In the first year you will learn how a market economy works and the problems that it has. You will also discover how governments try to influence a modern economy and how successful they are.
In the second year the units will be supported by theory but the emphasis will be on highlighting relevant, interesting and topical issues. Teachers will use a range of approaches including case studies, video, visits, outside speakers, group work and note taking. You will be expected to take an interest in current affairs, want to learn about why the economy works in the way it does, debate issues, research evidence and be prepared to argue about relevant topics.
The three units are:
• Markets and Business Behaviour
• The National and Global Economy
• Micro and Macro Economics
Economics A Level
Looking at the world around us questions always asked include: why is there climate change, why did the Financial crisis happen, why is there inequality, why did BREXIT happen, are there alternatives to how societies organise themselves?
Economists rarely agree the answers to these type of questions but we develop the key skills of investigation, evidence based analysis, use of models and ideas to try to answer them. However we must always realise that people, businesses and governments may not act as we expect. At the heart of the investigation is the economic problem which leads to choices that must be made by individuals, businesses and governments and the consequences of these choices by investigating: what do we produce, how do we produce and for whom do we produce?
Drawing on classical economic thinking and alternatives, economics investigates how markets operate, alternatives to the current systems we have developed as well as the global interactions between countries in the modern era of international trade.
We will aim to investigate the past to analyse the present to try to shape the future.
A level students will study a two year linear A Level programme. At the end of their 1st year, students will sit internally assessed exams.
Exam Board: Edexcel
STARTS IN SEPTEMBER
Search your university and career options if you study Economics A Level
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What will I study and learn?
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How is the course assessed?
The A Level consists of three externally examined exams.
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What courses would combine well with this course?
Economics A Level is taken as part of an academic A Level study programme together with any combination of A levels e.g. Maths, Politics, History or Law.
Economics works well with many subjects especially maths or science, but also with social science subjects like psychology or politics. Professional qualifications in management, finance or accounting will always have a strong economic element.
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What skills will I need for the course?
Economics requires a reasonable level of numeracy but it is not heavily mathematical. The main skill that you will need is the ability to learn to use economic data, to interpret graphs and tables, identify trends using your economic toolkit. You should not be afraid of numbers, be keen on solving problems and have an interest in contemporary affairs. You should be someone who likes to conduct your own research and be willing to work individually and in groups.
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What formal entry requirements will I need?
Minimum entry requirements - average point score of 5.75 including GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 6.
Points calculation
The average points score for entry to an A Level programme will be calculated using your 8 best GCSEs OR 6 GCSEs plus 1 technical qualification (equivalent to a maximum of 2 GCSEs and 10 points). From 2017 English Language, English Literature and Mathematics GCSE will be graded numerically (1 – 9. Grade 5 = a good grade C, grade 6 = grade B and grade 7 = grade A).
To work out your average and find out more information, please see our Entry Requirements page.
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What could the course lead to in higher education or careers?
Economics helps you develop the skills which are in demand in a number of careers. After university you could progress to working for big corporations, banks or government and politics but you could also use the qualification to take you into other careers like marketing, law, or journalism.
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Are there any costs involved?
No specific costs – usual for textbooks etc (I’m not sure what figure we usually put on it – but same as Business).
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Are you aged over 19?
Students aged 19 or over on 31st August directly preceding their academic year may be required to pay tuition fees for that year of study. Advanced Learner Loans may be available for students studying at Level 3. If you are aged 19-23 as at 31 August and this is your first full Level 3 you may not have to pay fees.
Students who are 19-24 years old with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCP) issued by the Local Authority are not required to pay course fees (ie tuition fees are free). Students will be required to provide a final copy of their EHCP provided by the LA as evidence.You can find A Level course fees for adults on our A Level page.
Courses
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Level 1
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Level 2
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Level 3
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