Business Studies at AS and A2 level
Business Studies AQA
Course Aims & Content
The AS course introduces students to the challenges and issues of starting a business, including financial planning. It then focuses on how established small businesses might improve their effectiveness by making tactical decisions at a functional level. Topics include: budgeting, cash flow analysis, organisational structures, motivational theories, quality control, stock control and the marketing mix.
The AS course is assessed using mini case studies and data response questions through the following modules:
Module 1: Planning and Financing a Business (40%)
Module 2: Managing a Business (60%)
The A2 course considers strategies for larger businesses and how managers might measure the performance of the business. Finally, it considers the effects external factors can have on businesses and how managers can plan for and manage change. Topics include: ratio analysis, investment appraisal, correlation and extrapolation, research and development, location decisions, workforce planning and functional objectives and strategy.
The A2 course is assessed using case study questions, questions based on prior research and an essay through the following modules:
Module 3: Strategies for Success (25%)*
Module 4: The Business Environment and Managing Change (25%)
*Students will be required to work with a range of numerical data.
The remaining 50% of the attainment grade will be brought forward from the AS modules.
Suitability for the Course
It is recommended that pupils attain at least an A grade in either GCSE Mathematics or English. Those without practical problem solving skills may also struggle. The course will prove useful for budding entrepreneurs but should not be seen as any less rigorous just because the content has a practical or vocational element to it. Students taking the course must be prepared to keep abreast of current affairs.
Links:
