Business Studies

What board do we do? AQA, A level subject code: 2131.

What is Business Studies?
We offer the AQA specification in Business Studies. The complete A level comprises of the successful completion of both As and A level. As students progress through the course, they are introduced to new ideas and concepts while continuing to use and reinforce previously learned concepts and skills. The course is designed to give students a sound understanding of business concepts and the ability to use knowledge, analytical skills and problem solving techniques in the context of international markets and the United Kingdom. A good knowledge of current affairs is an added plus in students of business studies.

Which subjects combine well with Business Studies?
The subject is a very good ‘bridging' subject between Arts and Sciences. It combines well with any of the related disciplines of Economics, Accounting and Law, but it is also a very appropriate third subject for students studying two Arts or two Science subjects.

What careers and University courses can Business Studies lead to?
Many students go on to continue their studies in BBA ( Bachelor of Business Administration) at the University level, followed by an MBA. Many students also gain a Bachelor’s degree in other related fields like Accountancy. A business studies degree is highly valued by employers due to the skills in analysis, problem-solving, numeracy and decision making that it develops. Many graduates have chosen to use their business skills in careers in the City of London such as trading; banking, retail sector, manufacturing and other corporate fields and in industry.

AS

Unit 1 – BUSS1
Planning and Financing a Business
40% of AS, 20% of A level, 60 marks

In this unit, students are taught concepts in understanding the business environment and the key stages required in planning, when starting a business.

Unit 2 – BUSS2
Managing a Business
60% of AS, 30% of A level, 80 marks

In this unit, students learn about the operational strategies in running a successful business. Topics covered include quality management, marketing, managing the workforce, etc.

A2

Unit 3 – BUSS3
Strategies for Success
25% of A level, 80 marks

Questions requiring extended answers based on an unseen case study drawing upon knowledge from AS units.

Unit 4 – BUSS4
The Business Environment and Managing Change
25% of A level, 80 marks

The second section will consist of a choice of essays. All questions will be synoptic therefore drawing upon knowledge from all four units. The questions are linked to pre-release material which is available from 31^st January onwards in the year of examination.

Book List AS & A2

Business Studies for AS AQA: John Wolinski, Gwen Coates
(Philip Allan: ISBN-13 978-0860037538)

AQA Business Studies for AS: Surridge & Gillespie
(BKP: ISBN 9780340973554)