Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. It is a deeply fascinating and highly applicable subject that helps you understand concepts such as gender identity, schemas, self-esteem, healthy relationships and the avoidance of prejudice and discrimination.
This course is for students with a genuine passion for understanding the causes of human behaviour and a desire to gain a deep insight into the human condition.
Year 12
In Year 12, students are introduced to the core foundations of Psychology and begin developing key skills in critical analysis, research and independent thinking.
Paper 1 covers Social Influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology. Students explore how people are influenced by others, how memory works and fails, how early attachment formation links to later adult behaviour, and how mental health conditions can be understood and treated.
Paper 2 focuses on Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology and Research Methods. Students examine different explanations of behaviour, the role of the brain and nervous system, and how psychological research is designed, conducted and evaluated.
Year 13
In Year 13, students deepen their understanding of human behaviour and extend their knowledge into more complex and applied topics.
Students study Issues and Debates in Psychology, including nature versus nurture, free will and determinism, and cultural and gender bias.
They also explore Relationships, Schizophrenia and Forensic Psychology, examining the causes of criminal and deviant behaviour and the possible prevention of such behaviours.
By the end of the course, students will be scientifically literate and able to articulate their knowledge and thinking in different ways, with a strong appreciation of how Psychology applies to real-world situations.
Assessment Components
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Assessment is through three written examinations, each lasting 2 hours and contributing approximately one-third of the overall A-Level. Across the papers, students are examined on core topics from Years 12 and 13, including research methods and applied areas such as clinical psychology and mental health.
Opportunities
Many students who choose Psychology do so with the intention of becoming Chartered Psychologists or Psychiatrists, or working in mental health settings, including charitable organisations and mental health nursing.
Psychology forms the foundation of many professions involving working with the public.
It is particularly useful in careers such as the police, social work, teaching, human resources and law. The analytical, research and communication skills developed throughout the course are highly transferable and valued in a wide range of professional roles.
Entrance Requirements
Essential Grade 5 in English, Grade 5-5 in Combined Science or Grade 5 in Biology, and Grade 5 in Maths.
Desirable Grade 6-6 in Combined Science or Grade 6 in Biology, and Grade 6 in Maths.
Psychology (A-Level)
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. Students explore topics including gender identity, schemas, self-esteem, relationships, prejudice and discrimination. The course develops scientific understanding, analytical thinking, research skills and insight into human behaviour.
Year 12
Students develop foundational knowledge and critical analysis skills. Paper 1 covers Social Influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology. Paper 2 covers Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology and Research Methods.
Year 13
Students explore Issues and Debates in Psychology, including nature versus nurture, free will and determinism, and cultural and gender bias. They also study Relationships, Schizophrenia and Forensic Psychology, including explanations of criminal and deviant behaviour.
Assessment Components
Paper 1: Written examination, 2 hours, approximately 33.3% of the qualification.
Paper 2: Written examination, 2 hours, approximately 33.3% of the qualification.
Paper 3: Written examination, 2 hours, approximately 33.3% of the qualification.
Opportunities
Psychology supports progression into careers including Chartered Psychology, Psychiatry, mental health nursing, policing, social work, teaching, human resources and law. The subject develops analytical, research and communication skills valued by universities and employers.
Entrance Requirements
Essential: Grade 5 in English, Grade 5-5 in Combined Science or Grade 5 in Biology, and Grade 5 in Maths.
Desirable: Grade 6-6 in Combined Science or Grade 6 in Biology, and Grade 6 in Maths.