Course Summary

Studying Economics involves applying economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues. This A-level encourages students to appreciate the inter-relationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics.

Entry requirements

You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English Language at grade 5 (C/B) and Maths at grade 4 (C).

A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.

It is assumed that students enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.

Course Content

The operation of markets and market failure

1. Economic methodology and the economic problem
2. Price determination in a competitive market
3. Production, costs and revenue
4. Competitive and concentrated markets
5. The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets

The national economy in a global context

1. The measurement of macroeconomic performance
2. How the macroeconomy works: the circular flow of income, AD/AS analysis, and related concepts
3. Economic performance
4. Macroeconomic policy

Year 2 will cover:

Individuals, firms, markets and market failure

1. Economic methodology and the economic problem
2. Individual economic decision-making
3. Price determination in a competitive market
4. Production, costs and revenue
5. Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets and monopoly
6. The labour market
7. The distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality
8. The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets

The national and international economy

1. The measurement of macroeconomic performance
2. How the macroeconomy works: the circular flow of income, AD/AS analysis, and related concepts
3. Economic performance
4. Financial markets and monetary policy
5. Fiscal policy and supply-side policies
6. The international economy

How will I be assessed?

100% of this course is externally examined.  This consists of three two-hour examinations of equal weighting at the end of the second year.

Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?

There are no additional costs. However, students will be supplied with a reading list.

What can I do after this course?

Further Study

As well as being equipped to handle modern life with a broad knowledge of A-level Economics, you can consider a number of university choices and career options where having A-level Economics is preferable or, in some cases, absolutely necessary.

Your A-level Economics shows you have the ability to analyse and understand economic subjects, as well as having a sound financial knowledge and essay-writing skills.

Careers

Possible career choices A-level Economics can offer you include accountant, stockbroker, banker and online financial and business-related careers. However most of these require a higher level of education. Your A-level Economics can lead you to degrees in Economics, Business Studies, Social Sciences and Engineering.

Note - you only need to make one application for A-levels. You can specify the additional A-Levels you wish to study when you fill out the application form

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