Psychology AS/A Level

Awarding Body

OCR        

Who is the course for?

Psychology is the fascinating scientific study of behaviour. You'll study how people interact, how we change and develop, how we think, how the nervous system works, how we differ from animals and how we decide what is normal. You'll develop your ability to think critically and analytically, further develop both your oral and communication skills and your ability to plan statistically viable experiments.

What can it lead to?

A range of careers and higher education courses in psychology, social sciences, and neuroscience and media studies. Careers in social work, clinical or educational psychology, research, teaching and the media.

What are the entry requirements?

6 GCSE grades A*-C including English and Maths.

What will I study?

In year one, there are five sections aiming to give a balanced approach to the subject, Cognitive, Social, Developmental, Physiological and Individual Psychology.  In year two, specialist choices are chosen to illustrate the application of psychology. The areas offered are Psychology and Health, and Psychology and Crime.  Both the AS and the A2 courses involve learning about research methods, psychological approaches and psychological perspectives.

How will I be taught?

You will be taught proactively through lectures, discussions, presentations, classwork and small group work.

How will I be assessed?

100% Exams

AS Level: Psychological investigations: 1 hour exam

Core Studies: 2 hour exam

A2 Level: Options in Applied Psychology: 1.5 hour exam

Approaches and research methods: 1.5 hour exam

Date(s) of Assessment

Jan/May/June

What equipment or materials will I need?

You should expect to provide yourself with all standard stationery, writing materials and folders.

Are there any links to other courses?

This course provides links to other courses, in particular the social sciences for example Sociology, but also other sciences such as Biology.