Psychology /

Ever wondered if we can really trust eyewitness testimonies? Or why some individuals commit crimes? Or if the experiences you had before the age of five really do shape the person you are today?

Psychology will help you to answer these questions and gain an insight into the motivations and reasons behind a range of behaviours. It is the study of the human mind, the most complex machine on Earth. Although we cannot observe the mind directly, everything we do, think, feel and say is determined by the functioning of the mind. For that reason, psychologists take human behaviour as the raw data for testing their theories about how the mind works.

This A-Level is designed to develop skills of analysis and evaluation through an examination of arguments and evidence put forward by psychologists. You will also get the opportunity to conduct your own research, which will test your intellectual curiosity, problem solving and communication skills. Finally, learning about the human mind will develop your understanding of others, resulting in greater empathy and patience. The ideal student would enjoy discussion, reading about new ideas and challenging assumptions. Good numeracy skills are required due to the scientific and mathematical nature of the subject.

Course structure /

Exam board: AQA

Year 1: Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Approaches in psychology, Biopsychology, Psychopathology, Research Methods

Year 2: Issues and debates in psychology (compulsory content) Relationships, Gender or Cognition and Development, Schizophrenia, Eating Behaviour or Stress, Aggressions, Forensic Psychology or Addiction (optional content)

Assessment is through three exams, each account for one third of your A Level. The three exams last two hours each. Each exam consists of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

Beyond A Level /

Students who have taken A Level in Psychology often go on to degree courses in: Psychology, English Studies, Sociology, Business Studies, Teaching, Sport and Exercise Science, Law.

Careers include: marketing, business development, accountancy, human resources, forensic psychology, occupational therapy, clinical psychology, nursing and teaching.

Entry requirements /

GCSE Biology (Grade 6)

GCSE Mathematics (Grade 6)

GCSE English Language or English Literature (Grade 6)