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AS/A Level Psychology

  • Graig Campus
AS - 1 Year / Full A Level - 2 Years

Psychology involves looking at a variety of psychological approaches such as the Biological, Psychodynamic and Positive approaches, which are used to explain human behaviour such as criminal behaviour, schizophrenia and stress.  Alongside developing an understanding of the theories, which underlie human behaviour, psychology also focuses on the use of research methods within the field. 

This psychology course involves understanding how psychological research is collected and used in everyday situations which helps develop confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills.  Students also have the opportunity to conduct their own research on a range of topics such as relationship formation.  

Course details

Study modes:
  • Full time
Course length:
AS - 1 Year / Full A Level - 2 Years

What you will learn

The course enables learners to develop an understanding of the human mind and human and animal behaviour. Learners will develop many essential skills through studying psychology. They will learn to think critically, and to express themselves clearly. These skills are essential preparation for university regardless of the university course being studied.

The course benefits from a highly qualified and dedicated team of psychology lecturers who work hard to ensure learners have an interesting and insightful learning experience. The team provides learners with a network of support and encouragement throughout their studies.

AS Level

Unit 1 : Psychology - Past to Present.  This unit focuses on learning the five psychological approaches of behaviour including the biological, psychodynamic, behaviourist, cognitive and positive approaches. 

Unit2 : Using Psychological Concepts.  This unit focuses on contemporary debates in psychology, focusing on present day issues, whilst also focusing on principles and application of research in this discipline.

A2 Level:

Unit 3 : Psychology: Implications in the Real World.  Explorations of controversial Issues in psychology and an explorative process of three main behaviours including criminal behaviour, schizophrenia and stress.

Unit 4 : Psychology: Applied Research Methods.  Independent investigation into human behaviour, through various research methods and application of knowledge to novel situations.

A Psychology degree, which can be combined with a variety of subjects such as criminology, has led to students applying for courses in criminology; psychology; forensics (with sciences); police: undergraduate degrees and higher apprenticeships; educational welfare and psychology, foundation medical degrees and a variety of social science degrees.

AS level: 

Two written examinations, one for each unit - 40% of full award

A2 level: 

Two written examinations, one for each unit - 60%  of full award.

Students 16 to 19 years of age will require a minimum of six GCSEs at grades A* to C including English and biology GCSE grade B or above.  If double award science was taken, the Biology element must be at a B grade. Mathematics is also required at a grade C or above.

All learners are required to pay an administration fee of £25 prior to enrolment.

You will need to provide your own stationery and may also incur costs if the department arranges educational visits.