AS/A LEVEL BUSINESS STUDIES

WHAT IS BUSINESS STUDIES?

It is difficult to escape the effects of the world of business as every aspect of our lives are touched by the work of profit and none profit making organisations. Business studies provides the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how such organisations function and manage their resources in order to meet a range of tactical and strategic objectives.

WHY SHOULD I STUDY BUSINESS STUDIES?

An understanding of Business Studies is becoming increasingly important in a world where advances in technology and communication have taken centre stage. This course is designed to give you the chance to explore real business situations and to be practical in the application of business concepts. It will also enable you to develop a depth of knowledge that will prove invaluable, whether you choose to pursue further education or a career in business or management.

USEFUL SKILLS & INTERESTS

You will be suited to Business Studies if you:

• Are interested in current national and international business issues, and actively read daily newspapers
• Want to understand about the choices facing organisations, and how decisions are made
• Enjoy analysing case studies
• Wish to pursue a career in management, economics, business, finance, etc.

COURSE STRUCTURE & CONTENT

At AS level you are introduced to the challenges and issues involved in starting a business, including aspects of financial planning. You will explore the key internal functions of business and how the management of these functions can assist in improving the effectiveness and performance of a business.

In Unit One you will study:

• Starting a business
• Financial planning

You will explore the following issues in Unit two:

• People
• Operations management
• Finance
• Marketing and Competition

If you opt to progress to the second year of the course you will consider strategies for larger businesses and how these may change according to the circumstances. You will also examine the effects that external factors can have on businesses and how they can plan for and manage change.

Unit Three covers:

• Strategies for success – financial, marketing, operations and HR

Whilst in Unit Four you will look at:

• The external influences
• Leadership, Corporate Culture and Ethics
• Managing change

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

At AS Level, students will be expected to sit two examinations:

• Unit 1 – Planning and Financing a Business 1 hour 15 minutes examination
• Unit 2 – Managing a Business 1 hour 30 minutes examination

COURSE COMMITMENT

Students will be asked to sign a departmental commitment form that sets out the expectations of the department detailing a two way agreement between staff and students based on hard work and dedication to the team ethos of the department.

COURSE COSTS

Students are asked to subscribe to the Business Review magazine (optional) at a cost of £11.50 for the year. This quarterly magazine provides help and support from examiners on subject specific business themes and exam advice.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

You need to have met the standard college entry requirements of five GCSE grade C or above. Including a GCSE grade C or above in Mathematics and English.

PROGRESSION ROUTES

Many students progress on to business related degrees or work based training.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Full course specifications can be found at www.aqa.co.uk

If you require further information please contact Mike Mackin, the Department Manager or James Austin, Assistant Department Manager.