Psychology

Exam Board - AQA A Level

The nature of the course:

Psychology is a forward thinking and innovative subject that investigates why we behave in the manner we do, helping us understand the human psyche and giving insight into the motivations behind our actions. A-level Psychology offers a solid understanding of the key psychological concepts and theories, which can help you develop your knowledge of the critical elements of human behaviour.

 

A-level psychology covers a wide range of topics, so you will have several areas to apply the knowledge you gain. Most importantly, it offers an extensive introduction to the core areas of human psychology, such as:

Social psychology - the study of people's social relationships. It focuses on why we conform and why we are more prone to obey authority figures.

Cognitive psychology - the study of internal mental processes. It sheds light on how mental processes play a role in memory.

Developmental psychology - the exploration of how people develop and change from the moment they are born.

Clinical Psychology and Mental Health -  the study of the causes and treatments for of mental disorders.

Biological psychology - the investigation of how evolutionary forces and genetics influence human behaviour.

 

Course components:

The full A level course is examined at the end of the 2 years by three 2 hour exams.

Paper 1: Social Influence, memory, attachment, psychopathology 

Paper 2: Approaches, biopsychology, research methods

Paper 3: Issues & debates, relationships, schizophrenia and addiction

 

Future pathways:

With further study, Psychology A level can lead on to careers in:

• Clinical psychology

• Counselling psychology

• Educational psychology

• Forensic psychology

• Further education

• Health psychology

• High intensity therapist

• Occupational psychology