psychology

Entry Requirements

Grade 5 in GCSE Sciences, Maths and English

Exam Board

AQA

Why Choose Psychology?

You are human and yet, chances are, you have learnt very little about the workings of the human mind, the organ that governs your every perception and sensation. Psychology focuses on the science of the mind, behaviour and experience. It looks at how individuals think, how they behave and how they are affected by their biological make-up and wider social groups. This scientific subject builds on skills developed in traditional sciences and humanities and enables progression into a wide range of other subjects. Besides learning the fundamentals of the subject, students will develop skills valued by Higher Education providers and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research. The course covers a number of core approaches to Psychology which aim to underpin the knowledge, understanding and application of the subject. The intention is to engage students in studying issues and debates in the scientific study of contemporary psychology and to master the ethical, practical and mathematical skills required in carrying out research activities. The overall aim is to develop interest and enthusiasm for the subject and careers associated with Psychology.

What is Involved?

Advanced Level: three written papers, each 2 hours with structured questions, multi-choice & short/extended answers.

Building on the knowledge and understanding the core approaches in Psychology, students will develop ethical practical research skills through designing and conducting psychological research. In addition, they will analyse and interpret data using descriptive and inferential statistics. There is an additional range of topic- based options (gender, schizophrenia and forensic psychology) which bring together explanations from different psychological approaches, issues and debates in Psychology.

Key Stage 5 Curriculum Maps