This online subject is the first in the degree in business administration and is the introductory subject in business studies. It explores the question 'What is a business?' and investigates the business functions of human resource management, accounting and finance, and marketing. Different internal and external elements of a business are introduced, and the context in which a business operates is explained. Students will explore the common aims and characteristics of business - investigating what makes them different. Business structures, cultures and functions are identified and the political, social, economic, technological and ethical considerations affecting business are introduced.