Psychology
The human mind is the most complex machine on earth, the source of all thought and behaviour. Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind.
Why study Psychology?
A level Psychology offers a comprehensive exploration of human behaviour and the mind, covering diverse areas such as development, health, clinical psychology, social behaviour, and cognitive processes. This broad approach enhances your understanding of how people think and act, providing valuable skills applicable to many careers in fields like healthcare, education, and business.
What skills do you develop?
- Research methods
- Statistical analysis
- Critical thinking
- Understanding human behaviour and mental processes
- Communication
- Ethical awareness
- Data interpretation
What careers can you pursue?
- Psychology (clinical, educational, forensic, occupational)
- Counselling
- Social Work
- Mental Health roles
- Human Resources
- Marketing/Market Research
- Education
- Health & Social Care
- Neuroscience
- Research
AS & A level components
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In your first year of AS you will study:
- Approaches in Psychology: you will learn about five psychological approaches: biological, psychodynamic, behaviourist, cognitive and positive. Each approach explains human behaviour in a slightly different way.
- Research in Psychology: you will learn more about how psychologists design and conduct research.
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In the second year of A2 you’ll deepen your understanding of psychology by looking at a range of interesting human behaviours. You will study three of the following six behaviours:
- Addictive behaviours
- Autistic spectrum behaviours
- Bullying behaviours
- Criminal behaviours
- Schizophrenia
- Stress
You will then apply your psychological knowledge to a range of contemporary debates:
- Cultural bias
- Ethical costs of conducting research
- Non-human animals
- Scientific status
- Sexism
Practical Research
As part of the A2 course you will review your knowledge of research methods and you will get the opportunity to undertake two of your own research projects. These can be undertaken as a class, in groups, in pairs or individually.
Subject FAQ’s
Which examination board?
WJEC
Does the AS count towards the A level or is it a standalone qualification?
The AS can be taken as a standalone qualification at the end of Year 12 but it also counts as 40% of the overall A level.
How will you be assessed?
There are two exams at AS each worth 20% of your A level qualification. Each exam lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is worth 80 marks. The exams consist of short answers and extended writing questions. At A level, there are also two exams. Unit 3 lasts 2 hours 30 minutes, is worth 100 marks and is 40% of your A level qualification. Unit 4 lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 60 marks, and is worth 20% of your A level qualification. The exams also consist of short answer and extended writing questions.
