Stockton Riverside College :: SRC Bede Sixth Form :: Courses

Psychology

Introduction

Psychology is an exciting, dynamic, and constantly evolving science which investigates mental processes, brain functioning and human behaviour. You will learn how psychologists conduct research and will have the opportunity to conduct your own. You will gain broad knowledge of the theories, explanations and practical applications of psychology. A-level psychology ranges from the study of social interactions to the treatment of severe psychotic disorders, illustrating its enormous theoretical and practical scope. Please be warned - you will not learn how to 'psychoanalyse' your friends and will have to do some statistics and biology-based work.

Knowledge and Skills you will acquire

Knowledge and understanding of aspects of psychology
Analytic, evaluative and interpretive skills
Research methodology and practical investigative skills

Course Content

AS: Unit 1: Key Approaches in Psychology and Biological Psychology: You will study the theoretical perspectives including Freud, Watson and Skinner, and study how the biological functioning of the brain and nervous system controls human behaviour. Research methods: How do psychologists conduct research? Can lab experiments truly capture genuine human behaviour? Psychology of Gender: Do our genes or environment contribute to masculine or feminine behaviour?

Unit 2: Social Psychology: Why do people conform and why do we obey? Does the presence of others increase or decrease our performance? Cognitive Psychology: How does your memory work and why do we forget short-term information and precious memories? Individual differences (anxiety disorders): Why do we develop phobias and obsessive behaviours? Why is the fear of spiders one of the most prevalent phobias in the world? What causes phobias and OCD and how can we treatment them?

A2: Unit 3: Cognitive development: How do children develop intellectually? How can children be guided in educational settings? Substance Abuse: Why do people become addicted to heroin through repeated use? Why do chronic or heavy smokers find it incredibly difficult to 'kick the habit'? Can we prevent substance abuse in at-risk groups? Mood disorders and Schizophrenia: What causes us to become depressed? Why do people become psychotic and lose all touch with reality? How can we treat psychological disorders? Unit 4: Approaches, Debates and Methods in Psychology: How can psychologists use statistics to analyse research data? Do human beings truly possess 'free will'? Is human behaviour destined in our genetic inheritance?

Assessment

Both AS and A Level have 2 examinations.

Subject Entry Guidelines

No experience of psychology is required. You should have GCSE C or above in at least two of Maths, English and Science. English is strongly recommended.

Career Opportunities

Psychology is useful for a wide range of careers, including social work, personnel, nursing and teaching. There are also highly specialised areas within psychology itself, such as clinical, educational and forensic psychology. It is useful for medicine, law, social science and business studies. It is also an excellent foundation from which to pursue a career in research.

Awarding Body: AQA

AS: 1 year – A Level: 2 years

How to Apply?

You can apply online using our Online Application Form.
Alternatively, you can call 01642 808285 for all enquiries.

Please note that the contents published in this course guide are correct at the time of publication.
The college reserves the right to make changes or withdraw courses.