Economics is a thought-provoking and highly analytical subject that explores how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions about resources, production, and consumption. This course helps students understand both microeconomic and macroeconomic principles, encouraging them to evaluate real-world issues and policies. It is ideal for students who enjoy critical thinking, data analysis, and exploring how economic systems shape society.

What will you study?

Students follow the Edexcel A Level Economics specification, which includes:

• Theme 1: Introduction to markets and market failure – microeconomic concepts, market structures, and government intervention
• Theme 2: The UK economy – macroeconomic performance, aggregate demand and supply, and policy objectives
• Theme 3: Business behaviour and the labour market – business growth, objectives, competitiveness, and labour market dynamics
• Theme 4: A global perspective – international economics, emerging economies, poverty and inequality, and global policy

Assessment

Assessment is through three written examinations at the end of the course:

• Paper 1: Markets and business behaviour
• Paper 2: The national and global economy
• Paper 3: Synoptic paper drawing on all themes

Each paper is 2 hours long and equally weighted. Questions include data response, case studies, and extended writing.

Entry requirements

To study Economics, students should have:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 9–4 (or equivalent), including English and Mathematics
• A Grade 6 in English, Maths, and Science is recommended
• A Grade 6 in GCSE Business, if taken

Enrichment opportunities

Students benefit from a range of enrichment activities, including:

• Economics debates and discussion forums
• Guest speakers from finance and policy sectors
• Trips to institutions such as the Bank of England or Parliament
• Support for university applications in economics and related fields

These experiences help students apply their learning in real-world contexts and develop broader skills in analysis, communication, and evaluation.

Progression and careers

Studying Economics opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career pathways, including:

• Economics, Business, Finance, Politics, and International Relations
• Transferable skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making

Economics graduates are highly sought after and among the highest paid, with opportunities in banking, consultancy, government, and academia.

“Economics at A Level is a truly diverse and engaging subject. From learning about individual business operations in microeconomics to how government policy affects us all in macroeconomics, Economics is widely applicable and rewarding. What sets it apart is its real-world relevance—everything you learn has practical application.”
— Adam Cox