Economics
GCE Advanced Level AS/A2
Course Content
Year 1
- Unit 1 - Competitive Markets
This unit sets the foundation for the study of Economics. It involves building up on understanding of how an economy functions. You will develop a new vocabulary which will allow you to discuss economic issues. Emphasis is placed on markets and market failure. Markets examined include housing, labour and commodities. - Unit 2 - Managing the Economy
This unit identifies what we expect the UK government to achieve. It examines the effectiveness of policies that are aimed at achieving objectives such as economic growth, inflation and unemployment.
Year 2
- Unit 3 - Business Economics and Economic Efficiency
This unit examines the economic environment in which businesses compete including the impact of different forms of competition and government involvement in managing and regulating business. - Unit 4 - The Global Economy
This unit examines the influences on Britain's competitive position in the world economy and the government policies to achieve objectives in a global context.
How it is Taught
Studying Economics will enable you to develop skills in five key areas by participating in a range of learning activities.
- Written communication - research and note making, essay writing, answering data response exercises.
- Problem solving - use of data response material, multiple choice questions and games and simulations.
- Numeracy - use of charts, graphs and numerical data; simple calculations.
- ITC: use of ITC facilities to research and produce assignments, use of economic databases and presentations.
- Economic and industrial awareness - discussion of current events, use of newspapers, journals, TV and radio programmes and web sites.
Examination Details
| Unit | Duration | Date | % of total AS grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 hour 30 mins | January and June | 50% |
| 2 | 1 hour 30 mins | June | 50% |
| Unit | Duration | Date | % of total A2 grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1 hour 30 mins | January and June | 40% |
| 4 | 2 hours | June | 60% |
Entry Requirements
There is no specific GCSE subject entry requirement but students should meet the general college entry requirements for advanced level study (please see the current Prospectus- Advanced Programmes, Entry Requirements). A grade C at GCSE in English and Maths are preferred.
Useful/Common Subject Combinations
Economics combines well with a range of different subjects. For example, the analytical approach used is similar to Mathematics courses, while the essay writing and research techniques are similar to those in History, Law and Psychology. Other subjects based around an interest in current events and how society functions are Politics, Sociology and Business Studies.
Careers and HE Information
Economics is relevant to a range of careers: Economics, Accountancy, Civil Service, Banking/Finance, Stock Exchange, Local Government, Marketing, Business Management.
There are over 150 degree courses in Economics at universities. These fall into two main categories;
- Specialised courses in Economics or Applied Economics
- Combined degrees (eg. Economics and Politics)