered include: Development of new businesses, finance, accounting, leadership, marketing, marketing ethics, monopolies, business structure, efficiency, the economic cycle, inflation, unemployment, the impact of interest rates, the impact of shock.

At A2 the course investigates International Business and the Wider Economic Environments & Business. Items studied include International Trade liberalisation, Globalisation, the growth of China and other markets, social and cultural issues, market regulation, economic polices and government action.

What will I learn?

You will develop a wide range of valuable skills. These include:

  • Applying theories to a range of problems and appreciating their value and limitations.
  • The ability to make and justify decisions after the analysis of business and economic information.
  • An appreciation of the perspectives of stakeholders, including customers, managers, shareholders and society as a whole.
  • How to evaluate strengths and weaknesses of economies and the roles of citizens, businesses and governments within them.

How will my AS and A level grades be assessed?

AS

Two written exam papers (1¼ hours each) based on multiple-choice and data response questions.

A2

Two written exam papers (1 ½ hours each) based on data response questions, case study material and a decision-making activity.