Psychology

A Level / 2 year Course / AQA

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour: how we think, feel, act and interact individually and in groups. Psychologists will study human behaviour by observing, measuring and testing, resulting in conclusions about the motivations underlying behaviour which are rooted in scientific methodology. Psychology is both a thriving academic discipline and a vital professional practice.

More on this course

Students will cover a variety of topics across the two years, ranging from theories of attachment and deprivation, the different models of memory and forgetting, psychopathology (phobias, OCD, depression), biological and psychological explanations of schizophrenia and forensic psychology.

There will also be a considerable emphasis on biopsychology, research methods and mathematical skills.

Teaching and learning methods

Students will be taught by specialist teachers and will learn through a variety of methods, but there will be a focus on application and analysis of information, good essay-writing skills and the ability to evaluate between competing psychological approaches. Students will also be required to become familiar with a wide range of psychological studies and research methods.

Assessment

There will be three examinations, each of which last for two hours. Exams will consist of a mixture of short and long questions; the longer essay-style questions will be out of 16 marks.

The marks are broken down into:

A01 – knowledge and understanding
A02 – application and
A03 – analysis and evaluation, with an emphasis on A02 and A03 type questions.

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level Psychology develops critical thinking, research, and analytical skills by exploring human behaviou, mental processes, and the factors that influence them. You'll study topics such as cognitive processes, development, mental health, and social influences, which will help you understand how people think, feel, and act. These skills are highly valued in careers such as clinical psychology, counseling, education, human resources, social work, and marketing. Whether you want to become a psychologist, therapist, or work in sectors like healthcare, education, or research, A Level Psychology provides a strong foundation for a wide range of careers that focus on improving well-being and understanding human behaviour.

Subject Combination

Psychology complements many different subjects including biology, sociology, law, history and mathematics.

Biology

Sociology

History

Mathematics

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?e?

I really enjoy psychology, both the content and lessons, and have really progressed during my time here at Durham Sixth Form Centre. I aim to go to university to study Criminal Psychology.

Samantha Barella

Former DSFC Student from Biddick Academy

Psychology is a good subject to study because it increases your understanding of human behaviour. We learn about a large variety of topics, so if you are planning to study criminology, biology, sociology, health and social care, then psychology will definitely link. We learn a lot about memory, so we essentially learn how to remember things better! This helps in every subject and teaches us the best ways to revise.

Ellie Davis

Former DSFC Student from Framwellgate School Durham

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School