Level 3
Psychology, A Level
Level 3
Psychology, A Level
Explore the human mind and behaviour with A Level Psychology. You’ll investigate why people think, feel, and act the way they do, developing skills in analysis, research, and evaluation that are valuable for both higher education and a wide range of careers.
Course Overview
A Level Psychology introduces you to the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes. You will explore key approaches, theories, and research, covering topics from cognition and development to social and biological influences on behaviour. The course develops your analytical, research, and critical thinking skills, preparing you for further study or careers in psychology and related fields.
In Year One, you will study towards an AS Level, providing a strong foundation before progressing to full A Level study in Year Two. This approach offers flexibility for students taking four subjects and contributes UCAS points for university progression.
Studying Psychology with us includes membership in our Career Excellence Hub, offering work experience, guest lectures, and projects with employers to enhance your employability. Opportunities include placements in June of Year One and February of Year Two, or a week of college-based experiences aligned with your career goals.
Throughout the course, you will attend lectures, seminars, and research projects, and have the chance to meet leading psychologists, including Philip Zimbardo and Elizabeth Loftus, as well as professionals from the NHS and CAMHS.
Our purpose-built Sixth Form at Loxton Campus simulates a university environment, preparing you for higher education. Experienced teachers and dedicated Tutor Learning Mentors support your study skills, exam preparation, and university or career applications, ensuring you are well equipped to succeed.
What will I study?
You’ll cover a mix of foundational and applied psychology topics, including:
Core topics:
- Cognitive psychology: memory, perception, and problem-solving
- Social psychology: conformity, obedience, and group behaviour
- Biological psychology: brain function, hormones, and genetics
- Developmental psychology: lifespan development and attachment
Applied psychology:
- Clinical psychology: mental health disorders and treatment
- Forensic psychology: criminal behaviour and legal applications
- Research methods: experimental design, data analysis, and statistical testing
Skills development:
- Critical evaluation of psychological theories
- Designing and conducting research
- Analysing and interpreting data
- Report writing and presentation
Exciting Opportunities
You will automatically join our Career Excellence Hub and benefit from:
- Practical experiments and investigations to apply theory to real-world situations
- Guest lectures from practising psychologists
- Psychology-related trips and workshops
- Work experience opportunities
Where will I study?
Our purpose-built Sixth Form at Loxton Campus is designed to simulate a university environment, featuring state-of-the-art specialist facilities, high-quality learning resources, and collaborative spaces that support focused and independent study.
How do AS and A Levels work?
You will normally study three or four A Levels over two years. In Year 1, you will work towards an AS qualification, which is completed at the end of the first year and provides a strong foundation before progressing to full A Level study in Year 2.
This structure offers flexibility – you may choose to study four subjects in Year 1 and take three into Year 2. AS Levels also carry UCAS points. You can find more details in our dedicated AS Level FAQs on the College website.
How will I be assessed?
You will take examinations in Year 2 to evaluate your understanding of core and applied psychology topics.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including English and science; a background in maths or biology is beneficial but not essential
What can I do after this course?
A Level Psychology opens doors to university study and careers in a variety of sectors.
Career opportunities:
- Clinical or Counselling Psychologist
- Human Resources or Recruitment Specialist
- Social Worker or Support Worker
- Forensic Psychologist or Crime Analyst
- Teaching, Education, or Academic Research
- Health, Social Care, or Mental Health Support
Higher education degrees in:
- Psychology or Applied Psychology
- Counselling or Clinical Psychology
- Health Sciences
- Forensic or Criminal Psychology
You could also progress to degrees at University Centre Weston, such as:
- Psychology BSc (Hons)
- Criminology and Psychology BA (Hons)
- Health and Social Care Degrees
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you’ll be taken through to our application portal.
What to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.
