Psychology A Level

Course code: FTT021

School of Humanities & Science

The Programme

This course examines many theories that try to explain human behaviour. During the course, you will be involved in discussions, debates, presentations, problem solving and group work. At AS Level, you will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the core areas of psychology such as cognitive psychology (focusing on memory); developmental psychology (focusing on attachment in infants); individual differences (focusing on abnormal behaviour); biological psychology (focusing on stress) and social psychology (focusing on social influence). At A2 Level, students cover a range of topic based options including perception, relationships, sleep, schizophrenia and media psychology, which bring together explanations from different psychological approaches and engage students in issues and debates. An understanding of research methodology will be developed throughout AS and A2 Level.

The Programme Content

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and experience. The course covers 2 years, with the first AS year being a stand alone qualification and the second A2 year resulting in a full A Level. At AS Level students develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the core areas of psychology, looking at issues such as stress, memory, children's early social development, abnormal behaviour and social psychology. At A2, students cover a range of topic based options (perception, relationships, sleep, schizophrenia and media psychology) which bring together explanations from different psychological approaches and engage students in issues and debates. An understanding of research methodology is developed throughout the course.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language/Literature, Maths and Science. A grade B in English is recommended as essay writing is a part of the exams and a grade B in Science will help with understanding the biological aspects of behaviour.

Costs

A textbook will be needed costing approximately £18 at AS Level and approximately £25 at A2 Level, although there are some copies available in the library or from previous students. Revision guides are also recommended (costs range from £5 to £15). There is usually at least one external visit to Exeter or Plymouth University Psychology departments.

Venue

Tiverton, Main Site

Progression

The AS Level is a qualification in its own right and as such, may be used as points towards a university place. The natural progression route however is the A2 Level part of the course. In order to progress to the A2 Level course, students need to achieve at least a D grade in their AS Level exam. From A2 Level, many students progress to higher education courses where psychology is fully accepted and recognised as broadly relevant to many courses. It is accepted as a science subject by universities requesting this as an entry requirement. For students who choose an alternative to higher education, psychology is a respected science A Level.

Length of Study

AS Level one year, A Level two years.

Academic Year

This course starts in the 2013 / 2014 academic year.