PSYCHOLOGY

LEVEL 3: A LEVEL
EXAMINING BOARD: AQA

Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour.

You will critically engage with a range of psychological theories and concepts including psychopathology, social, memory, attachment, and biopsychology, all underpinned by the study of research methods.

There is a large emphasis on methodology, looking at the ways Psychologists conduct their research.

You do not need to have studied Psychology before, this course builds on skills developed in the Sciences and Humanities, and enables progression into a wide range of other subjects.

Psychology develops a range of transferable skills, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research skills.

You will study the following topics:

  • Approaches in Psychology
  • Psychopathology
  • Biopsychology
  • Attachment
  • Social Influence
  • Memory
  • Research Methods
  • Issues and Debates in Psychology.

Plus three optional topics.

As a minimum, you will need (or equivalent to):

  • GCSE Mathematics grade 4
  • GCSE English Language grade 4
  • a GCSE in Combined Science at grade 5 or one of the Core Sciences at grade 5 (recommended Biology)
  • plus two more GCSEs at grade 4

 

There are three exams, each one is two hours in duration. 

They consist of a range of question types including essay, extended writing, application, multiple choice and designing a study.

Psychology enables you to develop skills and interests in many areas providing a range of progression routes.

Our students have progressed into career fields such as Medicine, Social Care, Business, Teaching and Psychology.

Psychology is classified as a Science A Level and combines well with STEM, Medicine, and Humanities subjects.

How much maths is on the course?

About 10% of marks in A Level Psychology will require the use of mathematical skills. This doesn’t mean a separate maths paper – the maths is embedded in exam questions across all three papers and applied in the context of Psychology.

Do I need GCSE Psychology?

No. Most students haven’t studied Psychology before. Everything is taught from the start.

Is Psychology respected by universities?

Yes. Psychology is a well‑respected academic subject, especially for Psychology degrees, social sciences, Healthcare, teaching, law, criminology

Is Psychology just common sense?

No. Many studies challenge what we think is “obvious”, and exam answers must be based on research evidence, not opinions.

Can it help me to understand myself?

Psychology can help you reflect on your thoughts and behaviour, but it is ultimately an objective science based on research evidence and patterns of behaviour, not personal opinion or self‑diagnosis.

How important are Research Methods?

Research methods are extremely important in A Level Psychology. They are at the core of the subject because psychology is an objective science. Research methods run through all topics, make up a large proportion of exam marks and are essential for understanding, evaluating, and applying psychological research.