Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour.  A level psychology provides a fascinating introduction to this subject.  This course will introduce you to the theories and methods of psychology, and offers the opportunity to look at some of the explanations psychologists make to understand humans and their interactions with the world.     On the AS you will study the main psychological approaches explaining behaviour: Cognitive, Developmental, Biological, Social and Individual Differences.   For both AS and A2 you will consider concepts involved in ‘How Science works’ and you will plan and conduct scientific investigations, and learn how to analyse and interpret data. Second year options include Biological rhythms and sleep; Relationships; Eating behaviour; Intelligence and Learning; Perception; Aggression; Gender; Cognition and development; Addiction and Media.   Compulsory topics are Psychopathology (you will study one mental disorder), and Research and the Scientific Method.    Psychology is a science with cutting edge research that has real world applications to issues in everyday life .  It is an academic subject and provides students with the skills of critical analysis, interpretation, evaluation and research.  The course of study therefore combines well with both humanities and science subjects.

There are many career opportunities, particularly those involving research or working with people.  These include Advertising, Business, Careers Guidance, Personnel, Teaching, any Health related careers and the Caring professions.  Psychology may be studied as a degree in its own right, or as a component of other courses.  A psychology degree provides students with a foundation for further training as Clinical, Counselling, Educational, Forensic and Occupational Psychologists.

Exam Board / Specification:   AQA A

Subject entry requirements:  In addition to GCSE English Grade C…GCSE Mathematics Grade C and GCSE Science Grade C.

Exam Units:

AS - 1181

Unit 1 – PSYA1 : Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods

Unit 2 – PSYA2 : Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences

A2 - 2181

Unit 3 – PSYA3 : Topics in Psychology  [3 are studied]

Unit 4 – PSYA4 :  Psychopathology, Psychology in Action and Research Methods.