Psychology A Level

Code  ALV1

Course Content

You gain an AS level after successfully completing Year 1, you will be awarded a full A level after successfully completing Year 2.

Year 1
Five Core Areas of Psychology: Cognitive, Developmental, Physiological, Social and the Psychology of Individual Differences 15 Core Studies introducing significant findings in Psychology

Psychological key themes such as:
• Ethics - The potential impact of psychological research on participants is considered
• Methodology - Encourages the evaluation of psychological methods
• Practical Investigations - You will carry out practical work such as an observation and a questionnaire

Year 2

You will be required to study two options which apply psychology to everyday life. For example:
• Forensic Psychology - Examines theories to explain criminal behaviour, how psychology can inform the investigative process and behaviour in the courtroom, how psychology can inform the penal system
• Health and Clinical Psychology - Examines which lifestyle factors influence our health, the causes and treatment of stress, explaining and treating dysfunctional behaviour; characteristics, causes and treatments of psychological disorders

You will also be required to consider approaches, perspectives, methods, issues and debates throughout AS and A2 Level.

Assessment

Assessment is by examination

Progression

Psychology is a very widely recognised A Level subject. There are many employment opportunities for people with Psychology qualifications. Careers include: Counsellor, Educational Guidance Officer, Forensic/Criminal Psychologist, Social Worker, Sports Motivator, Teacher and Therapist.

What subjects can I study with this course?

Psychology complements a number of A Levels including Biology and Maths, especially if you intend to take a degree in Psychology.