Business Studies (A-level)
This course helps you appreciate how and why business decisions are made and how they affect a variety of people. You will study areas such as finance, marketing, production and human resources, as well as factors such as law, economics and politics.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
Aimed at anyone who wishes to develop an understanding of business operations, this course will help you appreciate how and why business decisions are made and how they affect a variety of people – both within the business and externally.
You will study internal business function areas such as finance, marketing, production and human resources, as well as external factors such as law, economics and politics.
If you are interested in studying A-level Business Studies, you may also be interested in our additional pathways, the T Level in Management and Administration, the Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Business or the Level 3 AAT Diploma in Accounting. All A-level applicants are encouraged to research alternative pathways before accepting their offer to study A-levels.
Entry Requirements
You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4.
A GCSE in Business Studies is not a pre-requisite. However, if you have studied it, a grade 5 is required.
A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.
It is assumed that students will 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 to make positive progress in their first year of study.
What will you learn?
There are four themes:
- Theme 1: Marketing and People
- Theme 2: Managing Business Activities
- Theme 3: Business Decisions and Strategy
- Theme 4: Global Business
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.
What will you need to bring with you?
N/A
How will you be assessed?
There are three exam papers that will assess the content of all four themes. There is no coursework content assessment.
Where next?
Further Study
This A-level subject is accepted as an entrance qualification for a wide variety of courses in higher education, especially in Business Studies, Banking, Accountancy, Finance and Production Management.
Careers
The knowledge and experience of business organisations you develop through this course will be invaluable for future employment in a wide range of settings. You could consider roles such as business manager, purchasing manager, customer service manager, sales accounts manager and importer/exporter – or you could eventually move on to a teaching career.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Charanjot Singh
A-levels at JWC a key ingredient for V Shack owner Charanjot
My teachers at JWC were so supportive of my business idea. Jaz, my teacher in the second year, inspired me considerably.
Emma Jackson
Derby College helps logistics company director Emma go forward in her career
Joseph Wright gave me a new environment to learn in. It's a really nice building with nice classrooms and my teachers were lovely. I also liked the fact that it's based in the city.
Shannon Riley
Employer Academy Opens Doors For Aspiring Students
I love my job. It is a very relaxed and friendly environment where you learn so much and have the opportunity to build relationships with customers and motor dealers.
Find out what funding could be available to you:
Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.
Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.
Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.
Important:
The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.
Funding availability can vary depending on:
- Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
- The course you choose
- Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment
If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.
Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses
If you have any questions about funding, eligibility, or courses, our team is here to help. Contact Us
Applications for 2026 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Open Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 26th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2026
Course Information Last Updated On: October 17, 2025 10:15 am
