Psychology A Level

Qualification: GCE A Level in Psychology
Exam Board & Specification Code: AQA; 7182; Specification
Course Entry Requirements: 4 in Maths GCSE and 4 in English Language GCSE or 4 in English Literature GCSE
Please make sure that you have understood the overall entry requirements to study at BHASVIC. These are available here and outline the GCSE grades you need to take up one of the Study Programmes at the college.
Length and size of qualification: 2 year single course
Timetable hours: 4.5 hours per week
Assessment method: 3 x 2 hour exams
BHASVIC Department: Psychology

What will I study?

Topics include conformity, obedience, resisting obedience, influences on social change, memory and why we forget, eye-witness testimony, development of attachments, maternal deprivation, orphan studies, definitions of abnormality, the causes and treatments of mental disorders: phobias; depression; OCD; schizophrenia, origins of psychology, approaches to psychology, the nervous system, neurons and synaptic transmission, how psychological investigations are conducted, statistical analysis and data collection, brain localization, biological rhythms, the endocrine (hormonal) system, cognitive development, forensic (criminal) psychology

Is this course right for me?

Students must be interested in people, why people do things, say things and think things. Students must have an open mind, and be able to change their opinions in light of scientific evidence. Students must be really keen to develop their evaluative skills, using self-reflection and peer work. Students must realise that psychology is a rigorous scientific discipline and will be expected to work hard. Students will be supported in and out of lessons through challenging concepts, and will be expected to work independently and collaboratively throughout an ultimately rewarding two years. You will need good Maths and English skills.

Where next?

Psychology is useful for any job that requires lots of interaction or an understanding of human behaviour and development. As a science, Psychology is a thriving academic discipline dedicated to the study of human behaviour and the connected thoughts, feelings, and motivations behind it. People with skills in Psychology are sought after in business, management, sport, teaching, research, social work and careers in counselling and healthcare. Skills that you will develop from studying Psychology will include analytical and organisational skills and learning about scientific research methods and collecting and working with data. Learning about human behaviour can also help to build your communication , teamwork and leadership skills.  Jobs directly related to your degree  could include: Psychologist (various specialisms),  Teacher, Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioner. Jobs where your degree would be useful include: Advice Worker, Human Resources Officer, Market Researcher and Play Therapist. Useful websites include British Psychological Society, Prospects, All About Careers and The Apprenticeship Guide.

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