Psychology

Ever wondered if prison really does change criminal behaviour? Or why some people confirm? Or perhaps if the experiences you had before the age of five really do shape the person you are today? .

Psychology is the science of the mind. The human mind is the most complex machine on Earth. It is the source of all thought and behaviour. Psychologists use human behaviour as a clue to the workings of the mind. Although we cannot observe the mind directly, everything we do, think, feel and say is determined by the functioning of the mind - so 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 develop your problem solving and communication skills. The ideal student would enjoy discussion, reading about new ideas and challenging assumptions. Good numeracy skills are required due to the scientific/ 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 Mathematics (Grade 6) GCSE English Language or English Literature (Grade 6)