The Psychology specification introduces students to the broad range of Psychology topics. The course comprises written exam units at AS and at A2 with no coursework.
The AS course consists of compulsory units of Social Influence (how other people influence our behaviour), attachments (developed as a baby and how these affect our behaviour as an adult) memory (different types, models and why we forget), approaches in Psychology (looking at how different approaches explain behaviour) Psychopathology (what is abnormal and studying phobias, depression and OCD in particular and possible treatment) and research methods. The research method part involves candidates designing and conducting various practical activities such as an experiment, questionnaire and observation.
At AS the specification offers a broad range of topics giving students an introduction to the subject, with research methods in context.
The emphasis is on applying knowledge and understanding, thereby developing students' transferable skills of analysis, evaluation and critical thinking.
At A2 there is a range of topic based options which bring together explanations from different approaches and engage students in issues and debates in contemporary Psychology. Teachers can select a route through A2 to suit the needs and interest of their students.
As well as the standard entry requirements, a minimum grade C in English, Maths and a Science subject are required. To be successful in Psychology, students should demonstrate an aptitude for science, the ability to write essays, apply key concepts, problem solve and evaluate.
There is currently one trip to The Old Bailey (optional) costing approximately £20.
For career opportunities – the understanding and analysis of human behaviour and experience is relevant to most fields, especially those orientated towards people. Psychology is a subject that works well with the sciences and the arts and can be useful in a variety of jobs including welfare, medicine, law, marketing, counselling, teaching and the police.
A Psychology degree can be taken at university either culminating in a BA or BSc qualification. With further study, this could lead to a chartered psychologist’s status and eventually a career as a professional psychologist working in areas such as clinical, occupational, educational, forensic or sport Psychology.
AQA
AS 7181
A2 7182
This course of study comprises two written units at AS and three at A-level, with no coursework.
Paper one: Introductory Topics In Psychology (social influence, memory and attachment).
Paper two: Psychology in Context (approaches in Psychology, Psychopathology and research methods.
Both exams have three sections, including multiple choice, short answer and extended writing.
Paper Three (A2) – Issues and Options in Psychology.
A2 students would be expected to learn about Biopsychology as well as general debates and issues in the subject. There are options available to be studied and these will probably be gender, eating behaviour and forensic Psychology.
If a student plans to complete an A-Level in Psychology, then they will sit all of their examinations at the same time in June 2017, whereas if they plan to only complete the AS qualification, then students would sit the two AS examinations in June 2016.
At the moment, all students will sit the AS examinations. These AS Grades will not count towards a student’s overall grade should they wish to progress to the full A-Level qualification.