Psychology Summary

Why do we think and behave the way that we do? Are we born a certain way, or does it depend on how we are brought up? What prompts us to conform to social norms or to rebel against them? Why do we forget what we came into a room for? These are just some of the exciting questions you will explore when studying A-Level Psychology at Swanwick Hall. Defined officially as “the science of mind and behaviour”, Psychology will immerse you in the constructs of the human brain, the workings of mind and memory, our development from birth to adulthood and much more, all from different points of view and through the lenses of different researchers. Psychology is remarkably versatile and can enhance any A-level combination: likewise, you will learn skills that universities value across the board, such as critical thinking and analysis, and which can be applied to your future whether you intend to pursue the Arts, Sciences, Medicine and much more.  

Entry Requirements

Grade 5 in Maths or Science 

Course Duration

2 years full-time

Specification

AQA

How you will study

There are two main textbooks for A-Level Psychology – exam board AQA. However, your main method of learning will be during lively, interactive lessons in which you will be encouraged to engage fully as active learners. You will have homework and regular, small assessments to check for learning – but you will also have fun!  

Component breakdown

Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology – 2-hour exam 

Topics: Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology.

Paper 2: Psychology in Context – 2-hour exam 

Topics: Approaches, Research Methods, Biopsychology.

Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology – 2-hour exam 

Topics: Issues & Debates, Cognition & Development, Forensic Psychology, Schizophrenia.

If you specialise in Psychology, you can apply it to almost anything! For example: 

  • Clinical psychologist.
  • Counselling psychologist/Mental health practitioner.
  • Forensic psychologist.
  • Occupational health worker.
  • Sports and exercise practitioner.

But it is a wonderfully versatile subject and could also be useful in jobs such as: 

  • Teaching
  • Police and Border Force Control
  • Border Force officer
  • Careers adviser
  • Market researcher