Psychology

What is A-Level Psychology?

A-Level Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. If you’ve ever been fascinated about why people become aggressive, commit crimes or how individuals respond to authority, then this course may be for you.

Through studying psychology, you’ll explore the motivations behind a wide range of behaviours and gain valuable insights into human actions, thoughts, and emotions. This subject offers a fascinating exploration into what drives behaviour, making it ideal for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the human mind.

What Will You Study in A-Level Psychology?

In Year 12, you will study:

Unit 1 - Research Methods (experiments, self-report, observations, correlations, data analysis and statistical testing)
Unit 2 - Core Studies ( Social Psychology - Obedience and Helping, Cognitive Psychology - Memory and Attention, Biological Psychology (Regions of the brain and brain plasticity), Developmental Psychology (External influences on behaviour and Moral development), Individual Differences (Measuring Differences and Understanding Disorders)
Psychological debates (e.g. nature vs. nurture, free-will v determinism, reductionism v holism)

In Year 13, you will focus on:

Unit 3 - Applied Psychology - Mental Health, Criminal Psychology & Sport Psychology

What Next after Completing A-Level Psychology?

After completing the A-Level Psychology course, students have the opportunity to continue their studies at university, potentially specialising in areas such as Clinical or Forensic Psychology. With further postgraduate training, you could become an accredited psychologist.

Psychology A-Level also opens doors to numerous other degree courses and careers. Relevant career paths include:

Law
Medicine
Human Resources
Teaching
Marketing
Caring professions

The skills and knowledge gained are applicable to many fields, making Psychology a versatile qualification.

What is the Exam Board for A-Level Psychology?

The A-Level Psychology course is assessed by the OCR exam board. Students will sit three exams at the end of their two-year study:

Research Methods Exam (90 marks) – a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, extended-answer, and data analysis questions.
Core Studies Exam (105 marks) – includes short and extended answer questions.
Applied Options Exam (105 marks) – mainly extended answer questions.

What are the Entry Requirements for A-Level Psychology?

To enrol in the A-Level Psychology programme, you’ll need at least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including a grade 5 in Maths, Science, and English Language.

At Cardinal Newman, we offer a Mixed Programme too. This allows you to combine A-Levels with BTEC qualifications. If you’re not on track to achieve all five grade 5s, there may still be the opportunity to pursue a specialist academic pathway that suits your strengths and goals.

What Enrichment is on offer in this subject?

Psychology Society
Day trips / visits, for example, Think Forensic, Chester Zoo, Universities
Guest speakers, for example Sports Psychologist, Forensic Psychologist
Residential trips - 25/26 - London (3 days) & Vienna (3 days)