Psychology

Course summary

The focus is on learning about Psychological theories and research that investigates human behaviour and considering their application to real world situations. Research methods teaching is integrated throughout the two years where we will critique the methodology and ethical standards of research and their implications to society. FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES A-level Psychology provides students with a range of transferable skills including critical evaluation and argument construction which are an excellent basis for many university courses. With a degree in Psychology and further postgraduate training there are a wealth of opportunities in clinical, educational, occupational and forensic Psychology, as well as other careers where working with people is central. Many students who take the A-level at this school go on to study undergraduate psychology courses at University or related ones including criminology. EXAM STRUCTURE The A-level will be examined at the end of Year 13 through three equally weighted 2 hour papers. As most students will not have studied Psychology before, no prior knowledge is expected before choosing this course. However, background reading will be set in the summer holiday to prepare students for the first topic. COURSE OUTLINE Year 1 (Compulsory) units: Social influences Memory Attachment Psychopathology Approaches Biopsychology Research Methods Year 2 units: Relationships Schizophrenia Forensic Psychology Issues & Debates