What is Business Studies?
Business Studies is a particularly varied subject including aspects of Management, Marketing, Finance, Employment and Consumer Law and Human Resources. All of these topics are set in the context of the external business environment. The course aims to develop a critical understanding of organisations and an awareness that business behaviour can be studied from the perspective of customers, shareholders, employees and society. It is important to understand the issues facing businesses, whether they are large or small, manufacturing or service, national or multinational, and to develop the skills of analysis and evaluation.
What other subjects go well with Business Studies?
The subject is a very good ‘bridging' subject between Arts and Sciences. It combines well with any of the related disciplines of Economics, Accounting and Law, but it is also a very appropriate third subject for students studying two Arts or two Science subjects.
What will I gain from studying the subject?
Business Studies 'A' level equips students with a thorough understanding of the commercial world, develops a range of useful skills, and can lead to a variety of business-related degrees or careers. Students learn to make judgements based on evidence - a skill that will be an advantage in whatever degree course or career they subsequently follow.
Do I have an aptitude for the subject?
The subject will appeal to a wide range of students who have a general interest in how businesses and other organisations function, and in the external environment (economic and political) in which they operate. If you enjoy acquiring new knowledge, developing the skills of analysis and evaluation based on broad business scenarios, and taking well-informed decisions, then this subject will appeal. A basic level of numeracy is required, but mathematical skills beyond GCSE level are not required, although it is necessary to extract numerical data from charts, graphs and tables. You will need a reasonable standard of written English, and to be confident about your ability to read and understand complex texts.