AS Level in Economics

Course information:
AS Level in Economics

Course summary:
The AS course may be used in one of two ways:
* As a final qualification, allowing candidates to broaden their studies and defer decisions about specialism
* As the first half(50%) of the â€-A†level qualification, which must be completed before an A level award can be made
The course will encourage candidates to:
* Develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life
* Apply economic concepts and theories in a range of contexts and to appreciate their value and limitations in explaining real world situations
* Analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the role of the government within it
* Develop an understanding of logical thinking and reasoning.


Microeconomics helps you to understand current issues such as: Why are house prices so high? Can pollution effectively be controlled? Why are taxes so high on cigarettes and alcohol? Should students be paying more to go to university?


Macroeconomics helps you understand issues such as: Why does the government try to control prices by using interest rates? Why are people in London richer than those in South Tyneside? How are we affected by the Chinese and Indian economies?

Course content:

MODULE 1 - Markets and Market Failure
- Allocation of Resources in Competitive Markets
- Market Failure and Government Intervention
-The economic problem
- Production and Efficiency

MODULE 2 - The National Economy
- Performance of the UK Economy
- How the Macroeconomy works
- Main Instruments in Government Macroeconomic policy

Assessment procedure:

AS Examination
Unit 1 - (AS Module 1) 1.25 hours: 25 compulsory objective test questions, One data response question chosen from two (25%)

Unit 2 - (AS Module 2) 1.25 hours: 25 compulsory objective test questions, One data response question chosen from two (25%)
The AS units form 50% of the total A level marks.


Qualifications achieved:
GCE AS Level Economics

Progression opportunities:
Successful students could progress to an A2 Level in Economics
The course lays an appropriate foundation for further study of Economics or related subjects in higher education. In addition, it provides a worthwhile course for candidates in terms of general education and lifelong learning. The subject provides a useful introduction to a university Economics / Political / Social Science degree while also providing a valuable intellectual training for a very wide range of careers including banking, accountancy, finance, teaching, law, and management.

Free study and financial support:
Most full-time students do not have to pay for their course. We may also be able to help you with some of the extra costs associated with college, eg travel, childcare, equipment, books etc. In addition, if you have just left school, you may be eligible for an Educational Maintenance Allowance.