A-Level Options Brochure_2024

Psychology Course content and structure The course gives pupils an introduction to several different types of Psychology, from historical approaches such as behaviourism to current ones such as cognitive and neuropsychology. Candidates will explore topics which reflect current issues, such as Forensic Psychology, as well as classic areas of Psychology such as Social Influence and Memory. Candidates also learn to conduct psychological research, with candidates participating in and conducting psychological investigations and experiments. Upon successful completion of the course, candidates could follow a degree course in Psychology or related fields. Psychology is also a valued precursor to courses in Medicine, Marketing, Political Sciences and the Humanities. Lower Sixth Candidates will develop an understanding of the various types of psychological theories (biological, social, behaviourist, humanistic and cognitive) and apply these to areas such as obedience, conformity, gender and attachment. Candidates will also be expected to gain an understanding

of the methods used to conduct psychological investigations and to apply these in practical work. Upper Sixth Candidates will build on the knowledge they have gained so far by applying it to Forensic Psychology, memory and to a range of psychopathological conditions. They will deepen their knowledge of research methodology and statistical techniques and will, furthermore, explore philosophical debates in Psychology, such as how to reconcile the mechanistic view of human behaviour suggested by many psychologists with the apparent feeling of freedom of choice experienced in everyday life. Assessment overview Three 2-hour papers of equal weighting are taken at the end of the course: Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology Paper 2: Psychology in Context Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology

Syllabus AQA 7182 Entry requirements A minimum of grade 7 in (I)GCSE Mathematics and grade 6 in (I)GCSE English Language

University and careers links Experimental Psychology at Oxford or Psychological and Behavioural Sciences at Cambridge University: The A-level course provides an excellent grounding in Psychology in preparation for further study at degree level. Candidates require an A* and two A grades at A-level including preferably one other Science or Mathematics subject. Alternatively, the Human, Social and Political Sciences Tripos at Cambridge focuses more on the social aspects of Psychology and a background in the humanities is preferable. Psychology at Brunel University: Candidates could use knowledge gained in this course to explore the theories of Psychology and their application to modern society. Successful completion of a degree in Psychology could lead to careers in professional areas of Psychology, including clinical, occupational and educational. The degree could also be an excellent ‘springboard’ to many careers in local and central government, social sciences, industry and commerce.

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