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Business Studies A Level

A Level Business Studies course gives you a thorough understanding of how businesses operate in today’s fast-paced and competitive world. You’ll explore key areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and strategic decision-making, while developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by universities and employers alike.

Throughout the course, you’ll investigate real-life business case studies and apply theories to modern-day challenges. It’s a great foundation if you’re aiming for a future in business, management, or even starting your own company.

Exam board: AQA

A group of students pictured in a classroom at Queen Mary's College.

Business studies college students

Entry Requirements

To join the course, you’ll need:

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Mathematics.
Grade 5 in Maths is recommended due to the formulas students must learn.
A genuine interest in how businesses function and make strategic decisions.

How Will I Be Assessed?

Assessment is 100% exam based. You’ll be tested through:

Multiple-choice questions
Data response tasks
Essay-style questions

These assessments are designed to challenge your ability to apply theory, analyse real-world scenarios, and construct strong, well-reasoned arguments.

Where Can This Course Take You?

A-Level Business Studies opens up a wide range of opportunities for further study and future careers. Many of our students go on to study:

Business Management
Economics
Marketing
Finance and Accounting
Entrepreneurship

Career paths include:

Business Management and Consultancy
Marketing and Sales
Finance and Banking
Human Resource Management
Running your own business

Which course should I pick?

Both Business A Level and Business Vocational explore key areas such as marketing, finance, human resources and how businesses make decisions. The main difference is how you learn and are assessed.

Business A Level may suit you if you enjoy analysing business situations, applying theories and building arguments. It follows a more academic approach and is 100% exam-based.

Assessment: 100% examinations
Exam board: AQA

Business Vocational may suit you if you prefer applying your knowledge to practical business situations and being assessed in different ways.

Assessment: 40% coursework and 60% examinations
Exam board: Pearson

Think about how you learn best: If you prefer an academic, exam-based course, consider A Level. If you prefer a combination of practical coursework and exams, the Vocational course may be a better fit.

Extra-curricular and Enrichment Opportunities

Business learning at QMC can extend beyond the classroom. Links with local businesses and professional organisations provide opportunities for visits, trips and experiences of the world of work.

Previous opportunities have included a Challenges Abroad trip to India, where students visited organisations to learn about their business models and took part in community projects.

You can also take part in QMC enrichment activities that complement Business including Volunteering and Public Speaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What topics will I study?

You’ll cover everything from business strategy, marketing and finance, to operations, HR, and the wider business environment. Real-world case studies help you apply what you’ve learned.

Do I need to have studied Business at GCSE?

Not at all! This course is designed to introduce you to the subject from the ground up.

Is there any coursework?

No – all assessment is done through exams.

What skills will I gain?

You’ll develop transferable skills in critical thinking, decision-making, data analysis, strategic planning, and more – all of which are valuable for further study and your future career.

Is A Level Business Studies hard?

Like any A Level subject, it requires consistent effort, organisation, and a willingness to engage with new ideas. If you are curious about how businesses work and enjoy applying theory to real-life situations, you’ll likely find it rewarding.