Home > 16-18 Courses > A level & Applied > Psychology

Psychology

Course type: A level & Applied • Awarding/exam body: AQA

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and experiences, where we look to explain why people are the way they are. The course aims to extend our everyday observations of human behaviour by attempting to explore the truth behind what is ‘known’ scientifically. Psychology also examines how to help treat individuals who suffer from various psychological disorders, and the different ways one can go about this. Most of Psychology is literature based, however, there are sizable science and mathematical elements.

Apply Online

Course Units

Unit 01: Social influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology
Unit 02: Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology and Research Methods
Unit 03: Issues and debates in Psychology, three optional topics (Previous topics have included: Gender, Schizophrenia, Relationships, Addiction & Forensic Psychology)

The topics in year 2 are chosen democratically in year 1 in a vote, so Psychology students determine what optional topics they study.

Course Assessment

The A level course is 100% examination based through three papers which are two hours each. All papers include multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions (16 marks).

This Course Can Lead To…

A Psychology degree has been widely regarded as one of the most versatile degrees when trying to access the job market after university. This subject is very useful if you want to go on to study Psychology, Counselling, Youth Work, International Relations, Politics, Business or other Social Sciences at degree level. You can study either a BSc (Science) or a BA (Art) in Psychology, so individual university requirements need to be checked as they may vary.

Entry Requirements

To qualify to study 3 A level/ Applied subjects, you will need to achieve 6 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, preferably including English Language or Maths at grade 4 or above.

In addition/ within those 6 GCSEs, for this subject you will need to achieve Grade 5 in English Language, Grade 5 in Maths and Grade 5 in Science (Core, Additional or Applied). Students with either a Grade 4 in Maths may be considered subject to availability.

Course Highlights

Trip to Royal Bethlem Hospital
Trip to Freud’s Residence and Museum
SFX Clinical Psychologist Talk
Psychiatrist Talk