Psychology

Course

This qualification offers an engaging and effective introduction to Psychology. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by Higher Education (HE) and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research.

Topics include: Social influence, Memory, Attachment, Approaches, Research Methods, Psychopathology, Schizophrenia, Relationships and Forensics.

What have students who have taken this course in the past progressed to?

Psychology builds on skills developed in the sciences and humanities, and enables progression into a wide range of other subjects in HE. Students have the opportunity to learn how to analyse arguments and evidence, test hypotheses and make informed judgements – all skills valued by Higher Education institutions and employers.

Studying psychology at university can give you a whole host of exciting career options, including: Marketing, Business development, Advertising, Human resources, Forensic psychology, Occupational therapy, Clinical psychology, Nursing, Counselling, Teaching, Educational Psychology and Sports Psychology.

How will I learn?

Learning mainly occurs in the classroom using a variety of teaching methods. You will be encouraged to view the world as a Psychologist by applying your knowledge to different media resources including newspapers, articles, film and drama.
Students also have the opportunity to design and conduct their own psychological research.

How will I be assessed?

We use AQA exam board. There are three exams, each account for one third of your A-level. The three exams last 2 hours and are worth 96 marks each.

The exams consist of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

How much time should I be expected to spend on assignments, projects, field trips etc.?

You will be expected to spend around 5 hours per week outside lesson time to complete set work.

Which awarding body is the course validation by?

AQA

Expected prior knowledge

To succeed in this subject, you should have an avid interest in people, understand how science works, have good mathematical ability and be able to write extended essays.