Business Studies A-Level (AQA)

Course Overview

This course covers economic, environmental, ethical, governmental, legal, social and technological issues and encourages a critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value.  Students examine the management of organisations and in particular, the process of decision-making in a dynamic external environment.

 Students will study business in a variety of contexts (eg large/small, UK-focused/global, service/manufacturing) and consider:

  • the importance of the context of business in relation to decision-making  
  • the interrelated nature of business activities and how they affect competitiveness
  • the competitive environment and the markets in which businesses operate
  • the influences on functional decisions and plans including ethical and environmental issues
  • the factors that might determine whether a decision is successful e.g. the quality of data and the degree of uncertainty
  • how technology is changing the way decisions are made and how businesses operate and compete
  • the impact on stakeholders of business decisions and their response to such decisions
  • use of non-quantitative and quantitative data in decision-making (including the interpretation of index numbers and calculations such as ratios and percentages).  

These topics lend themselves to studying and engaging with the business world, following business developments and thinking critically about contemporary issues. 


There are 3 papers all based around different assessment topics and have short, long and essay style questions.


*Please note the 2025 assessment specification is still in review by the examining board*

 


A Level Business Studies is accepted by all universities and colleges for study at degree level, either in Business Studies itself or a related field – for example, Accountancy, Human Resource Management, Marketing, European Studies, Law and Management.

You should be on track to achieve a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4 - 9, including a grade 5 in Maths and English.
Students must have a real interest in business, the economy and related areas and be prepared to engage in discussion and debate.

AMBITION