Introduction
Business Studies will suit students who want to be able to address the fundamental questions that decision-makers in the commercial world face every day, such as:
(i) How do we set an appropriate price for our product?
(ii) How can we improve the quality of the service we offer?
(iii) How can we motivate our employees in order to reduce labour turnover?
(iv) How might a strong £ affect our competitiveness?
Students will need an interest in a case-based approach that emphasises problem-solving skills. The businesses examined range from oneperson enterprises through to large multinational corporations. All face similar problems, though, and must make decisions based on Marketing, People, Production and Finance.
Further Details
Prior study of Business is not required. A proportion of your marks will be earned on case studies that are pre-issued by the examination board. There is no coursework on this programme. Students who prefer a more coursework-orientated approach should consider the BTEC National Certificate in Business. Students who wish to concentrate on Business and Finance, with a good proportion of coursework, ought to consider the ‘Academy of Business’ programme.
Progression Options
Students who are successful at AS level may wish tocomplete an additional year to achieve the A level qualification. This would prove a good foundation from which to progress to higher education, where students might follow any one of a range of Business or Management degree courses, or employment. Studying Business alongside Mathematics is certainly not mandatory, but may prove advantageous for students thinking of progression into Finance, Accountancy and related subjects.
