Psychology

Psychology

Why Choose Psychology? 

Psychology is one of the most versatile subjects you can study, given its combination of both science and arts. It enhances critical thinking, analytical skills, and understanding of research methods. 

What are the aims of the course? 

Through the study of A Level Psychology you will develop:

• knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, theories and research findings 
• an understanding of psychological approaches, issues and debates and research methodology 
• an awareness of the scientific method and range and limitations of psychological theory and practice 
• improved skills in data analysis, evaluation and drawing conclusions 
• an awareness of the relationships between psychological findings and everyday life 
• an understanding of ethical issues in psychology 
• an appreciation and understanding of individual, social and cultural diversity. 

What Skills do you need?

A Level Psychology encourages learners to think like a psychologist. 

While studying the key concepts and debates that underpin the subject, you will be developing the skills of interpretation, application, analysis and evaluation:

• a deep understanding of their subjects 
• higher order thinking skills – analysis, critical thinking, problem-solving 
• presenting ordered and coherent arguments 
• independent learning and research. 

GCSE requirements

Grade 7 or above in Biology or Combined Science, and Grade 6 or above in Mathematics and English. 

Course Content

Cambridge International AS & A Level Psychology provides candidates with opportunities to consider the approaches, issues and debates and research methodology that underpins all aspects of psychology. 

At AS Level you will study four psychological approaches: 

• Biological 
• Cognitive 
• Learning 
• Social 

Each approach is exemplified though 12 core studies. The core studies illustrate a wide range of research methods used in psychology, such as experiments, self-reports, case studies, observations, correlations and longitudinal studies. By exploring the relationship between the content of the study and the research methods, candidates will gain a broad understanding of how psychologists study experiences and behaviours and why the research took place. 

At A Level, you will study the following specialist options: 

Clinical Psychology  

Considers the diagnostic criteria, symptoms, explanations and treatments for a variety of mental and behavioural disorders/conditions. 

Consumer Psychology  

Reflects consumer society and looks at both consumers and sellers as well as the design of consumer environments. 

Specification: CIE   

Higher education and career opportunities 

Higher education opportunities: 

A Level Psychology is respected by universities and is recognised as a science for the purposes of entry requirements. It combines well with subjects like Biology and Physical Education in preparation for undergraduate studies in those disciplines as well as for Criminology and Philosophy 

Possible career opportunities:  

The versatility of A Level Psychology opens up a lot of career paths, not just in psychology but also in fields like marketing, education, and human resources.