Sixth Form Handbook 2022-24

PSYCHOLOGY

Course content and structure This specification in Psychology develops knowledge, understanding and skills related to the subject. 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. There is a practical element to the course, 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 Cciences and the Humanities. LVI Candidates will develop an understanding of the various types of psychological theories (biological, social, learning theory and cognitive) and apply these to areas such as memory, obedience, prejudice and aggression. Candidates will also be expected to gain an understanding of the methods used to conduct psychological investigations and to apply these in practical work. UVI Candidates will build on the knowledge they have gained so far by applying it to Criminological Psychology 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 compulsory written examinations are taken in June of UVI.

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. Candidates require 3 Bs at A-Level for this course. 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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