Psychology A Level

A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 4 or above, including English Language and Maths.  Grade 4 or above in any GCSE Science subject, or grade 4:4 or above in Combined Science.

Psychology is a fascinating subject, and this A Level subject offers something for everyone. We offer a very interactive approach to studying this subject and you'll be supported throughout by expert teachers who specialise in teaching A Level Psychology.

These include a visit to the Criminology Conference to gain an understanding of contemporary research in criminology with the opportunity to meet a convicted offender to question whether prison is a useful deterrent to crime.

Psychology can be defined as the scientific study of human behaviour and you will learn how to describe, predict, and modify it. Psychology is a challenging subject and requires not only written communication skills but also the ability to collect, analyse and evaluate data. You can expect to engage in-class debates, conduct practicals and address interesting questions, for example:

• Are criminals born or made?
• How and why do memory disorders such as Alzheimer's occur?
• Do you think that our behaviour is shaped by our environment or is it a product of our biology?

Year 1

You will research psychological phenomena such as memory, obedience, and addiction, as well as gain an understanding of mental illnesses such as schizophrenia.

Year 2

You will apply your knowledge to areas of psychology such as clinical and criminal psychology. All students will develop a thorough understanding of research methodology including both qualitative and quantitative methods of investigating complex human behaviour.

Examination papers include including a range of short and extended answer questions and there are three papers at the end of the two year linear course.

Many SCG students progress to a number of different courses at university due to the transferable skills acquired after taking this course. These include courses such as psychology, teaching, social work, nursing, medicine, and law. Psychology is also useful in careers such as physiotherapy, policing and business.

Trips include a visit to the Criminology Conference to gain an understanding of contemporary research in Criminology with the opportunity to meet a convicted offender to question whether prison is a useful deterrent for crime. Workshops at Chester Zoo help to consider how psychological theory is used to manage and train animals.

You can apply online via the APPLY button and then add an additional two or three subjects to make up your academic programme. You can also apply for a second, alternative vocational programme of study via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop into one of our open evenings, ring our Admissions Department on 01743 653111, or email admissions@scg.ac.uk