Psychology Level 3 Extended Certificate (equivalent to 1 A Level)

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. Applied Psychology focuses on how psychology can be used to tackle real world problems and improve people’s lives. Unlike A Level Psychology, you will be assessed by both coursework and examinations, meaning your final grade is not based on exams only.

This course is available to study as an Extended Certificate (60-credit course, equivalent to 1 A Level)

In Year 1, you will explore four key approaches in psychology: Social, Cognitive, Learning and Biological. You will develop your understanding of how psychological research and concepts can explain gender identity, aggression, and consumer behaviour. The exam will require you to apply your knowledge to real world scenarios. The coursework will involve writing a research proposal as well as planning, conducting, and reviewing your own research.

In Year 2, you will study health psychology, building on the knowledge of psychological approaches you developed in year 1. You will look at a variety of topics including theories of health belief, stress and addiction, treatments for these conditions, methods used to persuade people to adopt health behaviours and theories of non-compliance to treatments. Your coursework will focus on forensic psychology; learning about how we can understand crime from a psychological perspective, the effectiveness of punishment and rehabilitation and how to make an offender profile.

Many of our students progress to university. However, a significant and growing proportion follow the Degree Apprenticeship route; recent examples include, Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship and Degree Apprenticeships at Addenbrooke’s Hospital.

Year 1 Modules

Approaches and Applications

Conducting Psychological Research

Year 2 Modules

Health Psychology

Criminal and Forensic Psychology

50% Exam

50% Coursework

Exam Board: Edexcel

Many of our students go on to university having studied applied psychology. However, a significant and growing proportion are also following apprenticeships after college. Some examples are Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship and degree apprenticeships at Addenbrooke’s.

Psychology prepares you well for the world of work and many of our students go into local employment, making good use of the skills we help develop.