Why study Economics?

Economics provides students with a critical understanding of the world in which they live by applying economic concepts and models to real world issues. This subject will make students more economically aware so they become better informed as consumers, producers and citizens during their lives.

Careers in accountancy, banking, finance, business management and politics are all possible avenues for students of Economics.

What will you study?

• How markets work, why they might fail and so require government intervention
• The price mechanism model and different forms of government intervention including taxation, subsidies and regulation
• Performance indicators for the UK economy, including economic growth, employment, inflation and the balance of payments
• Global economy, particularly emerging markets.

Year 12 of the course focuses on how markets work and the performance of the UK economy. Year 13 more emphasis is applied to the behaviour of businesses and the impact of competition in an increasingly globalised world. Up to 20% of assessment involves quantitative skills such as percentages, percentage change, index numbers, ratios and different types of averages.

How will you study?

A mixture of teaching and learning styles is applied, including student-led seminars, paired work, class discussion and independent learning. Lessons often include use of the internet including the BBC news and newspaper websites. Students are expected to keep up to date with current affairs.

Potential degree courses

Economics (potentially in combination with other subjects), Accountancy, Finance, Business, Government & Politics.

Specification details – Edexcel 9EC0