Why should I study Psychology?

Psychology is a fascinating, stimulating and extremely popular subject. The course explores a wide range of perspectives explaining human behaviour and how our mind works. The course will look at topics such as human memory, the accuracy of eyewitness testimony, abnormality and obedience to authority. It also looks at how Psychology can be applied to the real world, such as the effects of day care on young children. Throughout this course you will develop valuable study skills in addition to a broad base of knowledge spanning one of the most interesting and varied courses available at AS/A Level.

What will I study?

At AS, you will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the core areas of psychology (social, cognitive, developmental, biological and individual differences) through a range of topics, chosen for their accessibility and popularity.

AS Units

Unit 1

• Cognitive psychology, including memory and eyewitness testimony
• Developmental psychology, including early social development, attachment and the effects of day care
• Research methods, in the context of the above areas

Unit 2

• Biological psychology, including stress, factors affecting stress, coping with stress and managing stress
• Social psychology, including majority and minority influence, obedience and independent behaviour
• Individual differences, including definitions of abnormality, approaches and therapies

A2 Units

Unit 3
Will include:

• Biological rhythms and sleep
• Relationships
• Aggression

Unit 4
Will include:

• Psychopathology
• Anomalistic (paranormal) psychology
• Research methods

What are the entry requirements?

Normal college entry requirements plus GCSE English grade C and GCSE Maths grade C. A good GCSE in Science would be desirable.

What skills do I need?

• A desire to know and understand human behaviour and experience.
• An ability to think critically and evaluate these differing explanations.
• Able to voice opinions and also to listen to other arguments and see others’ view points in discussions and debates.
• Able to express knowledge and understanding through structured written work.

How will I be taught?

Each Psychology class will be taught using a variety of methods ranging from formal teaching and activity based learning to group work, class discussion worksheets and revision tests.

You will also undertake a series of formal assessments which will allow you to have the opportunity to practise valuable exam skills.

How is the course assessed?

AS - two 1½hrs written exams
A2 - one 1½hr written exam and one 2hrs written exam

There is no coursework in Psychology.

What will this course prepare me for?

Psychology can be pursued in its own right—as either a clinical, educational or occupational psychologist—but other relevant careers include teaching, nursing, medicine, the police, social work, business management, marketing, sport, speech therapy and a wide range of other careers.

Private study

As an approximate guideline AS subjects require 3-4 hrs of independent study each; A2 subjects 4-5 hrs each.

What materials will I need to purchase?

A ringbinder and notepaper

Examining Board

AQA

Psychology is for you if

You have an interest in science, want to understand human behaviour and can memorise lots of information.

Psychology is not for you if

You don’t like big exams, find it difficult to write clearly or if you think it’s an easy subject.

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