Psychology (A Level)

The Psychology curriculum allows core areas in the history and development of Psychology to be studied and offers different perspectives into the explanations of the human mind and behaviour.

Psychology encourages skills to be developed that focus heavily on developing an insight into the methodological strengths and weaknesses of research, and critical analysis of theories, which are useful life skills which can be transferred into the workplace.

The knowledge gained will help students to develop into well-grounded adults, with an understanding of the causes of mental health issues, how to be responsible parents, when to conform and obey others, and what triggers aggression.

• Attachment in children
• Social Influence (conformity and obedience)
• Psychopathology (mental disorders)
• Approaches in Psychology
• Biological Psychology
• Research Methods
• Schizophrenia
• Relationships
• Aggression
• Issues and philosophical debates

One exam taken at the end of two years

Minimum grade 4 in English & 5 in Maths & Science.

2 other GCSEs grade 4-9 or equivalent grades (Distinction and Merits in BTECs)

Degree Level Psychology would be an obvious progression route, but certainly not the only one. Students with this `A` Level could work in a range of careers such as:

Clinical/Educational/Occupational Psychology

Health Careers

Welfare

Medicine

Teaching

Human Resources.

Job roles & pay range

Occupational psychologist - £21,500 - £41,000

• Clinical psychologist - £26,250 - £99,500

• Educational psychologist - £35,000 - £66,000

• Sport psychologist - £22,000 - £48,000

• Child and family psychotherapist - £26,500 - £83,000

• Drug and alcohol worker - £17,000 - £40,000

• Market research analyst - £22,000 - £60,000

• Human resource manager - £35,00 - £150,000

• Corporate investment banker - £30,000 - £150,000

• Lab assistant - £15,000 - £30,000

• Occupational therapy support worker - £15,250 - £22,500

• Psychological wellbeing practitioner - £19,000 - £35,000

• Career counsellor - £20,000 - £40,000

• Public relations director - £40,000 - £80,000

• Teacher/professor - £22,900 - £67,300

• Prison services or probation - £22,000 - £27,500