A-Level Business Studies

Course Code: BA137
Award Level 3, Similar to - NVQ Level 3, A-Level

A fascinating insight into modern business and commerce techniques.

This A-level Business Studies Course is based on the new syllabus and is ideal for students who are looking to retake an A-Level or who need UCAS points for University.
Business students can benefit greatly from drawing on experience of employment, experience as consumers and what they see in the media.
Gain an understanding of how to identify whether or not a business is performing well financially, the strengths and weaknesses of the business, and how to communicate the results
Develop a range of important and transferable skills: data skills; presenting arguments and making recommendations on the basis of the available evidence; and problem solving.

Course Content

AS Level

Unit 1: Planning and Financing a Business - Starting a Business, Financial Planning
Unit 2: Managing a Business - People, Operations Management, Marketing and Competition

A2 Level

Unit 3: Strategies for Success - Financial Strategies and accounts, Marketing Strategies, Operations Strategies, HR Strategies
Unit 4: The Business Environment and Managing Change - Mission, Aims and Objectives, External Influences, Managing Change

Assessment

Unit 1: Written examination: 1 hour 15 minutes
Unit 2: Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
Unit 3: Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes
Unit 4: Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes

Study Method

The course is designed for study by distance learning at home or at work. Students receive a course manual and study guide plus tutor support by telephones, mail or email. Your A-level course materials will be sent out in the post.

Throughout the course there will be self-assessment questions, and tutor marked questions, to enable students to monitor their progress. You will receive envelopes in order to submit your assignments.

Qualifications

Upon successful completion of this home learning course you will receive an A-Level in Business Studies (AS/A2) issued by AQA. Both AS and A2 level courses and examinations must be successfully completed to gain a full A level. We have chosen this syllabus as it is the best suited to distance learning.

Course Questions & Answers

Q: What skills are needed to enrol onto this course?

You will need to have a reasonable grade GCSE or "O" Level in Business Studies.

Q: Is there a time limit for completion of this course?

You will have a full 24 months to complete your home learning course. This is a lot more time than you need so that you can study at your own pace and in your own time without the pressure of tight deadlines.

This course is truly flexible and aimed at being adaptable around your lifestyle.

Q: What is included in the cost of my course?

Learning documentation and course materials
Unlimited tutor support via email

Q: Is there a required reading list?

Yes, you will be required to study from the following textbooks:

AQA Business Studies for AS by Marcouse, I, Gillespie, A, Surridge, M, Brewer, M, Watson, N,Birchall, N and Hammond, A, Hodder Education, 2008 (ISBN 9780340958643)
AQA Business Studies for A2 by Marcouse, I et al, Hodder Education, 2009 (ISBN 9780340973578)

Textbooks can be purchased from any good bookshop or you can purchase them directly from us.

Q: Do I have to sit an exam?

Yes, you will need to take the standard A-Level examinations in order to fully complete this course. The examinations run on specific dates which can be obtained by visiting the AQA website. You will be required to book these examinations yourself and so we can provide a list of over 400 A-Level test centres around the country.

Q: Are there any additional costs?

You will need to purchase the books listed above, would also recommend that you obtain a good quality scientific calculator and you will generally be required to pay a small fee to take your examinations at the examining centre that you choose.

Q: What if I live outside the UK?

You are still able to study this A-Level course. You will however be required to take the examinations within the UK as this is the only reliable way to access you.