Economics at AS and A2 level

Economics AQA

Course Aims & Content

At AS, students investigate micro and macroeconomics. Microeconomics addresses issues such as 'Why are house prices so high?', 'Can pollution be controlled effectively?' and 'Should governments interfere with markets?' The macroeconomic issues covered include 'Why does the government have an inflation rate target and how does it affect us?', 'What happens to the economy if people decide to spend more and save less?', and 'How are we affected by the Chinese and Indian economies?'

The AS course is assessed using objective test (multiple choice) and data response questions through the following modules:

Module 1: Markets and Market Failure (50%)

Module 2: The National Economy (50%)

At A2, students develop the micro and macroeconomics already learnt at AS, considering economic concepts and theories in greater depth and recognising the values and limitations of economics models. Both A2 modules explore two contemporary and relevant contexts: the global context, which includes the impact of globalisation on UK economic performance; and the European Union context, embracing the effect of EU membership and economic policy on the UK economy.

The A2 course is assessed using data response and essay questions through the following two modules:

Module 3: Business Economics and the Distribution of Income (25%)

Module 4: The National and International Economy (25%)

The other 50% of the attainment grade will be brought forward from the AS modules.

Suitability for the Course

The subject will be of interest to three groups: those wishing to read Economics at university, those intending to read other subjects at university and move into professions such as banking, and those simply interested in learning more about current affairs.

It is possible to approach the subject from a humanities or mathematical perspective. The course combines the critical skills of scientific analysis with fluency and expression to create a challenging social science. However, pupils are advised that many universities prefer potential Economics students to have an A level in Maths.  At some it is a requirement.  Some universities prefer applicants to have studied Maths and Further Maths.  To follow the AS and A2 course we recommend that pupils attain at least an A grade at GCSE level in Mathematics.

Links:

Business Studies at AS and A2 level

Economics and Business Studies

Economics and Business Studies - beyond the curriculum