Psychology Fast Track A Level (Full AS+A2) Course

A levels are subject-specific qualifications normally studied after GCSEs or International GCSEs, though they are appropriate at any age to gain a qualification in a subject in which you are interested.

The qualification is made up of two levels: the AS level and the A2 level. The AS level is the first half of a full A level and is a qualification on its own. The A2 level builds on the knowledge gained from both the AS level, as well as the GCSE level. Both the AS and A2 levels and examinations must be successfully completed to gain a full A level.

Students usually take 1 year to complete the AS and a further year to complete the A2 - so a full A level usually takes two years. This fast track A level, however, lets you complete the course in half the time (i.e. one year instead of two years). The fast track A level works in exactly the same way and you get the same certificate as you would on the two-year course.

A levels are highly valued by schools, colleges and employers. They are at level 3 on the National Qualifications Framework and they carry UCAS points, which will be awarded according to the grade achieved (A = 120, B = 100, C = 80).

Many courses at university or college will require you to take A levels in certain subjects. We recommend you check the requirements for those courses and take the appropriate subject A levels.

About Our A Level Psychology Course

The course aims to give you some fundamental and lasting insights into behaviour and thought processes which will help you cope with the challenges of life, both for yourself and those you come into contact with. As well as learning about behaviour and thought processes you will also learn how to express yourself coherently, how to challenge and evaluate information presented to you and how scientific information is produced.

Psychology is a dynamic, ever changing subject with new information and studies constantly confirming or challenging existing theories and producing new ones. The subject matter of psychology is uniquely around and within you; it is essential that you are curious about the why’s and how’s of behaviour and thought processes in all settings from cradle to grave, from successful relationships (parent-child, work colleagues or romantic) to the best ways to utilize your memory.

The AS course is laid out as follows:

Unit 1
Introduction

 Topic 1: Psychology, psychologists and research methods. Initial assignment. Introduction to Tutor.

Topic 2: Investigation design, data, data analysis and preparation.  

Assignment 1

 Section A: Topic 3: Memory. Models of memory and memory in everyday life.  

Assignment 2

 Section B: Topic 4: Early social development. Attachment. Attachments in everyday life.  

Unit 2: 

Assignment 3

 Topic 5: Biological psychology. Stress as a bodily response. Everyday stress.  

Assignment 4 

Topic 6: Social Influence and social influence in everyday life.  

Assignment 5 

Topic 7: Psychopathology. Definitions and explanations. Treatment of abnormality.  

Assignment 6 

Topic 8: Preparing for the AS exam.

The A2 course is laid out as follows:

Unit 3

 Topic 9Relationships Topic 10Agression  

Assignment 7 

Topic 11Intelligence and learning  

Assignment 8 

Topic 12Cognition and development  

Unit 4

Assignment 9

Topic 13: Psychopathology. Depression   

Assignment 10 

Topic 14: Psychology in action. Addiction.  

Assignment 11 

Topic 15: Psychological research and scientific method.

Students are not required to have studied psychology previously. A pass at A-C GCSE in English and mathematics is desirable, but no formal qualifications are required. Although, those who find reading and understanding broadsheet newspapers difficult will find the course more challenging.

Getting A levels can provide you with a variety of options, such as work, further study or an apprenticeship.

After successful completion of this course, you could apply to university, a BTEC Higher National, NVQ, a BTEC Apprenticeship or a mixture of these qualifications.

What should I do next? To find out more about this course click the 'Enquire now' button to contact the course provider.