Psychology

Psychology gives an insight into the origins of human behaviour making it a fascinating subject to study. We use scientific research to explain why people behave in the way that they do, weighing up the contribution of genes and the environment in making us who we are

Entry Requirements

Grade 5 in GCSE English Language, Maths and Science

Assessment

3 written examinations, each exam is 2 hours and has equal weighting towards the final A-level:

• Paper 1: social influence, memory, attachment, psychopathology

• Paper 2: approaches in psychology, biopsychology, research methods

• Paper 3: issues and debates in psychology, stress, relationships, addiction 

There are numerous career options in psychology ranging from practising psychologists in the NHS, forensic psychologists helping to solve crimes and helping people in a wide range of fields to achieve their goals and work at their best such as sports psychology, educational psychology, occupational psychology and health psychology. Knowledge of psychology is also appreciated

in many careers where you need a good understanding of why people behave in the way that they do, for example health, education, business and marketing.
There are many different
branches of psychology.
Psychologists work in
commercial companies,
hospitals, marketing,
research institutions,
schools, crime prevention
and many other areas
where an understanding of
human nature is essential.

Students studying psychology, study theories and research in areas that include explanations and treatments for mental health problems, the formation and maintenance of relationships, how memory works, biological and psychological implications of stress, explanations for addiction and the structure and function of the brain.

Students will have the opportunity to design and carry out their own practical research activities to experience psychology in action, including statistical analysis of data.  Through detailed study of psychological theory and research, students will develop their skills of interpretation and evaluation.

Examination Board - AQA