Psychology A Level

Applications Open: - Monday 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - Thursday 20th August 2026.

General Sixth Form Entry Requirements: - Minimum 4 GCSE passes at Grade 4 and above to study BTEC or vocational courses; 5 GCSE passes at 4 and above to study A level/BTEC combination; 5 GCSE's at Grades 5 and above to study straight A Levels.

*Please note there may be subject specific entry requirements which also need to be met.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices. Applications via email will not be accepted.

Psychology is the study of the human mind and behaviour. There are lots of possible reasons why people behave the way they do. Does a person’s genes turn them to crime? Do people blindly obey authority without question? Would you make a good eyewitness? These are the sort of questions this course will cover. This A Level is fully examined by three external assessments at the end of Year 13.

Year 1 - Research methods and core studies

Year 2 - Core studies and applied psychology (compulsory topics are criminal psychology and mental health)

Optional units year 13:

• Sport and exercise psychology

• Environmental psychology

• Child psychology

Exam 1 - Research Methods - 80 marks (120 minutes) 33.3%

Exam 2 - Core Studies in Psychology - 80 marks (120 minutes) 33.3%

Exam 3 - Applied Psychology - 80 marks (120 minutes) 33.3%

Subject Specific - Five GCSEs at Grade 5 or above including English and Maths, Science preferable at Grade 4 or above.

Psychology is one of the most versatile subjects and can help in almost every profession. Successful Psychology students will possess sound knowledge of underlying Psychological theories, how to conduct Psychological research and the ability to apply Psychology to other areas, such as mental health and general well-being. Alongside subject knowledge Psychology students will possess the ability to critically analyse a theory or piece of research, weighing up both the strengths and the weaknesses of a particular topic.

Psychology can be combined with several other subjects and can lead to a wide variety of different university courses and careers; for example:

Occupational Health

Sport Psychology

Education and Child Psychology

Forensic and Criminal Psychology

Clinical Psychology

Occupational Psychology

Counselling Psychology

Child and Developmental Psychology

Law

Education