WHY STUDY THIS COURSE?

• You think the subject sounds interesting:
• You enjoy learning independently
• You like asking and answering questions
• You are good at exams (remember there is no coursework)
• You enjoy Biology and are good at Maths (there is 10% maths in the course)

It would be beneficial if you had a grade 7 or above at GCSE in Maths and Science

WHAT DOES THIS QUALIFICATION COVER?

The course covers a wide range of biological content, whilst at the same time integrating practical scientific skills, literacy and numeracy.The content range is broad, covering aspects of both animal and plant biology, ecology, biochemistry and newly developed genetic techniques. Entwined within this content are a wide range of investigative skills that must be met via in class practical assessments.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

Year 12

You will begin with Research Methods, learning how psychological studies are designed and analysed.

In Memory, you will explore how memory works, why we forget, and the reliability of eyewitness testimony.

In Attachments, you will study how early relationships form, the role of culture, the impact of institutionalisation, and how animal studies inform our understanding.

Social Influence examines why people conform or obey, how behaviour changes in groups, and how minority influence can drive social change.

In Psychopathology, you will explore mental health conditions, focusing on OCD, depression and phobias, their causes and treatments.

You will study major Psychological Approaches including behavioural, cognitive, biological, psychodynamic and humanistic perspectives.

Further Research Methods work introduces probability, data analysis and the sign test.

Year 13

Biopsychology focuses on the brain and nervous system, including neurons, localisation, plasticity and brain scanning.

In Issues and Debates, you will tackle nature vs nurture, free will vs determinism and ethical concerns, applying these ideas to key topics.

You will study Addiction, focusing on smoking and gambling, their causes and treatments,
and behaviour change theories. A period of structured Revision supports mock exam preparation.

In Gender, you will examine gender development, influences from culture and media, and topics such as androgyny and gender dysphoria.

Finally, you will explore Schizophrenia, including diagnosis, causes and treatments, followed by final revision to prepare for examinations.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

Three 2 hour exams at the end of the second year. 100 % examined

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

A psychology degree provides a strong foundation for a range of careers. Some psychology graduates undertake further studying to become professional psychologists, in areas such as Clinical psychology, Educational psychology, Forensic psychology, Health psychology, Occupational psychology, Sport and exercise psychology.

Many go on to work in related careers or even completely different fields.

Key employers include:

• Counselling services
• Banking and financial organisations
• HR departments
• Legal firms 
• Local and national government
• Marketing, communications and media companies
• The NHS and other healthcare providers
• Police forces, the Probation Service and prisons
• Schools, colleges and universities
• Market research organisations
• Social services.

Psychology graduates are valued for their analytical, communication and problem-solving skills, making them highly employable across various sectors.