BTEC Psychology

About the course

Psychology is the scientific study of minds and behaviour. As such, it is a part of our everyday lives. In the BTEC Applied Psychology, you will be able to study a variety of theories and practices involving the mind and behaviour. This course is ideal for those with a passion for science, health, research, psychological approaches and psychopathology. It is designed to support progression on to Higher Education via practical learning. This course is mostly coursework based and will suit students who wish to study the subject through assignment-based assessment, rather than pure examinations.

Key Units

Entry requirements

To study 3 A Levels

5+ GCSEs grades 9-4 in different subjects, including English Language and Maths at a minimum of grade 4.

Additional Requirements for Psychology

• 9-5 in English Language
• 9-5 in Maths
• 9-5 in at least one science GCSE

The Sheffield Sixth Form welcomes students who have studied vocational qualifications. However, the minimum entry requirements for the A Level programme, as shown above, must be GCSEs.

Where does this lead?

Most A Level students go on to university, where Psychology has become a very popular subject with strong links to the other social sciences. As it is also considered a science many students opt for Psychology as a third or fourth science in preparation for Medicine, Veterinary Science, Forensic Science and Sport Science.

Some students also progress on to study Law or Criminology.

Future opportunities

Psychology is beneficial in careers that involve working with people, such as Marketing or Advertising, where an insight into understanding why people behave the way they do is useful. Psychology is also an essential part of some teacher training.

Assessment

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Will this subject suit me?

This A Level is designed to develop skills of analysis and evaluation through an examination of arguments and evidence put forward by psychologists. You are expected to be interested in human behaviour and the world you live in. The ideal student would enjoy discussion, reading about new ideas and challenging assumptions.

Good numeracy skills are required due to the science/mathematical nature of the subject.

Personal study time

A Level students are expected to devote as much time outside the classroom to their studies as in lessons. Homework will be set regularly but students are expected to undertake self-directed research as well

Students are also expected to complete work experience alongside their A Levels. This can be done in a variety of different ways including volunteering, youth work, victim support, police special*

*Please note – some of these opportunities are age-related and may require an enhanced DBS.