AS/A2 Level Courses

Clivebourne

Sixth Form Centre

Psychology
Introduction
Psychology is the study of the most complex and sophisticated object in the
known universe, the human brain. The subject will develop the students
understanding of themselves and those around them. It will help you answer
questions such as How does memory work? What kind of a human would
we be if we were locked away from the rest of the world for ten years? Why
would a bank robber not be correctly identified if they were carrying a
weapon? Why do we develop phobias, and how do we cure them?
Skills you will gain
Knowledge that you can apply to everyday situations for the rest of
your life
A greater understanding of why humans behave the way they do (you
will not be able to read minds!)
Great analytical and evaluative skills
Communication skills
Essay writing and scientific report writing skills
Time management
Independent learning skills
The ability to understand many explanations of the same thing and
come to your own conclusions
Organisational skills
Problem solving skills.
AS Outline
Cognitive psychology, memory, developmental psychology, attachments in
development, physiological psychology; stress, individual differences,
abnormality, social psychology; social influence and research methods.

A2 Outline
Aggression, relationships, sleep, schizophrenia, research methods and
addiction.
Assessment
The course is 100% exam based, with exams sat at the end of the AS and
A2 years. The subject is heavily science based and so eligible candidates
for the course must have an aptitude for scientific enquiry. Candidates
will also need to apply a critical and evaluative approach to their studies.
Career Progression
Possession of an AS in Psychology along with other AS levels can lead to
employment or degree programmes. Possession of an A2 can lead to a
non-related degree or a BSc degree in Psychology, which in turn can lead
to a wide variety of career choices in Psychology, such as in the health,
education or numerous other graduate jobs, as many skills are very
transferable.
Complementary Subjects
Psychology overlaps in terms of course content with Sociology, Biology,
Philosophy and Mathematics. The skills gained and used throughout the
course will combine well with nearly all other courses.
Entry Requirements
It is strongly advised to have a GCSE in Psychology as this will stand you in
very good stead for the course at AS level. However, it is not prerequisite;
if you do not have a GCSE in Psychology you can still take AS/A2 in
Psychology. A minimum grade B in English, Maths and Science is also
required.