Psychology

Why choose Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and the mind. It offers a unique educational experience that develops a distinctive and broad set of skills. It's located in scientific method and allows scope for extensive evaluation from a range of perspectives.

Students will have the opportunity to develop a wide-ranging set of key skills, including being able to communicate effectively using appropriate language, to interpret and critically assess scientific data, and to research and critically evaluate a range of sources. The specifications also encourage the development of strong literacy and numeracy skills. The acquisition of such a diverse range of skills will be of great benefit in further education, in the workplace and society in general.

The study of psychology enables students to:

• gain hands on experience of different research methodologies encouraging active learning
• explore applications of psychology and gain an insight into how psychological theory can be applied to real world situations
• appreciate how psychological knowledge and understanding develops over time
• develop the ability to communicate effectively using appropriate language and becoming psychologically literate

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Psychology is structured into nine topic areas. Topics 1�4 are compulsory and focus on the areas that have laid the foundations of modern psychological understanding. Topics 5�8 focus on how our understanding of psychology is applied today. Topic 5 is compulsory. One topic from 6, 7 or 8 must be studied. Finally, Topic 9 summarises the psychological skills and research methods covered in the qualification.

• Topic 1: Social psychology
• Topic 2: Cognitive psychology
• Topic 3: Biological psychology
• Topic 4: Learning theories
• Topic 5: Clinical psychology

Optional topics (students must study one)

• Topic 6: Criminological psychology
• Topic 7: Child psychology
• Topic 8: Health psychology
• Topic 9: Psychological skills:
  • Methods
  • Synoptic review of studies
  • Issues and debates.

This qualification consists of three externally examined papers.

Students must complete all assessment in May/June in any single year.

Grade 5 in English Language, Maths and grade 4 in Science.

Grade 6 in GCSE Psychology if studied.

A Level Psychology provides an excellent foundation for further study and a wide range of careers that focus on understanding human behaviour, thinking, and wellbeing. Many students progress to university degrees in Psychology, Criminology, Sociology, Education, or Health and Social Care, as well as specialised fields such as Forensic Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Sports Psychology, or Counselling. The subject also complements Biology and Health Sciences, linking well with UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park’s specialisms in health, sport, and wellbeing.