What does the A-level include?

Psychology is the scientific study of the processes that underlie our behaviour. On this course, for AS you will look at four approaches in psychology and ten core studies. In the Approaches section you will examine some of the psychotherapeutic techniques used in therapy and also what surgeons can do to help people with psychological disorders. Some of the core studies address the following areas in psychology: conformity, obedience, phobias, eye witness testimony, visual perception and human mate preferences. You will also develop a scientific understanding and how psychological research is carried out and be encouraged to take part in psychological studies.

At A2 we look at the scientific method in more detail, ethics in experimentation with animals, and application of psychological research in real world (for example in advertising and the military applications). We also look at Memory, Relationships, Forensic Psychology and Abnormality or atypical behaviour.

How will I be assessed?

We work to the WJEC exam board.

There are two timed exams to take in May and June. The Approaches unit is a 1 hour and 15 minutes paper and carries 40% of your total mark. The Core Studies and Research unit will take 1 hour and 45 minutes and carries 60% of your total AS mark. Through both papers there are a number of short answer questions and short essays.

What qualifications do I need to get onto the A-level?

Apart from the general entry criteria for A Levels, you must have GCSE grade A* to C in Maths plus Grade B in one of the following subjects: English Language, English Literature, Geography, History, Politics, Psychology, Religious Education (full) or Sociology.

What else can I study?

Psychology can be combined with arts or science subjects depending on your preferences and career aspiration. It is a good subject that fits well with most A Level combinations; most Psychology students do the subject along with subjects such as Sociology, Law, Politics, Business Studies, History, English, Communications, Maths or Biology.

Where can this course lead me?

This course will lead you into many areas and a lot of students do this subject because it fits well with other A levels; many universities regard psychology as a scientific subject. You might have an interest in helping or caring professions, counselling, nursing or occupational health. Psychology can be useful for anyone wanting to work in jobs that involve organising people, whether that be in management, training or teaching. Some of our previous students from the college take are now on degree courses in: Psychology; Forensic Psychology, Criminology, Law, Social Work, Medicine, Nursing, Philosophy, English, Languages, International Relations, Business Studies and Management, Sport, Physiotherapy and even Archaeology

For further information and to apply

If you wish to apply for this course, please complete a College application form.

If you need help before choosing your course, please contact our Information & Advice Centre or come along to one of our Open days.