Psychology
Overview
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. If you are interested in understanding the complexity of human nature, then Psychology will give you an insight into how and why people behave in certain ways.
Entry Requirements
Students are expected to have achieved at least a Grade 5 Maths, (and ideally a Grade 5 in Psychology, if taken), or a similar essay-based subject at GCSE.
Learning & Assessment
Modules / Topics
- Social Psychology
- Cognitive Psychology
- Biological Psychology
- Learning Psychology
- Child Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
During these topics you will develop an understanding of research skills and be required to conduct your own practical studies. As such it is useful for students to have sound numerical and scientific skills.
The issues and debates topic highlights these skills and requires you to critically discuss the scientific challenges when studying psychology, including ethics, individual differences and social control.
Trips / Visits / Enrichment
Psychology in the Real world enrichment looks at how psychology has been and is used in a real world setting.
Positive Mental Health enrichment teaches students skills to be able to cope with a variety of stressors. The course includes yoga, art therapy, mindfulness.
Trip to University of Sunderland to experience a day in the life of a Psychology student.
Assessment
Three papers – all 2 hours
Paper 1: Foundations in Psychology
Paper 2: Applications in Psychology
Paper 3: Psychological Skills
What do our students say?
Law was an interesting subject because it is so in depth it allows you to get really involved and get your teeth into the subject. I really enjoyed learning how the legal system worked and how it has developed through the years...
Read Neve Caithness's Story
Related Subjects
Psychology is a flexible subject which is offered across all pathways. It partners particularly well with Sociology.
Due to the broad range of skills developed in psychology and the variety of topics, it compliments many other subjects. There are units which link with History, Geography and Law. Essay writing subjects like English require similar synoptic skills and the comprehension of science, such as Biology, and Maths is also useful for research methods.
