A-Level Psychology

Course Code: BA307

Psychology is an ideal subject for anyone with a logical mind, who likes research and attention to detail.

Psychology is a fascinating study of the human mind & our behaviour, which can affect every aspect of our daily lives.
Gain an understanding of the principles and practices of psychology and how theories can be applied to social and cognitive psychology, child development and adaptive behaviour.
The aims of the course are to introduce candidates to the basic theories and research methods in psychology.

Special discount until 29th February - Enrol on 2 A-levels and get additional A-Level courses for £125 each.*

*- Offer available on a selection of A-levels, please check course page for details.

Course Content

AS Level

Unit 1: PSYA1: Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods

Models of memory
Memory in everyday life
Developmental Psychology: Early Social Development
Attachment in everyday life
Methods and techniques
Investigation design
Data analysis and presentation

Unit 2: PSYA2: Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences

Stress as a bodily response
Stress in everyday life
Social influence
Social influence in everyday life
Defining and explaining psychological abnormality
Treating abnormality

A2 Level

Unit 3: PSYA3: Topics in Psychology

Biological Rhythms and Sleep
Aggression
Cognition and Development

Unit 4: PSYA4: Psychopathology, Psychology in Action and Research Methods

Psychopathology
Media Psychology
Psychological Research and Scientific Method

Assessment

Unit 1: Written Examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
Unit 2: Written Examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
Unit 3: Written Examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
Unit 4: Written Examination: 2 hours

Study Method

The course is designed for study by distance learning at home or at work. Students receive a course manual and study guide plus tutor support by telephones, mail or email. Your A-level course materials will be sent out in the post and once you enrol on this A-Level course, you will receive a welcome telephone call from your course tutor who will spend some time talking you through the course.

Qualifications

This course prepares students for the AQA Psychology AS level syllabus 1181, for examination from summer 2010. Most candidates will then study the AQA Psychology A2 level syllabus 2181 for examination from summer 2010 onwards. We have chosen this syllabus as it is the most suited to distance learning.

Course Questions & Answers

Q: What skills are needed to enrol onto this course?

You will need to have a reasonable grade GCSE or "O" Level in Psychology as the concepts in the A-Level Psychology course follow on and use some of the knowledge you will have gained.

Q: Is there a time limit for completion of this course?

We provide you with a full 18 months to complete your home learning course, this is a lot more time than you need so that you can study at your own pace and in your own time without the pressure of tight deadlines – this course is truly flexible and aimed at being adaptable around your lifestyle.

Q: What is included in the cost of my course?

Student record bag
Pen
Mouse mat
Study guide
Comprehensive study notes
Personal tutor support
Assignment marking and feedback
Accreditation

Q: Is there a required reading list?

We recommend the following text books to help you with your studies, however, they are not essential for completion of the course:

AQA Psychology A AS: Student's Book. Jane Wilson (2008) Nelson Thornes. ISBN-13: 978-0748798230
AQA Psychology A A2: Student's Book. James Bailey (2009) Nelson Thornes. ISBN-13: 978-0748798254

Textbooks can be purchased from any good bookshop or you can purchase them directly from us.

Q: Do I have to sit an exam?

Yes, you will need to take the standard A-Level examinations in order to fully complete this course. The examinations run on specific dates which can be obtained by visiting the AQA website. You will be required to book these examinations yourself and so we can provide a list of over 400 A-Level test centres around the country.

Q: Are there any additional costs?

You will need to purchase the books listed above, would also recommend that you obtain a good quality scientific calculator and you will generally be required to pay a small fee to take your examinations at the examining centre that you choose.

Q: What if I live outside the UK?

You are still able to study this A-Level course but must take the examinations within the UK as this is the only guaranteed way to access examining centres.