Psychology

Course summary

Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour. In A level Psychology we learn how scientists seek to understand human beings through the use of laboratory experiments, brain scanning, observations, and other empirical techniques. The course is, in places, quite biological and mathematical. The A level has a similar assessment method to the sciences and the assessment objectives are weighted in the same way. For this reason students must demonstrate an academic ability and interest in the sciences, particularly biology. Other skills developed Psychology students develop transferable skills such as analytical thinking, communication, problem solving, numeracy, independent learning and the ability to work in teams. In 2022, students went on to study Psychology at a range of universities; according to the British Psychological Society there are over 400 Psychology courses in the UK. Career value Psychology is a fascinating subject to study, and prepares graduates for a very wide range of careers; graduates go on to become chartered psychologists specialising in studying clinical, educational, occupational, forensic, health or sports psychology. Psychology also provides a useful training for a much wider range of career options. These include nursing, teaching, social work, sales, media and broadcasting, personnel management and even the Police and the Armed Forces. A student’s view “Psychology is the subject which keeps on giving – there’s always something new to learn and a new way to see things.” “You’ll never be bored in a Psychology lesson.” “Psychology makes you question how much control you actually have over the choices you make.” “Psychology has opened my eyes to understanding different people better and unravelling the different behaviours I see everyday.”