Psychology
Throughout the course of study students are encouraged to develop a scientific awareness of the role of psychology in society and its applications to many situations.
You will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the core areas of psychology (social, cognitive, developmental, biological and individual differences) through a range of topics using the scientific approach.
The AS specification consists of two units:
Unit 1:
- Cognitive Psychology including memory and eyewitness testimony.
- Developmental Psychology, including early social development, attachment and the effects of day care.
- Research Methods, in the context of the topic areas.
Unit 2:
- Biological Psychology, stress, factors affecting stress, coping with stress and managing stress.
- Social Psychology, including majority and minority influence, obedience and independent behaviour.
- Individual Differences, including definitions of abnormality, approaches and therapies.
What are the entry requirements?
You don’t have to have studied this course at GCSE to do AS Level. However, you must have 5 A* - C passes at GCSE. Two of these GCSE passes must be in science and English language; both of which must be at least grade ‘C’. In addition to this, students must attend the ‘Social Studies Faculty’ study day in the summer term and complete a pre-course assessment piece to a satisfactory standard.
How will I be assessed?
Each unit at AS level will be assessed by way of two examinations each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. The first examination will assess your knowledge, understanding and critical awareness of the three topic areas covered in Unit 1 and the second will assess knowledge, understanding and critical awareness of the three topic areas covered in Unit 2. In both examinations all questions are compulsory and consist of a number of short answer questions and one longer 12 mark question requiring extended writing.
The AS is a stand alone qualification but if you decide to carry on with this subject at A2 then the marks you gain at AS level will be carried forward to contribute to the overall A2 grade. Each of the two units will contribute 25% to the AS grade and therefore 50% of the total A Level marks.
Future opportunities
This GCE provides a suitable foundation for the study of psychology and/or related courses in higher education as there is an emphasis on research skills and enquiry. The qualification is suitable for students intending to pursue any career in which an understanding of human nature is needed. It is also suitable for any further study in social sciences, or as part of a course of general education.
Is there anything I need to know?
This course combines well with any other AS level course but in particular Sociology, Philosophy and Ethics and Science. There is a small degree of overlap between the content of the psychology course and the GCE Physical Education and Sports Science courses.
Psychology has now been officially classified as a science and therefore is a gateway to studying other science subjects at University.
