OCR A-Level Economics – H460
Course contact: Andy Major – andrewmajor@kba.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Students should have achieved Grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics and English.
WHAT WILL I DO?
Economics is a fascinating and highly respected subject area that continues to grow in popularity with universities and employers. You will need an enquiring mind and the ability to apply different concepts to a range of real-world problems and current economic issues.
There are two distinct areas to the course: Microeconomics, which focuses on consumers, businesses and markets, and Macroeconomics, which explores the wider economy, including inflation, unemployment and economic growth. Studying Economics will develop your analytical, evaluative and decision-making skills, making it excellent preparation for a wide range of university courses and careers.
You will also explore important issues such as the cost of living, taxation, government spending, international trade, globalisation and environmental sustainability. You will learn to interpret data, consider different viewpoints and use economic evidence to support well-reasoned conclusions.
WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?
Economics is ideal for students who are curious about how the world works and enjoy discussing current affairs and real-world issues. You should be interested in understanding why individuals, businesses and governments make particular decisions.
The course suits students who enjoy analysing information, working with data, debating different viewpoints and developing logical, well-supported arguments.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
The course covers three components:
- Microeconomics: The role of markets, supply and demand, market failure, business objectives, market structures and the labour market.
- Macroeconomics: Economic growth, inflation, unemployment, government economic policies, international trade and the global economy.
- Themes in Economics: Bringing together knowledge from across the course and applying economic theory to an unseen theme.
You will develop an understanding of how economic decisions affect consumers, businesses, governments and society, both in the UK and internationally.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
The OCR A-Level is assessed through three written examinations at the end of the course. Each paper is two hours long and contributes one third of the final A-Level grade.
- Paper 1 – Microeconomics: 33⅓%
- Paper 2 – Macroeconomics: 33⅓%
- Paper 3 – Themes in Economics: 33⅓%
Assessment includes data-response questions, multiple-choice questions and extended written answers. Students are expected to demonstrate knowledge, apply economic concepts, analyse information and evaluate arguments. At least 20% of the overall assessment marks target quantitative skills. https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/economics-h060-h460/specification-at-a-glance/
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
Economics provides an excellent foundation for higher education and a wide range of careers. Possible degree courses include:
- Economics
- Business Management
- Finance and Accounting
- Banking and Investment
- Politics and International Relations
- Law
- Data Science
Career opportunities include finance and banking, accountancy, business management, economic consultancy, government and public policy, data analysis, marketing and financial services.
Economics also complements subjects such as Mathematics, Business, Geography, Politics, History and Psychology.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
GCSE Mathematics and English, Grade 5.