Why choose Level 3 business?
This course is for students who are interested in learning about the business sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in business-related subjects.
If you take up this subject, you will benefit from first-hand work experience and the knowledge and expertise of local business leads as the course includes visits, guest speakers and ‘live’ assignment briefs set by the businesses themselves.
How will Level 3 business be delivered?
You will study four key units across the two-year course, delivered through lessons, group work, independent research, employer engagement, and practical assignments.
Course type: BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
Board: Pearson
Entry requirement: Grade 6 or above in GCSE English language and maths
| Unit | Content |
| Exploring business | Learn how businesses are structured and operate, and how they respond to external influences |
| Developing a marketing campaign | Investigate marketing principles and apply them by designing a campaign based on a set brief |
| Personal and business finance | Understand how to manage money, interpret financial documents, and make financial decisions |
| Optional unit | Choose from a range of topics such as recruitment and selection, customer service, legal systems, market research, or work experience in a business setting |
Assessment
Assessment is split between coursework and exams:
- 58% of the qualification is externally assessed through a written exam and a controlled case study task
- 42% is assessed internally through coursework based on real or simulated business scenarios
- Assessment takes place across the two years – there is no final project or end-of-course exam.
Progression
This qualification carries UCAS points and is widely accepted by universities, particularly when studied alongside other A levels or applied qualifications. It also prepares students for employment or apprenticeships in business-related fields.
Studying Level 3 business can help you:
- Progress to higher education courses in business, finance, marketing, law, or management
- Build workplace skills for careers in areas such as HR, accounting, business support, or project management
- Stand out in applications with a strong understanding of how businesses operate and make decisions
- Gain experience and insight through practical assignments and employer involvement
