Business Studies

Course summary

The Extended Certificate is for learners who are interested in learning about the business sector alongside other fields of study, to progress to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in business-related subjects. It is designed to be taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels. The extended certificate is the equivalent in size to one A Level. The course is made up of coursework, controlled assessments and examinations. The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it supports progression to higher education. Employers and professional bodies have been involved and consulted to confirm that the content is appropriate and consistent with current practice for learners planning to enter employment directly in the business sector. The learning program covers the following content areas: • Business Environments • Finance • Marketing The optional units have been designed to support choices in progression to business courses in higher education and to link with relevant occupational areas: • Human Resources • Accounting • Marketing Law The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to meeting admission requirements for many courses if taken alongside other qualifications as part of a two-year programme of learning. It will support entry to many higher education courses, depending on the other qualifications learners have taken. Learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes at specific higher education providers. The qualification can also support progression to employment directly, or via an Apprenticeship. In the BTEC National units, there are opportunities during the teaching and learning phase to give learners practice in developing employability skills. Where employability skills are referred to in this specification, we are generally referring to skills in the following three main categories: • Cognitive and problem-solving skills: use critical thinking, approach non-routine problems applying expert and creative solutions, use systems and technology. • Intrapersonal skills: communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self-presentation. • Interpersonal skills: self-management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development. There are also specific requirements in some units for assessment of these skills where relevant.