How can you manage a team of staff and keep them motivated? How can you streamline your production methods to minimise costs and maximise profits? What is the best way to develop and market a new product? How can you rejuvenate a flailing product near the end of its life-cycle? How should you analyse the financial accounts of a potential employer/investment/competitor in order to predict their success in the long term?

The world in which we live is dominated by businesses big and small. AS/A Level Business Studies provides a practical approach to understanding the different aspects of their operation from marketing and finance, to operations management, and human resources.

Specification

The AQA specification is used for business studies which is split into four units. Full details of the AQA business studies specification can be found here

What is the difference between Business Studies and Economics?

Economics and business studies reflect two sides to a common area. Business Studies deals with specific businesses and how they operate in the external environment, looking at how they overcome problems such as finding finance and staff, and marketing their products profitably.

Economics studies the theories used to explain the behaviour of consumers and firms, and also the operation of markets within which businesses operate (such as the market for gold, or Microsoft shares). Economics can be slightly more theoretical and abstract than business studies, whereas business studies offers a more hands-on practical approach to running the business from within.

Whilst there is significant overlap between the two subjects, most universities will consider economics and business studies as separate A levels, and university offers will often accept grades from both. However of the two economics tends to be considered with a higher degree of academic respect, especially at Oxford, Cambridge and LSE. 

Entry Requirements and Timetabling

Business studies is currently available to year 13 economists only. It is offered as an additional subject, taught in an hour a week in a condensed format. The AS exams are taken in the January exam period of year 13, and the A2 units are taken in the final summer exam period. This is possible given the considerable overlap with the economics specification. However business studies does include considerable additional content, and given the additional demands of an extra A level, students are expected to have already achieved an A grade at AS level Economics.

Teaching

All business studies lessons are taught by Dr Stimson. Whilst economics is Dr Stimson’s primary area of interest and enjoyment, she has considerable experience within the field of business and management,. Prior to joining the teaching profession, Dr Stimson lectured at Cranfield School of Management on MSc, MBA and PhD programmes, whilst also undertaking management consultancy work for a range of blue chip companies. Within the business area her specialist subject area is supply chain management.