Psychology - A Level
“The case studies on crime and murder are fascinating.”
Entry Requirements
Two GCSEs at grade 4 plus a grade 5 in English Language and a 5 in Maths
Subject Intent
The study of Psychology allows students to explore key areas in the history and development of psychology and offers different perspectives into the explanations of the human mind and behaviour. Studying Psychology will help you develop an insight into the methodological strengths and weaknesses of research, and critical analysis of theories, which are useful life skills which can be transferred into the workplace.
The knowledge gained will help students to develop into well-grounded adults, with an understanding of the causes of mental health issues, how to be responsible parents, when to conform and obey others, and what triggers aggression. Studying Psychology will also help students gain compassion and empathy for others as well as developing personal autonomy through the teaching of academic resilience and independent learning skills. Studying Psychology can lead to a variety of careers including psychiatrist, counsellor, working with the criminal justice system and academia.
Course Introduction
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour; including how people think and interact with others. You will look at how biology can affect behaviour and explore whether criminals are born or made. You also learn how mental illnesses develop and how they could be treated, as well as investigating the role of cognitive processes such as memory.
As well as learning and critically evaluating theories, contemporary and classic studies, you will also be conducting research and performing statistical analysis on data. Key issues such as the nature nurture debate and ethical considerations of conducting research are explored throughout the course.
Psychologists are probably best known for their work in health or education, but people with psychology qualifications can be found in almost any walk of life. If you are planning on studying psychology at university, we recommend that you also study an A Level in Science (Biology, Chemistry or Physics).
Course Modules
Social and Cognitive Psychology
You will learn social and cognitive approaches to psychology through learning about key studies, theories, and research methods within the topics. Social Psychology covers topics of obedience and prejudice. Cognitive Psychology covers the topics of memory. Within this module you are required to conduct two pieces of psychological research that relate to Social and Cognitive psychology.
Biological Psychology and Learning Theories
This unit is designed to introduce you to two approaches in psychology: the Biological Approach and the Learning Approach. The unit aims to develop understanding of how behaviour is learnt, how our biology affects the way we behave and issues of individuality in human behaviour. Within this module you are required to conduct two pieces of psychological research.
Applications of Psychology
The aim of this unit is to enable you to study how psychology can be applied to the real world. Each unit is related to a vocational context in which a psychology graduate may operate. The two units that you will study are Criminological Psychology (understanding why crime is committed, how to treat criminals and the reliability of eye witness testimonies) and Clinical Psychology (how different approaches in psychology can explain and treat mental illness). There is a focus on detailed understanding, application and evaluation of theories, as well as assessment.
Psychological Skills
This unit focuses on issues and debates within psychology (for example the nature nurture debate) and methods of conducting research. In this synoptic unit you will also be asked to draw upon other areas of the course to understand the issues and debates. You will develop an understanding of how to use theories and evidence and apply them to real life events.
You will also learn how to statistically analyse data and draw conclusions from the findings.
Assessment
Psychology A Level is assessed in three, 2 hour exams
Course Fact
You will explore whether our biology dominates our decisions and behaviours, or whether our behaviour is determined by those around us
Example Career Opportunities
Forensic Psychologist | Cognitive Behavioural Therapist | Counsellor | Community Development Worker
Youth Offending Team Officer | Consumer Scientist | Barrister | Life Coach | Mental Health Worker