Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. It is a stimulating, engaging and challenging course that will provide students with an invaluable insight into human behaviour and a highly relevant qualification, applicable to a broad range of further education and career choices.
Please see the document below for more information about the curriculum for Psychology. If you would like more detailed documents, including information about literacy, personal development and careers, please contact the subject leader.
Course Requirements
5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above, which must include GCSE Grade 6 in English Language. (No prior knowledge of Psychology is needed)
Subject Staff
Miss J Armistead
Mr M Langan
Student Comments
“Psychology lessons have really changed the way I look at things in life.”
“I have found the work challenging as I have never learnt about the topics before, however the subject is so intriguing I work hard to make sure I have understood every bit of it. Psychology is an excellent subject, very challenging, but incredibly interesting!”
“Psychology has always interested me and this is why I chose to study it at A-Level. I have enjoyed looking into different studies and applying my knowledge to explain why certain people do certain things. Perhaps more importantly for me are the research skills I have developed from studying Psychology as they have been a huge advantage when studying my other Science subjects.”
Course Description
Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and mental processes. It examines how behaviour differs across cultures and gender using scientific research methods to explain human behaviour.
This qualification offers an engaging and effective introduction to Psychology. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by Higher Education (HE) and employers, for example , independent thinking, research and communication.
In year one of the course, students examine topics as varied as obedience, memory, childhood attachments and phobias. In doing so, they learn to employ a range of psychological approaches and research methods.
In year two, a range of options is available, students typically will study three main themes, schizophrenia, relationships and forensic psychology. In studying these topics in depth, students build upon the knowledge and skills they have developed in the first year of the course.
Across both years, students will design and carry out research projects of their own working in small research teams. There is also a significant element of independent learning to be undertaken, particularly in the first term of each year, students, therefore need to be self-motivated and organised.
Progression
Psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate degree courses. In previous years, over a third of students taking this A-Level at Settle College have gone on to study psychology or a psychology related degree at university. Psychology contributes to many fields including education, health and social care, medicine, sport, law and business.
