Psychology - AS/A2

The word Psychology derives from the Greek psyche (mind, soul or spirit) and logos (discourse or study). A literal description would therefore be that it is the study of the mind. Psychology is a diverse discipline, investigating an enormous range of behaviours and mental processes, including cognitive, social, developmental and abnormal psychology. You will also explore the various methods used by psychologists in research.

There are an increasing number of applied areas, in which research findings are used to try to improve people’s lives. For example, using what we know about the reliability of eyewitness testimony within the courtroom. Psychology is also fun! Explanations for human behaviour can often be entertaining! Psychology combines well with Law, Sociology, Biology and other related humanities areas.

You do not need to study Psychology at GCSE to do the course but you must have the minimum entry requirements, which must include GCSE English grade C or above and it is recommended that you have GCSE Maths grade C or above. If you have an intrinsic interest in human behaviour, then psychology is for you.