A-Level Psychology
Overview
“Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and how it influences our (human) behaviour.”
British Psychological Society.
If you choose to study A-Level Psychology, you will attempt to explain the many different facets of human behaviour: from why we follow the orders of our parents/teachers, to why some people suffer from disorders like depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia. You will also engage in a range of interesting debates and consider questions like: Is gender (masculinity and femininity) the product of our biological makeup or the product of society? (Nature-Nurture Debate) Does someone choose whether they will commit a crime or is their behaviour caused by internal/external factors? (Free Will versus Determinism). A full breakdown of the course can be found in the table below.
Key Information
Qualification: A-Level
Exam Board: AQA
Entry Requirements
English 5+
Double Science 5+|5+.
Useful Links
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology
2 hours - 96 Marks
33.3% of A-Level
Section A: Social Influence
Section B: Memory
Section C: Attachment
Section D: Psychopathology
Paper 2: Psychology in Context
2 hours - 96 Marks
33.3% of A-Level
Section A: Approaches in Psychology
Section B: Biopsychology
Section C: Research Methods
Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology
2 hours - 96 Marks
33.3% of A-Level
Section A: Issues & Debates
Section B: Gender
Section C: Schizophrenia
Section D: Addiction
Progression
The field of Psychology is vast as it encapsulates all human behaviour. It is an extremely well respected and valued subject by employers, businesses and higher education establishments. It is considered to be a Science, yet its students are required to have many other skill sets, including essay writing.
This qualification gives students transferable knowledge and skills which prepares them for university degrees. When taken alongside other A Level/Vocational courses, students can progress onto degrees in Psychology, Teaching, Counselling, Health, Sport and Criminology, and many many more. Occupations that are commonly associated with Psychology include:
The Civil Service
Law
Sport
Clinical occupations
Education
Human Resources
Research Analysis
Police Force
Counselling Services
What goes well with Psychology?
Most subjects have some relevance to Psychology as it involves human interaction and perception. Combinations could include:
Sociology
Sport
Health & Social Care
English
Art
Biology
History