Employability and Skills

What desirable skills do we help you develop during your time studying psychology?

  • Presentation – we will ask you to present knowledge and ideas to the class is a variety of formats including posters, mind maps, powerpoint and prezi.

  • Communication – you will communicate your knowledge and understanding to your peers and teachers both verbally and in the written style.

  • Sensitivity and empathy – we expect our students to be mature and considerate when considering issues such as mental illness and ethical issues.

  • Meeting deadlines and time management – you will regularly be set homework that must be completed in preparation for the next lesson.

  • Organisation – you may have two psychology teachers who cover different parts of the A level in a week. We expect you to organise your files and notes so that you are always equipped with the right materials for the correct lesson.

  • Professionalism – you might be asked to assume the role of a professional in responding to a hypothetical member of the public. For example, responding as a clinical psychologist to somebody who has questions about CBT.

  • Maths/Science/English – A level psychology involves essay writing and presenting well balanced arguments, an understanding of how psychologists analyse numerical results, and biological explanations of behaviours such as criminal behaviour, addiction and schizophrenia.

Where can A Level Psychology take you in your career?

An A Level in Psychology is a well-respected qualification as you acquire the many skills listed above. These flexible skills are useful in a range of career choices.

A Psychology degree is the required foundation for further study leading to careers in Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology and Occupational Psychology. However, Psychology graduates often pursue careers in personnel work, the Health Service, social work, advertising, counselling and the prison service. Combination degrees can also lead to a wide range of careers.

The British Psychological Society is a great place to start exploring these opportunities. Click the link below to have a look at their interactive guide to psychological professions - or watch the YouTube clip!

Studying Psychology at Degree Level

You can study Psychology on its own or as a combined degree with many subjects including Criminology, Forensic Science, English, Business, Marketing, Sociology, Zoology and many more.

A degree in Psychology gives you the skills to pursue a career in many different fields.

The top psychology graduate jobs destinations are:

1. Human health and social work

2. Education

3. Retail/administrative and support

4. Legal, social, and welfare professions

5. Business, HR, and finance

6. Marketing, PR, and sales

The UCAS site is the best place to research Psychology degrees. See the link below for further information: