Summary of course content
Cambridge International AS and A-Level Psychology offers you the occasion to consider approaches, issues, debates, and research methods that underpin all aspects of psychology. At AS Level, you will focus on 12 core studies studies which illustrate a wide range of research methods used in psychology, such as experiments, observations, self-reports and case studies. By exploring the relationship between the content of the study and the research methods, you will gain a broad understanding of how psychologists study experiences and behaviours and find complex answers. Develop an understanding of how human behaviour processes are and prepare for your career. You have so many options!
Begin your journey into the science of the mind and behavior today!
This course aims to:
- provide an introduction to psychological concepts, theories and research findings
- create an understanding of the range and limitations of psychological theory and practice
- encourage candidates to explore and understand the relationship between psychological findings and everyday life
- develop skills of analysis, interpretation, application and evaluation
- develop an understanding of ethical issues in psychology, including the moral and ethical implications of psychological research
- promote an appreciation and understanding of individual, social and cultural diversity
- study psychological approaches, issues and debates and research methods
- improve communication skills.
Cambridge International AS and A Level Psychology provides candidates opportunities to consider approaches, issues and debates and research methods that underpin all aspects of psychology.
At AS Level candidates focus on 12 core studies. The core studies illustrate a wide range of research methods used in psychology, such as experiments, observations, self-reports and case studies. By exploring the relationship between the content of the study and the research methods, the candidate will gain a broad understanding of how psychologists study experiences and behaviours and why the research took place.
Candidates for Cambridge International A Level Psychology study the AS Level content and two of the following options:
- Abnormality. This specialist option considers the definitions, symptoms, causes and treatments of a variety of mental disorders.
- Consumer behaviour. This specialist option reflects the society in which we live and looks at both seller and purchaser as well as the design of consumer environments.
- Health. This specialist option focuses on health issues, including pain and stress.
- Organisations. This specialist option considers the world of work, and how individuals and groups within an organisation function and influence each other and have an impact on the organisation itself.
How the course is assessed
Candidates for Advanced Subsidiary (AS) certification take two papers in a single examination series.
Candidates who, having received AS certification, wish to continue their studies to the full Advanced Level qualification may carry their AS marks forward and take two more papers in the examination series in which they require certification.
Candidates taking the full Advanced Level qualification at the end of the course take all four papers in a single examination series.
Guided Learning Hours
Guided learning hours give an indication of the amount of contact time teachers need to have with learners to deliver a particular course. Our syllabuses are designed around 180 guided learning hours for Cambridge International AS Level, and around 360 guided learning hours for Cambridge International A Level.
Required textbook
Cambridge International AS and A Level Psychology Coursebook, Julia Russell, Fiona Lintern, Lizzie Gauntlett, Jamie Davies, ISBN 9781316605707. You can find the textbook here.
Course Code: 9990
