A-Level
Careers related to studying Psychology:
If you choose to study Psychology, you gain an understanding of the way people think and act. You will learn a variety of skills including analytical thinking and problem solving. Psychology is a diverse subject that can be applied to many different professions and careers, as a result Psychology students work in many different industries.
Psychology itself contains many specialties such as Sports, Forensics and Clinical Psychology. However careers such as marketing business development, journalism, teaching, police, social work, nursing etc all view Psychology favourably.
Course content:
Psychology is an exciting subject which covers a range of diverse topics. Psychology is defined as ‘The Science of Mind and Behaviour’. The Psychology course offers an engaging and effective introduction to Psychology. Throughout your studies you will develop a range of skills that are valued by universities and employers such as critical analysis, independent thinking and research.
Entry requirements:
You must have achieved at least a grade 6 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics. You should also be proficient in Science.
Subject specific events:
You will be encouraged and supported in entering a variety of related essay writing competitions.
You will take part in a trip to the local university to see how Psychology can advance your life at degree level.
You will also be offered the opportunity to take part in a workshop on phobias.
Methods of study:
There will be five taught lessons per week.
The course is taught through a range of teaching and learning strategies. These strategies include group discussion (whole group, small group and pairs), close reading, scan reading, and examination practice. You will prepare presentations (individual, paired or small group) and report back on your findings. You will also complete independent investigations on the topics covered in class, this will involve primary research and statistical analysis of your findings.
Much of your work will be produced independently. However, there are frequent opportunities to share ideas either prior to, during or after written assignments. You should expect to complete approximately 5 hours of independent study outside of your lessons. This could include: reading, research, essay writing or other activities. In order for you to take full advantage of the course it is also recommended that you immerse yourself in the wider reading of any suggested reading from your Tutor and from the Psychology Discovery list.
Methods of assessment:
The course is a two-year program and consists of the following assessments:
Paper 1 Introductory Topics in Psychology:
You will study Social Influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology. You will be assessed by a 2 hour written exam at the end of your second year which will be worth 33.3% of the total A-level marks.
Paper 2 Psychology in Context:
You will study the different approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology and Research Methods. You will be assessed by a 2 hour written exam at the end of your second year which will be worth 33.3% of the total A-level marks.
Paper 3 Issues and Options in Psychology:
You will study topics such as Issues and debates in Psychology, Relationships, Eating Behaviour, Schizophrenia, Aggression and/or Forensic Psychology. You will be assessed by a 2 hour written exam at the end of your second year which will be worth 33.3% of the total A-level marks.