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Applied Business : A Level

Overview

In all aspects of modern day life the application of Business Studies has become increasingly relevant and in recent years TV programme such as "The Dragons' Den", "The Apprentice" and "Risking it All" have encouraged many to set up their own business. Applied Business Studies is designed to help you to understand the main aspects of running or working in a business and since it is topical you will be able to relate what you study in the classroom to real life. You will be encouraged to utilise input from local businesses, where appropriate, to help bring the core topics of investigating people at work, marketing, financial planning and external influences to life.

Business in Northern Ireland, if it is to flourish, needs more people who have well developed interpersonal and decision making skills. Business Studies provides students with an unique insight into the world of work and through its study, students discover how businesses operate and learn about their key elements and essential business functions.

By choosing Applied Business, students will be encouraged to:

• Contribute to the development of the skills required for success as an entrepreneur, manager or employee
• Apply numerical and written business techniques to a variety of business contexts
• Explore business problems and learn to identify possible solutions.

Subject Content: AS Level

Content	Assessment	Weighting
Unit 1: Investigating Business	Portfolio based (coursework)	16 2/3%
Unit 2: People in Business	Portfolio based (coursework)	16 2/3%

 

Subject Content: A2 Level

Content	Assessment	Weighting
Unit 8: Business Planning (compulsory)	Portfolio based (coursework)	16 2/3%
Unit 12: Managing People	Examination	16 2/3%
The third unit: This will be chosen at the subject teacher's discretion and this will depend on the interests within the class at that point in time	Can be examination or coursework	16 2/3%

How will Applied Business Studies help me develop my other skills?

Applied Business Studies is practical, applied and exciting. Over the two years you will work both as an individual and as part of a team. You will also take part in role-plays, business investigations and simulations all of which are designed to develop your communication, problem solving, enterprising and decision making skills. You will also learn through the use of ICT how to, for example, produce a Spreadsheet to display findings of primary research. Mathematical skills will be further enhanced through the completion of the finance section of your business plan.

Progression to Higher and Further Education and Future Career

Business Studies will encourage you to develop the skills, knowledge and qualities required for life and work in the 21st Century. It offers an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue a career in Management, Clerical, Advertising, Journalism, Accounting, Human Resources and many others. This qualification also supports progression into further and higher education. Courses include Honours Degree in Business Studies, Level 4 NVQs in Administration or Management and BTEC National Diploma in Business or related subjects.

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